Hobby Master

[Sabrefan]

I was wondering, with all the gloom we keep hearing about in other scale, how does Hobby Master keep coming out with such cool stuff in 1/72nd scale? Their models are top quality, and they make some really unique vehicles and airplanes. I really salute them, and hope they have all the success in the world.

[Tshintl]

Because 1/72 scale sells, and it sells well. Here's the thing that makes 1/72 scale do better than larger scales, it reaches other markets that the larger scale stuff doesn't. For example, wargamers love using the 1/72 scale stuff. There are more wargamers using smaller scale stuff than larger scale stuff, so not only is Hobby Master selling to die cast collectors, but also wargamers.

And consider this, while many collectors will buy just 1 of each release, wargamers will typically buy multiples of just one release. I knew a guy that bought dozens of the Dragon Armor German halftracks when they first came out. Seriously, 2 dozen of each release. No collector even comes close to that type of purchase. It's these additional people/markets besides the collectors that makes 1/72 scale do well.

[Panzer_M]

1/72 sells well, every in Models..esp aircraft and armour is also picking up since a 1/72 kit can go from 11-20, vs the new 1/35 which go from 40-80 and some higher.

although production of a 1/3X model is the same 1/72 model cost-wise..just you have to figure what people will buy more of in the target market. Like in Euro 1/72 is a standard and has been, while since the 70s 1/35 has been key in the US market.

[snake]

HM are indeed coming out with some fantastic new releases. F-111.

And their quality is first rate.They really have become the top manufacturer.

But this is due to their hard work, great quality models, and good prices.They have had to earn this.

Their jets are 1/72, but they have recently got into 1/48 for some single engined WWII fighters.

A bold move.As is releasing an A-26.Their first twin engine "medium", and surely a warning to Corgi.

Love the HM stuff, and just hope they keep doing what they are doing.

[AMERICAN_GRENADIER]

if without HM it would have been a very disappointing year!
i think despite the economy they stuck to thier guns and delivered. were others chickened out HM has balls!

[tmanthegreat]

Hobbymaster is fantastic. Corgi is still my favorite line by tradition, but I've been collecting an increasing amount of Hobbymaster aircraft in the 1:72 and 1:48 scales. As has been said already, their quality, detail, functionality, variety and price are all first rate.

My local Hobbytown USA store just got in some of the 1:48 WWII aircraft: "Eagleston" P-51, 610 Sq. Spitfire, FW-190 and I'm having to hold myself back to avoid dropping over $150 on the spot. Then there's the 1:72 scale F-22... I may have to break down and get that

[Sabrefan]

I just love the Hobby Master 48th scale P-26. That is one sweet looking little plane.

[Panzer_M]

well til Dragon decides to go back on the offensive with new 1/72 WWII, and not just repaints..although a Gelb Pz IV G and Grau Pz IV F(Not to meantion N.Afrika/Tunisia schemes) need to be done sometime IMO. HM will continue to lead the charge with new stuff.

Right now I see either a Africa or Russian front Pz II for the next on that series..not sure where the Horch is going to go for the third model, since we have a Tropical Luftwaffe and 2.SS Pz(well pre-Panzer Division 2.SS)

With the 4th release of the Marder III(r) I hope with the 5th model we see the chassis go for a Marder III H or M, or a PzKpfw.38(t), although not many options for Divisions that used Czech Tanks in the Blitzkreig era, but the Minor Axis used them up to the end of the war..IIRC, Panzer Regiments 10,11 and 25 used czech model tanks.(Osprey's Panzer Divisions 39-40)