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Model Types & Materials
What are models and toys made out of? What are the differences in the materials?
These questions are often asked and we would like to give you some information.
Below list both pre built up models along with kits. We have listed the types
of materials along with general quality of the models that can be produced from
the material. There are always exceptions and with each type of material,
the quality depends on the manufacturer.
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Pre built up models |
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Brass |
Brass models are usually the most detailed of all models available. Brass
allows for finer parts than diecasting or white metal. These are usually limited
run models with the usual production quantities of 200-300 units but can be more
or less than that. Most brass models are painted. |
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Diecast |
Diecast models is the preferred method for making models in large quantities.
They offer durability, detail and low cost on high runs. The usual minimum
order for a diecast model is 2500 units. The minimum is required to balance
out the cost of the dies over many units. Diecast can range in quality depending
on the details desired and the model requirements. |
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Plastic |
Plastic models use and injection moulded process that allows for fine detail.
Most plastic models use pre-colored plastic for their color unlike any of the materials. |
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White metal |
White metal is a "soft" low temperature metal often used for limited run hand built
models and kits. The lower temperature allows it to flow into moulds easier
for finer detail. White metal will bend a little before breaking. Whereas
a diecast while stronger, simply breaks. |
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Pewter |
Pewter is a form of white metal. Often times models listed as pewter are unpainted
and remain in the grayish bare metal color. |
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Resin |
Resin is a low temperature casting plastic. Unlike plastic models that use
injection under pressure, resin is cast into moulds. Resin can range in quality
from crude casting to very finely detailed models. Most of the models we
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Wood |
Very few models are made out of wood. This is sometimes used for large one
off prototype models and for large scale aircraft models. These models are
then sanded and painted so it is hard to tell they are made out of wood. |
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Model Kits |
Kits can be produced in all of the materials listed above. Some kits are more
difficult and require more preperation work like cleaning flashing, sanding and
pre-paint cleaning. See our
Kit Building Tips
page for more information |
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Buffalo Road Imports
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are:
Copyright © 2009 Shawn Lewis and Buffalo Road Imports or used by permission from
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No part of this website may be distributed, reproduced, republished, or stored in
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