Best Tank Model Building Kits of 2025

Edward West Avatar
Edward West
Last Updated: 10 Feb 2025

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Tank model building kits are a popular hobby for enthusiasts of all ages. These kits provide the pieces and instructions needed to assemble detailed replicas of military tanks from different eras and countries. They offer a challenging and rewarding experience for those who enjoy building and collecting models. Some kits come with motorised parts, allowing the completed model to move and simulate battle scenarios. These kits are a great way to learn about history, engineering, and craftsmanship. They also make unique and impressive display pieces for shelves or desks.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Airfix WWI Male Tank Mk.I Model Kit Cover #TOP 1
Airfix WWI Male Tank Mk.I Model Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Airfix Sherman Firefly Model Kit Set Cover #TOP 2
Airfix Sherman Firefly Model Kit Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Tamiya 1/35 German Hanomag SDKFZ 251/1 Model Kit Cover #TOP 3
Tamiya 1/35 German Hanomag SDKFZ 251/1 Model Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Tank Model Building Kits

#TOP 1

Airfix WWI Male Tank Mk.I Model Kit

A01315V
Multicolor
1:76 Scale
Airfix WWI Male Tank Mk.I Model Kit Cover
Airfix Vintage Classics Set - A01315V WWI Male Tank Mk.I - Plastic Model Tank Kits for Adults & Children 8+, Set Includes 49 Pieces - 1:76 Scale Model Tank Set

The Airfix WWI Tank Kit allows you to step back in time and build a detailed model of the iconic Male Tank Mk.I. This model kit features intricate details and precise scaling, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced modellers. With 49 parts to assemble, you'll enjoy the challenge of creating a piece of history. While the kit does not include paint or glue, it provides an excellent opportunity for you to personalise your model and enhance your crafting skills.

What We Like
Detailed and accurate model
Suitable for all skill levels
Encourages creativity and personalisation
Comprehensive assembly challenge
#TOP 2

Airfix Sherman Firefly Model Kit Set

A55003
grey
Small
Airfix Sherman Firefly Model Kit Set Cover
Airfix Starter Set - A55003 Sherman Firefly Model Building Kit - Plastic Model Tank Kits for Adults & Children 8+, Set Includes Decals, Humbrol Acrylic Paints, Brushes & Poly Cement - 1:72 Scale Model

The Airfix Sherman Firefly offers a fantastic opportunity for budding modellers and enthusiasts alike. This tank model kit is designed for beginners, providing everything you need to start your modelling journey, including paints, glue, and a brush. With 31 precision-engineered parts, you can create a detailed and authentic replica of one of the most effective Allied tanks of the Second World War. The included decals and Humbrol acrylic paints allow you to personalise your model, enhancing your creative experience.

What We Like
Beginner-friendly kit
Includes all necessary materials
Highly detailed model
Great for all ages
Authentic historical representation
#TOP 3

Tamiya 1/35 German Hanomag SDKFZ 251/1 Model Kit

TAM35020
Gray
Small
Tamiya 1/35 German Hanomag SDKFZ 251/1 Model Kit Cover
Tamiya 35020 1/35 German Hanomag SDKFZ 251/1 Plastic Model Kit Cars, Military Green, Grey, for 14 years plus

The Tamiya Hanomag SDKFZ 251/1 is a detailed plastic model kit that replicates the well-known Hanomag SDKFZ 251, developed in 1938. This model is perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate historical accuracy and nostalgia. Its high accuracy of fit ensures that you can enjoy a seamless building experience, while the detailed workmanship enhances the overall aesthetic. As a representation of an essential military vehicle used for armoured personnel transport, this kit allows you to engage with history and create a stunning display piece.

What We Like
High accuracy of fit
Detailed workmanship
Nostalgic model for enthusiasts
Replicates historical military vehicle
Great for building experience
#TOP 4

Revell Jagdpanzer IV 1:76 Model Kit

03359
Assorted
Revell Jagdpanzer IV 1:76 Model Kit Cover
Revell 03359 Jagdpanzer IV (L/70) 1:76 Scale Unbuilt/Unpainted Plastic Model Kit

The Revell Jagdpanzer IV is a 1:76 scale unbuilt and unpainted plastic model kit that includes a German soldier figure and an authentic diorama base. This feature allows you to create a realistic setting for your model, enhancing its visual appeal. The assorted colour options give you flexibility in painting, enabling you to customise your model to your liking. As a tank model building kit, it offers an engaging activity for hobbyists, allowing you to develop your modelling skills while crafting a detailed representation of this historic German tank.

What We Like
Includes soldier figure
Authentic diorama base
Customisable colour options
1:76 scale detail
Engaging hobby activity
#TOP 5

Sluban Army Heavy Transporter Building Kit

M38-B0302
Mehrfarbig
Medium
Sluban Army Heavy Transporter Building Kit Cover
Sluban Army - Heavy Transporter

The Sluban Heavy Transporter is an engaging building kit that contains 311 pieces of high-quality bricks. These bricks are approximately 60% cheaper than other building blocks, providing you with an affordable way to enjoy building. The materials used are certified by CE, ROHS, and ISO 9001:2008, ensuring a safe and durable play experience. This tank model building kit not only offers fun but also encourages creativity and fine motor skills as you assemble your own heavy transporter.

