An Expert’s Guide to the Best Model Kits For Adults in 2024
Model making is a fantastic hobby, but knowing where to begin can be a daunting task. The world of model kits is vast and varied, with options ranging from classic military vehicles to intricate sports cars and even anime robots. The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers. Looking at the incredible creations of seasoned model builders, it might seem like you need a dedicated workshop, a steady hand, and years of experience to create something impressive. But fear not, fellow hobbyist! It’s not as complicated as it seems.
To make your journey into this rewarding pastime less intimidating, I’ve compiled a list of model kits that are worth exploring. Many of these recommendations are based on my personal experience. We’ll start with kits that require no glue, paint, or extensive supplies, perfect for those wanting to dip their toes into the hobby. For those ready to dive deeper, we’ll explore kits that require painting and assembly, offering a more hands-on experience. Finally, we’ll delve into essential tools and supplies, guiding you through the world of model kit basics.
No Paint? No Glue? No Problem!
For a long time, model kits required gluing and painting. Today, that’s not always the case. Many companies offer entry-level kits that come pre-colored and snap together effortlessly. It’s important to note that some kits marketed as “beginner” or “entry-level” might be so simplified that they don’t feel like traditional model kits. But plenty still offer a satisfying challenge without the mess of paint and glue. Enter the world of Gundam! If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly gateway to model kits and giant robots appeal to you, consider either of these kits to start your journey.
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit
This kit is a classic choice for beginners. It’s a high-grade (HG) kit, which means it’s relatively simple to build and comes with pre-colored parts. It’s also a good size for display, standing at about 6 inches tall when complete. The Revive version features updated parts and a more modern design, making it a great option for both new and experienced builders. The HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit is a perfect starting point for anyone interested in the world of Gundam model kits.
Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit
For those who want a more detailed and complex build, the Master Grade (MG) RX-78-2 Version 3.0 is an excellent choice. It’s a larger kit, standing at around 8 inches tall, and features intricate detail and articulation. This kit is a perfect step up for builders who have experience with HG kits or are looking for a more challenging build. The MG RX-78-2 Version 3.0 is a great option for those seeking a more involved Gundam building experience.
Gundam kits are classified by grade, with the two most common being High Grade (HG) and Master Grade (MG). HG kits are typically priced between $15-30 and are around 6 inches tall when finished. MG kits, on the other hand, cost around $30-50 and are a couple of inches taller, often featuring more intricate details and complexity. There’s also Real Grade, situated between HG and MG; Entry Grade, designed for absolute beginners; and Perfect Grade, catering to advanced builders.
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Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero
The Wing Gundam Zero is a popular choice for Gundam fans. This HG kit is a great option for beginners and features a sleek design and iconic wing-like appendages. The Wing Gundam Zero is a great example of a high-quality HG kit that offers a satisfying build experience.
Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos, Bandai Spirits MG 1:100
For those who want a more challenging build, the MG Gundam Barbatos is a great choice. This kit features a unique design, complex articulation, and a wide range of weaponry. The MG Gundam Barbatos is a great example of a kit that offers a lot of detail and complexity for experienced builders.
Gundam modeling, also known as Gunpla (short for “Gundam plastic models”), has achieved massive popularity, deserving its own list of recommended kits. However, for anyone who isn’t drawn to giant anime robots, I’ve compiled a selection of kits that share the no-fuss appeal of Gundam kits, but applied to other properties and subject matter.
Star Wars Model Kits
Bandai has brought the Gundam treatment to a plethora of popular pop culture franchises, most notably Star Wars. Numerous characters and vehicles have been transformed into pre-colored snap-together kits. Some adapt better to this format than others. Some less colorful subjects might look a bit bland without a touch of paint or finishing touches. A basic wash or some dry-brushing can really enhance the details on the more monochromatic Original Trilogy machines.
Bandai Hobby Bandai AT-ST 1:48 Scale Star Wars All Terrain Scout Transport Walker
This kit captures the iconic AT-ST walker with impressive detail and articulation. It’s a great choice for fans of the Star Wars universe and offers a fun and challenging build. The AT-ST is a great option for those seeking a more detailed Star Wars model kit.
Bandai Hobby Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1:72 Y-Wing Starfighter Building Kit
The Y-Wing Starfighter is another iconic Star Wars vehicle that has been translated into a fantastic model kit. The 1:72 scale kit is a great option for those who want a smaller and more affordable build. The Y-Wing is a great option for those who prefer a smaller scale Star Wars model kit.
Bandai Hobby Boba Fett, Bandai Spirits Hobby 1/12 Plastic Model Kit
Boba Fett’s vibrant colors and kitbashed aesthetic make him look great even without any paint. However, the Stormtroopers might appear a bit too plain out of the box. My esteemed colleague Brian Altano and I personalized them a bit.
