Picking out a Diecast Model Cars

What’s truly unique about diecast model cars is the supreme resale value. Many, many people build these models and sell them to others as collector’s editions. If you want to make money with your hobby, this is a great choice. And, it really isn’t that hard.

When you first start out with diecast model cars, start with something simple. Typically the scale 1/43 is the “collector’s scale” but for your first model, try any size. You will likely treasure this first model anyway and will not want to sell it.

As you search around for diecast model cars, constantly look for bargains. Don’t buy the first thing that fancies you. Consider it but look for a better price elsewhere. Especially if you are considering a future business in selling your models, you obviously want to buy low and sell high. Becoming a part of your hobby store community is a great way to learn where and how to shop for your models.

Even if your long term goal is a business, your short term should always be your pleasure. Pick cars you love. Don’t worry about sticking to one genre. Pick different eras, get different brands. As long as you enjoy building the diecast model you will make it perfect. And when it comes time to sell, your buyer will only be interested in a particular car, not what other cars it shared a shelf with.

Before you do any purchasing however, buy the appropriate guides. There are guides on pricing model cars and model car collector’s guides. Both of these will be beneficial. You want to be smart in your purchasing, building of your set and of course selling at the right price. And just like with any other hobby, your local hobby store can direct you to group meetings. These can be a great way to find new friends, and possibly some future business! Networking is not just for marketers. Getting the inside information on your local model car network can make all the difference in making your hobby a business.

If you are looking to sell or purchase models make sure to consider online auction sites like eBay. This will connect you to enthusiasts around the country. Also, you might find yourself a fantastic deal. Remember that people can be finicky. What sells low today, might be high later on down the road.

Here’s a recap:~ Start with a car you genuinely love. Don’t worry about the scale, you can do the “collector’s scale” of 1/43 down the road.~Remember to seek out bargains. Basic rule of money, buy low and sell high.~Use your hobby store as a resource for groups, advice and buying supplies.~ Don’t worry about a “set” – buy each piece because you love it.~ Purchase guides. No reason to reinvent the wheel.~ Look for models or kits anywhere.

Start a new hobby that can be a thriving business in no time. Good luck on your journey. And remember, your local hobby store is the prime resource for anybody building or selling model cars. Be sure to serach online for diecast model cars as well, you can find just about any car you want.

Plastic Model Kits - Still a Great Hobby!

Building plastic model kits is a fascinating pastime. Any modeler will tell you that what he builds is absolutely not a toy. The vast majority of models are from history. The accuracy of models is typically what is measured during contests. There are a wide variety of genres that use models from military to sci-fi, from cars to space.

Just like any other hobby, there are people at all different levels of experience. However, the type of person that enjoys model building will likely stick with it for years to come. The time, precision and overall dedication to make one model is just part of the puzzle. There is also the relatively high cost of the hobby. Not necessarily the models themselves, but the tools required to do a quality model.

Here is a list of tools that most modelers have in their tool box for their hobby:Brush (some modelers use airbrushes for a smooth effect)TweezerPlastic side cutterPliersCraft knife (think Xacto)Mini-DrillSandpaperPutty

Obviously some plastic model kits require different tools, but all models require these basics. Every time you get a model there will be some flash to deal with. Flash is a bit of excess material that needs to be cut off and smoothed out. Model pieces are typically made out of polystyrene plastics melted into molds. Somewhere along the line, every modeler will find excess plastic from the mold.

Another time that excess material needs to be taken care of is with waterslide decals. These special decals are made specifically for models as they are much more flat than regular stickers. They also have a different adhesive backing.

The size of models obviously varies with genre. Typically each genre has a common scale, but not always. For example, most battleships are made to a 1/350 or 1/700 scale. When someone builds a battleship to 1/350 scale it is still a few feet long. Other common scales would be 1/48 and 1/32 for aircrafts or cars, 1/35 or 1/72 for tanks, and 1/16 or 1/6 for figures.

Each modeler has complete control over his model no matter what is in the box. Though traditionally modelers work toward historical accuracy, some items are completely up to them. For example, whether or not to have people on your model is totally up to the modeler. In fact, models that include people tend to have them in pieces. That way a modeler can even decide the tiny person’s hand gestures. It really is quite remarkable!

Some plastic model kits can take on many of the characteristics of the life size item. For example, many car models require sanding, painting, etc. All the things you would need to build a real life car are required when making a model.

