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How do I use a back to back gauge?
Posted in: Troubleshooting
15th November 2024
Using a back-to-back gauge for your model railway ensures that the wheels on your rolling stock are spaced correctly...
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What is a poly-cap?
Posted in: Kit building
14th November 2024
A poly-cap is a type of plastic cap often used in model-making kits, especially for assembling figurines or model...
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What is Graham Farish?
Posted in: Model Railway
13th November 2024
Graham Farish is a name you’re likely to come across if you're interested in British model railways, especially in...
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When did semaphore signals stop being used in the UK?
Posted in: Model Railway
12th November 2024
Semaphore signals, those distinctive mechanical arms that once graced railway lines across the UK, were largely...
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What is Kato track?
Posted in: Tracks
11th November 2024
Kato track is a popular choice in the world of model railways, known for its quality, ease of use and versatility. If...
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How can you tell the complexity of a kit?

The complexity of a model kit can often be subjective depending on a modeller's experience and dexterity, so how can you tell if a particular kit is for you?

That is a very big question considering the sheer number and types of kit on the market. Some manufacturers such as Airfix and Revell offer a rating system on the box to suggest a modelling ability their kit is aimed at, but what about the rest?

If you are in a shop, you can always ask for a peek inside the box. If you're doing this, take note of the number of parts in the kit. If you don't like big or complex projects, the chances are you will not enjoy a 200-piece kit.

Once you have found a suitably sized project, pay particular attention to the size of the components in the kit. Although none of us like to admit it, the clock only ticks one way, so make sure that you are happy and capable of putting together the smaller parts. It's important to be honest with yourself at this point because the shopkeeper is probably not going to make any assumptions, and rightly so.

If you are shopping online, the task of identifying the complexity of a kit becomes more, well, complex! Most listings will give little away, concentrating more on the details and what's included, and an internet search for the product will likely only succeed in bringing up lots more listings, so you end up going round and round in circles.

If that frustration sounds familiar, try looking on YouTube for your answer. There are thousands of model reviews and unboxing videos out there as well as a generous library of tutorials. These are great for assessing a kit because even if the audio doesn't directly address your questions, the footage will certainly help you.

Finally, if you prefer your communication in a more traditional way, you can always chat to your local modelling club or phone your local model shop, both of which are always happy to help!

Posted in: Kit building

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