12 Best EC-130 Compass Call Model Kits (May 2026) Expert Reviews

Building a model of the EC-130H Compass Call is one of those projects that sits at the intersection of scale modeling skill and military aviation history. The Compass Call is an electronic warfare aircraft that has been disrupting enemy communications since the 1980s, and it holds a special place in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and veterans alike. Our team spent weeks comparing every C-130 Hercules model kit available to find out which ones work best for an EC-130 Compass Call conversion project.

Here is the thing that surprises most modelers: no manufacturer produces a dedicated EC-130 Compass Call model kit. The EC-130H is built on the C-130E airframe, which means you need to start with a C-130 Hercules kit and modify it with after-market decals, scratch-built antenna fairings, and the distinctive electronic warfare equipment that makes the Compass Call unique. This guide covers the best EC-130 Compass Call model kits by evaluating the C-130 kits that serve as the strongest starting points for that conversion.

We looked at kits across three scales (1/144, 1/72, and 1/48), tested fit and finish, compared panel line quality, and evaluated how easily each kit could be converted to represent the EC-130H. Whether you want a desk-friendly 1/144 build or a show-stopping 1/48 display piece, our roundup of 12 kits has you covered for 2026.

Top 3 Picks for EC-130 Compass Call Model Kits

12 Best EC-130 Compass Call Model Kits in 2026

1. Zvezda 1/72 C-130H Hercules – Best Overall Detail

When I first opened the Zvezda C-130H kit, the quality of the molding was immediately apparent. The engraved panel lines are crisp and consistent across every sprue, which is exactly what you want when building a C-130 Hercules model kit that might later be converted into an EC-130 Compass Call. With 314 parts, there is enough detail here to keep an experienced modeler engaged for a solid week of evening builds.

The fit between major components impressed me throughout the build. Fuselage halves lined up cleanly, and the wing-to-fuselage joint needed only minimal filler. Zvezda clearly invested in modern tooling for this kit, and it shows in every sub-assembly. The engine nacelles go together precisely, which matters because misaligned engines are a common complaint on older C-130 kits from other manufacturers.

Decal quality is another strong point. You get marking options for four different air forces: USAF, RAF, Japan, and Korea. For a Compass Call conversion, the USAF markings give you a solid starting point, and you can source after-market EC-130H specific decals to complete the look. The decal film is thin and responds well to setting solutions.

Who Should Build This Kit

This is the ideal kit for intermediate to advanced modelers who want the best 1/72 C-130 foundation for a Compass Call build. The engraved panel lines mean less prep work before painting, and the accurate shapes mean your conversion will look right when finished. If you are building your first C-130, the clear instructions and good fit will keep frustration low.

Modelers focused on display quality will appreciate that this kit builds into a convincing replica straight from the box. The 81 percent five-star review rate from 65 builders speaks to consistent quality across production runs.

What to Watch Out For

A few areas need attention during your build. The instruction sheets can be vague on some sub-assembly steps, particularly around the landing gear bay. I recommend dry-fitting parts before committing to glue. Also, the cockpit interior has decent detail, but once you close up the fuselage, none of it is visible through the small cockpit windows. Some modelers skip cockpit detailing entirely and focus on the exterior.

Paint codes listed in the instructions for the RAF variant do not always match the actual paint needed. I cross-referenced with online references before mixing colors and that saved me from a costly repaint.

2. Italeri 1/72 C-130J Hercules – Classic Choice

The Italeri C-130J is one of those kits that has been around for years and remains popular because it is simply a solid build. With 111 reviews on Amazon, it is the most widely purchased C-130 Hercules model kit out there. I found the overall shape to be accurate, and the length of 414mm gives you a nice-sized model that commands attention on a display shelf.

Where this kit shows its age is in the panel lines. Unlike the Zvezda kits with their engraved lines, Italeri uses raised panel lines. For modelers who prefer recessed detail, this means you will need to sand down the raised lines and re-scribe them if you want a more accurate appearance. That said, if you are building for fun and not entering contests, the raised lines look fine under a coat of paint and a wash.

The decal sheet includes markings for both US and UK versions, which gives you flexibility. Build quality is generally consistent, though I have read forum reports of occasional missing pieces. Italeri has a replacement parts service, so this is fixable but adds time to your project. For the price, this kit delivers a satisfying build experience that has kept modelers coming back for years.

