DieCast 101

an introduction to diecast toys and models as a hobby, an investment, or just for fun.

Diecast Defininition
Major Types of Diecast
Diecast Scales
 
 
Major makers of die cast toys and models
21st Century best known for larger scale (1/16) military planes in plastic.  Also produces die cast military models in smaller scales. [check availability]
Agritec also known by the ROS brand name, this Italian company creates models of European farm and construction equipment. [check availability]
BBurago storied Italian makers of hobby quality die cast cars in 1/18 and 1/24 scales.  Now owned by Maisto but marketed as a distinct brand. [check availability]
Conrad truck and construction models made in Germany.  [more information] [check availability]
Corgi Classics aviation, military, and character pieces.  Well known English brand, highly sought after by collectors. [more information] [check availability]
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. [check availability]
Dragon Maker of mostly military model kits, now moving into the die cast realm with tanks and planes (both military and commercial) [check availability]
Eligor French company producing trucks and a variety of vehicles. [check availability]
ERTL / Racing Champions makers of farm, construction, automotive, racing, and more.  The predominate American die cast maker of the post-war era. [more information] [check availability]
First Gear makers of highly detailed trucks and construction equipment.  Most trucks are custom produced for the collector market.  [more information] [check availability]
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. [check availability]
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. [check availability]
Joal Spanish company producing nicely detailed trucks and construction toy.  [more information] [check availability]
Maisto produces toy cars, trucks, airplanes, and motorcycles for mass-market and collector channels.  [check availability]
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. [check availability]
Motorart Based in Sweden, Motorart focuses on the Volvo brand and produces a nice range of construction, trucks, and autos from the Volvo line. [check availability]
     
New-Ray produces a wide range of main stream die cast toys featuring 1/24th scale trucks and tractor trailer rigs. [check availability]
Norscot producer of licensed promotional models for Caterpillar and others.  [more information] [check availability]
NZG German company producing construction models and other vehicles.  [more information] [check availability]
Scale Models Iowa based maker of farm toys and other vehicles.  [more information] [check availability]
SIKU High quality German made toys for kids and collectors.  [more information] [check availability]
Solido French maker of military and automotive models. [check availability]
Spec-Cast Iowa based maker of farm toys and trucks.  [more information] [check availability]
Tonkin maker of collector and promotional models for the trucking industry.  Models are 1/64 and 1/50 scale and feature precision detailing. [check availability]
Welly produces various cars and trucks. [check availability]
Note: this is not intended as a comprehensive listing as there are literally hundreds of companies currently producing die cast toys and models, but this does represent a cross-section of several categories of die cast.

 

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