What We Like
Affordable building blocks
High-quality materials
Large piece count
Safety certified
#TOP 6

Tamiya 1/35 German Type I Tank Model

35388
Molded Color
Tamiya 1/35 German Type I Tank Model Cover
Tamiya 35388 1/35 Military Miniature Series No. 388 German Type I Tank B Plastic Model

The Tamiya Type I Tank is a detailed 1/35 scale plastic model that requires assembly and painting, allowing you to create a personalised masterpiece. With a total length of 4.8 inches, this kit offers a compact yet impressive appearance. The upper body and turret use a slide mould technique, which captures intricate details like rivets, ensuring a robust build. This model encourages creativity and skill development, making it an enjoyable project for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.

What We Like
Detailed assembly kit
Compact size when completed
High-quality moulding technology
Encourages creativity
#TOP 7

COBI Churchill MK IV Tank Model Building Kit

2717
Green
COBI Churchill MK IV Tank Model Building Kit Cover
COBI Churchill. MK.IV, Green

The COBI Churchill MK IV is an engaging tank model building kit featuring 315 building blocks made in the EU. This ensures high quality and durability, providing you with a satisfying construction experience. You’ll appreciate the compatibility with other brands, allowing for creative expansion of your collection. Illustrated assembly instructions make the building process straightforward, so you can easily follow along and enjoy assembling your model without frustration.

What We Like
High-quality EU-made blocks
Compatible with other brands
Easy-to-follow instructions
Includes 315 elements
#TOP 8

TAMIYA 1:35 Brit. Panzer Comet A34 Model Kit

35380
Vegetable
Large
TAMIYA 1:35 Brit. Panzer Comet A34 Model Kit Cover
TAMIYA 35380 1:35 Brit. Panzer Comet A34 - Faithful Replica, Model Making, Plastic kit, Hobby, Gluing, Plastic kit, Assembly, unpainted

The TAMIYA Panzer Comet A34 is a detailed model kit in 1:35 scale that invites you to engage in the rewarding hobby of model making. This high-quality kit requires self-assembly, giving you the satisfaction of creating your own replica. You will find step-by-step illustrated assembly instructions included, making the process straightforward and enjoyable. Each precisely fitting part allows you to paint the model at your discretion, enabling you to personalise your creation exactly how you envision it.

What We Like
High-quality detailed model
Easy-to-follow assembly instructions
Customisable painting options
Self-assembly for hands-on experience
#TOP 9

Sluban M38-B0976 Army Tank Destroyer Kit

M38-B0976
Multicolor
Sluban M38-B0976 Army Tank Destroyer Kit Cover
Sluban M38-B0976 Army (Battle of Budapest) Tank Destroyer 344 Pieces, Multi Colour

The Sluban Army Tank Kit features an impressive 344 pieces designed for enthusiasts of model building. You will appreciate the full colour instruction booklet included, which guides you through the assembly process, making it accessible for builders of all levels. The detailed design enhances the realism of your model, allowing you to recreate the Battle of Budapest. This kit not only offers a fun and engaging building experience but also results in a striking display piece you can proudly showcase.

What We Like
Detailed model design
Full colour instructions
Large number of pieces
Engaging building experience
#TOP 10

Tamiya 1:35 PzKpfw.IV Ausf.G Model Kit

25209-000
Tamiya 1:35 PzKpfw.IV Ausf.G Model Kit Cover
Tamiya 25209 1:35 DT. PzKpfw.IV Ausf.G m. Krad Ost F. - Model making kit, Plastic kit, Assembly kit, Tank kit

The Tamiya PzKpfw.IV Model Kit features a detailed 1:35 scale model that allows you to create an accurate representation of this iconic tank. You will appreciate the high-quality materials used, ensuring a satisfying assembly experience. The step-by-step illustrated instructions guide you through the process, making it easier for you to follow along. As you assemble the precise-fitting parts, you can unleash your creativity by painting them according to your own ideas, making your model truly unique.

What We Like
Highly detailed scale model
Quality materials for assembly
Easy-to-follow instructions
Customisable with paint
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best scale for model tanks?

The most popular scale for military models is 1/35. There are literally thousands of model kits, accessories, military figures and photo-etched detail parts available in this scale. 1/72 scale is the second most popular scale for military models.

2. What scale are model tanks?

The most popular scales, by far, are 1:35 and 1:72. Other less-commonly used scales for commercially produced kits include: 1:1, 1:6, 1:9 ("Traditional" scale), 1:12, 1:16 (RC tanks, scale model kits), 1:24, 1:25, 1:30, 1:32, 1:48, 1:50, 1:64, 1:87 (railroad HO scale), 1:144, 1:250, 1:285, 1:300, and 1:350.

Editor's Notes

During our tank model building kit research, we found 218 tank model building kit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 22,637 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tank model building kits list. We found that most customers choose tank model building kits with an average price of £15.30.

The tank model building kits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tank model building kits, including Airfix, Tamiya, Revell, Sluban, COBI.

Written by
Edward West Avatar

Edward's family owns a retail store in Edinburgh for toys and games. He grew up taking a very active part in the family's business. Edward earned his first income from writing web content on a toy related gig for an online company. When he was 18, he took over from his father, and since then, he has been in charge and management of the store and several others around England.