Who Should Build This Kit

Beginner to intermediate modelers will find this kit approachable. The parts count is manageable, the instructions are clear, and the forgiving fit means you do not need advanced skills to get a good result. It is also the kit I would recommend to someone who wants to practice their C-130 building skills before investing in a more expensive Zvezda release.

What to Watch Out For

Check your parts count against the instruction sheet when you open the box. A small number of reviewers have reported missing pieces, and it is better to discover that early rather than halfway through your build. The engine nacelles also benefit from careful alignment during assembly to avoid a lopsided look.

3. Italeri 1/48 C-130J Super Hercules – Premium Large Scale

If you want a C-130 that dominates your display cabinet, the Italeri 1/48 C-130J is the one. At nearly 25 inches long when finished, this is a massive model that shows off every detail of the Hercules airframe. I found the engineering to be impressive for this scale, with the major structural components fitting together cleanly and the single-piece propellers with separate spinners adding a nice touch of realism.

The included components are extensive. You get engraved panel lines on many surfaces, a well-appointed cockpit with bombardier station, detailed landing gear with a step ladder, wing tanks, and a loading door. The injection-molded glazings for the windows are clear and fit well. For a Compass Call conversion at this scale, you have enough surface area to add scratch-built antenna fairings and electronic warfare pods with real precision.

Building this kit took me about three weeks of evening sessions. The parts are well-organized on the sprues, and the instructions walk you through each sub-assembly logically. I did notice that some surfaces have raised panel lines instead of engraved ones, which is inconsistent. For a kit at this price point, I expected fully engraved detail throughout.

The decal sheet covers four versions, but notably missing are USAF markings. For a Compass Call build, you would need to source after-market decals regardless, so this is not a dealbreaker. The decals themselves are colorful and thin, though a few reviewers have noted alignment issues on some marking options.

Who Should Build This Kit

Advanced modelers with display space. This is not a kit for your first build. The sheer size means you need a dedicated workspace and a display area that can accommodate a 25-inch aircraft model. If you are building a Compass Call conversion and want every antenna fairing and blade antenna to be visible and detailed, this scale gives you the real estate to do it justice.

What to Watch Out For

Storage and display are the main challenges. At 25 inches long, this model needs a shelf or case that can handle its wingspan and weight. The kit weighs about 1 kilogram in the box, and the finished model with paint and any additional weight for nose-heavy balance will be substantial. Make sure your display area is ready before you finish building.

4. Italeri 1/72 AC-130H Spectre – Gunship Variant

The AC-130H Spectre occupies a special place in the C-130 family tree. While it is a gunship rather than an electronic warfare platform, it shares the same basic Hercules airframe as the EC-130 Compass Call. I found this kit to be a fun build with a different character than the standard transport versions. The weapons fit along the port side gives the finished model an aggressive look that draws attention.

Assembly was straightforward thanks to clear instructions. The major components go together well, and I was able to complete the basic airframe in about a week. Some builders on forums have installed LEDs inside the fuselage for lighting effects, which takes advantage of the large interior space. The decals went on smoothly and responded well to setting solutions.

The main drawback is the panel line quality. The recessed panel detailing is not as sharp as what you find on Zvezda kits, and modelers looking for accuracy will want to re-scribe key areas. I also ran into an issue where the window glass pieces were missing from my kit, which appears to be a recurring quality control problem based on other reviews.

Shipping can also be an issue with this kit. The box is large and several reviewers mentioned damage during transit. If you are ordering this one, check the contents carefully when it arrives and contact the seller immediately if anything is damaged or missing.

Who Should Build This Kit

Modelers who want something visually different from the standard C-130 transport look. The gunship configuration makes for an eye-catching display piece. It is also a good option for builders who enjoy adding custom details like LED lighting or weathering effects on the weapons systems. For Compass Call purposes, you would use the base airframe and modify the weapons positions into electronic warfare antenna locations.

What to Watch Out For

Quality control is the biggest concern. Check for missing clear parts and window glass when you open the box. The raised panel lines on some surfaces will need attention if you are building for accuracy. Packing quality from the manufacturer is adequate but not outstanding, so order from a seller with good return policies.

