GGMJF

I'd like to begin a diecast plane collection for my newborn grandson and maintain it through the years. I know nothing about this field. Which manufacturer would be best? The parents are a little worried about things made in China. Which scale would be best? Large enough for a child yet small enough not to get too overwhelming. What about a theme? We aren't really military people. I appreciate all input. Oh yes, I'd like to not go above the range of $40-60 for one item. Many thanks. GGrandmaMJF

hikouki

i would not recommend the diecast collectors' models for young children - the landing gears are plastic and would only be destroyed if not handled carefully. and some parts may be swallowed.

for school-aged children though, i think they're okay.

scale: 1:400 has more manufacturers and more options with regards the aircraft types and airline liveries. 1:500 are obviously smaller and will save you some space (and a bit cheaper too). i think the smaller 1:600 and 1:1000 don't have plastic gears (?)

airline: choose whatever you like - airlines/ aircraft you've flown on, or maybe a home carrier, etc. like what you said, there has to be a theme. choose one which you like.

hope that helps.

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more PAL planes in 1:500
A330, A320, 734, 733
742, md11, dc10, a300
vintage 742, dc10, a300, 727

my airport at modelairports.net
my photostream at flickr
my collections at photobucket

lollomz

Why not to choose 1:200? The plane have a lot of details and if you're planning to buy a limited quantity the space will not be a problem!

Lollo

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