First of all, I love mom and pop businesses, and the fact that I walked into an amazing hobby shop and the owner had a doorman and I got the red carpet treatment. Literally everyone here was very knowledgeable. The owner John himself told me his parents own the place dude I went there for one part. I fell in love with this place. I ended up buying a RC Traxxas maxx v.2 the best decision I ever made but the battery but the charger from him. My wife didn't let me sleep on the couch or like I thought she was going to and I'm definitely going back to buy more. I need people to come and continue to support your small businesses. This is what runs America people the best part because he knew I came from New Jersey. He knocked off $15 and I bought him my old car and he put it together for me, order me, the tools and parts that I wanted took care of me red carpet service all the way thank you John. I really appreciate it. read more

Visited again January 15. This time, there was a waiting line to get in. COVID restrictions. It was worth the wait. The staff (2 guys) were just as helpful and friendly as usual. I typically buy classic balsa wood flying aircraft models from these guys, and I really appreciate the day one of them took me into the storage side of the shop to show me the classics like Peck Polymers or the Midwest Gollywock (which I purchased). That day, Star Wars model kits was what I was after, and they had 'em. When you first walk in, to your left, the row is nothing but sci-if kits! Nerd heaven, and I wish I could have spent more time there but there were people waiting to get in. read more

Brownie's Hobbies - BANDAI Star Wars B-Wing, purchased from Brownies Hobbies - Hobby Shops Near Me - Staten Island, New York

I originally met George Brown, the owner of Brownie's, at the 1992 Model Airplane National Championships in Chicopee MA. I was shooting a documentary and George was flying control line speed. I interviewed George about speed flying. It was during this interview that I learned he owned a hobby shop on Staten Island. At that time there were many hobby shops around NYC so traveling to Staten Island to buy supplies was not necessary as I had a hobby shop near my home. Fast forward to 2017 the majority of hobby shops in NYC has dwindled to a few. My original hobby shop near my home and Brownie's are the only two that I'm aware of as still doing business. The internet has killed most of the brick and mortar shops. But Brownie's on SI and Wilson's in Queens are still in business. I had never visited Brownie's so on a recent trip to Staten Island I decided to drop in and give George a copy of the documentary that he was in. Upon entering the shop the first thing I noticed were all the model airplanes hanging from the ceiling. Most were built by George and many are from customers who retired their models to Brownie's ceiling. I also noticed model kits and accessories stacked almost to the ceiling. Two isles run the length of the shop. One features model cars, static, R/C and slot. The other had model airplanes both flying and non-flying. Bob the salesman in the shop was very hospitable and friendly. He sadly informed me that George had passed away about a year earlier. His son John now runs the business that was started by his mother and father in 1971. While I did not get to meet John (he was on vacation) I did leave him the DVD with his fathers interview. I'm sure he'll like seeing his dad on camera. As for the shop it is the best stocked hobby shop I've seen in a while. If I did not have my local shop I would not hesitate to spend the toll to get to Staten Island and shop at Brownie's Hobbies. The model builders on Staten Island are fortunate to have a shop like this that they could go to. read more

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Great hobby shop! I came here with my combat robots needing some batteries and they did everything they could to assist. Super friendly service. They also have some really cool display pieces! I really liked seeing the old AM Futaba transmitter. Strongly reccomend! read more

Awesome Community based business! Salt of the Earth Bricks & Mortar shop. Very knowledgeable staff, helpful, and love the Hobby, not just R/C's Models, Science Projects etc. The Planes on the Ceiling Museum like Time Capsules. If your ever by here venture in and look at the Ceilings ask the standing second generation owner what they think. It's awesome. read more

Every visit is like visiting old friends. Staff is friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. There are so many hidden gems it's fun to just wander around looking through all there is. read more

Brownies' is the ultimate place to find new hobbies or develop existing ones. If you grew up loving tamiya/hpi/Estes/fast toys that got your hands dirty, you know how great it is to have an expert tell you what to buy and what'll get you an adrenaline rush. I learned so much from these guys as a kid, before there was YouTube & Amazon, these guys were the only gurus I could trust. Really happy to see these guys are still around, I don't think visits to any other stores ever excited me so much growing up! read more

I came here recently in search of Tamiya brand paint, and was not disappointed! Aside from the almost full line of colors in the 10 oz pots I needed, they had a large selection of the spray paints too. After grabbing a handful of other things I needed, John dug around and found me some alligator clips and suggested a new nipper to cut model pieces. They have a huge selection of model and kit paraphernalia for such a tiny store, and I will be back to refill my paints as needed! read more

I have a Vitality Skywing Helicopter that has been discontinued. The top blade rotor assembly broke. I checked online and went to 3 hobby shops in NJ...Nothing. So I went back to Brownie's. They didn't have the part either but guess what he did. He created a new assembly from other parts. Where else would you get this type of service???? Most would sell you parts and send you on your way. He cut, filed and drilled to create this while I was there. He even invited me to watch him do it! I first came here when I moved to S.I back in the 90's. Had the pleasure of meeting John's dad (great guy) and John is a chip off the old block. If you go on weekend when its crowded, you may have a wait. They do not rush, they give you their undivided attention until you leave the store. CUSTOMER SERVICE: The difference between a good store and a great store. read more

Great old fashioned hobby shop! Just like they all used to be and the way they all should be. Owners are experts and are pleased to help you every step of the way, weather it's introducing you to something, helping you decide among the choices, or answering questions about items. The "New York Originals" TV show and book definitely got it right about this family business run since 1971. Lots of RC cars, planes, and models. Awesome place to visit, get into a hobby, or buy a model. read more

Wow! First time in the store and what a great experience. They took the time to explain things clearly and were still attentive to other customers. Definitely going back, way better than buying online. read more

Been shopping there for 30 years, old school mom and pop feel, knowledgeable and helpful owner

Mr. Brown and his son JB are friendly, knowledgable, and fair. They have a great selection and they back up what they sell. JB is willing to teach you about the hobby you choose and help you make a purchase based on budget and skill. I try to visit once a week and spend my OT money. A must visit for all hobbyists. read more