Proctor Vs. Arizona Models

1 November 2002, 06:05 PM

Hello!

I am hoping to get any and all opinions about this topic. So everyone is encouraged to reply. I am considering starting my first Scale WW1 project, either 1/5, 1/4 or 1/3 scale. My question(s) are the following:

Which manufacturer, Proctor Enterprises or Arizona Models makes a better kit for the money? Are there any areas of concern that I need to adress seeing that this would be my first model in scale??? Please, any and all information would help... Thanks again for and feedback given.

dtenney

JohnFitz · 3 November 2002, 01:34 AM

Not to make your decision more complicated, I suggest you look at www.gtmodels.com which is Glenn Torrance's site. They make outstanding Fokker DVII and DVIII kits in 1/4 scale. Good luck with your project!

3 November 2002, 11:33 AM

JohnFitz;

I took a real good look at the gtmodels site. I was impressed with The fokker D.VIII for its detail, and that they do authentic lozenge fabric. However, I didn't see any details regarding the Fok. D.VII. I'll try emailing them and seeing what information i can get. Thanks for the pointer.

Now I'm wondering if i can successfully build one!!

Thanks again...

dtenney

3 November 2002, 03:52 PM

Well, to answer my own question.... I emailed Glenn Torrance of GTM, and they DO NOT ( at this time) produce a Fok. DVII kit. They're doing a D8 in 1/4 scale and a Dr.I kit. Something to think about... However, Glenn Torrance did say something about the D.VII bieng extremely difficult for a 1st time Scale-WW1 builder. Anyone that can verify or dispute this care to add thier 2 cents??? Thanks again..

dtenney

JohnFitz · 4 November 2002, 05:44 AM

dtenney,
My apologize for misleading you on the GTM DVII. I thought it was being offered as a kit along with the Dr1 and DVIII. Finding a "true" 1/4 scale kit will be a challenge as you are finding out. It doesn't pay to be too critical to some things like wing spars that will never be seen once covered. The important thing is they are strong enough so you can fly without the wings falling off, but I'm sure you realize that. Since you mentioned the Alb. DIII as a favorite I'll tell you that David Johnston offers a "short kit" in 1/4 scale. I have one and the parts are very nice and the plan is a "building plan" so it's not over done with details. You still have some scratch building to do however to make it right. I guess it all depends on what your expectations are in regard to being satisfied with a "kit". I have not found a better "scale kit" than the GTM DVIII. It too may require some "up grades" however to meet your expectations like real wire wheels. If you are a true "beginner" the Balsa USA 1/4 scale Nieuport 17 is a very nice kit. It is not however "true" scale and you have to add wheels and gun(s). It is however convincing to the eye. For $249.00 it's hard to beat. Hope I have been helpful. Cheers!

4 November 2002, 07:32 AM

JohnFitz,

After exchaning emails with Glenn Torrance, of GTM, he says that he's working on putting together a kit (of the same detail and quality as the D.VIII) of the Fok. DVII. He says it should be ready in about a year. I have looked into the BalsaUSA stuff, and I am impressed. Thanks for the advice..

dtenney

4 November 2002, 07:32 AM

oh, what about proctor enterprises?? I forgot to ask about them...

dtenney

DJ · 4 November 2002, 07:38 AM

Life is to short for Proctor!! Seriously, the Proctor stuff would probably be a bad choice for the first timer.

Lyle · 4 November 2002, 03:28 PM

I agree, although the Proctor kits are very good, they are quite difficult for a beginner. I would say in order of difficulty the VK kits would be the easiest, followed by the Nieuport 11, 28, Fokkers E.III and D.VII and the Albatros D.Va as the pinnacle of scale. And for $900, I'd want a perfect kit too!

JohnFitz · 5 November 2002, 02:39 AM

dtenney,

One more thing about the Balsa USA kit is that you will be able to finish it and gain a lot of experience for your next project! The instructions are very well done and don't leave you guessing. I would guess-t-mate that you will be able to complete the plane (engine, radio gear etc.) for well under $1,000. I will also suggest using Nelson lite fab. for the covering which is not included in the kit. The Fokker DVII from Arizona is very nice and I saw the one DJ and Lyle are talking about at Rhinebeck. The GTM fabric is difficult to apply but would be the best for scale appearance. If you have your heart set on a DVII buying this one as ARF or ARC would be a great choice.