>>11565110I got too excited with the enter key, but also, I should add, avoid vidyaslop or R*ddit toys like LEGO.
I would check out Jensen Steam Engines, Revell, Carrera, Bachmann, Piko, Märklin, Horizon Hobby, Hornby Group, Tamiya, Estes, Silverlit and Paul K. Guillow company.
My breakdown:
>Stocking Stuffer:Guillow gliders ~$5 each and they gave me hours of fun, get one for yourself though, so the two of you can launch your gliders the same time. Be gentle, though, the stuff that they are made from can snap.
>Lower end:Secondhand model train stuff ~$5-35 depending, but make sure the items are complete and function first, there are plenty of repair guides, though.
Model kit starter sets. $5-33 should be your target range, there are lots of things to choose from here, especially cars, planes and tanks.
>Mid rangeCheaper RC goods. $40-150. Again, this could be lots of fun, there are even robots too, if he is more into those.
Steam engines. $75+ Fun to play with and can be integrated into Meccano, Merkur or Erector sets with a bit of ingenuity.
>High end:Train sets. $250+ It's a classic gift choice, I can't say much else other than that.
Slot car sets. $85+ Another classic choice, but $85 is really low end, $150 is a better target price, so you can assure that the items are quality.