Do you stare at the wall of colorful boxes in the hobby shop, feeling a little lost? Giant robots, sleek designs, and a history spanning decades – Gundam model kits, or Gunpla, offer an amazing world. But where do you even begin your journey into building these incredible machines?
Choosing your first kit, or even your next one, can feel overwhelming. Should you pick the easy entry-level kits, or jump straight into the complex, high-detail versions? Many builders face the same hurdle: knowing which grades (like High Grade or Master Grade) fit their skill level and budget. Getting the wrong kit can lead to frustration instead of fun.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the different Gunpla grades clearly. You will learn exactly what to look for so you can select the perfect kit every time. Get ready to transform those plastic runners into a masterpiece!
Top Gundam Model Recommendations
- The Beam Saber Rack is movable, allowing you to recreate unsheathing poses
- The ammunition belt is crafted from soft materials, enabling it to bend along with the barrel’s movements
- The back of the shield features intricate detailing. The weapon can be attached to the back of the waist
- Marking stickers are included to replicate the Mobile Suit's appearance from the series
- The product box will have a Bandai Namco warning label, which is proof that you are purchasing an officially licensed product
- Part of the HG Series
- Bandai's newest "High Grade (HG)" model kit faithfully reproduces the new Gundam's distinctive form
- Loaded with articulation in the torso, hips, and elsewhere for dynamic posability after assembly!
- [Includes]: Weapons (x1 set) Backpack (x1 set) Interchangeable head part Interchangeable hands (x1 set) Stickers Marking stickers
- 1/100 Scale: 100th scale model
- Material: Plastic
- Inspired by: Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans anime
- Articulation: Multiple points for varied poses
- Accessories: Interchangeable parts
- Distinctive head and torso color scheme faithfully recreated
- Includes a variety of weapons for diverse display options
- Shield can be mounted on the arm or backpack using joint parts
- Comes with two Bits, which can be attached to the unit via joint parts
- The product box will have a Bandai Namco warning label, which is proof that you are purchasing an officially licensed product
- The Transformable MS Gundam Epyon will be available in the RG series as a newly designed kit! The new articulation gimmicks optimized for swinging the Beam Sword powerfuly and naturally
- Wyvern-motif design arrangements unique to this RG kit!
- The Heat Rod can be set in spiraling poses thanks to Advanced MS Joints
- The product box will have a Bandai Namco warning label, which is proof that you are purchasing an officially licensed Bandai Spirits product
- Snap together requiring no glue
- Plastic is colored no paint required
- Runner x16; Foil sticker x1; Marking sticker x1; Dry Transfer Markings x1; Instruction manual x1
- Skill level: Expert
- The highest "metal expression" in the history of Gunpla -EXTREME METALLIC COMBINAITON-
- A kit with the most number of linked frame articulation gimmicks in MG History that enables the poses you imagine
- The true value of the Golden Frame is unleashed through gimmicks
- A variety of armaments with numerous gimmicks are included. Paper-crafted runner stand inlcuded to assist in assembly
- The product box will have a Bandai Namco warning label, which is proof that you are purchasing an officially licensed product
- The long-awaited "GUNDAM EPYON" from GUNDAM UNIVERSE is here!
- Adopting a new frame, we pursue the optimal range of motion and ease of play that enables reproduction of scenes from the series!
- [Set Contents] Body, Replacement wrist parts left and right, 3 types each, Beam sword set, Heat rod, shield, Joint parts set
- The product box will have a Bandai Namco warning label, which is proof that you are purchasing an officially licensed product
The Ultimate Gundam Model Buying Guide
Welcome, future Gunpla builder! Gundam models, or Gunpla, let you build your favorite giant robots from the anime. Buying your first kit can seem tricky. This guide simplifies everything so you can choose the perfect model.
Key Features to Look For
When picking a Gundam model, look closely at the grading system. This tells you how complex and detailed the model is.
