Everyone who appreciates history knows the importance of aircraft carrier model kits. The model kits of World War II aircraft carriers hold great value as they symbolize history. Whether you want a plastic model kit, military model, or some other, you need to be very careful before finalizing a product for you.
Choosing a ww2 aircraft carrier model kit is your personal choice as it varies according to your skills level and personal preferences.
We understand that finding the best product is challenging for you so, we have helped you out by doing our research and finding some fantastic products.
So, let’s dive into the details of these products!
Best WW2 Aircraft Carrier Model Kits
1. TAMIYA America, Inc 1/700 US Yorktown CV-5 Aircraft Carrier Model Kit
The TAMIYA is one of the famous brands in the world of aircraft model kits. This plastic model kit needs glue and paint to get completed. Its advanced carrier design has impressive features and incredible details. Its multiple platforms, an island superstructure, hanger decks, and tripod must, won’t disappoint you as it comes in the best quality.
Furthermore, the anti-aircraft battery and optional position for the deck elevator make it long-lasting. You can do the elevator in an up or down position as per your need. This comes in various tiny parts that make it a challenging task for your child. It comes with a lovely painting guide and a set of cutters that makes assembly much easy.
Pros
- Sleek and nice looking model.
- Requires only paint and glue for assembling.
- Painting it is easier.
- Reasonable price.
- Comes with a full guide.
Cons
- Not for small kids.
- Not for beginners.
2. Trumpeter 1/700 WWII USN USS Hornet CV-8 Aircraft Carrier Model Kit
The Trumpeter is another fantastic model kit, just take it out of the box, and it is ready to assemble. Its detail-oriented style makes it interesting for the children and adults both. The packages include hundreds of pieces that can be assembled easily by adequately following instructions. This model also has an improved helmet version that gives it a better shape.
As the kit comes with the different aircraft boarded so you can easily make various versions that include waterline and full option.
Pros
- Excellent packaging.
- Ensures you’ll have a lot of fun activity.
- Outstanding style.
- Suitable for children.
Cons
- Not quite good for adults.
3. Aoshima 1/700 IJN Aircraft Carrier Hiryu 1942 Midway
This plastic model kit has a historical structure and takes you back to the era of world war II. The Aoshima is a Japanese-based model and has excellent details. The material used in the construction is of superior quality and requires painting. You need to be focused while assembling this; although it needs time but you can do it perfectly while following the instructions.
Follow the assembly directions and make your aircraft carrier model quickly. Painting this kit could be difficult, but it is full of fun when done correctly. Just paint your craft in a way you want and give it a historic look.
Pros
High-quality material.
Precise details.
Easy to assemble.
Budget-friendly.
Cons
Not have an underwater hull.
4. USS Ticonderoga CV-14 1/500 Ship Model kit Made in The USA
The USS is another best aircraft carrier model kit made in the USA and is an excellent revival of the classic Renwal kit. It has almost 150 different parts and comes with a proper display stand. Once you assemble it correctly, it makes up a nearly 21 inches long kit. You will find all the instructions printed on the back of the box that will help you in assembling it correctly and efficiently.
Decals in it need your focus and a steady hand to operate effectively. The instructions of the assembly are evident and easy to follow. This historical kit will give your children an idea of history and sharpen their minds through the activity.
Pros
- Comes with easy to follow instructions.
- Full of fun activities.
Cons
- You need to buy paints separately.
Buying Guide for WW2 Aircraft Carrier Model Kits
While looking for the best ww2 aircraft carrier model kit, you need to be very careful. Here are some essential features that you must consider before buying your product:
Skill level
There are different model kits designed for different skill levels- beginners, intermediate, and experts. If you are a beginner, you must be prepared, as it will take your a lot of time. Choose a model that is easy to assemble and comes with clear instructions. On the other hand, if you are an expert, you can easily choose a professional model kit and efficiently complete the tricky tasks.
Displaying areas
Some models require a large area for displaying, while others can be adjusted in a small space. If you have dedicated a separate room for your models or have an open slot, then you can choose a large model; otherwise, go for a small one. Usually, a model kit comes with 100-150 pieces, so you must have enough area for assembling these parts quickly.
Your child’s age
If you are buying this to enhance your child’s motor skills, you must choose a model according to your child’s age. Older children can tackle challenging tasks, but younger ones can’t. If your model needs a lot of patience and is tedious, it is just for your older child. However, for your younger child, always go for the models that are easy to tackle.
