The 21 best model boat brands
Trumpeter, Revell and Tamiya lead our ranking of 21 model boat brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Model Boat brands, ranked
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1
Trumpeter
Large-scale warship and submarine kits, with optional upgrade sets for adding detail to the hulls.
Top products: HMS Hood
Website: trumpeter-china.com |Brands like Trumpeter
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Revell
Mass-market plastic kits spanning PT boats, clipper ships and tugs, with skill levels from beginner to advanced.
Top products: PT-109· Cutty Sark· Swift Boat Mk.I
Website: revell.de |Brands like Revell
Popularity 5.7/10
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3
Tamiya
Precision 1/350 plastic warship kits, with the Fletcher-class destroyer among its best-known naval subjects.
Top products: DD445 Fletcher
Website: tamiyausa.com |Brands like Tamiya
Popularity 5.5/10
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4
Lindberg
From Denmark, Lindberg makes eyeglass frames in titanium, acetate, horn, wood and precious metals. Many of its rimless and screwless-arm designs are lightweight titanium frames, and the collections include modular parts that can be adjusted or customized.
Popularity 4.0/10
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5
Hasegawa
Japanese plastic kits with precise moulding, strong in 1/700 and 1/350 warship and carrier kits.
Popularity 3.4/10
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6
Academy
Budget-friendly plastic submarine and warship kits, a sensible pick for first-time builders.
Top products: U-Boat IXB
Website: academy.com |Brands like Academy
Popularity 3.4/10
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7
AMT
AMT's model kits replicate cars and trucks, including classic muscle cars, vintage trucks and drag racers. Some kits are built from a single stock, custom or racing version. Many were first produced decades ago, which attracts collectors as well as hobbyists.
Popularity 3.4/10
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8
Dragon Models
Dragon Models was established in 1987. They manufacture plastic model kits. The company itself makes the designs. The company has won several awards for the model ideas they have come up with. They have released more than 1000 products to date, and they have no plans to stop anytime soon. They make innovative plastic models that are a lot of fun. Collectors can have a field day with all of their collector-oriented model lines. Action figures can also be found at their site.
Popularity 2.2/10
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9
Italeri
Italian plastic kits covering naval warships and sailing vessels, with decal sheets and clear instructions.
Website: italeri.com |Brands like Italeri
Popularity 2.1/10
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10
Midwest
Pet owners who want a crate mat that stays comfortable inside a kennel can choose MidWest Homes for Pets bedding. The Quiet Time bolster beds have raised perimeter bolsters and a poly fill core. The covers are stain resistant and...
Popularity 2.0/10
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11
Airfix
Classic British plastic kits, including RAF rescue launches and warships, in long-running popular scales.
Top products: RAF Rescue Launch
Website: us.airfix.com |Brands like Airfix
Popularity 2.0/10
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12
Atlas
Atlas now offers N gauge trains, model cars and toy buses. Its N gauge models suit hobbyists building detailed layouts. The company's catalogue is aimed at railroad modellers and collectors.
Popularity 2.0/10
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13
Dumas
Long-running boat kit maker offering hull kits for historical sailing ships and workboats.
Popularity 1.8/10
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14
HobbyBoss
Chinese-made plastic kits with detailed submarines and warships in 1/350 scale.
Top products: Alfa Class Attack Submarine
Website: hobbyboss.com |Brands like HobbyBoss
Popularity 1.7/10
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15
Aurora
From its American roots in model and toy making, Aurora sells slot cars, including AFX models, along with stuffed animals and white light products. The slot car line appeals to hobbyists who race miniature cars on tracks. Stuffed animals and...
Popularity 1.5/10
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16
Testors
Testors began making hobby paints and modeling supplies. The range also covers kits, spray chalk and craft products for children and adults who enjoy hands-on projects. Its model cars and paint kits are used by people building plastic models at...
Website: testors.com |Brands like Testors
Popularity 1.4/10
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17
MPC
M.P.C. provides services and has extensive expertise in the technology field. They provide services ranging from I.T. assistance to home theatre installation and security camera setup. M.P.C. electronics may assist in gaming by providing server machines and a list of...
Popularity 1.4/10
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18
Mirage
Fun pet apparel and sturdy dog and cat collars lead Mirage Pet Products' line, which also includes leashes, toys and grooming supplies. Owners who want durable collars and playful clothing for dogs and cats will find much of the range...
Popularity 1.2/10
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19
Moebius Models
Moebius Models provide model kits for a perfect hobby activity. The company offers high-quality and intricately made models inspired by sci-fi and horror genres. Moebius Models provides multiple types of kits based on movies, superheroes, and other categories for sci-fi...
Website: moebiusmodels.com |Brands like Moebius Models
Popularity 0.9/10
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20
Traxxas
Traxxas is the world's largest hobby company, with over 25 years of experience producing more fantastic RTR RC vehicles, trucks, and airplanes. They develop and manufacture a wide selection of creative models that are simple to construct, enjoyable to drive,...
Website: traxxas.com |Brands like Traxxas
Popularity 0.9/10
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21
Mantua
Mantua Model UK is a big name worldwide for its wooden vehicle models of cars and ships. They also sell all the supplies that are needed for making these models. They use different types of high-quality wood like Balsa wood...
