Model building: A beginner's guide to fantastic kits and essential supplies
Model building is a captivating hobby, but starting can feel overwhelming. With countless kits available, from military vehicles to anime robots, it's easy to feel intimidated. Fear not! This guide simplifies the process, offering recommendations for beginners and seasoned hobbyists alike.
No-Glue, No-Paint Kits: A Perfect Starting Point
Many kits now bypass the need for glue and paint. Several companies offer pre-colored, snap-together options, perfect for newcomers. While some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, many provide a satisfying challenge without messy adhesives or paints. Gundam kits are a prime example:
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit (Under $25): 1:144 scale. A great entry point.
Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit (Under $100): 1:100 scale. More detailed and complex.
Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG), offering varying complexity levels.
Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero (High Grade): Features various accessories.
Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos (Master Grade): Detailed internal mechanics.
Beyond Gundam: Other No-Fuss Kits
Bandai's snap-together approach extends beyond Gundam to other franchises:
Bandai Hobby AT-ST (Star Wars): Articulated legs and rotating head.
Bandai Hobby Y-Wing Starfighter (Star Wars): Detailed model kit.
Bandai Hobby Boba Fett (Star Wars): Colorful and detailed.
Bandai Stormtrooper Model Kits: May benefit from basic washes or dry-brushing.
Anime Model Kits
Bandai Hobby Son Goku (Figure-Rise Standard): Posable figure kit.
Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto (Figure-Rise Standard): Posable figure kit.
Giant Robot Kits (Beyond Gundam)
Kotobukiya Metal Gear Rex: A large, detailed kit.
Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw: Large, pre-painted kit.
Good Smile Company Aliens: Power Loader: Includes Ellen Ripley figure.
Dinosaur Kits
Bandai Hobby Imaginary Skeleton Tyrannosaurus: Detailed bone structure.
Bandai Store Triceratops: Another detailed dinosaur skeleton.
Other Unique Kits
Bandai Store 1:1 Cup Noodle: A surprisingly complex and realistic ramen kit.
Car Model Kits
Aoshima Nissan Skyline GT-R: Easy to assemble snap kit.
Hasegawa BMW 2002 Tii: More challenging kit with intricate details.
Revell of Germany McLaren 570S: High-quality kit.
Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador: Features opening scissor doors.
Aoshima Volkswagen Beetle: Classic car model kit.
Aoshima Yakitori Ryuho (Food Truck): Unique and fun.
Military Model Kits
Tamiya M4A3E8 Sherman Tank: Great for painting and weathering.
Tamiya M1A2 Abrams Tank: Detailed tank model kit.
Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II Plus: Intermediate-level aircraft kit.
Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II: Larger-scale aircraft kit.
Essential Tools and Supplies
BXQINLEN 8-Piece Model Tools Set: Basic tools for beginners.
anezus Cutting Mat: Protects your work surface.
Tamiya Extra Thin Cement: Solvent-based adhesive for plastic.
Paints: Hobby-grade spray paints (e.g., Tamiya) and water-based acrylics (e.g., Vallejo) are recommended. Primer (e.g., Mr. Hobby Mr. Surfacer) is crucial for paint adhesion.
GSI Creos Mr. Hobby Mr. Surfacer 1000: Excellent primer.
Vallejo Basic USA Acrylic Colors Paint Set: Non-toxic acrylic paint set.
Tamiya PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint: Hobby-grade spray lacquer.
Where to Buy Kits
- Amazon: Wide selection, but check for reseller markups.
- HobbyLink Japan (HLJ): Huge selection, but shipping can be expensive and slow.
- MegaHobby: Large selection with generally faster shipping.
- IGN Store: Modest selection, focusing on anime/pop culture kits.
- Local Hobby Shops: Support your local hobby store!
Remember, model building is a journey. Enjoy the process, explore different techniques, and don't be afraid to experiment! For inspiration, check out YouTube channels like SpruesNBrews, NightShift, Jun’s Mini Garage, Laser Creation-World, and Minibricks. Happy building!