Ship Model Material
The material used in the construction must be made of top-notch material. This not only prevents any breakage, but a good quality product will also stay with you for a more extended period.
Little known interesting facts about WW2 Aircraft Carriers
While many aspects of World War II aircraft carriers are well-documented, some lesser-known and fascinating facts about these vessels offer insights into their operations and significance:
- Wooden Flight Decks: In the early stages of WW2, some aircraft carriers, such as the USS Ranger and HMS Hermes, featured flight decks made of wood instead of steel. Wood was lighter than steel and less likely to corrode, making it a practical choice for carrier construction during wartime.
- Camouflaged Carriers: To evade detection by enemy aircraft and submarines, some aircraft carriers were painted with elaborate camouflage patterns during WW2. These patterns, known as “dazzle camouflage,” used bold geometric shapes and contrasting colors to distort the carrier’s outline and confuse enemy observers.
- Convertible Aircraft Carrier: The British Royal Navy experimented with a unique concept known as the “Merchant Aircraft Carrier” during WW2. These vessels were merchant ships equipped with flight decks and aircraft-handling facilities. They could quickly convert from cargo carriers to makeshift aircraft carriers, providing vital air support during convoy operations.
- Ice Cream on Carriers: Despite the challenging conditions of naval warfare, some aircraft carriers during WW2 featured ice cream parlors onboard. These parlors provided a welcome respite for crew members and offered a taste of home amid the rigors of combat.
- Carriers as Hospitals: In addition to their primary role as platforms for launching and recovering aircraft, some WW2 aircraft carriers served as floating hospitals and medical facilities. These carriers provided critical medical care to wounded servicemen and played a crucial role in evacuating casualties from the front lines.
- Aircraft Carrier Submarines: In a remarkable display of ingenuity, the Japanese Navy developed the I-400-class submarines during WW2. These submarines were equipped with hangars and catapults for launching seaplanes, effectively serving as underwater aircraft carriers. The I-400-class submarines were intended for long-range reconnaissance and strike missions.
- Carriers in Landlocked Seas: During WW2, several landlocked seas and lakes became unexpected theaters of carrier operations. The Caspian Sea, Lake Michigan, and Lake Maracaibo were among the bodies of water where carriers conducted training exercises, launch and recovery trials, and other operations far from the open ocean.
- Aircraft Carrier Heist: In a daring covert operation, the British Royal Navy orchestrated the capture of the French aircraft carrier Béarn in 1940. Despite being partially disarmed, the Béarn possessed valuable aviation assets and served as a valuable addition to the Allied naval forces during WW2.
Are there any ww2 aircraft carriers left today?
As as we know, there are no World War II-era aircraft carriers remaining in active service. However, several decommissioned carriers from that era have been preserved as museum ships or converted for other purposes. Here are a few notable examples:
- USS Intrepid (CV-11): The USS Intrepid is one of the most famous museum ships in the world. It served in WW2 and later in the Cold War and Vietnam War. Now docked in New York City, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum showcases its history and exhibits related to aviation and naval technology.
- USS Lexington (CV-16): The USS Lexington, also known as “The Blue Ghost,” is a museum ship located in Corpus Christi, Texas. It was commissioned in 1943 and served extensively in the Pacific Theater during WW2. Today, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore its decks and learn about its wartime contributions.
- USS Yorktown (CV-10): The USS Yorktown is a museum ship moored at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Commissioned in 1943, the Yorktown played a significant role in several Pacific battles during WW2, including the Battle of Midway. It is now a popular tourist attraction.
- HMS Victorious (R38): Although not a museum ship, the HMS Victorious served in WW2 and was later converted into a target ship for missile tests. After being decommissioned, it was eventually sold for scrap in 1969 and dismantled.
While these carriers are no longer active in military service, they serve as important historical landmarks and educational resources, preserving the legacy of naval aviation and the sacrifices made during World War II. Additionally, some modern aircraft carriers, such as the USS Midway (CV-41), were built shortly after WW2 and have been converted into museum ships after their decommissioning.
Final Verdict
Hopefully, our guide was helpful for you while choosing between the best ww2 aircraft carrier model kits on the market today. All those models that we shared with you get kudos from their users because of their impeccable designs. Get the battle ship model kit that’s within your budget and enjoy the fun-loving activities with your family and friends.
If you have any suggestions or questions feel free to leave a comment below.
