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1/72nd or 1/48th scale

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  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, May 3, 2005 1:40 PM
i personally prefer building in 1/72... i like the challenge of
working in a smaller scale, as well as the lower cost of
kits & the ability 2 store more models in the same space.
& since i also build armor, it's a convenient common scale
4 both subjects. i usually add at least some scratchbuilt details
2 most of the 1/72 kits i work on... i have learned & practiced
many new techniques on these kits w/o fear of mucking up,
since 2, 3 or even 4 1/72 kits can often b had 4 the price of the latest
high-tech 1/48 offering... & i'm learning valuable modeling skills
in the process !
i have built 1/35 armor & 1/48 a/c, but it feels
weird 2 me 4 some reason.... maybe because i started out as
a model railroader in n-scale (1/160), & because i really love
miniatures& dioramas (smaller scale, bigger scene)...
i have a couple of bombers in 1/144
on the stack... yep, some stuff is too big 4 me in 1/72...Big Smile [:D]
i am also extremely nearsighted, so
it's often a toss-up between taking off my glasses & putting on
an optivisor over them, LOL !

in the end, i'll quote another member's sig tag:
"build what u like, like what u build !"

frostySmile [:)]
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, May 3, 2005 8:42 AM
The bigger the model, the more I like it. I've got a few 1/32 models in stock, and it's tempting to build them. I reckon it will demand better modeling as flaws wil show more easily.
Then again how tempting 1/32 may seem, most are 1/72 (with a few 1/48's); mostly because of price. My budget is scaled 1/72, I guess... perhaps even 1/144.

I have built some 1/144 in my 'ten minutes per model-era', but those models IMO are too simple.
Overall? a 1/72 builder, wanting to have a bigger-scaled wallet!Tongue [:P]
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, May 3, 2005 8:26 AM
As for me... well, I only build in 1/72. I don't have the space to display anything larger than that. The selection in kits at that scale is great and you can find some real gems for under $10/US so for the bargin builder (like me) it's the way to go.

Big Smile [:D]Big Smile [:D]Big Smile [:D]
-scott
  • Member since
    July 2003
  • From: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Posted by zokissima on Tuesday, May 3, 2005 8:04 AM
Even though I don't build AC that much anymore, I still prefer 1/48 exclusively. I always thought that 1/72 was just too small. The physical size of 1/48 models is perfect, they are the ideal size for me.
  • Member since
    March 2005
  • From: Seeing Eye Dog Central
Posted by mpartric on Tuesday, May 3, 2005 7:46 AM
It's funny to see strings revived after two years....keeps the a/c forum fresh.
Matthew Morristown, NJ Mediocrity--- it takes a lot less time and most people won't notice until it's too late.
  • Member since
    November 2004
  • From: Columbia Gorge
Posted by brain44 on Monday, May 2, 2005 8:30 PM
If I can find a kit in 1:48, that's the way I go. If it's only available in 1:72, I'll do it, grudgingly. My favorite is 1:32, but subjects are limited and usually expensive, so 1:48 gets the nod.

Brian My 2 cents [2c]
"I won't be wronged, I won't be insulted, and I won't be laid a hand on. I don't do these things to other people and I expect the same from them." John Bernard Books (The Shootist)
  • Member since
    October 2004
  • From: Northern Indiana
Posted by overkillphil on Monday, May 2, 2005 1:37 PM
I prefer working with 1/48 and larger because detailing at 1/72 is way to much work and I'm not any good at it any way. At the galcial pace at which I build, storage space isn't much of a concern.
my favorite headache/current project: 1/48 Panda F-35 "I love the fact that dumb people don't know who they are. I hope I'm not one of them" -Scott Adams
  • Member since
    September 2004
  • From: Utereg
Posted by Borg R3-MC0 on Monday, May 2, 2005 9:04 AM
I have no real preference for either scale. It depends on various factors which kit I buy/build, price being a very important one.
So therefore: my favorite scale is what's on sale!

  • Member since
    December 2002
  • From: Harrisburg, PA
Posted by Lufbery on Monday, May 2, 2005 8:32 AM
Hi all,

I say build what you like and like what you build. I don't buy the conventional wisdom that 1/72 scale kits have less detail than 1/48 scale kits. I own a couple of 1/72 kits that have fantastic detial and some 1/48 kits that are almost bare of detail. There are great aftermarket sets available for both scales.

When I've made it through my current stash, I'll probably start looking at doing some 1/144 scale airliners. They'll get their own shelf along with my (yet to be built) 1/144 scale B-52G.

