Truck model

Travel back through time, to a different era, and relive some of the greatest battles with a selection of beautiful model trucks.

Specialising in model making, Scientific MHD presents a selection of scale vehicles to brighten up your mantle piece or display in your collection case.

In addition to cars, boats, trains and figurines, we offer scale model trucks in kit form to assemble, glue and paint yourself and several hundred colours are available.

Scale model trucks for all levels

Some of them require a lot of technical skill and patience, with up to 800 parts!

The Coyote TSV is one such model and is 21 cm long and 6.8 cm wide. While the model has many details, the rubber tyres are intended to be realistic, photo-cut parts are included and the upper and lower parts of the body are made from a multi-directional mould. What's more, this combat vehicle comes straight from the Hobby Boss factory, a worldwide reference in model making.

This manufacturer has hundreds of models in its catalogue, including several recent French military vehicles.

It is renowned for the quality of its 1:35 military models, including the Coyote TSV. All the details of the many truck models we offer can be found in the product descriptions on our website.

In addition to the 1:35 scale military trucks, Scientific MHD offers 1:24 and 1:25 scale trucks mainly produced by AMT.

This is another well-known name in model making that started in the 1970s, beginning with miniature models of US muscle cars. More recently, AMT has specialised in legendary American cars, trucks and trailers, including the Kenworth Conventional W-925 or the Peterbilt 359 Wrecker. Also available are replicas of promotional trucks (Coca-Cola) or firefighting trucks, including the American LaFrance Ladder Chief Fire Truck, which is complex to build and therefore aimed at those with a higher level of experience.

To help you in your search, Scientific MHD always shows the degree of difficulty for the complete realisation of each model truck.

From assembly to painting your model truck

The attention to detail and robustness is also reflected in the series of 1:48 and 1:72 scale truck models.

This category includes airport fire engines, commonly known as Panthers, and combat vehicles from a variety of countries such as Russian missile or cargo trucks.

These models will be painted with camouflage paints to look like the rust and dirt and render them beautifully authentic. Among the more classic, but equally suitable paints, we offer almost 500 different acrylic shades, with shades of blue, green, grey, white and black, of course, as well as more flamboyant shades such as yellow and red.

How to Build a Model Truck?

Model trucks are a staple in the world of model building, from fire trucks to military vans. To start, choose a model that you find interesting and that matches your skill level. Keep in mind that the complexity of a model is often tied to the number of parts. If you’re a beginner, go for models with 100 pieces or fewer. Also, check the scale: for example, a 1/72 scale model may be easier than a 1/25 scale.

Before beginning the assembly of your model truck, make sure to degrease the plastic parts while they are still on the sprue. This removes any silicone residue from the molding process. Simply scrub gently with a little dish soap and warm water, then rinse and let them air dry.

Once that step is done, you can start assembling, beginning with the chassis and the cab. Next, add all the small details, such as wheels and headlights. Finally, move on to painting, sanding the parts if needed to ensure a smooth surface, and apply the base colors. Be sure to set aside time for perfecting the final touches.

What Tools Are Needed to Build a Model Truck?

To make a quality model truck, having the right tools is essential.

Scientific MHD offers a wide selection of materials for beginners and those looking to improve their skills.

The following tools are needed:

• Sprue cutters to separate the plastic parts from the sprue: this tool allows for close cuts without damaging any parts.
• Special model glue is essential for proper assembly.
     
• Paintbrushes and paints for detailing. Beginners can start with basic colors and mix their own shades.
    
• A small file and sanding equipment to smooth the pieces before assembly and painting.

How to Paint a Model Truck

Acrylic paint is ideal for model trucks. It is easy to clean, so you can preserve your brushes longer, and it is non-toxic and adheres to all surfaces. Model paint comes in spray cans and pots.

Spray paint is effective for large areas, like the truck’s body or trailer, while brushes can sometimes leave marks.

Spray paints are often quite harmful, so they should be used outdoors or in well-ventilated areas, and wearing protective goggles is highly recommended.

Start by applying the main color (for a fire truck, this would be red), then add secondary colors. Always let the paint dry thoroughly between coats; with acrylic paint, this usually doesn’t take long. Paint in the same direction to avoid unattractive streaks.

Always use appropriate materials: fine details and finishing touches are best done with a fine brush.

Once the paint is dry, apply any decals and stickers. Finally, you can apply a varnish for a glossy or matte finish to protect your model and give it a polished look.