Best Beginner-Friendly Gundam Model Kits: Your Gateway to Gunpla Glory
Are you captivated by the world of giant robots and space battles? Do you find yourself drawn to the sleek designs and intricate details of Gundam models, but hesitate to take the plunge because you fear the complexity? Fear not, aspiring Gunpla builder! There’s a whole world of beginner-friendly Gundam model kits waiting to be explored, and this guide will be your trusty companion on your journey to Gunpla greatness.
High-Grade (HG) Kits: Your First Step into the Gunpla World
When it comes to starting your Gunpla journey, High-Grade (HG) kits are your new best pals! These models are like the stepping stones of the Gundam model kit world, offering a perfect balance of detail, ease of construction, and affordability.
Think of HG kits as the “beginner” level in a video game. They’re designed to be welcoming and approachable, introducing you to the core mechanics of building Gunpla without overwhelming you with intricate parts and complex instructions.
Why are HG kits so beloved by beginners? Well, for starters, they’re often built in 1/144 scale, which means they’re a manageable size without being too small to handle. This scale strikes a good balance between detail and practicality, allowing you to appreciate the intricate features of your chosen Gundam without getting bogged down in tiny parts that can be frustrating to assemble.
Furthermore, HG kits are notorious for their user-friendly design. The parts are generally well-molded and fit together smoothly, minimizing the need for excessive trimming or sanding. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, guiding you through each step with detailed diagrams and illustrations.
But it’s not just about the ease of construction. HG kits also offer a surprising amount of detail and variety. You’ll discover intricate panel lines, articulated joints, and even optional accessories that let you customize your Gundam to your liking. And let’s not forget the sheer range of choices available within the HG line. From iconic classics like the RX-78-2 Gundam to newer, more modern designs, there’s an HG kit out there for every taste and preference.
Entry Grade (EG) Kits: The Ultimate Beginner-Friendly Option
If you’re looking for the absolute easiest entry point into the world of Gunpla, look no further than Entry Grade (EG) kits. These kits are designed specifically for beginners, stripping away even more complexity than HG kits to create a truly streamlined building experience.
Think of EG kits as the “easy mode” of Gunpla building. They’re even simpler to assemble than HG kits, with larger parts, simplified construction, and minimal need for tools. They’re often referred to as “snap-fit” kits, meaning you can assemble them without the need for glue.
EG kits are perfect for people who want to dive into the world of Gunpla without feeling overwhelmed by the intricacies of detailed model building. They’re also a fantastic option for younger builders who are just starting to explore their passion for model kits.
Some EG kits even feature additional features that enhance the building experience, such as clear instructions that are easy to understand, quick-build design that minimizes assembly time, and classic Gundam designs that capture the essence of the franchise.
Master Grade (MG) Kits: For the Advanced Builder
Now, if you’re feeling confident about your Gunpla building skills and are ready to take on a more challenging project, then Master Grade (MG) kits are the perfect next step. These kits are known for their incredible detail, advanced articulation, and complex build processes, making them a true test of your model-building prowess.
Think of MG kits as the “expert mode” of Gunpla building. They’re for experienced builders who are looking for a real challenge and a rewarding building experience.
MG kits are typically built in 1/100 scale, which means they’re larger than HG kits, offering even more intricate detail and more opportunities for customization. These kits often feature advanced techniques like inner frame construction, which gives the model a more realistic and articulated appearance.
However, with this increased complexity comes a higher level of commitment. MG kits require a greater degree of patience and precision during assembly, and they often come with a large number of parts that can be overwhelming for novice builders.
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Top Beginner-Friendly Gunpla Kits: Your Starting Lineup
Now that you have a grasp of the different types of Gunpla kits available, let’s talk about some specific recommendations for beginner-friendly models. Here are a few of the most popular and highly-rated kits that are perfect for starting your Gunpla journey:
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HGUC Gyan Revive: This classic Zaku variant is a great choice for beginners, featuring a simple design and a satisfying build experience. Its iconic look and simple construction make it a great starting point for those new to Gunpla.
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RX-78-2 Gundam Full Weapon Set Entry Grade: This kit is perfect for those who want a classic Gundam experience with minimal build time. The Entry Grade line is specifically designed for beginners, with simplified construction and easy-to-follow instructions.
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Entry Grade EG RX-93 Nu Gundam: This kit offers a more modern Gundam design with a simplified build process. Its iconic design and impressive articulation make it a great choice for beginners who want to explore a slightly more complex model.
