Buying Airfix models requires consideration beyond simply choosing an attractive subject. Understanding skill levels, scale options, what's included, and additional requirements ensures you select kits matching your abilities and interests, setting yourself up for successful, enjoyable builds that deliver satisfying results.
Choosing Your First Airfix Model
For beginners, selecting an appropriate first kit is crucial. Start with Skill Level 1 or 2 kits featuring fewer parts and simpler assembly. Choose subjects that genuinely interest you - enthusiasm for the subject maintains motivation through the building process. Popular first-build choices include iconic aircraft like Spitfires, classic cars, or simple military vehicles.
Consider starter sets that include paints, brushes, and cement alongside the kit. These bundles provide everything needed to complete the model, eliminating guesswork about which supplies to purchase separately. The convenience and value make starter sets ideal for newcomers exploring whether scale modelling suits them.
Understanding Airfix Skill Levels
Airfix's five-tier skill system helps match kits to builder experience. Level 1 suits complete beginners with 30-50 parts and simple assembly. Level 2 introduces slightly more complexity with 50-100 parts. Level 3 challenges developing skills with 100-150 parts and finer details. Level 4 provides serious hobbyists with 150-250 parts and advanced techniques. Level 5 expert kits feature 250+ parts with museum-quality detail requiring significant experience.
Honest self-assessment prevents frustration. Jumping to complex kits before mastering fundamentals often leads to disappointing results and discouragement. Progressing through skill levels builds confidence and technique, ensuring each project succeeds and teaches valuable lessons.
Scale Considerations
Airfix produces kits in various scales, each offering different advantages. 1:72 scale suits those with limited display space, allowing extensive collections without overwhelming shelves. 1:48 scale provides enhanced detail whilst remaining manageable. 1:24 scale delivers impressive size and intricate details for centerpiece displays. Larger scales like 1:12 offer incredible detail but require significant space and time investment.
Consider where you'll display completed models when selecting scales. Mixing scales can look odd in themed displays, so many modellers stick to one scale for cohesive collections.
What's Included in Airfix Kits
Standard Airfix kits include plastic parts on sprues, waterslide decals for markings, and assembly instructions. Most kits do NOT include paints, cement, or tools - these must be purchased separately. Paint guides specify required colours, typically referencing Airfix's own paint range though any brand works.
Starter sets and gift sets bundle kits with paints, brushes, and cement, providing complete packages. These cost more than basic kits but offer value and convenience, particularly for beginners unsure which supplies to buy.
Essential Additional Supplies
Beyond the kit, you'll need plastic cement (liquid or tube), a sharp modelling knife for removing parts from sprues, sandpaper or files for smoothing joints, and paints matching the subject. Brushes or an airbrush apply paint. Optional but useful items include tweezers, cutting mat, primer, and weathering materials.
Quality tools make building easier and more enjoyable. Invest in decent knives, cement, and brushes - cheap tools frustrate and compromise results. You don't need everything immediately; build your toolkit gradually as skills develop.
Where to Buy Airfix Models
Specialist hobby shops offer advantages including knowledgeable staff, comprehensive ranges, and supplies beyond kits themselves. Online retailers provide convenience and often competitive pricing. We stock selected Airfix kits including the Airfix Folland Gnat T.1, with our range rotating as we source new releases and restock classics.
When buying online, verify seller reputation and check return policies. Ensure listings clearly state what's included - some sellers offer kits only, others include paints and supplies. Read descriptions carefully to avoid surprises.
Pricing and Value
Airfix kit prices vary by size, complexity, and release date. Simple starter kits cost £5-15, intermediate kits £15-35, and expert-level kits £40-100+. Whilst this seems expensive, consider the hours of enjoyment building provides plus the lasting display piece you create. Cost per hour of entertainment compares favorably to many activities.
Watch for sales and special offers, but don't compromise on subjects that genuinely interest you just to save money. Building a kit you're passionate about delivers far more satisfaction than building something cheap but uninspiring.
Checking Stock and Availability
Airfix regularly releases new kits whilst retiring others, meaning availability fluctuates. Popular subjects restock regularly, but some kits have limited production runs. If you find a kit you want, purchasing promptly avoids disappointment - waiting often means missing out as stock sells.
We update our Airfix stock regularly and can often source specific kits not currently listed. Contact us regarding particular models you're seeking, and we'll do our best to help.
Ready to start building? Browse our Airfix model kits and begin your scale modelling journey today. Check back regularly for new additions to our range.
