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Another "new kid" on the diecast block, Unimax's
Forces of Valor (FOV) lineup is being positioned as
a viable low-cost alternative to the big boys for those
with shallower pockets to get into the hobby and build-
up a collection. I find the quality of FOV airplanes to
roughly be on the same level as IXO Juniors, which
cost nearly double and are postitioned more closely to
Corgi and Dragon.
So, in this respect, FOV is exactly what it says: A
low-cost alternative. FOV models can be found in
mass-market locales such as Wal-Mart and Target
for about $12. When you consider that they do have a
high metal content, and detail such as optional
external ordnance, they do represent a decent
bargain. However, for $12 Matchbox is superior, in
my opinion. That said, Matchbox is reported to be
getting out of the market, which would leave FOV
alone at this price point in 1:72. And, FOV I believe
has plans to release a much broader range of
models than MB did. There is also an FOV line of 1:
72 armor vehicles, and even some figures are on the
drawing board.
There are Enthusiast and Action series versions
of each FOV model. The Enthusiast series has more
weathering and costs about $5 more, and these are
sold at hobby shops. The Action series is aimed at
the mass-market, casual buyer. However, so far the
weathering effects are garishly overdone on most of
the E Series, so I actually recommend the Action line
more, which is a bit ironic.
Unimax also offers a line of 1:32 aircraft and vehicles,
at less than $30 a pop, and these have a comparable
value to the 1:72 line.
Here's what Unimax lists as the typical features of its
1:72 line:
You won't get moving control surfaces here, and
for $12 you can not expect the same level of "spit and
polish" that you get from more expensive models.
That said, so far the FOV line looks very much like
toys to me, rather than models, and they are very
rough around the edges, so to speak. At the moment,
FOV also seems to be content to pump out the same
models and liveries we've already seen for the most
part from other makers.
Right now I just have a 1:72 Stuka, and I'll probably
pick up one or two more just to get a good feel for the
quality. I don't plan on covering the 1:32 FOV models,
but who knows.
Forces of Valor (FOV) lineup is being positioned as
a viable low-cost alternative to the big boys for those
with shallower pockets to get into the hobby and build-
up a collection. I find the quality of FOV airplanes to
roughly be on the same level as IXO Juniors, which
cost nearly double and are postitioned more closely to
Corgi and Dragon.
So, in this respect, FOV is exactly what it says: A
low-cost alternative. FOV models can be found in
mass-market locales such as Wal-Mart and Target
for about $12. When you consider that they do have a
high metal content, and detail such as optional
external ordnance, they do represent a decent
bargain. However, for $12 Matchbox is superior, in
my opinion. That said, Matchbox is reported to be
getting out of the market, which would leave FOV
alone at this price point in 1:72. And, FOV I believe
has plans to release a much broader range of
models than MB did. There is also an FOV line of 1:
72 armor vehicles, and even some figures are on the
drawing board.
There are Enthusiast and Action series versions
of each FOV model. The Enthusiast series has more
weathering and costs about $5 more, and these are
sold at hobby shops. The Action series is aimed at
the mass-market, casual buyer. However, so far the
weathering effects are garishly overdone on most of
the E Series, so I actually recommend the Action line
more, which is a bit ironic.
Unimax also offers a line of 1:32 aircraft and vehicles,
at less than $30 a pop, and these have a comparable
value to the 1:72 line.
Here's what Unimax lists as the typical features of its
1:72 line:
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels
and surface details. - Pad printed markings and placards that won't
fade or peel like decals. - Optional landing gear with rotating wheels.
- Fixed display stand to display the aircraft "in
flight". - Detailed pilots and crew members.
- Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete
with placards.
You won't get moving control surfaces here, and
for $12 you can not expect the same level of "spit and
polish" that you get from more expensive models.
That said, so far the FOV line looks very much like
toys to me, rather than models, and they are very
rough around the edges, so to speak. At the moment,
FOV also seems to be content to pump out the same
models and liveries we've already seen for the most
part from other makers.
Right now I just have a 1:72 Stuka, and I'll probably
pick up one or two more just to get a good feel for the
quality. I don't plan on covering the 1:32 FOV models,
but who knows.
Unimax Forces of Valor, 1:72
