A good aircraft model for a beginner

[kris4015]

Thanks all for the replies ! I made a Fiddler's Green account, but I can't figure out how to get those free models. Can anyone out there help me with this, since I have some model kits from Modelik and Halinski, but they're a bit too hard for me to assemble.

Thanks again!

[cMags]

I just checked and it seems that the free models are down the page on the sign in page. Just go to Sign In, then enter your email and password, and on the page that comes up after clicking submit, scroll down. There's a large collection that you can download from. I haven't found out how to get back to that page if you navigate away from it though...

Along with everyone here, I recommend building up to re-trying your Halinski ME-109. The FG models are a good first model. Then try something a little more detailed like one of the Stahlhart Papercraft models that Werner posted above. That Mig 17 he posted is really nice too. Then try something along the next level, say a 2 or 3 page model with bulkhead formers, so you get practice at building around a frame. Then give your ME-109 another go, having the skills under your belt from the previous builds. I've been building for close to 3 years and still haven't gotten up the nerve to attempt a Halinski, though I think I could probably handle it at this point. I'm not saying that a beginner couldn't build and enjoy a Halinski, but they are more advanced models that can really shine if built with a practiced technique.

[airdave]

You know what, beginners models are fine...but they also don't teach you as much.
FG models have their own style and make great beginner projects.

But something like a Stahlhart model will give you a more impressive end product,
boost your confidence
and give you exposure to more areas of serious card modeling.

Some of the older Marek kits might also be a good choice.
First reaction might be not be super positive, but at least they will teach about you
about dealing with skins and formers and fine tuning parts to fit.
The new Marek Mustang design seems like it has a number of kinks worked out of it.
Check with ecardmodels.

Ecardmodels will also reimburse you for the cost of your model (plus another 50%!)
if you write a review and supply some photos of your completed model.

[cMags]

I'm in agreement with Dave. The FG models aren't completely indicative of what you'll encounter with more advanced models, but they do have value in teaching the basics of clean cutting, forming parts, and neat gluing. Plus they are usually very quick builds and build your confidence and thirst for more detailed models very quickly.

The Marek models definitely can turn out some nice results for very low investment (a lot less than the Modelik and Halinski kits). I've done two so far - a D.III Albatros and a P51-B Mustang repainted by Dave here. Both have add-on cockpit kits for additional detail. Check my signature for the builds if you're interested.

[doctormax]

I done the marek ones as the first planes I made. I don't think i have build a fiddlers green plane to be honest. right now the zio contest has planes to choose from but they won't help much with practicing doing formers and joining formers to make the fuselage unlike the Marek ones which do get you to do that at least even the 1.50 scale ones.

[Zathros]

There's also Paper-Replika, which has a range of models that go from extreme beginner to very difficult, and everything in between.

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[kris4015]

Thanks Cmags, Airdave, doctormax and Zathros! I'll check out those Marek and Stahlhart kits for sure! Thanks all for the replies!