Holiday Gift Guide for Modelers
Saturday, November 13. 2010
Like it or not, Christmas is just six weeks away. If you have a modeler or collector on your list this year and have no idea what to get them, here are some ideas:
So there you have it: a few ideas to help get you started this year. The links I've provided also have several "related products," so be sure to look around if the modeler/collector on your list already has the specific item I suggested.
HobbyTown USA Gift Card
A lot of people don't like giving gift cards because they feel they're too impersonal. But trust me on this - a hobby-specific gift card isn't the same as a generic mall gift card. A HobbyTown gift card also allows them a free pass to go to the store and pick up a new kit, tool, part, or other item, which is a gift in itself. You can find the nearest store hereNew Kits
There are a lot of excellent kits hitting the market, and there's sure to be something right up their alley. Try one of these, based on what type of kit they usually build:- Classic Automobile kits: 1953 Hudson Hornet
This is one of the most anticipated car models this year, and early glimpses of Moebius' all-new tooling have looked outstanding. - Retro Automobile kits: Meyers Manx
Round 2 continues with their line of classic AMT reissues with the Manx, a kit that modelers have been requesting for years. - NASCAR kits: COT
Round 2 has released the first-ever model kits of the COT, available in paint schemes representing Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jimmie Johnson, and Jeff Gordon. - Sci-Fi kits: Battlestar Galactica
Another highly anticipated kit from Moebius, this kit will feature movable hangars. - Real Space kits: Space Shuttle with Boosters
As the Orbiters' careers finally draw to a close, this kit is a great item to remember their years of service (the kit includes decals for all six Orbiters). - Monster kits: Vampirella
Another classic reissue of an original Aurora kit, part of their "Monster Scenes" series - Robot kits: Gundam 00 Union Flag Graham Custom
Bandai has a well-deserved reputation for their high quality Gundam kits, and this looks like it will be no exception!
Cool High-End Collectibles
Not much of a builder, but still appreciates quality craftsmanship? Pool your money with other family members and spring for one of these collectibles that should only be purchased for a special occasion:- Shogun Warriors Beast King GoLion Jumbo Voltron Figure
It's a two-foot-tall Lion Voltron - what's not to love? - Man with the Golden Gun Prop Gun
OK, MwtGG wasn't the best Bond movie, but a life-sized replica of Scaramanga's gun would still be a cool item for any 007 fan. - Flux Capacitor
With this being the 25th anniversary of Back to the Future, this would be a great item for fans of the movie (especially if they are planning to build their own time machine replica) - 1989 Batmobile Replica
At over 2 feet long, this is the biggest commercially available replica of the famous "Keaton Car" on the market. For serious Bat-collectors. - Serenity
Odds are you either recognize how awesome Firefly was, or you haven't gotten a chance to see it yet. Either way, the Serenity finally gets her due with this massive studio scale replica.
Fun and Inexpensive
Prefer something in the sub-$25 range? Try these:- Testors Model Building Supplies Kit
A great introductory set for modelers who haven't built up their own tool box yet, or a perfect "travel size" version of the most critical accessories for building while traveling. - Revell '57 Chevy Bel Air
Not only is this a great one for new modelers (it is hands-down the easiest kit I've worked with at Make-N-Take events), experienced modelers have hailed it as the best-proportioned '57 Chevy Bel Air HT currently on the market - Futurama Die-Cast Figure Set
A nice set of the four main characters from Futurama, complete with a well done display box. At 3" tall, they also will fit in perfectly with 1/24 scale models and diecast cars! - Magnifying Visor
I know several builders who swear by these visors, which provide a lightweight, hands-free method of bringing those tiny parts into focus. - K-Mart Gift Card
As the last of the "big box" stores to still carry model kits, K-Mart deserves recognition for carrying the banner for us. They're also a good option for younger modelers who have to make their hobby supply runs by catching a ride - this way you can combine trips.
So there you have it: a few ideas to help get you started this year. The links I've provided also have several "related products," so be sure to look around if the modeler/collector on your list already has the specific item I suggested.
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