Model Ship Buyer’s Guide
Click here to check out the high quality models.

There are a lot of web stores selling model ships. Making a good purchasing decision takes a little bit of research. We’d like to help you by sharing some of our experience.

Quality

The finer the details, the greater the craftsmanship. More detail requires more labor and thus more cost.

Do not expect those US sellers that claim to craft their products in the US because as you know, labor cost itself just does not make any business sense.

1. Entry level – these models are great for decorating. Typically the rigging is fairly simple and the paint and finish are limited to a few shades. Additionally the hulls tend to be plain.
2. Mid level – models of this caliber have more detail, more colors and more complicated rigging. Also great for decorating but they may also be suitable display. Some of these models are smaller versions of our near-museum quality models.
3. Near-Museum Quality –Scale models with intricate rigging, color patterns and detailed features. These models are designed to be centerpieces and conversation starters. Don’t be fooled by the phrase “Museum Quality”. It is used with reckless abandon by many retailers who sell nothing of the sort. A proper museum quality ship will cost as much as a new car.

How We Differ From Our Competition

One of the most difficult parts of this business is identifying and qualifying manufacturers. Model ships, unlike mass manufactured items, consist of hundreds of hand made parts. We stand behind every sale with a 30 day 100% money back. See our terms for more detail. We provide you with many high resolution pictures so that you can judge first hand the level of craftsmanship in every model. In essence, what you see is what you get. Be sure to click on the small photos for each ship on our site for larger, more detailed views.
Click here to check out the high quality models.

What to Look For

Trustworthy retailers will provide detailed quality photographs and a good return policy. We have experienced first hand the challenges of obtaining and supplying high quality models, and the effects on our business. The bottom line is to have a clear idea of where your model will be displayed, what type of model you want, and to buy only from sources that stand by their wares.