The Boba Fett kit is a great example of a pre-colored kit that looks great even without painting. The Stormtroopers, on the other hand, might benefit from some customization to enhance their details.
Anime Model Kits
If full-color injection-molded action figure model kits work for giant anime robots, why not anime people as well? Bandai’s Figure-Rise line has tackled Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, Digimon, and even some of the human characters from Gundam.
Bandai Hobby Son Goku Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit
This kit features a highly detailed and articulated Son Goku figure from the Dragon Ball Z series. It’s a fun and challenging build that’s sure to please fans of the anime. The Son Goku Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit is a great option for those who are interested in anime model kits.
Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit
The Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit allows you to build a highly detailed and articulated figure of Naruto Uzumaki from the Naruto series. This kit is a great option for fans of the anime and offers a fun and challenging build. The Naruto Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit is a great option for those who are interested in anime model kits.
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Giant Robot Model Kits (That Aren’t Gundam)
Beyond the world of Gundam, there are other fantastic giant robot model kits to explore. These kits offer a unique and exciting building experience with their intricate details and impressive scale.
Kotobukiya Kotobukiya Metal Gear Solid: Metal Gear Rex (Black Ver.) Model Kit
This 1:100 scale Metal Gear Rex kit is a masterpiece of detail and complexity. It features a sleek black finish and an impressive array of weaponry. The Metal Gear Rex is a great option for those who are looking for a challenging and rewarding build. This kit is a great option for those who are looking for a challenging and rewarding build. The Metal Gear Rex is a great option for those who are looking for a challenging and rewarding build.
Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
The Moderoid line of kits from Good Smile Company comes pre-painted, making them perfect for those who want to assemble and display a model without painting. However, they are on the pricier side. The Thunderjaw kit is a great option for those who are looking for a pre-painted model kit. The Thunderjaw kit is a great option for those who are looking for a pre-painted model kit.
The Metal Gear Rex and Thunderjaw kits are great examples of giant robot model kits that offer a unique and exciting building experience.
Bandai Store Bandai Hobby – Imaginary Skeleton – 1:32 Imaginary Skeleton Tyrannosaurus
This kit allows you to build a detailed and articulated Tyrannosaurus skeleton. It’s a great option for those who are interested in dinosaurs and paleontology. The Tyrannosaurus skeleton kit is a great option for those who are interested in dinosaurs and paleontology.
Bandai Store Triceratops
The Triceratops kit offers a detailed and articulated skeleton of the iconic dinosaur. It’s a great option for those who are interested in dinosaurs and paleontology. The Triceratops skeleton kit is a great option for those who are interested in dinosaurs and paleontology.
These dinosaur skeleton kits are a great way to explore the world of paleontology and build a unique and impressive model. They are also a great option for those who are looking for a more affordable kit. The dinosaur skeleton kits are a great option for those who are looking for a more affordable kit.
Bandai Store 1:1 Cup Noodle
This is a unique and humorous kit that allows you to build a 1:1 scale model of a Cup Noodle container. It’s a great option for those who are looking for a fun and quirky build. The Cup Noodle kit is a great option for those who are looking for a fun and quirky build. The Cup Noodle kit is a great option for those who are looking for a fun and quirky build.
Aoshima Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R Custom White 1:32 Scale Model Kit
Aoshima’s The Snap Kit series of model cars is, as the name suggests, a *snap* to put together. Similar to Gundam kits, they require no glue and most parts come pre-colored. Stickers are included for the remaining colors. This series is perfect for anyone seeking a quick project that doesn’t demand a lot of tools or materials. While the final result might resemble a toy rather than a replica without paint, painting remains an option. If painting is your preferred aspect of the hobby, these kits provide a faster entry point. I transformed The Snapkit’s 2000GT-R Skyline into a beat-up junker and kitbashed the Prius into a heavy metal post-apocalyptic monster truck, a “Judas Prius,” if you will. The “Judas Prius” is a work in progress; it currently looks too Halo, not Mad Max enough.
The Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R Custom White is a great example of a pre-colored snap-together kit that’s perfect for beginners. The Snap Kit series is a great option for those who are looking for a quick and easy build.
Military Model Kits
The beauty of tanks, aside from being a combination of a cannon and a bulldozer, lies in their forgiving nature when it comes to a messy paint job. Real, full-size tanks are often painted in a single color but are caked with dirt, mud, grease, and grime, which is immensely satisfying to recreate in miniature using dry brushing, washes, and pigments. If you make a mistake during construction, simply label it as battle damage! Tamiya produces some excellent armor kits, along with a wide range of military hardware and accoutrements, including, but not limited to, 1:35 scale farm animals.
