skill levels

Several years ago when Revell marketed the Trans-Am Camaros, one was marked skill level 3 and the other was marked skill level 4. (Maybe 2 & 3) The only difference in the kits was the decal sheets.

Generally I find Level 1 kits are prepainted, snap kits, no glue required. Level 2 kits may be prepainted and require glue. A Level 3 kit requires paint, glue while a Level 4 kit is paint, glue, possibly PE and/or resin parts.

They are gauged to the age/skill of the builder.

when i was younger i sort of paid attention to them, cuz i thought it would actually determine my builds and what i would attempt. then i learned that it didn't really matter

As long as there are indications of resin parts, PE parts and vacuumn-formed canopies, this would indicate that the kit is for expert modelers only. I do feel that 'easy 'kits are advertised as such but a grey area does remain. Brian's part count is a good benchmark. Although warnings like: "Caution, many rubber-rimmed roadwheels contained in kit" would help.

Edit: the roadwheel comment is facetious-I just dislike painting them.

I've never really paid any attention to skill levels on model kits. All of my purchases are based on subject. With all the modifications, scratch-building, and aftermarket accessories, most of my builds end up being skill level 4 or 5 anyway...

QUOTE: Originally posted by DURR i wish that manufactures would standardize the skill level ratings on there models

I think a simple parts count would suffice.
That's basically what the "skill level" ratings are anyway, right?

The fewer the parts, the easier the kit, so some believe, with snap-fit kits being the easiest level.

Never really mattered to me, even when I was just starting out...I just grabbed a kit of the subject I wanted to build, and had at it!