Lester's Hobbies - Vernon, British Columbia

Ryan I.

I recently revisited this hobby shop to explore getting into RC planes at a smaller scale, but unfortunately, my experience was disappointing. I spoke with the owner, Lester, who seemed more interested in criticizing my understanding of the electronics rather than offering helpful guidance. His lingo on the hobby felt outdated, and his approach wasn’t exactly welcoming.

When I asked about a small-scale park flyer, he told me they didn’t have any only for me to later find one on the shelf. However, it lacked all electronics, motor, battery, and transmitter, and was just a foamie build kit without a price tag. When I asked, I was quoted $99.99, which is excessive considering similar foam airframes can be found for a fraction of that price.

Beyond that, the conversation drifted into complaints about how the hobby is dying, flying fields are closing, and how things were “better before.” While there’s truth to some of those concerns, this kind of gatekeeping mindset is exactly why the hobby struggles to attract new enthusiasts. A well-organized, customer-friendly shop should inspire excitement, not discourage newcomers with negativity and disorganization.

This store may still succeed at catering to its existing audience, but it fails to welcome newcomers. If the goal is to sustain the hobby, supporting and encouraging beginners should be a priority, not dismissing them.

For what it’s worth, Google Maps says I’m in the top 10% of hobby shop reviewers, so I’ve seen a fair share. I love to support local wherever I can but it was difficult here.

Liam R.

Amazing store! If you can’t find it anywhere else it’ll probably be there, excellent guy at the front too! Little dusty with things all over but huge selection overall!

Matt V. L.

First I'm starting with the good. This location had a model kit I have been searching for for a very long time so they get a thumbs up from me. Their Auto selection is decent with some new releases. And the service was pleasant.
Now for the bad, the store seems to be very unorganized. Shelving is home made, All the kits are laying on their side instead of being stacked up right for easy browsing. I didn't see much of a tooling selection for model builders, and the till counter looked like a bunch of RC parts boxes exploded all over the place. The store was also very dusty.
Either way, its worth a browse.

kkennedy F. (.

I came in here looking for a Heinkel He 111 model, and was immediately blown away by their selection of trains, trucks, tanks, and remote control versions of those. There was also a bunch of fighter aircraft, but not many bombers. They were quite lacking in the naval section, however, but the prices weren't too bad (bigger RC tank: 120$, smaller RC tank/RC aircraft, 60-70$, normal models, 30-50$, small models: 20-10$). Will come back.

Filip B.

Excellent selection of various ‘toys’ for any age and level of experience, with the service and knowledge to make picking one easy!

Andrew D.

When I was a little kid one of my favorite places to go was always Hobby stores. Now that I'm a big kid that is no exception and Lester's does not disappoint. Excellent stock for RC enthusiasts, and plenty of models and paint if that's more your speed.

Lester himself has always gone the extra mile the many times I've come in to either buy a vehicle or the parts to fix one either myself or my kids have managed to destroy.

It's great to have a gem like this here in Vernon, I hope he stays around forever.

The P. C.

Went in for ho scale train track and was more then patient with me and my questions. Also has a train set up for ideas and info. Love the place have since I was young and into rc planes. Also suggested getting a couple micro copters and to my surprise he got them in even tho no one else likes them!

Amazing hobby shop

Dustin W.

Went in to see if I could get parts to fix my RCs while on vacation. Was surprised to see so many parts in stock. The owner was extremely helpful and informative. Top notch customer service. Will be back if I ever need parts while on vacation