World Models RC Planes: The Hong Kong ARF Maker and Its Range
The World Models Manufacturing Co. (often shortened to TWM) is a Hong Kong company that makes almost-ready-to-fly (ARF) RC airplanes. It’s a subsidiary of Radar Co., Ltd., a radio-control distributor founded in 1957, and also uses brand names like Wings Maker. Its range covers balsa trainers, sport-scale planes, wooden warbirds, pattern and 3D models, and electric foam planes, from small .25-size models to large scale aircraft, and it built a reputation for consistent quality control in ARF kits.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
The range
| Type | Examples of use |
|---|---|
| Balsa trainers | First glow or electric trainer |
| Sport and sport-scale | Low-wing aerobatic models |
| Wood warbirds | Scale WWII fighters with retracts options |
| Pattern and 3D | Precision and freestyle aerobatics |
| Electric foam | Park flyers |
From the company’s own description and dealer listings. Availability varies by country; check a local dealer for current models.
What ARF means here
An ARF plane arrives built and covered, with the major parts finished. You join the wings, fit the tail, install the engine or motor, servos and receiver, and set up the controls. World Models ARFs are typically balsa and plywood with film covering, sized for glow engines or electric conversions. Assembly takes evenings rather than weeks, which is why ARFs largely replaced full kits for many pilots. Kits and ARFs in general are compared in RC model airplane kits.
Assembly tips
- Re-iron the covering before building: shipping and temperature changes loosen it.
- Check all factory glue joints, especially firewall and landing gear mounts; add epoxy where needed.
- Replace weak hardware (clevises, horns) if it looks flimsy.
- Use the recommended engine size; many are sized for OS-type glow engines, see OS model airplane engines.
- Set the CG and control throws exactly as the manual states.
- Do a full range and control check before the first flight.
Converting to electric
Many glow ARFs can be converted to electric power with an outrunner motor, a motor mount box, an ESC and LiPo batteries. Plan the battery position for the correct CG and add cooling vents so air flows over the motor, ESC and battery. Electric conversion is quieter and cleaner, which helps at noise-sensitive fields.
Buying new or used
- New: check a dealer stocks spare parts like landing gear and canopies.
- Used: inspect for oil-soaked wood (glow), cracked firewalls and loose covering.
- Ask what engine and servos are included and their age.
- Check the manual is available.
Why pilots choose them
For club pilots, the appeal has been ready-to-assemble wooden planes with sensible prices and consistent quality. Wood ARFs fly with a solid, precise feel that many prefer to foam, and they’re repairable with standard balsa techniques. The trade-off compared with foam RTF planes is more assembly, a separate radio and power system, and more care in crashes.
First flight of a wooden ARF
Wooden ARFs fly differently from foam RTF planes: they’re often heavier, land faster and need proper trimming. Check the CG twice, set low rates for the first flight, and ask an experienced club pilot to do the first take-off and trimming flight if you’re unsure. Once trimmed, a good balsa plane flies with a smooth, locked-in feel that many pilots prefer. Keep a repair kit with balsa sheet, thin CA, epoxy and covering film in the field box, because small repairs keep wooden planes flying for years.
FAQ
Who makes World Models planes?
The World Models Manufacturing Co., a Hong Kong subsidiary of Radar Co., Ltd.
Are World Models planes good?
They’re known for consistent ARF quality; check each plane before flying.
What does ARF mean?
Almost ready to fly: built and covered, you add the electronics and power.
Can I convert one to electric?
Many glow ARFs convert easily.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
