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Tank Models & Kits
Explore tank model kits from First World War armour to WW2 Tiger, Sherman and T-34 subjects, Cold War Soviet tanks and modern Challenger 2 and Leopard 2. Compare the exact variant, manufacturer, scale and construction demands.
Find Airfix, Tamiya, Revell, MENG and Zvezda plastic model kits, interlocking brick builds, Piececool and Metal Earth metal model kits, plus ready-to-run RC tanks.
Featured build · Tamiya Challenger 2, 1:48
Featured tank models
Three starting points for a tank collection: a compact Airfix Tiger I starter set, Tamiya’s classic 1:35 Soviet T-34 and a modern British Challenger 2 in 1:48. All three are construction kits; ready-built RC choices appear further down.
Best for a first glued tank kit
Easy · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · Paints, glue and brush included
Best for a classic Soviet tank
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · 1943 production subject
Best for a compact modern tank
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:48
1:48 scale · British Iraq War subject
Tiger tank models
Compare Tiger I and Tiger II subjects across Airfix, Tamiya and Metal Earth. A small starter kit, a larger plastic King Tiger and a folded-metal display call for different tools and techniques, even when all depict German WW2 armour.
Best for a first glued tank kit
Easy · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · Paints, glue and brush included
A compact Tiger I with simplified assembly and basic finishing supplies. This is a conventional plastic kit rather than a snap-together toy: trim and join the parts, then paint the model. Its Easy rating makes it a useful introduction to tracked armour.
Best for a larger German heavy tank
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · King Tiger with production turret
Choose the Tiger II for a different German heavy-tank silhouette from the Tiger I. Tamiya’s production-turret edition gives room for careful running-gear alignment and a painted camouflage finish. Compare the exact turret and kit code when building a historically consistent collection.
Best for a small metal display
Intermediate · Metal
Folded metal sheets · No stated scale
Metal Earth’s Tiger I starts as flat metal sheets. Cut out the components, shape them and secure the small tabs with suitable pliers. Its compact polished finish provides a different building experience from a painted plastic tank; small bends still require care.
Sherman tank models
Sherman models cover several variants and operators. Airfix’s Firefly depicts the British gun-equipped variant, while Reobrix’s M4A3E8 represents a US Sherman. Compare the variant, scale and assembly method before choosing a kit or matching a historical scene.
Best for a compact British Firefly
Easy · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · British 17-pounder Sherman variant
The Firefly combines a US-designed Sherman chassis with the British 17-pounder gun. Airfix’s small 1:72 kit is an Easy-rated traditional build for a compact Allied armour display. Choose markings for the British-operated vehicle rather than treating every Sherman as a US Army subject.
Best for a brick-built Sherman
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:30
836 bricks · Manufacturer-stated 1:30
Reobrix’s World of Tanks Sherman uses coloured interlocking bricks rather than glued sprues. Build the M4A3E8 hull, turret and tracks as a substantial assembly project, then keep the finished model on display. Its 1:30 format differs from conventional 1:35 plastic armour.
Best for a two-tank project
Easy · Plastic · 1:72
Two 1:72 tank kits · German and British subjects
This pairing puts a German Tiger I beside a British Sherman Firefly in the same 1:72 scale. Build both models for a small comparison display or share the projects between two builders. Check the supplied finishing materials against the edition you order.
Soviet tank and armour models
The WW2 T-34/76, Cold War T-62A and fixed-gun SU-100 offer distinct Soviet subjects. Tamiya provides conventional 1:35 kits, while Zvezda’s compact snap-fit SU-100 is a tank destroyer rather than a turreted tank.
Best for a classic Soviet tank
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · 1943 production subject
Tamiya’s T-34/76 depicts the 1943 tank with its distinctive hexagonal turret. Hatch choices and crew figures offer ways to personalise the finished model. The larger 1:35 format suits modellers who want to spend time on assembly, painting and weathering.
Best for a Cold War Soviet tank
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · Engine-grille mesh and commander
The T-62A moves a Soviet armour collection into the Cold War. Tamiya’s conventional 1:35 kit combines hull and turret construction with engine-grille mesh and a commander figure. Compare it with the WW2 T-34 rather than placing both in the same wartime scene.
Best for a compact snap-fit armour kit
Easy · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · Snap-fit tank destroyer
The SU-100 is a Soviet tank destroyer with a fixed fighting compartment rather than a rotating tank turret. Zvezda’s 1:72 kit uses snap-fit assembly and carries an Easy construction rating. A painted finish is an optional further project; it is not a ready-built model.
