What is Scale?

Scale is an important consideration for any model or replica. Scale refers to the fraction by which all dimensions of the real item are reduced in order to produce an accurate model. For instance, a truck that is 64 feet long in real life, will be 1 foot long if reproduced in 1/64th scale. Many collectors will choose to focus on one scale, so that all of their pieces will look correctly proportioned to each other. Model Railroads have always been built to scale and the concept is central to every part of the hobby. Model Railroads also refer to 'Gauge', which is the width of the track on which a train operates. There is direct relationship between gauge and scale, however they are distinct measurements. Not listed above are the 1:12, 1:10, 1:24, Scales that are typically used in R/C and die-cast models.

Major Vendors of die cast toys and models

• Corgi Classics; aviation, military, and character pieces. Well known English brand, highly sought after by collectors.

• Die Cast Promotions;

AKA: Highway 61 relatively new company founded by a member of the ERTL family. Primarily trucks and automotive, with more on the way.

• Dragon;

Maker of mostly military model kits, now moving into the die cast realm with tanks and planes (both military and commercial)

• Eligor

French company producing trucks and a variety of vehicles.

• ERTL / Racing Champions

makers of farm, construction, automotive, racing, and more. The predominate American die cast maker of the postwar era.

• First Gear

makers of highly detailed trucks and construction equipment. Most trucks are custom produced for the collector market.

• Forces of Valor AKA: Unimax

relatively new to die cast, Forces is a branch of toy maker Panache Place. Military models are rendered in mostly 1/32 with an emphasis on working parts and accessories.

• Franklin Mint

Franklin Mint is known for higher quality collectibles of all types. Die cast models include model cars, fire trucks, farm equipment, and aircraft under the Armour name.

• Joal

Spanish company producing nicely detailed trucks and construction toy.

• Maisto

produces toy cars, trucks, airplanes, and motorcycles for mass-market and collector channels.

• Matchbox

expanding range of toys and collector items. Mainly sold through large retailers.

• Model Power

Long time producer of model railroad components and accessories. Many pieces are cast resin, none are for use as toys.

• Motorart

Based in Sweden, Motorart focuses on the Volvo brand and produces a nice range of construction, trucks, and autos from the Volvo line.

• New-Ray

produces a wide range of main stream die cast toys featuring 1/24th scale trucks and tractor trailer rigs.

• Norscot aka Diecast Masters

producer of licensed promotional models for Caterpillar and others.

• NZG

German company producing construction models and other vehicles.

• Scale Models

Iowa based maker of farm toys and other vehicles.

• SIKU

High quality German made toys for kids and collectors.

• Solido

French maker of military and automotive models.

• Spec-Cast

Iowa based maker of farm toys and trucks.

• Tonkin

maker of collector and promotional models for the trucking industry. Models are 1/64 and 1/50 scale and feature precision detailing.

• Welly

produces various cars and trucks.