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Historic Aircraft Model Kits

Aircraft model kits have been a popular hobby for many decades, allowing aviation enthusiasts to recreate their favorite planes in miniature form. The history of these kits dates back to the early 20th century, when aviation was still in its infancy. At this time, most model kits were made of metal or cardboard, but in the 1930s, a company called Comet Models revolutionized the industry by introducing the first wooden model kits. These early kits were made of balsa wood and were designed to be easy to assemble, making them accessible to a wider audience. However, due to their fragile nature, these kits were mostly used for display purposes rather than play.

During World War II, wooden aircraft model kits became even more popular as people were fascinated by the advancements in aviation technology. Companies like Megow Models and Guillow’s started producing more complex and detailed kits, allowing modelers to recreate a variety of military planes. These kits also became a popular pastime for soldiers, who would often build models of the planes they flew or saw in combat.

In the 1950s, plastic model kits began to gain popularity, as they were cheaper and more durable than their wooden counterparts. However, wooden model kits continued to be produced and improved upon, with companies like Revell and Lindberg creating highly detailed and realistic kits. These kits were often used for educational purposes, with schools and museums using them to teach about aviation and the history of flight.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the popularity of wooden aircraft model kits declined as plastic kits dominated the market. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional model making techniques, leading to a resurgence in the popularity of wooden kits. Today, there are many companies that produce high-quality wooden model kits, from simple beginner kits to intricate and highly detailed ones.

In addition to being a popular hobby, wooden aircraft model kits also hold historical significance. Many of these kits are replicas of iconic planes that played a crucial role in aviation history, such as the Wright Flyer, the Spirit of St. Louis, and the Red Baron’s Fokker Dr.I. These models not only allow enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of these planes, but also serve as a reminder of the incredible advancements in aviation over the years.

In conclusion, wooden aircraft model kits have a rich history that spans over a century. From their humble beginnings as simple balsa wood kits to their modern-day, highly detailed counterparts, these kits have captured the imagination of aviation enthusiasts and continue to be a beloved hobby for many. They serve as a testament to the evolution of aviation and provide a tangible way for people to connect with and appreciate the history of flight.

Up until now, we have featured primarily wood ship model kits. However, we recognize that many of our customers sometimes enjoy building something different, so we now offer a selection of aircraft kits from Guillow’s.