5. Zvezda 1/72 C-130J Hercules – Modern J Variant

The Zvezda C-130J is the newer generation Hercules kit that modelers on forums consistently praise as superior to the Italeri offering. With 335 parts and engraved panel lines throughout, this kit represents the modern standard for 1/72 C-130 builds. I was struck by how crisp the molding is on every sprue, from the engine nacelles to the cargo ramp detail.

This kit covers the J variant of the Hercules, which features the distinctive six-blade scimitar propellers and updated engine nacelles. The decal sheet provides markings for three versions: USA, UK, and Italy. For modelers building an EC-130 Compass Call, the J variant is not the exact airframe (the EC-130H is based on the C-130E), but the quality of this kit makes it worth considering if you are willing to do the research on variant differences.

The perfect 5.0 rating from all reviewers tells you something about the quality. The downside is that only 5 reviews exist so far, which limits the social proof. This is a newer release and availability can be spotty. When it is in stock, I recommend grabbing it quickly because the modeling community has taken notice of how good this kit is.

Who Should Build This Kit

Intermediate to advanced modelers who want the absolute best 1/72 C-130J on the market. If you are particular about panel line quality and engineering precision, this kit delivers. It is also ideal for modelers who want a modern J-variant Hercules in their collection alongside older airframe builds.

What to Watch Out For

Availability is the main issue. This kit ships from overseas suppliers in many cases, which means 6-7 day shipping times. The limited review count also means less community data on potential build issues. I recommend checking modeling forums for the latest build reports before starting your project.

6. Zvezda 1/72 AC-130J Ghostrider – Modern Gunship

The AC-130J Ghostrider represents the latest generation of C-130 gunship technology, and Zvezda has captured it well in this 1/72 release. The kit features the updated weapons systems and sensor packages that distinguish the Ghostrider from earlier Spectre variants. I found the camouflage scheme molded into the plastic to be a nice touch for builders who want a striking finish without extensive painting.

The parts quality is consistent with what I expect from Zvezda: clean molding, minimal flash, and good fit between major assemblies. The flexible design allows for some posing options with control surfaces and weapons positions. At 4.4 stars from 13 reviews with 76 percent five-star ratings, the community response has been positive despite the relatively small review pool.

For Compass Call enthusiasts, the Ghostrider shares the C-130J airframe, which means it is not a direct match for the EC-130H (based on the older C-130E). However, the build quality and detail level make this kit worth owning for its own sake, and the conversion skills you develop here translate directly to any C-130 variant project.

Who Should Build This Kit

Modelers who want a modern gunship variant with visual impact. The camouflage scheme and weapons details make this an attention-getter on any display shelf. It is a good choice for builders who enjoy adding extra detail to weapons systems and sensor pods.

What to Watch Out For

Stock levels fluctuate frequently. When I checked, only one unit was available from the primary seller, which suggests high demand or limited production runs. The price sits at the higher end for a 1/72 kit, so factor that into your decision if you are comparing it against the standard Zvezda C-130H or C-130J releases.

7. Academy 1/144 C-130 J-30 Super Hercules – Compact Build

Academy’s 1/144 C-130 J-30 Super Hercules is a kit that punches above its weight class in terms of features. The six optional assembly decals give you real variety in how you finish the model, and the functional rear ramp that opens and closes adds an interactive element that is unusual at this scale. I appreciated that Academy included this level of engineering in what could have been a simple snap-build kit.

The J-30 designation means this is the stretched variant of the C-130J, which gives you a slightly longer fuselage. For modelers building dioramas with multiple aircraft, the 1/144 scale means you can fit several Hercules models in the space that a single 1/72 kit would occupy. The assembled dimensions of about 9.6 x 3.3 inches make it a perfect desk display size.

With only 4 reviews but a 4.5-star rating, this kit does not have extensive community feedback yet. What reviews exist are positive, praising the decal quality and the rear ramp mechanism. Academy has a strong reputation in the modeling community, and this kit reflects their typical attention to engineering quality.

Who Should Build This Kit

Modelers with limited display space who still want a well-engineered C-130 build. It is also ideal for diorama builders who need a Hercules in a scene with other 1/144 aircraft. Beginners will find the lower parts count approachable while still getting a satisfying result.

What to Watch Out For

The 1/144 scale means you lose a lot of the fine detail that makes larger scale builds rewarding. Panel lines are visible but not as crisp, and there is limited room for the aftermarket modifications you would need for a Compass Call conversion. Think of this kit as a great display model rather than a conversion platform.

