Mike’s Models

Welcome to My Scale Modelling Bunker!


If you’re into World War II history, love the smell of polystyrene cement in the morning, or just enjoy nerding out over tanks and aircraft with real character—you’re in the right place!

I am Michael Hrycyszyn and live in Exeter, UK, 66 years young and presently retired. I’m a passionate scale military modeller who spends way too much time squinting at reference photos and weathering tiny pieces of plastic.

If you’ve got a soft spot for World War II history, aircraft with character, or tanks that look like they’ve rolled straight out of a dusty battlefield—then you’ve landed in the right place. Let’s be honest, few things beat the sinister lines of a Tiger tank or the sleek menace of a Spitfire.

This site is where I share my hobby with fellow enthusiasts, curious newcomers, and anyone who appreciates the art of bringing history to life in 1/35, 1/48, or 1/72 scale.

🚢 New Waters Ahead!

In keeping with my keen interest in maritime affairs, I’m excited to announce that I’ve added ship models to the site! Alongside my collection of WWII aircraft and tanks, you’ll now find detailed builds of iconic naval vessels. Whether it’s battleships, destroyers, or U-boats, I’m diving into the world of maritime modelling—so keep an eye out for new builds and project updates!

There’s just something about bringing a slice of history to life in miniature—capturing the weathering, the details, the story behind each vehicle—that never gets old.

This site is where I share my builds, techniques, and some behind-the-scenes chaos from my workbench (which is rarely tidy, let’s be honest). Whether you’re a seasoned modeller or just curious about the hobby, I hope you’ll find inspiration, tips, or maybe just a cool diorama or two.

What You’ll Find Here:

  • 🛠️ Build Logs: Step-by-step looks at my projects, from sprue to final weathering
  • ✈️ Gallery: Photos of completed aircraft, tanks, and scenes
  • 🔍 Tips & Techniques: The stuff that’s worked for me (and what hasn’t)
  • 💬 Stories & Insights: Bits of history that inspired my models

Whether you’re here to get ideas, share the passion, or just admire some weathered steel and chipped paint, I’m glad you stopped by.

So grab a cup of coffee, take a stroll through the site, and enjoy the journey back through time—one tiny rivet at a time.

Welcome aboard—and happy modelling!

Yours truly. Believe me, I am not A.I. generated!

Where it all happens. I know it may look a mess but it’s organised chaos really!

Some examples from my modelling collection:

1:35 scale German Marder III M self-propelled gun from World War 2

1: 32 scale Spitfire Mk. IXc

1:48 Bristol Blenheim Mk.IF

I have written a book about my Father, who was Ukrainian, and which first appeared in print about 17 years ago (see below). It is called ‘God Save Me From My Friends. Memoir of a Ukrainian Exile’ and I have recently brought out a revised and updated edition in e-format (Kindle) which is now available on Amazon. The first 10% of the book can be read for free and there is a copy of the blurb which tells you what the story is about. Any feedback is appreciated. There are links in the book. The book can be read on tablet, Amazon Fire or smart phone. If you don’t own a Kindle, a free updated version of Kindle reader can be downloaded from Amazon or the Google play store.

The e-book, which still has the same cover. The photo is my Father in England after the war. He always used to play his accordion for me on my birthday. I still have the wonderful old Hohner piano accordion, which may date from before the war. There is a new introduction and personal notes. The appendices have been expanded, particularly in regard to 5 SS Wiking and the fighting at the front, and with more photos.
Father’s accordion

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