Throughout the year, new model kits come and go. Many of the model manufacturers produce Limited Edition kits, or kits that have a numbered production run.

These kits are not always easy to find. Indeed, many times they pass modelers by and we didn't even know they existed. They are made in so few quantities. Companies label them as Limited Editions, with additional parts that include resin pieces to photoetch and new decals. Revell-Monogram is probably the most famous through their SSP (Selected Subjects Program) kits. But others offer them too, such as Hasegawa and Round 2.

These kits can sometimes be boxed in original packaging and box art, making them a real trip down memory lane. Many of the kits have not been issued since the 1960's !

So check them out, and see what kind of model treasure you can find. They won't last long !

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Round 2 "1 Run of Fun" Series | Revell-Monogram SSP Models | Hasegawa Limited Edition Models

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Round 2 continues to create models that people have wanted for years.

For the first time ever, and I'm talking about a model no other plastic company could make a reality, we will finally get a 1:25 scale 1966 George Barris Batmobile.

Oh, there have been close calls numerous times. Aurora made a 1:32 scale kit in the 1960's (which Round 2 will also be issuing their version any day now). Corgi made a 1:25 diecast Batmobile. Danbury Mint came within mere inches of having a 1:25 scale diecast. Several resin companies have produced a 1:25 kit, from Scale Replicas to Jimmy Flintstone. Not to mention a vast variety of various scale toys, tin cars, and slot cars. And recently, Hot Wheels has made a great 1:18 scale Batmobile. But there has never really been a 1:25 tribute to that car.

Per their blog, there will be two versions, a snap and a glue. But either one will be destined to fill the hands of many a model builder. I can't wait to buy a case or two myself.

Batmobile & TV Model Kits | Super Hero Model Kits |

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I am posting this simply because Gigantor is just plain cool. I remember watching the early cartoon (black and white mind you) as a kid. This 3 story sculpture is impressive, and the photo (by Motohiko Hasul) really gets across the scale. I can just imagine how much kids want to have their parents drive past it.

Official Gigantor Site | Gigantor: The Collection | The Official Gigantor Episode Guide and Compendium by Fred Ladd

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When you first see this model car, your first impression is: hmmm, something looks familiar here. Truth is, what you are seeing is a model masterpiece, built by Robert Downie.

With amazing precision, he has handcrafted a car that combines the 3 modern pony cars all into one. The Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, and Chevy Camaro. It's a brilliant concept, with flawless body work. Everything goes together so well with three different styles, it's hard to tell where one begins and one has ended. It probably doesn't matter, the car stands on it's own.

Catch the link, and see some images from his build. According to Robert..."The basics: body/interior/chassis (no wheelbase changes) from AMT Camaro concept, hood/fascia from AMT Challenger, tail end from a Revell Mustang GT. Wheels are modified Maisto Mustang GT wheels, paint is Testors Grabber Orange w/satin black accents...".

Dodge Challenger Models | Ford Mustang Models | Camaro Models |

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As modelers, I imagine most of us are pretty handy at building things. Not just models, but everything from furniture, to real cars, to fixing our own home plumbing. We just seem to be able to assemble many parts into a finished project.

While I am no carpenter, I was able to build a desk for my daughter. A Big scale project for sure. And most of us Dads build many things for our kids over their childhood years. We are usually the go to person when toys break, or that bicycle needs to be put together. (This includes Moms, since my own was a single mother raising 3 boys. She helped me build my first model kit (a Skyraider prop) when I was probably around 9.)

For all the cool Dads out there that make things for their kids, here's a project online, for a Star Wars blaster made from PVC pipe, courtesy of Tom Heck.

He didn't go out and spend $$$ on a new toy from China, but made a custom toy for his 10 year old son. Very Cool ! I also like this idea because here's a kid using his creative imagination, and he's outdoors having fun (as opposed to mindless hours in front of a tv or a video game).

Check out the easy and fun project (do it with your kids together, see what ideas they have), it's a win / win deal all around. Tom includes a PDF file at the link with the directions to build your own.

STAR WARS TOY GUN | STAR WARS MODEL KITS | THE PVC 101 PROJECT BOOK |

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Just about every modeler has made a diorama of one kind of another. Usually incorporating their favorite model subject.

Diorama Dreams is a company that specializes in dioramas. Building large scratch built models and scenes, often in 1:6 scales, you are drawn into the action and display. The models vary, from helicopters, science fiction, figures, to military vehicles.

Many of their scenes use figures, in what appear to be modified GI Joe bodies. An interesting touch.

Check the site out and see what you think. There are a lot of ideas, especially if you into large scale projects.

DIORAMA MODELS | SUPER DIORAMAS | STYRENE MODELING | SCUD MISSILE MODELS |

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If you like big rig truck models, one of the most popular sites online would be Model Truck Mafia. There's even more to see with their new web design (totally cool by the way), and new navigation.

I recommend checking it out. And drop Adam a note, there isn't much he doesn't know about truck kits.

MODEL TRUCK MAFIA | TRUCK MODEL KITS | EXTREME TRUCKS |

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Hey, let's list some great pictures from some recent model shows! Inspiration is just around the corner!

• Classic Plastic NNL Model Car Show 2009 - CB
• Classic Plastic NNL Model Car Show 2009 - JD
• Classic Plastic NNL Model Car Show 2009 - TJ
• Classic Plastic Toledo NNL Model Car Show 2009
• Classic Plastic NNL Model Car Show 2009
• Classic Plastic NNL Model Car Show 2009 - PR
• Classic Plastic NNL Model Car Show 2009 - modelcarguy
• Classic Plastic NNL Model Car Show 2009 - tomk
• Classic Plastic NNL Model Car Show 2009 - daryl
• KKIM Model Car Show 2009 - marty

PLASTIC MODEL SHOWS | BUILDING & DETAILING MODEL CARS |

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