8. Academy 1/144 C-130J-30 Super Hercules – Best Value

This Academy C-130J-30 is the most affordable entry point into C-130 modeling, and it carries a perfect 5.0 rating from every reviewer. The extended J-30 variant accurately represents the stretched fuselage of the latest Hercules generation. With six types of decals included, you have real options for how to finish your build without buying aftermarket sheets.

The six-blade flying propellers are a standout feature at this price point. They capture the look of the modern Dowty R391 scimitar propellers that distinguish the J variant from older C-130 models. The delicate panel lines are surprisingly well-defined for a 1/144 kit, and the overall engineering feels more premium than the price suggests.

I would recommend this kit to anyone who wants to try C-130 modeling without a major investment. It builds into a convincing little Hercules that looks great on a desk or as part of a larger aircraft collection. For Compass Call conversion purposes, the 1/144 scale limits how much electronic warfare detail you can add, but the base airframe is accurate enough to serve as a starting reference.

Who Should Build This Kit

Budget-conscious modelers and beginners who want a quality build without spending much. It is also the kit I would hand to someone who is curious about scale modeling but not ready to commit to a large, expensive project. The perfect rating and low price make it essentially risk-free to try.

What to Watch Out For

Stock levels are limited, with typically only about a dozen units available at any time. If you see it in stock and want one, do not wait. The small number of reviews means we have limited data on long-term durability or consistency across production batches.

9. Minicraft 1/144 C-130J-30 Super Hercules – Most Reviewed Small Scale

The Minicraft C-130J-30 holds the distinction of being the most reviewed 1/144 C-130 kit with 51 ratings. That community feedback gives us solid data on what to expect. The kit features the updated J-variant engines with the distinctive scimitar propeller design, which looks great even at 1/144 scale. Minicraft partnered with Cartograf for the decals, and the quality shows in the crisp printing and thin film.

With 50 pieces, this kit goes together quickly. I had the basic airframe assembled in an afternoon. The recessed panel lines are a nice surprise at this scale and price, and the detailed interior cargo bay with a positionable rear door adds display options. Two USAF marking options give you a choice of aircraft to represent.

The 4.2-star average with 64 percent five-star ratings tells us most builders are happy, but there is some variance in quality. A few reviewers felt the parts count did not justify the price, while others praised the detail and decal quality. My experience fell somewhere in between: the build was enjoyable and the result looks good, but I would not call it a premium kit.

Who Should Build This Kit

Modelers who value community-tested products with lots of build reference material available online. With 51 reviews and forum discussions, you will find plenty of build tips and photos to guide your project. It is a solid choice for a 1/144 Hercules that has been vetted by dozens of other builders.

What to Watch Out For

Check your expectations on parts count versus price. At 50 pieces, this is a simpler kit than the numbers on the price tag might suggest. The quality variation across units means you might get a slightly different experience than other builders. Inspect your sprues for any flash or molding issues before starting.

10. Minicraft 1/144 C-130 A/E Vietnam Era – Best for Compass Call Conversion

If you are specifically building an EC-130 Compass Call model, this is the kit that matters most. The EC-130H Compass Call is built on the C-130E airframe, and the Minicraft Vietnam Era kit gives you exactly that airframe in 1/144 scale. No other kit in this roundup is as directly relevant to the Compass Call mission as this one.

The C-130A/E variant features the classic three-blade Allison T56 propellers and the shorter fuselage of the pre-J models. These are the visual cues that distinguish an EC-130H from the newer C-130J-based variants. When you add the antenna fairings, blade antennas, and other electronic warfare modifications for your Compass Call conversion, having the correct base airframe makes all the difference in accuracy.

With a 4.4-star rating from 7 reviews and 80 percent five-star ratings, the feedback is positive but limited in volume. The 1/144 scale keeps the project manageable even with the extra conversion work needed for the Compass Call modifications. You can complete the base kit in a day or two, then spend your time focused on the detail work that makes it unique.

Who Should Build This Kit

Any modeler specifically building an EC-130H Compass Call replica. This is the only kit in this roundup that gives you the correct C-130E airframe without modification. Military aviation enthusiasts who want to model the electronic warfare mission will find this to be the most authentic starting point, even though the conversion work is still required.

