The 10 Best Model Airplane Kits

This review has been updated 19 times since it was first published in February of 2018. If you don’t have the time or money to get your pilot’s license, these model airplanes are the next best thing. Patterned after some of the most recognizable aircraft ever to patrol the skies, these kits will make an attractive addition to your collection, as well as sure-fire conversation starters whenever you have company over. And, of course, they’re fun and challenging to put together. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Review.

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10. Daron Skymarks Boeing 777

No glue is necessary for the Daron Skymarks Boeing 777 (about $52), as the pieces snap together nicely. The tail tucks into the wings and fins with little effort, so there’s one less chance for frustration when you’re constructing the thing.

9. Guillow’s Piper Super Cub 95

For a throwback option, try the Guillow’s Piper Super Cub 95 (about $20). Made of laser-cut balsa wood, it even flies, thanks to the included rubber band motor. It’s perfect for younger kids who want to get started with this hobby, but who aren’t yet ready for more intricate sets.

8. Academy Stuka Tank Buster

The Academy Stuka Tank Buster (about $17) may depict the scourge of Spanish Civil War Republicans, but the fearsome reputation doesn’t carry over to the assembly process. It’s not especially flashy, but it will still make a nice addition to any shelf in your house.

7. Revell B17G Flying Fortress

As the name suggests, the Revell B17G Flying Fortress (around $30) isn’t some dinky miniature you stash on the corner of your desk. This is a massive piece, and it’s sure to be a conversation starter regardless of where you put it. It’d be nice if the bomb doors opened, though.

6. Tamiya Corsair Birdcage

The Tamiya Corsair Birdcage (about $119) has folding wings, which gives you some options for display. You can also set the flaps up or down, and there are plenty of aftermarket modifications you can purchase if the basic kit isn’t realistic enough for you.

5. Revell SR-71A Blackbird

Based on one of the most iconic reconnaissance aircraft ever, the Revell SR-71A Blackbird (appx. $17) comes with a drone and ground trolley, so you’ll be ready for a mission anywhere on the planet. It’s the type of plane that makes even the most disinterested observer stop and stare.

4. Hasegawa F-22 Raptor

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the Hasegawa F-22 Raptor (about $66) comes with more decals than pieces. There are some for the fins, engines, fuselage, and more, so if applying stickers isn’t your bag, you might want to keep shopping.

3. Miscy 3D Wooden

Whereas most choices are too detailed for kids to complete, the Miscy 3D Wooden (around $13) was designed specifically for children aged 6 and up. This means they can participate and express their love of aviation without the frustration of more realistic, yet complex, options.

2. Revell Messerschmitt

The Revell Messerschmitt (appx. $46) is an accurate and detailed replica of the fighter that menaced the skies in World War II, right down to the movable propeller and long-range fuel tank. It’s easy to assemble, as well, so you can be finished in less time than the Battle of Britain.

1. Tamiya P-51D Mustang

Don’t be intimidated by all the parts you see inside the box for the Tamiya P-51D Mustang (appx. $103), as the instructions make it easy to figure out what goes where, and the best order to approach putting them all together. The end result is a beautiful, intricately-detailed plane.

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