Choosing the Right Scale

Choosing the right scale is the first big decision in any project. While aircraft modellers often debate 1:48 vs 1:32, every genre of modeling,from tanks to tall ships,has its own "standard" sizes that balance detail with shelf space.

Here is a generic guide to the most common scales across the entire hobby.

Scale is a ratio. A 1:24 scale model means the real object is 24 times larger than the model.

• Small Denominator (e.g., 1:12): Large model, massive detail, takes up a lot of space.
• Large Denominator (e.g., 1:700): Tiny model, fits in your palm, allows for massive collections.

• 1:24 / 1:25: The industry standard. These are roughly 7–8 inches long. They are small enough to collect but large enough to feature opening hoods and detailed engines.
• 1:12: The "Super Scale." These are massive showpieces. You’ll see individual spark plug wires and working suspension.

• 1:35: The king of armor scales. Almost all tanks, Jeeps, and figures are made in this size. It’s perfect for adding mud, rust, and battle damage that looks realistic.
• 1:72: "Braille Scale." So named because some details are so small you almost have to feel them. Great for building massive dioramas of entire battlefields.

• 1:72: Ideal for large bombers (which would be too big in other scales) or for builders with limited space.
• 1:48: The most popular choice. Provides a great "heft" to the model without being impossible to store.
• 1:32: For the ultimate enthusiast. Often features "removable" panels to show off internal frame construction.

• 1:350: The standard for "display" ships. A WWII battleship in this scale can be 2 to 3 feet long.
• 1:700: "Waterline" scale. These are tiny but allow you to build an entire naval fleet on a single shelf. They are often used for "forced perspective" in dioramas.

1. The "Hand" Test: If you want to pick it up and feel the weight, go for Standard scales (1:35 armor, 1:48 air, 1:24 cars).
2. The "Shelf" Test: If you have 20 favorite subjects you want to display together, go for Small scales (1:72 air/armor, 1:700 ships).
3. The "Vision" Test: If your eyesight struggles with tiny parts, steer clear of 1:72 and 1:700. Larger scales like 1:32 or 1:35 have parts that are much easier to handle with your essential tools.