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High Grade RX-78-2 Gundam Revive: This classic Gundam design is a timeless choice for beginners. The Revive line offers a modern update with improved articulation and detailing, making it a fantastic entry point into the world of Gunpla.
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High Grade Gundam Barbatos: This striking Gundam from the Iron-Blooded Orphans series is a popular choice for beginners. Its unique design and robust build make it a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
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Any Zaku from the HG Gundam The Origin: The Zaku is a legendary antagonist in the Gundam universe, and the HG The Origin line offers a fantastic selection of Zaku variants that are perfect for beginners. The detailed designs and classic look make these kits a great addition to any Gunpla collection.
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High Grade Wing Gundam: This iconic Gundam from the Wing series is a popular choice for beginners. Its sleek design and signature weapons make it a great choice for those who want a visually impressive and satisfying model to build.
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Tools for Success: Your Gunpla Arsenal
While many beginner-friendly kits are designed to be built without tools, there are a few essential items that will make your Gunpla building experience even smoother and more enjoyable:
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Model Nippers: These specialized cutters are designed to cleanly cut plastic model parts without leaving any rough edges or burrs. Investing in a good pair of nippers will make your build process much more precise and efficient.
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Hobby Knife: A sharp hobby knife is essential for trimming excess plastic and cleaning up any imperfections.
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Sandpaper: Sandpaper is useful for smoothing out any rough edges or imperfections that may arise during assembly.
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Tweezers: Tweezers can be helpful for holding small parts and applying decals.
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Acrylic Paints: If you want to customize your Gunpla with your own colors, acrylic paints are a popular choice for model kits.
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Decals: Decals are small stickers that add realistic detail to your Gunpla. They can be used to create markings, emblems, and other details that enhance the model’s appearance.
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A Dedicated Work Space: It’s important to have a clean and organized workspace for building your Gunpla. This will help you to avoid losing small parts and ensure that your model is built in a clean and efficient manner.
Beyond the Build: Exploring the Gunpla Community
Gunpla is more than just a hobby; it’s a passionate community of builders, collectors, and enthusiasts. There are countless resources available online and offline for Gunpla fans to connect, share ideas, and learn from each other.
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Online Forums and Communities: There are numerous online forums and communities dedicated to Gunpla, such as Gunpla Builders World, Reddit’s r/Gunpla, and various Gundam-themed Facebook groups. These communities are great places to find inspiration, ask questions, and share your own Gunpla projects.
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Local Gunpla Groups and Events: Many cities and towns have local Gunpla groups and events where builders can meet up, share their creations, and participate in building competitions. These events are a great way to learn new techniques, make friends, and immerse yourself in the Gunpla community.
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YouTube Channels and Blogs: There are countless YouTube channels and blogs dedicated to Gunpla, offering tutorials, reviews, and inspiration for builders of all skill levels.
Your Gunpla Journey Awaits
The world of Gunpla is a vast and exciting one, filled with endless possibilities for creativity, customization, and connection. With the right starting point and a little guidance, you can embark on a rewarding journey of building, collecting, and sharing your passion for Gundam models.
So, what are you waiting for? Choose your first beginner-friendly Gunpla kit, gather your tools, and dive into the world of Gunpla. The universe of giant robots is waiting for you to explore!
What are High-Grade (HG) kits and why are they recommended for beginners?
High-Grade (HG) kits are beginner-friendly Gundam model kits that offer a perfect balance of detail, ease of construction, and affordability. They are designed to introduce builders to the core mechanics of building Gunpla without overwhelming them with intricate parts and complex instructions.
What scale are HG kits typically built in and why is this scale advantageous for beginners?
HG kits are often built in 1/144 scale, which is a manageable size without being too small to handle. This scale strikes a good balance between detail and practicality, allowing builders to appreciate the intricate features of their chosen Gundam without dealing with overly tiny parts.
What makes HG kits user-friendly in terms of design and construction?
HG kits are known for their well-molded parts that fit together smoothly, reducing the need for excessive trimming or sanding. Additionally, the instructions provided with HG kits are clear and easy to follow, with detailed diagrams and illustrations guiding builders through each step.
What variety and customization options do HG kits offer to beginners?
HG kits offer a surprising amount of detail and variety, including intricate panel lines, articulated joints, and optional accessories for customization. With a wide range of choices available within the HG line, beginners can find kits ranging from iconic classics to newer, more modern designs to suit their preferences.
