What scale do you like and why?

[muddyboots]

I'm looking at getting back into modeling, and I can't decide what scale to get into. I want to stick with one scale, so that my aircraft all look in proportion to each other. I'm thinking 1/48th because they have more detail and bulk that 1/72. 1/72 seems a little too small to me. What would be your choice if you were just getting into this again after 25 years?

[mazdaP5]

I like 1/48th for WWII fighters, because the detail is right on.
However, if I had it to do over again, I'd go 72nd. There seems to be a greater variety available, bombers aren't too massive, and you can have a bigger collection in the same space.

[TAdan]

I prefer to build 1/48. Basically because it is big enough that I can see it! 1/72 and 1/144 are just to much of a strain on my eyes. (My eyes arent even really that bad either, haha)

[RyanShort1]

I'm still partial to the old 1/72 stuff. Not too tiny, but small enough to not run out of space too quickly. Lots of kits available, compatible with a lot of ground units (I got started because my father used to have 1/72 soldiers when he was a boy. We got some and then I had to have an air force!), and a bit cheaper because they're smaller.

Ryan

[bdk]

1:1????????????

If not that, than as large as possible. My eyes aren't getting any better you know.

[Second Air Force]

I built in 1/48th for many years, but the size of four engined stuff (my favorites, go figure) was a problem when we started moving around the country. After our third move I had given away most of my multi-engined finished models and went on hiatus for a while. I was asked to help with an IPMS Nationals project a number of years ago and had to work in 1/72nd scale. I found that I was missing a lot of fun! Now I've got a few projects started in both scales, though I fell into the trap of the Y1B-17 in 1/48th.

Scott

[Mike Bates]

1/48 for detail. 50's and up bombers/transports etc.. 1/72 because of size. Then a hand full of 1/32 for my fav aircraft.

I had to move some of my stash around and decided to count it. Thought I had about 150 unbuilt kits. Not, have 240 and 51 of those are P-38's. 9 of those are 1/32!!!

Mike

[Mgawa]

I built 1/72 and 1/48 scale but I mostly like 1/72. No special reason, simply I like it.

[lestweforget]

I built hundreds of models when I was a kid, and loved every moment. Almost all were in 1/72.It was not as much through choice as availability. Matchbox,Airfix and Revell (in that order) mostly.I am now considering getting back into it myself after a very long time, It was the new release Revell Lancaster that sparked my interest again. That would be the scale I would stick to (until my eyes started to fail!!!) I have a two year old son now. I wonder if he will build models? I hope so.

[muddyboots]

there seems a clear preference for 1/72 for space, and availability of models, and 1/48 for the detail...But still I can't seem to make up my mind. 1/72 is cheaper for far, and that might be the decision maker right now. Thanks for all of your input guys!

[Second Air Force]

Some of the 1/72nd scale models have really good detailing as well, Muddy. I have a couple of Tamiya P-47s on my workbench that are nicely detailed and just fall together beautifully.

We're glad you're getting back into building, regardless of the scale you decide on!

Scott

[tom d. friedman]

1/72 scale is most practical size wise. 1/48 scale is clutter scale unless you own a hangar. my eyesight is on the crapper at 48, & i have not built a model since 1996. i have tonnage of cool model tools, dental tools, dremel tools, accessories, & roughly 13 unbuilt kits that i want to sell, but no bites!! i would consider an offer for all less shipping, etc, paints too. somebody make me an offer & we'll go from their. i have a list of the models on this board, check it out!! the tools are 1st class & were my right arm when i messed with models.

[mustangdriver]

I tend to like to build 1/48th scale. I know they are a bit more expensive, and take up more room, but I do have a good deal of room in my gameroom. The reason I like 1/48th scale is tat it shows off the details and markings of the aircraft better. but some things are jsut too big. So basically if I like it, I buy it and throw scale out the window.

[Warbird Kid]

Of course Im gunna throw my hat in for 1/144 but I see the many benefits for 1/72. (Much more variety of aircraft)

If your not one for getting really up close and personal with your models, then I'd say 1/144 might be a little difficult.

[spookythecat]

I stick to mostly 1/72 due to available space. I have picked up other scales of some of my favorite planes or ones that peak my curiosity.