Pyro produced two primary outrigger canoe model kits: the Fijian Outrigger (No. 319-89) released in 1965 as a 1/35 scale kit, and the Polynesian Outrigger Canoe (No. C254100) also from 1965, which was part of the "Round the World Boat Set." These kits were known for their unusual subjects, featuring vacuform billowing sails, full rigging instructions, and display stands, with assembled dimensions of approximately 10 inches long and 12 inches high for the Fijian model.
The kits are highly sought after by collectors for their excellent box art (often by Howard Arnold) and unique historical subjects that few other manufacturers attempted.
Key specifications for the most common models include:
Fijian Outrigger (No. 319-89): 1/35 scale, early hardbox issue from 1965, featuring full hull construction and wood grain details.
Polynesian Outrigger Canoe (No. C254100): Listed as a 1965 release, often found in used condition with minor box wear.
Design: Both kits were designed as impressionistic representations rather than precise scale replicas, emphasizing the dramatic style of the vessels.
Cultural Context: The kits depict vessels critical to Polynesian heritage, used for oceanic travel and colonization of islands like New Zealand as early as 1280 AD.