Scale Models Magazine

Scale Models was the premier UK magazine for plastic and scale modelers during the golden age of the hobby. Running primarily through the 1970s and 80s (originally published by Model & Allied Publications), it was the essential monthly read for anyone building Airfix, Tamiya, or Matchbox kits on their kitchen table.

Before the internet, this magazine was the ultimate resource for historical accuracy. It went far beyond simple kit assembly, pushing modelers toward advanced painting, weathering, and scratch-building techniques to create museum-quality pieces.

Key highlights for collectors:

  • Detailed Scale Drawings: The magazine was famous for its incredibly accurate, multi-view scale plans (often fold-outs) of aircraft, tanks, and ships—an absolute goldmine for scratch-builders.

  • Classic Kit Reviews: Brutally honest period reviews of the latest releases from Airfix, Revell, Monogram, and Italeri, capturing exactly what modelers were excited about decades ago.

  • Masterclass Techniques: Step-by-step guides from the masters of the era, teaching early airbrushing skills, realistic weathering, and how to build complex dioramas from scratch.

  • Historical Reference: Deep-dive articles on military camouflage schemes, specific squadron markings, and rare archive photography to help builders achieve absolute historical accuracy.