Modern tank models
Compare British Challenger 2 and German Leopard 2 kits by exact variant and scale. Tamiya’s 1:48 Challenger offers a middle-sized static project; Revell’s Leopard 2 editions span 1:35 and 1:72. These modern subjects belong in a different setting from WW2 armour.
Best for a compact modern tank
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:48
1:48 scale · British Iraq War subject
This desertised Challenger 2 offers a modern British main battle tank in Tamiya’s 1:48 range. The smaller format takes less shelf space than the same subject at 1:35, while retaining distinctive armour and external fittings. It is a static kit for gluing and painting.
Best for detailed modern German armour
Challenging · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · Modern Leopard 2 variant
Revell’s Leopard 2A7A1 offers a modern German main battle tank in 1:35. The running gear, turret fittings and external equipment suit a patient builder seeking a more involved plastic project. Check the A7A1 designation against other Leopard 2 editions before ordering.
Best for a smaller modern Leopard
Challenging · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · A7V edition
This 1:72 Leopard 2A7V brings a modern main battle tank to a compact collection. Smaller dimensions do not make every fitting easier to handle: track and turret details still need precision. Compare its Challenging rating with the simpler Airfix 1:72 starter kits.
Tank destroyer models
Tank destroyers add variety to an armour collection. The M36 and M18 have open turrets, while the SU-100 uses a fixed fighting compartment. Compare Tamiya 1:35, Warlord Games 1:56 and Zvezda 1:72 according to your display or tabletop plans.
Best for an open-turret armour build
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · Open turret and 90mm gun
The M36 has an open turret that makes its gun breech and crew space important parts of the finished model. Tamiya’s 1:35 kit suits a builder who enjoys assembly and interior painting. It represents a US tank destroyer rather than a standard battle tank.
Best for a tabletop armour project
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:56
1:56 scale · Bolt Action plastic kit
Warlord Games’ M18 Hellcat is a compact US tank-destroyer kit in 1:56. It offers an armour subject for a tabletop collection as well as display. Assemble and paint the model, and match its scale to the figures and vehicles you intend to use alongside it.
Best for a compact snap-fit armour kit
Easy · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · Snap-fit tank destroyer
The SU-100 is a Soviet tank destroyer with a fixed fighting compartment rather than a rotating tank turret. Zvezda’s 1:72 kit uses snap-fit assembly and carries an Easy construction rating. A painted finish is an optional further project; it is not a ready-built model.
Brick and metal tank models
Try Reobrix and Airfix QUICKBUILD for coloured interlocking construction, or Piececool for shaped metal parts. These builds offer different finishes and handling demands from traditional glued plastic kits. A no-glue label does not automatically mean an easy project.
Best for a brick-built Sherman
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:30
836 bricks · Manufacturer-stated 1:30
Reobrix’s World of Tanks Sherman uses coloured interlocking bricks rather than glued sprues. Build the M4A3E8 hull, turret and tracks as a substantial assembly project, then keep the finished model on display. Its 1:30 format differs from conventional 1:35 plastic armour.
Best for a first interlocking build
First Build · Plastic · 1:35
154 pre-coloured pieces · 1:35 scale
The QUICKBUILD Tiger I uses pre-coloured interlocking components and needs neither glue nor paint. Unlike many QUICKBUILD subjects, Airfix specifies this tank at 1:35. Choose it for a straightforward First Build project, while recognising the different surface detail from a conventional sprue kit.
Best for a folded-metal modern tank
Challenging · Metal
Metal tab assembly · No verified scale
Piececool’s T-90A is a metal construction model of a modern Russian tank. Shape the pieces and secure the tabs with suitable pliers, without the glue used for traditional plastic kits. Its Challenging rating reflects the precision of the metal assembly; no verified scale is stated here.
Remote control tank models
The ready-to-run range includes modern Leopard II and Abrams subjects alongside a Tiger I. These models arrive assembled, so compare operating size, control features and batteries rather than construction difficulty. Confirm whether a particular edition uses infrared play or fires physical BBs.
Best for a smaller ready-to-run tank
Ready-built RC · Plastic · 1:24
Ready-built · 1:24 scale · Controller included
The Kaim Leopard II is supplied assembled for driving and display. Its 1:24 format, moving turret and simulated lights, smoke and sound offer a different experience from building a static kit. Check the exact battery and charging requirements before operating it.
Best for a larger modern RC subject
Ready-built RC · 1:18
Ready-built · 1:18 scale · BB-firing version
This assembled Abrams-style model is a 1:18 RC vehicle with a moving turret and simulated effects. The ZY021-829 edition fires compatible physical BBs, so check its operating instructions and intended play area. It receives no construction-difficulty rating because it is supplied built.
