About Us

Model Shipways Inc. dba Model Expo

Who We Are

Since 1976, Model Expo has proudly served scale modelers around the world with the highest-quality wood and metal kits available.

We began as a small importer of historic European ship model kits — but our commitment to fair pricing and exceptional after-sale service quickly set us apart. From day one, we’ve supported builders long after the purchase, offering replacement parts and technical assistance to help every modeler finish with pride.

In 1987, we acquired Model Shipways (founded in 1948), America’s oldest model ship manufacturer, and ushered in a new era of innovation. We were the first to introduce laser-cutting to the industry, converted solid hull kits to plank-on-bulkhead and plank-on-frame, and expanded into new lines that brought history to life in three dimensions:

  • Model Airways – Historic aircraft

  • Guns of History – Field artillery

  • Model Trailways – Western vehicles

Today, we design and manufacture all of our kits in Miami, Florida.
Here, we cast our own metal parts, laser-cut precision wood components (accurate to 1/10,000 of an inch), and assemble each kit by hand with care and pride.

If you’re ever in the area, come visit our factory — watch molten metal being poured and cast, hardwoods cut by laser, and your next kit coming to life under careful American hands.
(Please call ahead – 800-222-3876.)

Marc Mosko
President

What Makes Us Different

  • Historical accuracy, not invention. We don’t make things up — we faithfully replicate real ships, planes, and artillery from history.

  • True to scale. Our ship model belaying pins are machined brass — the only way to make them precisely shaped and sized.

  • More laser-cut parts than any competitor. We cut to tolerances of 1/10,000 of an inch.

  • Free replacement parts. Every part we make is replaceable — at no charge.

Our Guarantee

If you lose a part, break one, or take a wrong turn while building — we’ve got you covered.

For kits manufactured by Model Expo (including Model Shipways, Model Airways, Model Trailways, and Guns of History), simply locate the part number on your parts list, fill out our Parts Request Form, and we’ll send it out as quickly as possible.

For imported or other brands we sell, we’ll gladly assist with warranty service — but replacement parts may not always be available for kits not made by us.

And please — don’t send us money for postage.
The best way to thank us is to finish your model, share photos of your work, and think of us the next time you buy a kit, tools, or accessories.