Key Information
- These are generally more complex models, so might not be suitable for beginners
- These model kits are suitable for adults or for the whole family to assemble together
- Metal kits generally don’t require glue to assemble, but you may need tools depending on the type of kit
Build lovely little models using these metal kits – great for adults or to assemble as a family project
Metal is a great material for model building as it offers a much broader range of options than wood or plastic. The resulting model has a much more modern, crisp look to it which means it will look great displayed in your home.
Even the simpler metal kits can be quite complex, so you definitely need to commit some time to assembling them – anywhere from a few hours to a few days. It’s a rewarding process though, so well worth turning your hand to one of these new projects.
Unlike wood or plastic kits, metal kits don’t require glue – most of them come in the form of steel sheets with the parts cut, ready to pop out and assemble (wire cutters and tweezers can help with this). If you’re looking at something more complex like a stationary steam engine, you might need some additional tools to assemble it.
1. R2-D2 Metal Model
Who doesn’t love R2-D2? The little astro-droid is perhaps one of the most iconic sci-fi characters of all time. No matter your age, you’ve probably grown up with Star Wars and most of us as adults have gone on to enjoy each iteration of the franchise (mostly!).
This lovely little model kit from Metal Earth comes with 3 flat steel sheets with the parts laser cut ready to pop out and assemble. It’s recommended that you have wire cutters and tweezers or pliers on hand to help remove the pieces and bend the tabs used to hold each part together. It’s a relatively small model (7cm high when assembled) so many of the parts are small and require a steady hand and some patience to assemble.
A fantastic purchase for any Star Wars fan and a great price too!
- Assembled Size: 5cm (L) x 3.5cm (W) x 7cm (H)
- Sheets: 3
- Difficulty: Moderate
R2-D2 Metal Model
2. Russian T-90A Tank Metal Model
The Russian T-90 was a general purpose battle tank which was first deployed in 1993. Battle tanks are designed to operate in a variety of different situations, from escorting and protecting infantry to hunting and destroying enemy tanks. While the model hasn’t been deployed in many combat situations, several were used during the Chechen War and reportedly survived several rocket attacks relatively unscathed, leading to the consensus that it is the best-protected Russian tank in use.
This highly-detailed model kit is a great purchase for military enthusiasts. The finished model is small (12cm long, 5cm wide) but with 150 parts, the level of detail in the finished model is wonderful. As with similar kits, it’s recommended that you have wire cutters and pliers on hand to help remove the pieces and assemble. Don’t be put off by the complexity though – it comes with simple step by step instructions.
- Assembled Size: 12.4cm (L) x 5cm (W) x 3cm (H)
- Sheets: 2 (150 pieces)
- Difficulty: Moderate+
Russian T-90A Model
3. Iron Man Model
Another classic sci-fi character model – this time Iron Man! Hugely popular these days with Marvel spawning so many new TV shows and films based on comic book heroes. This delicate model will be an ideal gift for any Marvel fan.
As with other metal kits, the parts come laser cut in sheets (and again, wire cutters, tweezers and pliers would be useful). The metal sheets are pretty thin though and as the parts are small it will take a steady hand to complete. This is possibly one of the more complex model kits in this guide, but with patience you’ll end up with a unique and great looking model.
- Assembled Size: 12cm (H)
- Sheets: 3
- Difficulty: Moderate+
Iron Man Model
4. Nagato-class Battleship Kit
Nagato-class Battleships were dreadnought battleships commissioned by the Japanese Imperial Navy during World War I (although they weren’t completed until after the war). The Nagato (the lead ship of the class) was home to Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto during the attack on Pearl Harbour and both ships of the class were present during the Battle of Midway.
After the Second World War, the US used the battle-worn ship as the target during nuclear weapon tests (they had captured her just before the end of the war), where she survived two nuclear blasts with only minor damage. However, damage sustained during the initial capture caused her to list and eventually capsize. The wreck was opened to divers in the 1990s is considered to be one of the best diving sites in the world.
This is a wonderful piece of wartime history. This 3D puzzle kit doesn’t require gluing as the metal parts clip together and come with full instructions. With 430 parts, it’s definitely a project to complete, but with patience and a steady hand the result will be a detailed model that you can take pride in completing.
- Assembled Size: 13.5cm (L) x 2.2cm (W) x 18cm (H)
- Parts: 168
- Difficulty: Moderate+
Nagato-class Battleship
5. Black Pearl 3D Metal Model
Shiver me timbers! Everyone loves a good pirate ship and the Black Pearl is a great example from the Pirates of the Caribbean films. A great choice for fans of the franchise or any naval aficionados.
First thing to note is that just like traversing sail on the high seas, this model isn’t for the faint-hearted. But, as an avid pirate Captain-in-waiting, the 307 intricate pieces won’t bring fear to your heart! This is a really complex model which will take days or even weeks to complete, so definitely not one for beginners. You’ll need a steady hand and lots of patience to assemble it.
This is a relatively new addition to the Piececool range of model kits, and welcome one at that. All of their kits come with high quality materials and are very reasonably priced for what you get in return.
- Assembled Size: 19cm (L) x 5.2cm (W) x 16.2cm (H)
- Parts: 307
- Difficulty: Advanced
Black Pearl 3D Model
6. The Wilesco D5
The Wilesco D5 is a fantastic lightweight stationary steam engine model kit, which means you’ll have to assemble it before use. That’s all part of the fun though, isn’t it? Don’t worry, all the parts have already been soldered, so there’s not heavy lifting in the assembly – simply put the parts together.
It’s an attractive model, with a faux red brick platform and chimney stack, rather like a Victorian factory might have had. The boiler has a shiny, brass effect thanks to the nickel finish, as does the oscillating cylinder and the piston. There is also the red and brass effect fly wheel. There’s an inspection glass that is the water level indicator at the front of the boiler, with a dome steam powered whistle on top. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a good, reliable steam engine kit.
- Fuel type: Dry Fuel
- Dimensions: 21cm x 15cm x 15cm
- Type: Kit
Wilesco D5
7. Motorcycle Metal Model
The last addition to our guide – a lovely little motorcycle model from Piececool – great for biking or motoring enthusiasts!
One of the areas where metal models really stand out is the crisp and modern look, which works really well with more modern model designs. This motorcycle model has beautifully clean lines and makes a great little model to display with pride.
With 72 parts it’s less complex than others in this guide, but the parts are still small and require good attention and a steady hand to assemble. This would be a good choice for someone who has built a few simpler models and wants to try something a bit more challenging.
- Assembled Size: 11.7cm (L) x 4.2cm (W) x 7cm (H)
- Parts: 72
- Difficulty: Moderate+
