Model building: A beginner's guide to this rewarding hobby. Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer variety of model kits available? Don't be! This guide provides a curated selection of kits perfect for novices, from simple snap-together builds to more challenging projects.
No Glue? No Paint? No Problem!
Traditional model kits often require glue and paint. However, many entry-level kits are now pre-colored and easily assembled. While some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, many offer a satisfying challenge without messy adhesives or paints. Gundam kits are a great example:
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit (Under $25) - 1:144 scale. A fantastic starting point.
Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit (Under $100) - 1:100 scale. More complex and detailed.
Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG). HG is a good starting point.
Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero (High Grade)
Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos (Master Grade)
Beyond Gundam, numerous other pre-colored snap-together kits exist:
Star Wars Model Kits
Bandai Hobby Bandai AT-ST
Bandai Hobby Star Wars Y-Wing Starfighter
Bandai Hobby Boba Fett (Highly detailed and colorful)

Anime Model Kits
Bandai Hobby Son Goku
Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto
Giant Robot Kits (Beyond Gundam)
Kotobukiya Metal Gear Rex
Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw
Good Smile Company Aliens: Power Loader
Other Unique Kits
Bandai Imaginary Skeleton Tyrannosaurus
Bandai Triceratops
Bandai 1:1 Cup Noodle (Surprisingly complex!)
Aoshima Nissan Skyline GT-R
Military & Car Model Kits
These often require more skill and tools.
Tamiya M4A3E8 Sherman Tank
Tamiya M1A2 Abrams Tank
Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II Plus
Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II
Hasegawa BMW 2002 Tii
Revell McLaren 570S
Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador
Aoshima Volkswagen Beetle
Aoshima Yakitori Ryuho Food Truck
Getting Started
Essential Tools:
Basic Model Tool Set
Cutting Mat
Model Cement
Paints:
GSI Creos Mr. Hobby Surfacer Primer
Vallejo Acrylic Paint Set
Tamiya Spray Paint
Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Wide selection, but check for reseller markups.
- HobbyLink Japan (HLJ): Huge selection, but shipping can be expensive and slow.
- MegaHobby: Large selection, generally faster shipping than HLJ.
- IGN Store: Smaller selection, focusing on anime/pop culture kits.
- Local Hobby Shops: Support your local stores!
Enjoy the rewarding world of model building! Remember to explore online resources for inspiration and tutorials. Happy building!