The Grading System
- ENTRY GRADE (EG): These are the easiest kits. They have fewer parts and often require no tools. Great for absolute beginners.
- HIGH GRADE (HG): These are the most popular kits. They offer a good balance of detail and build time. They usually come molded in color.
- REAL GRADE (RG): These kits pack a lot of detail into a smaller scale. They use advanced inner frames, making them look very realistic. They are trickier than HG.
- MASTER GRADE (MG): MGs are larger and much more detailed. They always include an inner skeleton (frame) that the armor attaches to. They take longer to build.
- PERFECT GRADE (PG): These are the biggest, most complex kits. They offer maximum detail, sometimes including lights or motors. Only experienced builders should start here.
Important Materials and Tools
Gundam models are almost always made from plastic. The type of plastic affects how you build and finish your model.
Plastic Types
Most kits use Polystyrene plastic. Higher-end kits (MG and PG) use different types of plastic for different parts. Harder plastic makes up the inner frame for strength. Softer plastic is sometimes used for outer armor pieces.
Essential Tools (Quality Factors)
While Entry Grades let you snap pieces together by hand, better kits need tools. Good tools significantly improve the final look.
- Nippers (Cutters): You must use good nippers to cut pieces off the plastic runners (frames). Cheap nippers leave ugly nubs.
- Hobby Knife: This helps clean up those small plastic nubs left after cutting.
- Tweezers: Useful for placing tiny stickers or small detail parts, especially on RG kits.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your finished model depends on two main things: the kit itself and your building technique.
Kit Quality
Better Quality: Kits from Bandai’s newer molds (recent releases) usually have cleaner cuts and better part separation. This means you see less gray plastic and more of the intended color.
Reduced Quality: Older HG kits often require a lot of cleanup or even painting to look their best. If parts fit together loosely, the quality suffers.
Building Technique
Your skill reduces or improves the look. Poor cutting leaves big bumps (nubs) on the model. Rushing the build often leads to mistakes. Taking time to carefully follow instructions makes the final product look professional.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about why you want to build the model. This defines the best grade for you.
For Display vs. For Play
Display Models: If the model will sit on a shelf and look amazing, consider MG or RG. These offer high detail and great articulation (ability to pose).
Play/Beginner Models: If you are new or want something durable for posing and light handling, stick to EG or HG. They are robust and fun to assemble quickly.
The Experience: Building a PG kit is an intense, multi-day project. Building an EG kit might take one afternoon. Choose a project length that matches your free time and patience!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Gundam Models
Q: Do I need glue to build Gundam models?
A: No. Most modern kits use snap-fit construction. Glue is usually only needed if you plan on heavy customization or painting.
Q: What is the difference between scale and grade?
A: Grade describes the complexity and detail level (HG, MG). Scale describes the size ratio (e.g., 1/144 for HG/RG, 1/100 for MG).
Q: Are Gundam models the same as Gunpla?
A: Yes. Gunpla is short for “Gundam Plastic Model.” It is the official term for these kits.
Q: How long does it take to build an HG kit?
A: For a first-time builder, an HG kit usually takes between two to five hours, depending on how carefully you clean the parts.
Q: Do I have to paint my Gundam model?
A: No. Bandai molds the plastic in many different colors, so painting is optional. Painting adds detail but is not required for a nice-looking model.
Q: What is an “inner frame”?
A: The inner frame is the robot’s skeleton inside the armor. MG and RG kits always have these detailed frames.
Q: Which model is best for a 10-year-old beginner?
A: The Entry Grade (EG) kits are perfect. They are simple, durable, and teach the basic building process without frustration.
Q: What are “runners”?
A: Runners are the plastic frames that hold all the individual model pieces before you cut them out.
Q: Where should I buy my first kit?
A: Look for reputable hobby shops, large online retailers, or dedicated model kit stores. Buying official Bandai products ensures good quality parts.
Q: Can I pose my completed Gundam model?
A: Yes! Almost all grades feature excellent articulation. You can put them in many action poses, especially the HG and above.