Starter Cockpit

It also will depend on how serious you are. In other words, how much time and money are you going to spend on it?
It’s it’s going to be a casual hobby it’s one thing, quite another if it’s going to be your primary recreational pursuit.

An example of the former would be an instrument panel from a common type, the latter would be the complete front fuselage of an aircraft…either from a scrapper or entirely new built (like the Spitfire, Lanc and B-17s we see here).

Get yourself a copy of wrecks and relics it has many airframes and nose sections from all over the UK and it also gives contact address for most of the locations, thats what I have used for many years and been successful in hunting for either bits or complete exhibits give it a try

To me its a bit like buying a new car, you can afford to buy it in the first place however can you afford to run it and insure it?

You could start off with just building a instrument panel of a particular aircraft then expanding it when you can afford it to a full blown cockpit, this is how quite a few people have started out who I have had the pleasure to speak to at cockpit fest.
Might be a good idea to visit cockpit fest and ask around the exhibitors, I am sure they will put you on the right track

Biggest thing I would say is look for something where parts are quite accessible and not too expense – can be quite off putting if not too careful when you can’t find bits or you need to sell a kidney to get hold of them!! As an example, check out the prices of ejection seats!! If you choose a military project, these can be mind blowingly expensive!!

As Mike says above, doesn’t really matter that it is, but ask yourself what you want to get out of it?? If you want the majority of ‘Joe Public’ to drool over it, military is probably the best direction . . . although your peers will appreciate your work irrespective!! Just get something that interests you and that will give you enjoyment . . . then just crack on!! 🙂

Loads of interesting and helpful people out there who will be more than willing to help out!! 🙂

Anything you like. It will be the accuracy and presentation that will shine above all.

It doesn’t matter what it is; if it is done well then it will look good and draw positive comment. It will also be a good grounding in the disciplines required to complete such a project. You can always move on to something more to your liking if you have just cut your teeth on whatever was available at the time.

It will also allow you will establish contacts to get your name known within the cockpit and preservation community, if you are serious about the hobby. There are lots of very knowledgeable and helpful folk out there who are prepared to assist in all sorts of ways.

Anon.