Tamiya Tamiya 35346 1/35 US Medium Tank M4A3E8 Sherman Plastic Model Kit
This kit features a highly detailed and accurate replica of the iconic Sherman tank. It’s a great option for those who are interested in military history and model building. The Sherman tank kit is a great option for those who are interested in military history and model building.
Tamiya Tamiya Models M1A2 Abrams Model Kit
The M1A2 Abrams tank kit offers a highly detailed and accurate replica of the modern American battle tank. It’s a great option for those who are interested in modern military history and model building. The Abrams tank kit is a great option for those who are interested in modern military history and model building.
The Tamiya Sherman and Abrams tank kits are great examples of military model kits that offer a challenging and rewarding build experience.
Hasegawa 1:72 AV-8B Harrier II Plus
The scale of models can be a bit confusing, but it’s simply fractions. A 1:1 scale model is life-size, a 1:2 scale is 50% the size of the real thing, and so on. However, different subjects are best suited to certain scales. Cars are usually 1:24 or 1:32, and the standard for military ground vehicles, like tanks, trucks, and infantry, is generally 1:35. Larger aircraft models are 1:48, but 1:72 is not uncommon, and when you get into larger naval vehicles, it gets even more fractional. There’s plenty of overlap, so if you want a small truck to go next to your 1:48 helicopter, it probably exists somewhere out there. The scale of railroad models is the gauge of the miniature train tracks being used, which I won’t go into here. The point is: you can get a big Harrier jet or a small Harrier jet, or you can buy two big ones and pretend they’re a mommy, a daddy, and a baby jet.
Hasegawa 1:48 AV-8B Harrier II
This kit features a detailed and accurate replica of the iconic Harrier jump jet. It’s a great option for those who are interested in aviation history and model building. The Harrier jet kit is a great option for those who are interested in aviation history and model building.
The Hasegawa Harrier II Plus and Harrier II kits are great examples of aircraft model kits that offer a challenging and rewarding build experience.
Car Model Kits
I’m admittedly not much of a car guy. My dad, on the other hand, is very much the opposite. As a Father’s Day gift one year, I tracked down Hasegawa’s 1:24 BMW 2002 Tii kit and painted it to look like a real car he’s been tinkering with and repeatedly repairing for the last few decades. He loved the gift, and I had a great time putting it together. The amount of detail and tiny parts in a kit like this might be overwhelming for a novice modeler, but it’ll certainly keep you busy.
Hasegawa 621123 Model Car BMW 2002 Tii 1:24 Model Kit
This kit features a highly detailed and accurate replica of the classic BMW 2002 Tii. It’s a great option for those who are interested in classic cars and model building. The BMW 2002 Tii kit is a great option for those who are interested in classic cars and model building.
Revell Revell of Germany 07051 McLaren 570S
Two companies called Revell make model kits: Revell USA and Revell of Germany. The general consensus among the model building community is that the ones from Germany are excellent, and the American Revell kits leave a lot to be desired. I’ve only built the American ones, and I wasn’t impressed.
The Revell of Germany McLaren 570S is a great example of a high-quality car model kit that offers a challenging and rewarding build experience. The Revell of Germany McLaren 570S is a great example of a high-quality car model kit that offers a challenging and rewarding build experience.
Aoshima Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 11 1:24 Scale Model Kit
Aoshima’s Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 kit is a great option for those who are interested in supercars and model building. The kit features a highly detailed and accurate replica of the iconic Lamborghini supercar. The Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 kit is a great option for those who are interested in supercars and model building.
Aoshima Aoshima Volkswagen 13AD Beetle 1303S ’73 1:24 Scale Model Kit
The Aoshima Volkswagen Beetle 1303S kit is a great option for those who are interested in classic cars and model building. The kit features a highly detailed and accurate replica of the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. The Volkswagen Beetle 1303S kit is a great option for those who are interested in classic cars and model building.
Aoshima Aoshima Bunka Kyozai 1:24 Mobile Sales Series No. 8 Yakitori Ryuho Plastic Model
What’s your dream car? A Lamborghini? What about a kebab truck? Aoshima makes a range of great vehicles, from luxury supercars to civilian automobiles to a surprisingly broad selection of funny little food trucks.
The Aoshima Yakitori Ryuho kit is a great example of a unique and fun model kit that’s perfect for those who are looking for something different. The Yakitori Ryuho kit is a great example of a unique and fun model kit that’s perfect for those who are looking for something different.
How to Get Started with Model Kits
Whether you’re building a pre-colored snap-together kit or tackling a complex model that requires painting and assembly, there are some essential tools and supplies you’ll need to get started. Here’s a curated list of must-have items to enhance your model-building experience.