Best for an operating Tiger I
Ready-built RC · Plastic / alloy tracks · 1:18
Ready-built · 1:18 scale · Alloy tracks
The PRO Tiger I pairs a WW2-inspired subject with ready-to-run radio control and alloy tracks. This edition has a physical BB launcher and simulated effects. Compare the exact model code and operating features with other Tiger RC versions rather than assuming they are identical.
Choosing a scale for tank models
Compare scale within the same vehicle family, then check completed dimensions. A smaller denominator means a larger model of the same subject. Scale alone does not tell you whether a tank is a traditional plastic kit, a brick build or an assembled RC vehicle.
| Scale | Subject | What to consider | Catalogue examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:35 | Detailed plastic armour and some interlocking kits | A useful size for running gear, crew and careful finishing. Compare the assembly system as well as the stated scale. | Tamiya T-34/76 / Tamiya Chi-Ha / QUICKBUILD Tiger |
| 1:48 | Compact modern armour | A middle ground between 1:35 and smaller scales. Match figures, markings and the exact period of the vehicle. | Tamiya Challenger 2 |
| 1:72 | Small WW2 and modern tanks | Good for limited display space. Fine tracks and fittings may still need precision, particularly on more detailed kits. | Airfix Tiger starter / Airfix Firefly / Revell Leopard 2A7V |
| 1:76 | Compact classic armour | Close to 1:72, but not identical. Keep this difference in mind when matching tanks with figures or transporters. | Airfix Cromwell / Airfix T-34 |
| 1:56 | Tabletop armour | Match the scale and basing conventions of your existing figures. A tabletop kit still needs construction and finishing. | Warlord Games M18 |
| 1:30 | Brick-built tanks | A stated brick scale does not imply the same part design or surface detail as a conventional plastic kit. | Reobrix Sherman |
| 1:24 / 1:18 | Ready-to-run RC tanks | Allow room to turn, access batteries and charge the model. These are assembled operating vehicles rather than construction projects. | Kaim Leopard II, 1:24 / Supdex Abrams, 1:18 |
1:35 tank models
At 1:35, compare MENG’s First World War A7V with Tamiya’s WW2 Chi-Ha and Tiger II. The shared scale helps judge relative size, but era, crew, markings and assembly complexity still need to match your project.
Best for an early tank subject
Challenging · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · German First World War tank
MENG’s A7V offers a box-shaped German First World War tank rather than the familiar turreted WW2 silhouette. This Challenging 1:35 plastic project suits a modeller interested in early armour and a more involved assembly. Keep its era and distinctive running gear in mind when planning a display.
Best for Japanese WW2 armour
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · Japanese medium tank
The Type 97 Chi-Ha adds Japanese armour to a collection dominated by European subjects. Tamiya’s 1:35 plastic kit includes crew figures and marking choices for a painted display. Match the specific vehicle and period if combining it with figures or scenery.
Best for a larger German heavy tank
Intermediate · Plastic · 1:35
1:35 scale · King Tiger with production turret
Choose the Tiger II for a different German heavy-tank silhouette from the Tiger I. Tamiya’s production-turret edition gives room for careful running-gear alignment and a painted camouflage finish. Compare the exact turret and kit code when building a historically consistent collection.
1:72 tank models
Airfix’s Tiger I and Sherman Firefly provide Easy-rated WW2 builds, while Revell’s Leopard 2A7V is a more intricate modern subject. Small scale reduces display space, but track assemblies and turret fittings can still require careful handling.
Best for a first glued tank kit
Easy · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · Paints, glue and brush included
A compact Tiger I with simplified assembly and basic finishing supplies. This is a conventional plastic kit rather than a snap-together toy: trim and join the parts, then paint the model. Its Easy rating makes it a useful introduction to tracked armour.
Best for a compact British Firefly
Easy · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · British 17-pounder Sherman variant
The Firefly combines a US-designed Sherman chassis with the British 17-pounder gun. Airfix’s small 1:72 kit is an Easy-rated traditional build for a compact Allied armour display. Choose markings for the British-operated vehicle rather than treating every Sherman as a US Army subject.
Best for a smaller modern Leopard
Challenging · Plastic · 1:72
1:72 scale · A7V edition
This 1:72 Leopard 2A7V brings a modern main battle tank to a compact collection. Smaller dimensions do not make every fitting easier to handle: track and turret details still need precision. Compare its Challenging rating with the simpler Airfix 1:72 starter kits.
