Metal Earth: Huey UH-1

You can hear this one from a photograph.

The UH-1 is the most recognisable helicopter ever built, and most of that is the sound: the two-blade rotor produces a slapping beat that turns up in every piece of footage from the period and has never quite left the culture. Over sixteen thousand were made. Australia flew them in Vietnam and kept them in service for decades afterwards. The shape is simple, boxy and completely without pretension.

One of the cheapest and quickest kits in the range, which makes it a good first one. Laser-cut stainless steel, tab-and-slot assembly, no glue or paint. The skids and the rotor mast want a gentle hand and a pair of tweezers, and the rest goes together in under an hour. Bare steel finish on a stand.

Perfect for: Anyone who has just made the noise while reading this.

Laser-cut steel | No glue required | Age 14+