Regards,

-Drew

Build what you like; like what you build.

  • Member since
    March 2005
  • From: Fort Worth, TX
Posted by flippersdad on Monday, May 2, 2005 8:23 AM
Hey guys, Here is my two cents; I build in what ever scale I find the subject in that I want . I have on my dresser the Ju - 87R "Desert Viper" in 1/144th and have the kit in the basement for the the Ju - 87B in 1/32nd and 1/24th. I build in 1/72nd as they don't take up much space. If you find something you like whatever the scale build it, or collect it to build later!
Cheers,
Eric
A great lie - "I'm from the FAA and I'm here to help." Politics - Many blood sucking insects. Flying - Long periods of boredom puncuated by moments of stark terror.
  • Member since
    February 2003
  • From: Northeast Bavaria, Burglengenfeld, Germany
Posted by kielers on Monday, May 2, 2005 8:06 AM
For planes I build all 1/48 because I like the size and the detail. However, I was able to get the Trumpeter 1/32 TBF-1C Avenger last week from Great Models Webstore during their one day 50% discount sale on selected kits. I can't wait to start it.

I build a little bit of armor too, and in 1/35 scale for the same reason as above.

"To stand upon ramparts and die for our principles is heroic, but to sally forth to battle and win for our principles is something more than heroic." -- Franklin Delano Roosevelt. "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few." -- Winston Churchill

  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, May 1, 2005 4:52 PM
I used to build in 1/25 and 1/32, tried 1/48 but 1/72 scale presents a challenge in seeing how much detail canned be crammed into a small scale subject. Aircraft or Armor, 1/72 scale is the way to go. There are so many subject matters available and they are a real joy to build!
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • From: Swindon, UK
Posted by F105-Thud on Tuesday, December 16, 2003 2:16 PM
Well it has to be 1/48 for me, as I find 1/72 too small, and 1/32 too big. I aslo like to dabble with the old tanks in 1/35 every now and again. I have a big collection of 1/48 fighters from WW2 to present day (around 150 ish), just need to find the time to make them. I used to think that there were more kits available in 1/72, but every year Tamiya and Hasegawa seem to roll out more and more.
  • Member since
    September 2003
Posted by stindle on Tuesday, December 16, 2003 12:55 PM
I am staying in the the 1/48 scale due to the fact I can't see the 1/72 and smaller scales Hehehe. I am working on a 1/24 Spitfire right now but I think I will not do to many of those due to the fact they are huge :P
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, December 16, 2003 11:28 AM
With my eyes 48th is the smallest I can handle,Space would be the biggest problem with anything bigger.
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, December 9, 2003 6:07 AM
I'm almost exclusivley 1/72. I like the variety of AC available. I'm into AC eslpecially, thugh I've done cars ships etc and have a couple that I haven't started yet. I've got about 60 unbuilt AC kits, and have almost finished my modeling room (I'llbe in there by Xmas).
I really am into bombers (my son is a B-2 pilot and was in B-52's). By building everything in '72 it provides a good relative comparison as to size etc.

Bruce
  • Member since
    December 2003
  • From: Phoenix,Az
Posted by 9x19mm on Monday, December 8, 2003 11:16 PM
I only build 1/48th, space isnt to much of a issue as the models are displayed in a 20x20 den.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • From: Littleton,CO
Posted by caine on Monday, December 8, 2003 8:11 PM
I have generally build 1/72 in the past, but I am starting to move more towards the 1/48. That probably has a lot to do with my age and expereince. Since I am 24 and just starting to make my own way in this world I finaly have my own money to spend how I see fit. Additionally, since it wasn't too long ago when 1/72 was plenty big I still have many 1/72 kits left to build. Of course when it comes to WWII models it has always been 1/48. I built a 1/72 P-51, but I hated how small the plane seemed. If it is 1/72 it has to be a modern fighter or a bomber, otherwise it just isn't worth it. Now that I have my own place to display as I please, 1/48 size can be an advantage. They are easier for guests to notice and to look at. I think people will be more interested in looking at your work if they don't have to strain to see all of those super accurate details. I think my days of 1/72 are coming to a close and now, bigger is better!
http://www.shockwavephoto.com
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, December 8, 2003 2:12 PM
i mix both scales though now i m of into 1/48 cos of the detail but ill build sumthing in 1/72 if its cheap(read if im desperate!@##@!)im still13 so nay problems wiv me eyes
  • Member since
    May 2003
  • From: USA
Posted by nsclcctl on Monday, December 8, 2003 9:53 AM
Because of my 51 year old eyes, I build:
1:48 WWII fighters
1:48 or larger WW1
1:72 modern fighters. While space is a huge consideration, I have to see what I am building. I actually love the way 1:72 WWII fighters look, however, I can't even do the details on the cockpit anymore. 1:48 can be a challenge.

