What fits at 1:48 (quarter scale)
Aircraft kits, larger armour, dioramas and O-scale trains. The extra size over 1:72 leaves room for cockpit detail and weathering.
| Real subject | Real size | 1:48 model |
|---|---|---|
| P-51 Mustang fighter | 9.83 m | 20.5 cm |
| F/A-18 Hornet | 17.1 m | 35.6 cm |
| AH-64 Apache helicopter | 17.7 m | 36.9 cm |
| Willys Jeep | 3.33 m | 6.9 cm |
| Human figure | 1.8 m | 3.8 cm |
Frequently asked questions
Why is 1:48 called quarter scale?
Because a quarter of an inch on the model equals one foot in real life (0.25 in × 48 = 12 in), a common architectural and modelling convention.
Is 1:48 the same as O scale?
In the United States, O-scale model railroads commonly use 1:48, so the two share the same ratio.