Tools:
BXQINLENX 8-Piece Model Tools Set
This is a great little set of tools to get started. If you get serious, it’s worth investing in a nice pair of hobby shears, side-cutters, or “nippers” for cutting individual parts off the runners. The cleaner the cut, the less trimming, filing, and sanding needed during assembly. I have a pair of Tamiya side-cutters that I swear by, but the God-tier option in this department is the “God Hand” line (not to be confused with the PlayStation 2 game IGN gave a controversially bad score to a million years ago). This 8-Piece Model Tools Set is a great option for those who are just starting out.
anezus 12inch x 18inch Rotary Cutting Mat Double Sided 5-Ply Craft Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting mat is helpful for not ruining your dining room table and getting yelled at, and also for easily moving your entire project away from the dining room table because you have company coming over and you don’t want people to see the funny little things you make in your spare time. This cutting mat is a great option for protecting your work surface and keeping your model building organized.
Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue Fine Tip 40ml
Model cement is different from regular glue in that it’s actually a solvent that slightly melts the plastic where applied, letting you fuse parts together. This makes it effectively useless on other materials, but for plastic kits, it’s my favorite. A tiny brush is built into the lid, so you just hold two pieces of your model together and apply a drop where they touch. The cement is so thin it’ll usually flow into the crack by itself. This model cement is a great option for bonding plastic parts together.
Paint:
Without venturing into the messy, expensive, and frequently frustrating world of airbrush operation and maintenance, my preferred method of painting models is with a combination of “rattle cans” and water-based acrylics. Primer is key because it gives the surface a finish that paint will adhere to more easily than bare plastic. It’s possible to use regular spray paint from a hardware store, but it comes out thicker and can easily ruin any fine details. Cans of hobby spray paint produce a fine mist, which is much easier to apply carefully.
GSI Creos Mr. Hobby B519 Mr. Surfacer 1000 Large Spray
Mr. Hobby’s Mr. Surfacer is an excellent primer that will even out the appearance of a kit prior to painting, covering up imperfections in the plastic while also providing a nice matte finish that paint will stick to really well. This primer is a great option for preparing your model kit for painting.
Vallejo Vallejo Basic USA Acrylic Colors Paint Set
Unlike lacquers or enamels, water-based acrylic paint doesn’t need any special thinners or solvents when it comes to mixing or cleanup. Vallejo’s Model Color line comes in every shade imaginable, and the dropper bottles make it easier to avoid spills. This acrylic paint set is a great option for those who are looking for a versatile and easy-to-use paint. The Vallejo acrylic paint set is a great option for those who are looking for a versatile and easy-to-use paint.
Tamiya Tamiya 86034 PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint, 100ml Spray Can
Tamiya has a whole rainbow of hobby-grade spray lacquer, which is a great alternative to hand-painting large areas and worrying about brushstrokes. If the model is mostly one color, laying down a base coat and then doing the details by hand is a good system. It’s unlikely you’ll use an entire can of paint on one kit, so if you grab a color or two per kit, over time you’ll likely collect a nice variety. This spray paint is a great option for those who are looking for a quick and easy way to paint large areas. This spray paint is a great option for those who are looking for a quick and easy way to paint large areas.
Like any good hobby, model making is basically a bottomless pit of enjoyably wasted time (that’s not actually wasted if you enjoyed yourself). No matter how good you are at it, you’ll inevitably come across someone who’s so much better than you it makes you want to give up entirely. On the bright side, a lot of experts share their work online along with handy tips and tutorials for any skill level. On YouTube, a few accounts you may want to check out are SpruesNBrews, NightShift, and Jun’s Mini Garage. If you are looking for some inspiration for dioramas, or just to see some ridiculously cool stuff getting made, Laser Creation-World and Minibricks both put up some great work. Happy modeling!
Model Kit FAQs
Where is the best place to buy model kits?
- Amazon: You can find some awesome deals throughout the year, but you’ll also want to be wary of resellers marking up prices. If you find something you like, it’s always worth googling it to see what the going rate is.
- HobbyLink Japan: Model making is a hobby that requires patience, and sometimes that starts before you even get the kit. HLJ is the biggest online Japanese hobby shop.
What are some beginner-friendly model kits that require no glue or paint?
Many companies offer entry-level kits that come pre-colored and snap together effortlessly, providing a satisfying challenge without the mess of paint and glue. One example is the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit.
Why is the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit a good starting point for beginners?
The Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit is a classic choice for beginners as it’s a high-grade (HG) kit, relatively simple to build, comes with pre-colored parts, and stands at about 6 inches tall when complete.
What makes the Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit stand out?
The Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit is an excellent choice for those ready to dive deeper into model making. It offers a more hands-on experience, requiring painting and assembly, and is perfect for individuals seeking a more intricate build.
Are there model kits available that cater to both beginners and experienced builders?
Yes, the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit is a versatile option suitable for both new and experienced builders due to its updated parts, modern design, and manageable complexity.