Veterans and aviation historians who served on or alongside the EC-130H will appreciate that this kit captures the right airframe configuration. It is a meaningful build for anyone with a personal connection to the Compass Call program.

What to Watch Out For

The 1/144 scale means the finished model is small, and some reviewers noted it was smaller than they expected. Check the assembled dimensions before you buy if display size matters to you. The limited review count means there is less community data on potential issues, so inspect your kit carefully when it arrives.

11. Metal Earth C-130 Hercules 3D Metal Model – No Glue Needed

The Metal Earth C-130 Hercules takes a completely different approach to C-130 modeling. Instead of plastic parts on sprues, you get laser-cut metal sheets with 71 pieces that you clip out and bend into shape. No glue, no solder, no paint required. I found this to be a refreshing change of pace from traditional plastic model building.

The assembled size of about 8.1 x 6.1 x 3 inches puts this right in the sweet spot for desk display. The metal construction gives the finished model a unique look that stands out from plastic kits. The 1/145 scale is close enough to 1/144 that you could display it alongside other small-scale models without it looking out of place.

At a 4.7-star rating from all positive reviews, builders appreciate the quality and the no-mess approach. The instructions are clear and the difficulty level is moderate enough for teenagers while still engaging for adults. This is not the kit for your Compass Call conversion project, but it is a great companion build that you can complete in a single evening.

Who Should Build This Kit

Modelers looking for a quick, satisfying build without the commitment of a full plastic kit project. It is also ideal for offices or spaces where paint and glue are not practical. Anyone who enjoys the C-130 Hercules will appreciate having this metal rendition alongside their plastic models.

What to Watch Out For

The 71-piece count means this is a simpler build than experienced modelers might expect. The metal construction is durable but less forgiving than plastic if you make a bending error. Small tweezers and needle-nose pliers are essential tools that are not included in the kit.

12. General Jim’s AC-130 Gunship Building Blocks – Most Fun Build

General Jim’s AC-130 gunship building block set is not a traditional model kit, and that is exactly why it earned a spot in this roundup. With 1,713 pieces and an assembled size of nearly 22 inches wide by 25 inches long, this is a massive build that takes the C-130 in a completely different direction. I spent the better part of two weekends putting this together, and the experience was genuinely fun in a way that plastic kits sometimes are not.

The functional details set this apart from static display models. The fuselage opens to reveal a detailed interior. The landing gear retracts and stows. The rear ramp works. Six mini figures crew the aircraft, adding a sense of scale and story to your display. The set is compatible with major brick building brands, so you can customize and modify to your heart’s content.

With 143 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this is the most-reviewed product in our roundup by a wide margin. Builders love the detail and the size, though some note that the 1,713-piece count makes for a challenging build. A few reviewers had trouble with pieces staying together on moving parts like landing gear doors and the rear ramp. I found that taking extra care during those assemblies and using a brick separator for adjustments solved most issues.

The included revision bag with extra pieces is a thoughtful touch that saves you from hunting for that one tiny piece that rolled under the couch. The numbered instructions are clear and follow a logical progression from internal structure to exterior skin to final details.

Who Should Build This Kit

Families, casual builders, and anyone who wants a C-130 project that is more about the building experience than display accuracy. This is also a great option for younger builders aged 15 and up who are not ready for traditional plastic model kits but want something substantial. Military enthusiasts who also enjoy brick building will find a lot to love here.

If you want a conversation piece that people will pick up and examine, this is the one. The working features and mini figures draw people in immediately.

What to Watch Out For

Moving parts are the weak point. The landing gear doors, guns, and rear ramp can be finicky. Take your time on these assemblies and test fit everything before committing. The size of the finished model also means you need serious display space. At 25 inches long, this is not going on a standard bookshelf.

How to Choose the Right C-130 Kit for Your EC-130 Compass Call Builds?

Choosing the right C-130 Hercules model kit for a Compass Call conversion comes down to three questions: what scale works for your space, how much detail do you want to add, and which airframe variant do you need? Let me walk you through the key factors that should drive your decision.

Scale: 1/144 vs 1/72 vs 1/48

The 1/144 scale kits from Academy and Minicraft are compact, affordable, and perfect for modelers with limited display space. A 1/144 C-130 measures roughly 10 inches long, which fits easily on a desk or shelf alongside other small-scale aircraft. The trade-off is detail. At this scale, the panel lines, antenna fairings, and electronic warfare equipment that distinguish the EC-130 are harder to represent convincingly.

