Browse by difficulty level

How we assign a difficulty level

1

Identify the exact kit

We start by identifying the exact kit, including its maker, product code, edition and what is included. We then check the manufacturer’s rating or instructions for that specific product. Where a manufacturer rating applies, we use the relevant scoped mapping and keep the original rating separate from the Model Steam level.

2

Check the evidence

We also consider the techniques required for the supplied build. These can include preparation, joining, painting, handling small parts, fitting dependent sections and aligning working mechanisms. Age guidance, part count and estimated build time can provide context, but they do not determine the level on their own.

3

Apply the right level

If a product does not have a manufacturer rating, its instructions and other product-specific evidence may still support a level. If the exact kit or the evidence is unclear, we leave the difficulty unassigned until it can be checked.

Read how our difficulty ratings work

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Recently added models and kits

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Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
Hornby R60306 Smith, Parkinson and Cole Ltd 7-Plank Wagon No. 5009

Hornby R60306 Smith, Parkinson and Cole Ltd 7-Plank Wagon No. 5009

Best deal at: Amazon.co.uk
Type: Collectors Models, Ready Built Models
Material: Plastic
Pieces: Completed Model
£21.50
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
LEGO Speed Champions 76917 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) Model Kit

LEGO Speed Champions 76917 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) Model Kit

Best deal at: Amazon.co.uk
Type: Brick Building Kits
Difficulty: Easy
Material: Plastic
Pieces: 250 to 500
£19.36
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
Hornby R60317 The Beatles Anthology OO Gauge Wagon

Hornby R60317 The Beatles Anthology OO Gauge Wagon

Best deal at: Amazon.co.uk
Type: Collectors Models, Ready Built Models
Material: Plastic
Pieces: Completed Model
£20.35
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
JMBricklayer 60020 Motorised Turbojet Engine Building Kit

JMBricklayer 60020 Motorised Turbojet Engine Building Kit

Best deal at: Amazon.co.uk
Type: Brick Building Kits, Working Models
Difficulty: Intermediate
Material: Plastic
Pieces: Over 1000
£64.99
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
PlaySynthe Western Chuck Wagon Building Set

PlaySynthe Western Chuck Wagon Building Set

Best deal at: Amazon.co.uk
Type: Brick Building Kits, Display Models
Difficulty: Intermediate
Material: Plastic
Pieces: Over 1000
£52.99
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
Reobrix 33014 F-35-style Motorised Jet Engine Building Kit

Reobrix 33014 F-35-style Motorised Jet Engine Building Kit

Best deal at: Amazon.co.uk
Type: Brick Building Kits, Working Models
Difficulty: Challenging
Material: Plastic
Pieces: Over 1000
£89.99
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
TinyWizTo DM136 T700 Turboshaft Engine 1:10 Metal Model Kit

TinyWizTo DM136 T700 Turboshaft Engine 1:10 Metal Model Kit

Best deal at: Amazon.co.uk
Type: Model Kits, Working Models
Difficulty: Challenging
Material: Metal
£408.99
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
Reobrix 33019 Motorised Turbofan Engine Building Kit

Reobrix 33019 Motorised Turbofan Engine Building Kit

Best deal at: Amazon.co.uk
Type: Brick Building Kits, Working Models
Difficulty: Challenging
Material: Plastic
Pieces: Over 1000
£79.99

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