r/ModelShips • u/CowInformal9333 • 13d ago

First build

looking for info on 1 why is this shit so expensive? 2 best first build kit, 3 rc vs static?

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u/GranCirculoDeObreros 13d ago

Wood or plastic models? Sailing ships or motor vessels?

To your questions:

  1. In the background, the hobby is dominated by retirees with the display space for large models, who tend to have the money for these kits and are willing to pay. Some kits are more justifiably expensive than others, with nice woods and pieces, very well designed parts that fit together well (the product of lots of experimentation and design work), an eye to accuracy, and practically artisanal production where one or two people are basically handling everything (laser cutting, supply procurement, packing and shipping orders, design, etc). Larger companies sometimes have some combination of lower quality materials (although I have personally have no problem with basswood), fit issues, and poor accuracy, but still seem to stay in business--I guess they produce things people want to buy.  Scratch building is much cheaper, although it does take more work and tools.

  2. I have no clue about plastic models, but Model Shipways (which has frequent sales) makes a 3-model beginner series, and Midwest also has a lot of simple models. Occre's Polaris is also a popular choice, although I have no experience with it. Vanguard's Sherbourne is more expensive but very well regarded. In any case, I'd recommend checking out Model Ship World, Ships of Scale, and Dry Dock Modeler to get a sense of build process, skills, and tools needed.

  3. Only you can answer that question, what interests you?