I am trying to find a new Trumpeter, or I should say afford 1:32 corsair. I want to build it for my office at work. One plane on display. But, at the moment, I just bought a Hasegawa stuka and funds are low.
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, December 8, 2003 8:26 AM
I myself build strictly 1/48th scale, but when it comes to aircraft that are to big such as E-3 sentry, C-130, B-52, KC-135 and so on i will build 1/72.
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, November 26, 2003 12:47 PM
1/48 scale is especially helpful for builders that are new to the hobby.

Over and out.
  • Member since
    July 2003
  • From: Bicester, England
Posted by KJ200 on Tuesday, November 25, 2003 2:43 AM
Like most people it depends on subject.

Currently on the bench:

1/72

Me163, tiny, I'll go 1/48 in future.
Ar555, ideal size, with plenty of detail.
He177, would be way big in 1/48.

1/48

Me262, nice size for fighters.

The one thing that does bug me with 1/48 is the lack of detail.

I know there is resin and PE out there, but if have already paid £25 for kit, why am I having to fork out another £10 for decent wheels and etched belts and pedals?

Even me He177 and Ar555 have belts and pedals, they may be tiny, but at least they are included!

Rant over.

Karl

Currently on the bench: AZ Models 1/72 Mig 17PF

  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, November 24, 2003 10:42 PM
For A/C I prefer 1/48 but do 1/72 for large bombers.
I've several 1/32 as well.
I've done 1/72 biplanes as gifts, I'd never buy one myself.
It may be my 1/2 century eyes, but even as a kid I found 1/72 too small.
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, November 24, 2003 8:01 PM
The affordability of 72nd really appeals to me but for those really special projects I'll choose larger. Right now I have my heart set on Tamiya's 1:32 Strike Eagle Bunker Buster. It'll probably happen some day but I could get 10 smaller kits for the price of that one. And that doesn't even take into consideration the aftermarket details!

Actually, I have a bit of nearly everything: 1:32, 1:48, 1:72, 1:144 aircraft, 1:35, 1:72 armor, starships in all scales from 1:72 to 1:1400, 1:350 Tamiya USS Enterprise (should be fun...), some 1:24 and 1:32 automotive, 1:35 dinosaurs.

Scale doesn't matter much... I just love models!!!

-Mark
  • Member since
    August 2003
  • From: USA
Posted by luftwaffe1 on Monday, November 24, 2003 6:52 PM
Being reborn to modeling after a ten year absence. I think 1/48th scale offers the best of both world...not to big not to small. Just enought to fit on a shelf but not to small not to be seen or take too much space up. I always modeled in 1\48. 1\72 is too small...but the only advantage...MORE KITS
  • Member since
    February 2003
  • From: Indiana, USA
Posted by cassibill on Monday, November 24, 2003 4:29 PM
Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]Bow [bow]
Frank, that was too much. lololol Hey Dave!! Publish that. I got the chills looking at that pic. I build 1/144 planes and 1/72 occasionally for something special, my flight team collection or Migs but I want 1 model of every plane in 1/100 or smaller. I have ambition but not for course workBig Smile [:D]. Armor in 1/72. Ships in 1/350!!!!

cdw My life flashes before my eyes and it mostly my life flashing before my eyes!!!Big Smile The 1/144 scale census and message board: http://144scalelist.freewebpage.org/index.html

  • Member since
    July 2003
  • From: Piedmont Triad, NC (USA)
Posted by oldhooker on Monday, November 24, 2003 3:17 PM
Approve [^]Some are Large, some are smallApprove [^]

Some are large.....
.....some are small
they live together....
.....on my wall

Hours spent.....
.....on every part
equal time.....
.....with all my heart

When trouble comes....
....and days it will
there is a place.....
....where all is still

Some are large.....
.....some are small
they live together....
.....on my wall
.........Frank White
Approve [^]


Frank Wink [;)]

  • Member since
    May 2003
  • From: The flat lands of the Southeast
Posted by styrene on Monday, November 24, 2003 2:23 PM
1/48 for 95% of stuff, 1/72 for the big, multi-engine stuff.
Gip Winecoff

1882: "God is dead"--F. Nietzsche

1900: "Nietzsche is dead"--God

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