The Erector Set has been a favorite toy since the early part of the 20th century. Designed for ages ten and older, the ingenious system of small parts combine in numerous ways to create an infinite number of models. As kids enjoy building with the Erector Metal Construction Set, they"re learning important skills like patience, organization, coordination, and how to read directions. The Erector Metal Construction Set features a six-volt, battery-powered motor so that children can see their creations move. Super Construction Set Ages: 8+ Number of models: 25 Number of parts: 643 Requires: 4 "AA" batteries (not included) What We Think Fun factor: Durability: Ease of assembly: Educational factor: Novelty factor: The Good: Instructions for building 25 increasingly complex models; pieces interchangeable with other Erector sets. The Challenging: With 643 parts to keep track of, pieces might get lost; directions have illustrations but no text. In a Nutshell: A classic toy that will entertain kids for hours while encouraging creativity and honing motor and analytical skills. You can create a variety of devices, ranging from a catapult... View larger. ...to a working, motorized car! View larger. Build, Learn, Play The Erector Set comes with a handy carrying case. Not only does it help your child organize the many small pieces of their set, it allows them to take the set with them on the go. The instructions are helpful and clear, showing in detail how to build the models, and stating clearly what pieces are needed before your child gets started. Please note, however, that there are no text directions, only illustrations. The plastic pieces can feel flimsy at times, but children testing the toy didn"t seem to mind and played for hours. A Classic Toy Lives On Kids can build up to 25 different models using the illustrated instructions, or they branch out with their own creations. From planes to cranes to helicopters, there is so much that can be built with the 643 nuts, bolts, wheels, screws, and metal pieces that come with this set. A six-volt battery-powered motor makes the models come alive. The sheer number of parts may seem overwhelming, but the compartmentalized case will help kids stay organized. Teenagers should have no problem building on their own, but younger kids might need some supervision and help, especially since the directions include no explanatory text -- just illustrations. What"s in the Box Erector set with 643 parts, six-volt battery-operated motor (batteries not included), illustrated directions, and storage case.