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What type of equipment is used to recover a derailed train ?
Posted in: Model Railway
11th December 2023
When a train derails, it can be a challenging and complex task to recover it and get it back on track. Specialized...
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Will my model aircraft kit fly?
Posted in: Kit building
11th July 2021
From the perspective of someone choosing a model aircraft for the first time, there can sometimes be some confusion...
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Is it a good idea to use second-hand track?
Posted in: Model Railway, Troubleshooting, Fix, restore and customize, Best practices
18th October 2019
Personally, I would never use second hand track as you don't really know what you are getting. Over time track will...
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What is a back to back gauge?
Posted in: Model Railway, Troubleshooting
15th July 2020
A back to back gauge is an instrument for measuring and setting up the distance between wheels on an axle of a model...
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How has the role of the brake van evolved throughout the history of the railways?
Posted in: Rolling stock
31st January 2024
Brake vans, also known as guard's vans or caboose cars, have played a vital role in the history of railways. These...
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What is the skill level on Airfix kits?

When deciding which Airfix kit to buy most people will understandably want to choose one that is relevant to their capabilities. To help guide you through this decision Airfix kits have a skill level printed on their packaging. But this is only half the story!

The skill level is the last little bit of fine-tuning that you need to do when selecting a model, solely relying on this information could land you with a model that is unsuitable for your needs.

The first step is to choose which range of kit is right for you. There is a quick build range which is most suitable for children under 10 years of age and simply clips together, these kits don't even require painting or gluing.

The next level up is the starter set range which is ideal for younger modellers or first-time kit builders, these do require painting and gluing but everything you need is in the box including brushes, paints, plastic glue and transfers (decals).

Finally, there is the standard range for the more experienced modeller, these do not come with paint or glue because experienced modellers will most likely have their own ideas about what they want to achieve with the model, these models will usually come with decals though.

Once you have decided on your range you can further narrow down the complexity of a model by looking at the product code on the box. The product code will start with the letter A followed by some numbers, the two numbers directly after the A indicate how complex the model is with 01 being perfect for a beginner and 06 models better suited to advanced modellers.

Only now is it time to pay attention to the skill level, it is rated between 1 and 4 with skill level 1 for beginners, 2-3 for intermediate modellers and skill level 4 for experienced modellers. The skill level is based on the number of parts in the kit. By choosing your skill level within the correct range and level of complexity you are sure to have hours of fun building your new Airfix kit.

Posted in: Kit building

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