Airfix is one of the world's largest manufacturers of themed plastic model kits. The oldest UK manufacturer of model kits has been producing models to consumers since 1952. While Airfix has produced a variety of themes from trains, boats, car racetracks and more, the military inspired line of Airfix Toy Soldiers were released originally in 1960 and perhaps the most popular line created.
Modelers love the accuracy and detail that the toy soldier model kits have to offer. Airfix soldiers are made of polythene material (which is nearly indestructible) and were originally made on a HO/00 scale. They have been increased in size to 1/32 scale that has grown popular acclaim from war-gamers, children and adults alike.
These sets have become the addition to many toy collections and many times are passed down from grandfathers and fathers alike. Children who are brought up on building and painting Airfix sets tend to pass the hobby down to their children and grandchildren. Throughout a period of 30 years, Airfix has released over 32 different themed sets from British Paratroops to the Russian Infantry. A few years after the release of the first set of British Paratroops, a new and improved set of moldings were released with quality that would prove hard to surpass by any other manufacturer. Other popular manufacturers in the toy model industry found that their business started to dwindle as Airfix distributed quality and affordable sets.
Most sets include a 29-man army along with one officer. Some sets were later introduced with an extra officer and a different shaped base. The original soldiers were packaged in a brown box and later changed to a crisp bag packaging. These factors are really only recognized by the serious collector.
Along with various armies, Airfix released military vehicles such as: tanks, aircraft, transporters, field guns and more. These vehicles in addition to the toy soldiers create a realistic simulation when set up in combination with one another. Airfix famous sets also include creating staged battle re-enactments of famous battles such as the Battle at the Waterloo.
Airfix has grown to become on the world's most recognizable names to model collectors. Although they have manufactured unsuccessful kits during their earlier years, throughout the years they have developed a molding with quality and detail that is hard to match. A favorite past time of your grandfather can also become your favorite past time. Airfix soldiers are going strong, and do not look like it is going anywhere!