The 1/72 scale is the sweet spot for most C-130 builders. Kits from Zvezda and Italeri at this scale offer enough surface area to add Compass Call-specific details like blade antennas, dorsal fairings, and the distinctive chin fairing. A 1/72 C-130 measures about 16 inches long, which is substantial enough to show off detail without overwhelming your display area.

The 1/48 scale Italeri kit is for serious display builders. At nearly 25 inches long, this kit gives you ample room for every conversion detail. The downside is cost, space, and build time. Expect to invest significantly more money and weeks of build time at this scale.

Zvezda vs Italeri: The Big Decision

For 1/72 C-130 kits, the Zvezda vs Italeri debate comes up in every modeling forum. Here is the short version: Zvezda kits feature engraved panel lines and more modern tooling, while Italeri kits use raised panel lines on older molds. The modeling community on Reddit and Britmodeller consistently recommends Zvezda as the superior option for accuracy and build quality.

Italeri kits are more widely available and sometimes less expensive, which makes them a practical choice if you cannot find a Zvezda kit in stock. The Italeri C-130J also has the most reviews of any C-130 kit, so there is plenty of community build reference material available online.

EC-130 Compass Call Conversion Tips

Since no dedicated EC-130H kit exists, here is what you need to know about converting a C-130 kit. The EC-130H Compass Call is based on the C-130E airframe, so the Minicraft 1/144 C-130 A/E Vietnam Era kit gives you the most accurate starting point. For larger scales, you will need to modify any available C-130 kit.

The key external differences on the EC-130H include antenna fairings along the fuselage sides, a chin-mounted radome, blade antennas on the upper and lower fuselage, and modified tail surfaces. You can scratch-build these from plastic card and putty, or look for after-market conversion sets from companies like Draw Decal. For decals specifically, search for EC-130H Compass Call marking sheets from specialist decal producers.

The typical Compass Call paint scheme is an overall gray with low-visibility markings. Tamiya XF-20 Medium Gray or XF-19 Sky Gray are popular starting points for the base color. Weathering should be subtle since these aircraft are generally well-maintained, but some panel line wash and exhaust staining adds realism.

Understanding C-130 Variants

The C-130 family includes dozens of variants, and knowing which one matches your build goal matters. The C-130H is the most common variant in 1/72 kits and uses Allison T56 engines with four-blade propellers. The C-130J Super Hercules features updated Rolls-Royce AE 2100 engines with six-blade scimitar propellers and a modernized flight deck. The EC-130H Compass Call is based on the C-130E airframe, which is visually similar to the C-130H but with the older three-blade propellers and shorter fuselage.

The newest version of the C-130 in production is the C-130J-30, the stretched variant. For modeling purposes, the EC-130H is being replaced by the EA-37B Compass Call platform based on the Gulfstream G550, which may increase collector interest in the EC-130H as a historical aircraft worth modeling.

Frequently Asked Questions About EC-130 Compass Call Model Kits

Final Thoughts on the Best EC-130 Compass Call Model Kits

Finding the best EC-130 Compass Call model kits means accepting that no dedicated EC-130H kit exists and choosing the right C-130 Hercules foundation instead. For most modelers, the Zvezda 1/72 C-130H earns our Editor’s Choice with its engraved panel lines, 314 parts, and excellent fit. If you want the most accurate starting point specifically for a Compass Call conversion, the Minicraft 1/144 C-130 A/E Vietnam Era gives you the correct C-130E airframe. And for value, the Academy 1/144 C-130J-30 delivers a perfect-rated build at the lowest price in our roundup.

The EC-130H is being retired in favor of the EA-37B, which makes this an important time to build and preserve a model of this remarkable electronic warfare aircraft. Whether you go big with the 1/48 Italeri, accurate with the Minicraft A/E, or budget-friendly with Academy, each of these 12 kits offers something different for your collection in 2026.

Pick the scale that fits your space, invest in after-market Compass Call decals, and enjoy the build. The Hercules is one of the most recognizable military aircraft ever made, and adding the Compass Call electronic warfare variant to your display shelf is a project worth tackling.