Next time you visit your local hobby shop, or shope online, ask about different brands for plastic model kits. Some have been around for ages, some just in the last ten years or so. The truth is that models have drastically upgraded in the last 15 years. Lots of modelers have group meetings or showings, get involved and ask around about what other brands people are using.
And like most things that take time, dedication and bit of money, your finished product will be around a long time. Many people even pass plastic model kits down to future generations. Start a tradition of modeling; it will be an amazing gift for ages to come.

RC Boats - Whats New?

Even though RC Boats are not traditionally as popular as cars, trucks and planes they have a very devote following. And just like all remote controlled products, there is a lot to take in before jumping into RC boats.

First, let’s look at the variety of shapes. This is the size and shape of the hull specifically. That shape defines the boat and its overall performance in the water.

Here are the five shapes that Remote Control Boats come in:

Deep V’s – Historically the most popular of RC boats, the Deep V’s capture top speed time and again. So named because of the V shape hull, this shape allows the boat to absorb an exorbitant amount of impact from big waves in choppy waters. When you are driving this type of boat, the nose of the hull is well out of the water.

Catamarans – These are the two sponsons rc boats you see with off-shore race boats. They have incredible stability because of the two separate point of contact with the water. However, this design does increase drag and cannot hit top speeds.

Hydroplanes – Just as the name suggests, hydroplanes skim across the water. They go so quickly, and are so technical in nature they are often referred to as the “Formula One of RC Boating.”

Sailboats – Just like their real world counterparts, sailboats are not pushed by an engine. Remote Control sailboats are all about the direction and length of the sail, a highly advanced skill. RC Sailboats are by far the slowest and most relaxing boat out there.

Mini’s – A great introduction to the world of RC boating. You can use these guys in smaller areas, maybe even a pool. Most mini’s are available as RTR (ready to race) so they require virtually no preparation to get them out in the water.

You probably already have an idea of the shape rc boat you are going to use. What about how it is powered? Let’s look at the different fuel choices:

Gasoline powered – Similar to what you would use with a weed whacker, RC boats can run off a gasoline and oil mixture. This can be convenient, inexpensive and make a very authentic atmosphere. Remember that gasoline powered boats will have a very realistic sound as the engine is roared.

Electric powered – Sometimes you are going to want to put your boat somewhere with noise ordinances. In this instance, gasoline powered boats are not a good option. In order to have the same experience but without all the noise, many people prefer electric powered boats. Also, consider the joy of simply plugging in your boat overnight and enjoying it the next day.
Nitro Powered – This can be found at your local hobby store. This will cost a bit more, but will be worth it since you won’t have to mix gas and oil together yourself. It’s also just an all around safer option.

These are just two major components to buying RC boats. Once you find a combination you love, you will enjoy all the different models that come with those specs.

Picking out an RC Airplane

Another popular hobby store item is remote control model airplanes. A longtime favorite, let’s go over some of the basics of RC airplanes.

First, what makes the biggest difference in control is the placement of wings. As you can imagine, the higher the wings, the easier it is to fly. As you become more experienced you can start flying airplanes that have the weight above the wings for special tricks. Here is a rundown of the weight / wing relationships:

Low Wing. This is exactly what it sounds like, the wings are low and attached under the fuselage. This is the type of plan best suited for experienced pilots. The reason for this is the sensitivity needed to pull off stunts with low wing rc planes. Once you have the skill level to fly these rc airplanes though, you can do stunts that are not possible with other plans. Think WWII or aerobatic models.

Mid Wing. This is the symmetrical looking plane. Wings are placed directly in the middle of the plan. This is a very common design for those who are between novice and experienced.

High Wing or Bi-Wing. These are at the top of the plane, or in the case of the bi-wing, there are two wings on both sides. This is the easiest planes for beginners. It provides a very stable flight.
Another thing to consider is the speed or space it takes to fly a remote control plane. For beginners, look for sets that say “slow flyer” or “park flyer” as this tells you the speed and space it will take to fly the plane. You can use many Slow Flyers inside a home. The only real difference between a slow flyer and a park flyer is that park flyers tend to have more speed. Both of these types are breakable. Whether you are flying in your home or at the park avoid obstacles. Also, these types of plans require no or little wind. They tend to be very light and so in a good wind you will lose control (and possibly sight) of your plane. Neither of which is good!

Lastly, propeller safety is a real issue with RC airplanes. Almost any type of plane you fly has the potential to harm you or someone else. Obviously the potential danger is dependent on the type of material or the power behind a propeller. Use common sense to keep yourself and others out of harm’s way. An easy way to do this would be paint the edges of the propellers a very obvious color like black or red. This will help you see the edges of the propellers when they are in motion and where the “safety zone” is for your fingers.

