Having built my first model in the '60's -- a USS Pennsylvania, an RA-5 Vigiliante, an A-7 Corsair II, Estes Scout, Tamiya Tiger -- I comiserate with all you modelers who have watched the old hobby shops closing. I don't know of a single shop left in Vermont, so I buy online. I was on a trip to San Diego two years ago and went to visit Pegasus Hobbies -- I bought as much as I could carry on the plane! Great shop! For online, I've always had outstanding service from Hobbylinc, and I've purchased from Mega Hobby and Mustang Hobbies occasionally.
Previously, I had purchased from Internet Hobbies and had completely satisfactory results, but a few months ago had a bad experience. They had a special C-19 sale, so I bought $150 worth of kits, but only half ever arrived. I sent contact messages -- no answer. Called -- left messages, no response. More contact messages and finally got a note that my order would be filled. By this time I had already paid the Visa bill. Every time I listed the order number, products, etc. The original reason they gave was understandable -- out of stock. [Ok, so why did you sell it to me?] But after a two months, the items, including a Trumpeter 1/700 USS Abraham Lincoln, were back in stock. That's when I sent another message and was told it would be sent, but it never arrived. Now it's such an old purchase that my bank requires written requests, more time, manual as opposed to electronic verification, etc. Ok, so I lost $70. But a reputable vendor would send the items or refund this portion of the purchase.
Bottom line is that I want to warn you that Internet Hobbies seems to be a hit or miss proposition. They don't always send your purchases and don't answer your request that they send it.
Too many models, too little time...
Looking for USS Pennsylvania, Dragon 1/700
Looking for T-38 Talon 1/72 Thunderbirds decal set