Diecast Semi Trucks

Diecast Semi Trucks. An Introduction to Collecting Diecast Trucks. When starting any type of collection it is often a good idea to specialize and become an expert in a small segment or niche. In the world of diecast collections die cast semi trucks can be a very good choice. First decide on the scale that suits you and select the size you want. Scale and size can be determined by the amount of space you have available to display your collection. The 1:64 scale semi trucks are small enough so you can easily collect a lot of diecast models. The display of your diecast semi trucks can include a diorama that can display all your diecast truck models without taking up a lot of room. A larger scale is the 1:24, so if you would prefer the larger truck models then consider the 1:24 scale as your choice. The larger trucks take up more space so your diorama will take more space but the larger size allows for more detail than the smaller scale diecast semi trucks.

Diecast Truck Scales

The ratio of the size of the model truck to the size of the actual truck is called its scale. Diecast vehicle scales include: 1:18, 1:24, 1:43, and 1:64. If the scale is 1:18 then one inch on the diecast truck equals 18 inches on the actual truck.

Because of the detail, the larger scale model diecast semi trucks are more popular with established serious collectors. Collectors are snapping them up the larger models, because they appreciate the amount of detail that this size model diecast truck allows. Some of the intricate details this size has available include, suspension systems that work, steering systems that actually steer, and some very detailed exhaust systems. The smaller you go in scale the more detail you lose.

The first diecast models were produced by Dinky Toys back in the 1934. In the 1950's the very famous Matchbox 1:64 scale diecast models made their debut. Most of these first diecast models had no working parts at all because the manufacturing processes at the time were limited. It didn't take long for the advancements in manufacturing resulted in a marked improvement in the quality of diecast models.

Collecting diecast semi trucks can be an enjoyable hobby for the casual or die hard collector. Some basic information that all diecast collectors should know.

Types of Diecast Trucks

Choose the type of truck model you are most interested in so you can focus your research and collecting on that type. As a diecast collector you may choose to collect models from a single manufacturer, or focus on a single type of truck like, antique trucks, 18 wheelers and semi trucks, construction equipment, or farm vehicles.

Manufacturers of Die-Cast Trucks

Norscott - Norscott is the number one manufacturer of diecast Caterpillar construction equipment, and also Kenworth, Peterbilt, Liebherr, Claas, Case, Yale, Hyster, Bell

Ertl - One of the first manufacturers of diecast trucks. Ertl's is primary producer of farm equipment, Case, John Deere, New Holland, and other farm vehicles.

Tonkin - Tonkin is well known for building road trucks, primarily diecast semi trucks, 18-wheelers, dump trucks, and logging trucks and equipment.

New Ray - New Ray Trucks builds on road trucks, including diecast semi trucks, 18-wheelers, garbage trucks, tanker trucks and pickup trucks

Yatming - A Hong Kong based company, Yatming produces a wide range of police vehicles, fire trucks, and service vehicles

Corgi - Corgi is a manufacturer in the United Kingdom that specializes in limited edition collectables, and branded trucks.

Tonka - Tonka trucks are well known for the manufacture of their toy trucks. The Tonka name is licensed to Maistro to build its diecast vehicle line. Tonka diecast trucks include diecast semi trucks, pickup trucks, farm tractors, rigs and branded commercial trucks.