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Model making is a fantastic hobby, but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. With nearly a century of injection-molded plastic models available – encompassing everything from military vehicles and sports cars to anime robots and everyday objects – it's easy to feel intimidated. Seeing the stunning creations of experienced modelers might suggest you need a fully equipped workshop, surgeon-like precision, and years of practice. But that's simply not true. To demystify this rewarding pastime, I've compiled a list of kits perfect for getting started. Many of these recommendations are based on my personal experience.
We'll begin with kits requiring minimal supplies – no glue or paint needed! Then, we'll explore options for those ready to embrace the more involved aspects of model building. Finally, I'll detail essential tools and supplies, along with where to find them, offering a great alternative to LEGOs.
No Paint? No Glue? No Problem!
Historically, model kits demanded glue and paint. Today, many companies offer beginner-friendly, pre-colored snap-together kits. While some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, plenty provide a satisfying challenge without the mess of glue and paint. Gundam kits are a prime example! If you're drawn to giant robots, either of these kits is a great starting point.
Under $25
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit
1:144 Scale. Recommended age: 15+.
$12.99 at Amazon
Under $100
Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit
1:100 Scale. Recommended age: 15+.
$51.50 at Amazon
Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG). High Grade (HG) kits are typically $15-30 and around 6 inches tall. Master Grade (MG) kits cost roughly $30-50, are slightly taller, and offer more detail and complexity.
Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero (HG)
$16.00 at Amazon
Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos (MG)
$54.69 at Amazon
Gundam's popularity warrants its own dedicated list, but for those less interested in giant robots, I've included kits with the same ease of assembly applied to other themes.
Star Wars Model Kits
Bandai Hobby AT-ST 1:48 Scale
See it at Amazon
Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1:72 Y-Wing
$29.64 at Amazon
Bandai offers many Star Wars snap-together kits. While some benefit more from painting than others, a basic wash or dry-brushing can enhance detail.
Bandai Hobby Boba Fett 1:12 Scale
$17.02 at Amazon
Boba Fett's colorful design looks great unpainted. However, my colleague and I customized some Stormtrooper kits:
Bandai Stormtrooper Model Kits
Anime Model Kits
Bandai Hobby Son Goku Figure-Rise
$32.99 at Amazon
Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise
$32.58 at Amazon
Bandai's Figure-Rise line extends beyond robots to include anime characters from various series.
Giant Robot Model Kits (That Aren't Gundam)
Kotobukiya Metal Gear Rex
$154.00 at Amazon
Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw
$107.64 at Amazon
Good Smile Company Aliens: Power Loader
See it
Good Smile Company's Moderoid kits are pre-painted but pricier.
Bandai Hobby Imaginary Skeleton T-Rex
$36.99 at Amazon
Bandai Store Triceratops
$46.00 at IGN Store
Bandai Store 1:1 Cup Noodle
$27.00 at Amazon
Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R
$14.99 at Amazon
These dinosaur skeletons and the Cup Noodle kit are snap-together and pre-colored. The cars are also easy to assemble and a good starting point for painting.
Military Model Kits
Tamiya M4A3E8 Sherman Tank
$44.99 at Amazon
Tamiya M1A2 Abrams Tank
$34.30 at Amazon
Tanks are forgiving subjects for painting, and weathering techniques can add realism.
Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II Plus (1:72)
$21.99 at Amazon
Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II (1:48)
$36.89 at Amazon
Model scales vary; common scales for vehicles are 1:24, 1:32, and 1:35. Aircraft are often 1:48 or 1:72.
Car Model Kits
Hasegawa BMW 2002 Tii (1:24)
$25.50 at Amazon
Revell of Germany McLaren 570S
$34.99 at Amazon
Revell of Germany kits are generally preferred over Revell USA kits.
Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4
$33.99 at Amazon
Aoshima Volkswagen Beetle 1303S
$22.38 at Amazon
Aoshima Yakitori Ryuho Food Truck
$9.58 at Amazon
Aoshima offers a wide variety of car kits.
How to Get Started with Model Kits
Tools:
BXQINLEN 8-Piece Model Tool Set
$7.99 at Amazon
anezus Cutting Mat
$8.99 at Amazon
Tamiya Extra Thin Cement
$8.99 at Amazon
Paint:
For painting, I recommend a combination of spray cans and water-based acrylics. Primer is crucial for paint adhesion. Mr. Hobby Mr. Surfacer is an excellent primer.
GSI Creos Mr. Hobby Mr. Surfacer 1000
$15.35 at Amazon
Vallejo Basic Acrylic Colors Paint Set
$34.04 at Amazon
Tamiya PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint
See it
Water-based acrylics are easy to clean up. Tamiya offers a wide range of spray lacquers.
Model making is a rewarding hobby with endless possibilities. Many experienced modelers share their work and techniques online. Check out SpruesNBrews, NightShift, Jun’s Mini Garage, Laser Creation-World, and Minibricks on YouTube.
Model Kit FAQs
Where is the best place to buy model kits?
Amazon offers deals but watch out for inflated reseller prices. HobbyLink Japan has a vast selection but shipping can be expensive and slow. MegaHobby is another good option. The IGN Store has a smaller selection, primarily anime/pop-culture kits. Don't forget your local hobby shop!
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