This was just a basic recap of some parts of RC airplanes. Get to your local hobby store and talk somebody’s ear off. Better yet, just lurk the RC airplane aisle and keep your ears open for great tips!

RC Cars and RC Trucks

Remote control cars and trucks are flying off the shelves. Quickly becoming one of the most popular hobbies, you can find all you need at your local hobby store.

If you are brand new to Remote Controll Cars and Trucks, here is a quick overview of your options. First, when you see RTR that means ready to run. In other words, it’s ready to go straight out of the box. This can be a great gift for a newbie hobbyist or just a quick introduction to the hobby itself. The cool thing about RTR sets is that they typically allow for upgrades and they have the “kinks” worked out so you are not likely to have to return to the store for issues. Of course, after all the fun you have you will return to the store for more sets!

The other, much more time consuming option is to build your own set from pieces. This can be a much more rewarding experience as you put the rc car or rc truck together yourself. The time building is what makes this type of hobby fun for a lot of fans.

Now onto the type of trucks themselves:

Offroad Nitro RC Trucks. This might be what you imagine when you think of awesome remote control trucks…the outdoor track, the high jumps, and the fantastic stunts this is it. These are the most durable of RC truck products.

Onroad Nitro Powered RC Cars. These probably go faster than any other related product, but they are also the most fragile. Make sure to only drive these on prepared services like concrete or a soft track.

Nitro Buggies. These combine the power of RC Cars and the durability of the RC Trucks. These are powerful little guys that get the job done!

As mentioned there are all sorts of upgrades you can add to your Remote Control car or Remote Control truck. There are also a ton of options of how to use them. Depending on their intended use, you might decide to buy both RTR and model kits. For example, if you wanted to build a RC Car or Truck for a competition you probably want to make it from scratch. On the other hand, if you are looking to pay around on the street, or have a kid play with them you might decide RTR is more your speed. Typically it is easier to handle damage if you didn’t build the product yourself. Of course, that’s all relative. Some people just love the building and don’t really care what happens to the RC Car or Truck after it is made.

Any hobby store will have these items. Some stores might have a better selection of models or might specialize in RTR. That’s why it’s so important to shop around. If you find a hobby store that specializes in exactly what you want, chances are the owner has a ton of experience you can use.

If you are brand new to models, RC Cars and Trucks are a very common starting point. Though, they aren’t the only one. Remember, it’s your hobby – do what you want!

Hobby Stores and Online Hobby Shops

Since you are reading this article, you are likely already a hobby store expert. However, don’t you ever wonder what life was like before online hobby stores were around? Or, even worse when hobby stores were around but nowhere near you? Life was a mess. In order to build a model or get a train set you had to just buy whatever pieces you could find at a local toy shop. As you well know, that isn’t a whole lot. Plus, if there were any problems along the way you would be stuck buying a whole new set.

That’s just one of the reasons having a online hobby shop around is so helpful. Whether you build model boats or like to tinker with remote control helicopters, life is just a lot simpler when you have a place to look at everything, or a store to go to.

For those of you who haven’t experienced a bona fide hobby store you might still be in the dark. They are not brightly colored kid filled places. In fact, they are typically filled with middle aged men who occasionally bring their kids along. The staff is much more knowledgeable than you would ever need and in general the place is a lot tidier than you would expect.
For the devout model builder precision is key. A great hobby store reflects that. Items are typically in sections by model type or material, and there are often finished models around as the décor.

The vast majority of hobby stores are family businesses though not always the case. Either way a successful hobby store is one that caters to many different hobbies and has a great staff. Online hobby stores are great on the fact that they have almost everything you could need, and can get you the parts you might not be able to find anywhere else.

Another great perk of knowing a local hobby store is the community it represents. People who build models are sometimes stereotyped the hermit type. They sit at home tinkering instead of out and about with people. Though model building does require a bit of solitude, many of these builders get together to “talk shop” as it were about their pieces.

For example, if you build model boats there is probably a group of people who meet up to launch boats at a local park. Just like anything else, likeminded people can appreciate the nuances of a hobby and the skill it requires. It’s nice to get together with a group of people that enjoy the same things. Your local hobby store probably has advertisements for groups like this. And if they don’t, you can always start one!

For the internet savvy, model pieces can also be purchased over the internet. No matter where you live, a online hobby store can get you exactly what you need.

Just make sure to check out all your options. You might find one store carries a lot more models or inventory for your particular hobby. You might also find that one store has been around for fifteen years while another just two. Loyalty isn’t a necessity when it comes to hobby shops, but you will find that you will naturally go back to a store that feels right. Good luck on your search.