gavman

Danny,

Just as the Revell Germany 1:72 scale diecast fighter jets appear to be intended for the European market, so far it seems that the Gaincorp/Giodi planes are limited to the Asian market. As such, if you intend to buy them, be prepared to pay currency conversion and overseas shipping fees. Please note a possible quirk in dealing with Asian websites: Although prices may be quoted in US$, you may still be billed in native currencies (e.g. HK$) so that your credit card company will assess a currency conversion fee.

Toymax Co (http://www.toymaxco.cc/giodimain.htm) lists the models in HK$. Model Car Expo (http://www.modelcarexpo.com/subcatlist2.asp?catid=319) has them quoted in US$, but you will be charged in HK$.

Gaincorp/Giodi models are packaged like Air Command (Sun Star) and 1:48 scale Armour/Franklin Mint aircraft, i.e., molded styrofoam/plastic. However, the models are NOT screwed into the packaging as the ACs are, so this eliminates the potential problem of metal-on-metal screw damage. Some of the finer detailed graphics, especially on the underside of the models, are decals, not tampo printing, but the design of the packaging looks like it will minimize "foam transfer" problems (see Things that can go wrong with Air Command planes... http://www.diecastaircraftforum.com/...threadid=30794).

By the way, the Sukhois come in boxes that are slightly larger than AC F-117 Nighthawk ones.