Website: mantuamodel.co.uk |Brands like Mantua
Popularity 0.8/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trumpeter | trumpeter-china.com | – | – | – | – |
| Revell | revell.de | /Revell | revellgermany | @revellgermany | RevellGermany |
| Tamiya | tamiyausa.com | – | – | – | – |
| Academy | academy.com | /Academy | academy | @academy | academydotcom |
| Italeri | italeri.com | /ItaleriModelKit | italeri | @ItaleriModelKit | – |
Model Boat Buying Guide
If you are thinking about buying a model boat, congratulations! You are about to enter a world of fun and excitement that will stay with you for years to come. But before you run to the nearest store or start browsing online, it is important to know what you are looking for. Not all model boats are created equal, and choosing the right one will make all the difference in your experience. In this buying guide, we will cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Types of model boats
Model boats are typically classified into five main categories based on their hull design:
- Sailboats
- Pleasure craft
- Speedboats
- Warships
- Submarines
Sailboats
Sailboats are model boats that rely on wind power to move them through the water. They are often highly detailed replicas of classic sailing ships and are usually designed for display purposes. Some sailboats have motors to assist with handling, while others require manual intervention.
Pleasure craft
Pleasure craft model boats are designed to replicate recreational boats like yachts and motorboats. They can be simple or highly complex, with intricate details and working onboard equipment like lights and sound systems. Pleasure craft models are often used for display purposes but can also be used for sailing and racing.
Speedboats
Speedboats are model boats built for speed and often designed to look like high performance race boats. They can be electric, gas-powered or operate on battery power. Simple models are often driven by propellers or water jets, while more advanced models use microprocessors and electronic controls to deliver highly realistic performance.
Warships
Warship model boats are designed to replicate naval battleships and other military vessels from various periods in history. They can be highly detailed replicas with moving cannons, onboard equipment, and realistic sounds. Some models even come with remote controls to simulate naval battles and events.
Submarines
Submarines are model boats that replicate underwater vessels. They may be electric, gas-powered or operating on battery power. Some models are basic, while others have onboard equipment that simulates operations like diving and surfacing. Submarine model boats can be used for display purposes or for competition among enthusiasts.
Choosing the right size and scale
Before you start shopping for model boats, it is important to determine the size and scale that will best fit your needs. Depending on whether you want to display your boat or sail it, your choices may be limited by available space.
Size
The size of your model boat will depend on your intended use. If you plan to display it in a cabinet or bookshelf, then you will want to choose a smaller size that will fit comfortably on the shelf. If you plan to sail your model boat outdoors, then you will need to choose a larger size that can handle wind and wave conditions. The size of the boat also impacts the complexity of the model and the level of detail that is possible.
Scale
The scale of a model boat is the ratio of the length, height, and width of the model compared to the original vessel. For example, a 1:10 scale boat is one-tenth the size of the original vessel. Choosing the right scale can make a big difference in how your model boat looks and how it handles on the water. A larger scale typically makes it easier to add more details to the model, while a smaller scale can make it easier to store and transport your boat.
Materials
The materials used to construct model boats can vary, depending on the type of boat and the level of detail required. Common materials used for model boats include:
- Wood
- Plastic
- Metal
- Fiberglass
Wood
Wood is a popular choice for model boat building due to its ease of use, versatility, and durability. It can be shaped and carved into intricate details, and the natural grain and texture of the wood can add to the realism of the model. Wood models can be finished with paint, stain, or varnish to add color and protection, and they can be waterproofed for use on the water.
Plastic
Plastic is a popular choice for model boat construction because it is lightweight, durable, and easily molded into complex shapes. Plastic models are often more affordable than other materials, making them ideal for beginners or casual enthusiasts. They can be painted or decorated with stickers for added detail, and some models come with pre-painted parts for ease of assembly.
Metal
Metal is a popular material for model boat construction because of its strength, durability, and ability to replicate the shine and finish of real boats. Metal models are often cast in brass or other alloys and can be weathered or painted to add detail and color. Metal models can be heavier than other materials, making them less suitable for sailing but ideal for display purposes.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a composite material made of fiberglass cloth and resin. It is lightweight, strong, and ideal for creating large or complex models. Fiberglass models can be painted or finished to add color and detail, and they are often used for sailing or racing because of their durability.
Features to consider
When shopping for model boats, there are several features to consider to ensure you get the best boat for your needs. These include:
Construction quality
The quality of the construction will impact how your model boat performs on the water and how long it lasts. Look for high-quality materials and well-crafted construction that will hold up to regular use.
Detail and accuracy
The level of detail and accuracy on your model boat will depend on your preferences and the purpose for which you are building the model. For example, if you plan to display the model in a cabinet, you may want a highly detailed replica with intricate features and accessories. If you plan to sail the boat, then you may prioritize features that improve performance and durability.
Functionality and performance
The functionality and performance of your model boat will depend on the type of boat you choose and how you plan to use it. Look for boats with features that increase performance, such as lightweight materials, streamlined hulls, and powerful motors or propellers. You may also want to consider boats with remotely controlled systems, realistic sounds, and onboard lighting.
Accessories and equipment
Many model boats come with accessories and equipment to enhance their performance and experience. These can include remote controls, rechargeable batteries, chargers, and other tools and equipment. Look for boats that come with the accessories you need, or be prepared to purchase them separately.
Conclusion
Model boats are a fun and exciting way to experience the thrill of the water without leaving your living room. By following the tips in this buying guide, you can choose a boat that meets your needs, fits your budget, and delivers the performance and experience you are looking for. Whether you choose a sailboat, a speedboat, a warship, or a submarine, the right model boat will provide you with hours of pleasure and entertainment.