How to choose a tank model
Start with the vehicle you want to build, then narrow the choice by construction method, difficulty and display space.
Choose the exact variant and era
A Tiger I is different from a Tiger II, and a British Sherman Firefly is not the same variant as a US M4A3E8. Check turret, armament, markings and service period before assembling a historical scene.
Pick the construction method
Traditional Tamiya plastic kits need gluing and finishing. Airfix QUICKBUILD uses coloured interlocking parts; Piececool uses shaped metal tabs. For an already assembled operating model, explore ready-to-run RC tanks.
Match the build to your experience
The Airfix Tiger starter has an Easy construction rating, while MENG A7V and Revell Leopard 2A7A1 offer more involved projects. Our difficulty ratings describe assembly, rather than historical realism or RC driving.
Check supplies and display dimensions
The A55004 starter set includes basic paint, glue and a brush. Many standalone kits do not. Allow space for the gun barrel and any diorama base; an operating RC tank also needs room to drive and turn.
Compare tank models
Compare every recommended model by era, stated scale, construction rating and current price. Ready-built RC models have no construction-difficulty rating. Where no scale is verified, it is left unstated.
Tank models by era
Use the vehicle variant and markings to place a model in its historical setting. A modern model of a WW2 tank still depicts a WW2 subject.
First World War armour
The MENG A7V Krupp represents early German tank design. Its box-shaped hull and period differ from later turreted tanks. Match crew and scenery to an early-armour project.
Second World War tanks
Tiger I, Tiger II, T-34/76, Type 97 Chi-Ha and Sherman Firefly cover several armies and theatres. Check the exact variant instead of relying on a broad WW2 label.
Cold War armour
The Tamiya T-62A offers a Soviet Cold War subject with a different hull and turret from the wartime T-34. Select a suitable national finish and service setting for a period display.
Modern main battle tanks
Challenger 2, Leopard 2A7A1 and T-90A bring modern armour to the range. Compare a static kit, metal construction model and ready-built Abrams RC vehicle according to how you want to build or use the finished tank.
Browse all tank models
Browse tank kits, ready-built RC tanks and related tank destroyers from the current catalogue. Narrow the range by subject, scale, construction format or brand. Use the numbered pages to see the full selection.
Revell 03342 Leopard 2 A6M+ Tank – 1:35 Scale Unpainted Plastic Model Kit
Tank model FAQs
Which tank kit is a good first glued build?
The Airfix A55004 Tiger I Starter Set has an Easy construction rating and includes basic paint, glue and a brush. It is a traditional plastic kit with simplified assembly. For an interlocking build without glue or paint, compare the Airfix J6041 QUICKBUILD Tiger I.
Are 1:35 tank models easier than 1:72?
Not automatically. Larger parts can be easier to handle, but a 1:35 kit may have more individual track links, fittings or interior details. Compare the exact kit and its construction rating. The Easy Airfix Tiger and Challenging Revell Leopard 2A7V are both 1:72.
Is a Sherman Firefly a US Army Sherman?
The Firefly is a British adaptation of the US-designed Sherman, armed with a British 17-pounder gun. The Airfix A02341 Firefly should be distinguished from a US M4A3E8 such as the Reobrix Sherman. Check markings and variant for your chosen army.
Are the Tiger I and Tiger II the same tank?
No. They are separate German heavy-tank designs. Compare the Airfix Tiger I with Tamiya’s Tiger II with production turret by silhouette, variant and scale. The Tiger II is also commonly called the King Tiger.
Are the M18, M36 and SU-100 tanks?
They are tank destroyers. The M18 Hellcat and M36 have open turrets, while the SU-100 has a fixed fighting compartment. They are included as related armour subjects, with their vehicle type stated clearly.
Does Airfix QUICKBUILD have a stated scale?
Many QUICKBUILD subjects do not, but Airfix specifies the J6041 Tiger I at 1:35. It uses 154 pre-coloured interlocking parts and does not require glue or paint. Check the exact product rather than assuming that every QUICKBUILD model has the same scale.
Do the RC tanks need building?
The Kaim Leopard II and Supdex models recommended here are supplied assembled. They receive no construction-difficulty rating. Check charging, controller batteries and the exact operating features; see the RC tank guide for more choices.
Can I build a metal tank without glue?
Yes. Metal Earth Tiger I and Piececool T-90A use shaped metal parts secured by tabs. Suitable pliers and careful bending are important. No-glue construction can still be demanding, especially around small parts and repeated folds.
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