Model making is a fantastic hobby, but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. With nearly a century of injection-molded plastic models available—from military vehicles and sports cars to anime robots and everyday objects—the sheer variety can be daunting. Seeing the impressive creations of experienced model builders might suggest you need a fully equipped workshop, surgeon-like precision, and years of practice, but that's simply not true. This guide simplifies your entry into this rewarding pastime.
To make getting started easier, I've compiled a list of kits worth exploring, many based on my personal experience. We'll start with kits requiring no glue or paint, then move on to options for those ready to get their hands a little dirty. Finally, we'll cover essential tools and supplies, and where to find them.
No Paint? No Glue? No Problem!
While model kits traditionally required glue and paint, many now come pre-colored and snap together. Note that some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, but many offer a satisfying challenge without messy adhesives or paints. Gundam kits are a perfect example! If giant robots appeal to you, these are great starting points.
Under $25
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit
1/144 Scale. Recommended age: 15 years and up.
$12.99 at Amazon
Under $100
Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit
1/100 Scale. Recommended age: 15 years and up.
$51.50 at Amazon
Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG). HG kits are generally $15-30 and around 6 inches tall, while MG kits cost $30-50 and are slightly larger and more detailed. Other grades cater to different skill levels.
High Grade
Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero
$16.00 at Amazon
Master Grade
Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos, Bandai Spirits MG 1:100
$54.69 at Amazon
Gundam's popularity is immense, but for those not interested in giant robots, many other pre-colored, snap-together kits exist.
Star Wars Model Kits
Bandai Hobby Bandai AT-ST 1:48 Scale Star Wars All Terrain Scout Transport Walker
See it at Amazon
Bandai Hobby Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1:72 Y-Wing Starfighter Building Kit
$29.64 at Amazon
Bandai offers many Star Wars snap-together kits. While some benefit from a basic wash or dry-brushing to enhance details, many look great straight from the box.
Bandai Hobby Boba Fett, Bandai Spirits Hobby 1/12 Plastic Model Kit
$17.02 at Amazon
Boba Fett's colorful design looks excellent without paint. Simpler kits, like Stormtroopers, may benefit from customization.
Anime Model Kits
Bandai Hobby Son Goku Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit
$32.99 at Amazon
Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit
$32.58 at Amazon
Bandai's Figure-Rise line extends beyond robots, offering colorful character kits from various anime series.
Giant Robot Model Kits (That Aren’t Gundam)
Kotobukiya Metal Gear Solid: Metal Gear Rex (Black Ver.) Model Kit
$154.00 at Amazon
Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
$107.64 at Amazon
Good Smile Company Aliens: Power Loader Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
See it
These pre-painted kits offer a less involved build, but come at a higher price point.
Bandai Store Bandai Hobby - Imaginary Skeleton – 1:32 Imaginary Skeleton Tyrannosaurus
$36.99 at Amazon
Bandai Store Triceratops
$46.00 at IGN Store
Bandai Store 1:1 Cup Noodle
$27.00 at Amazon
Aoshima Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R Custom White 1:32 Scale Model Kit
$14.99 at Amazon
These kits offer a variety of subjects and complexity levels.
Military Model Kits
Tamiya Tamiya 35346 1/35 US Medium Tank M4A3E8 Sherman Plastic Model Kit
$44.99 at Amazon
Tamiya Tamiya Models M1A2 Abrams Model Kit
$34.30 at Amazon
Hasegawa 1:72 AV-8B Harrier II Plus
$21.99 at Amazon
Hasegawa 1:48 AV-8B Harrier II
$36.89 at Amazon
Military kits offer opportunities for weathering and detailing techniques.
Car Model Kits
Hasegawa 621123 Model Car BMW 2002 Tii 1:24 Model Kit
$25.50 at Amazon
Revell Revell of Germany 07051 McLaren 570S
$34.99 at Amazon
Aoshima Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 11 1:24 Scale Model Kit
$33.99 at Amazon
Aoshima Aoshima Volkswagen 13AD Beetle 1303S ’73 1:24 Model Kit
$22.38 at Amazon
Aoshima Aoshima Bunka Kyozai 1:24 Mobile Sales Series No. 8 Yakitori Ryuho Plastic Model
$9.58 at Amazon
Car kits range in complexity and subject matter.
How to Get Started with Model Kits
Tools:
BXQINLEN 8-Piece Model Tools Set
$7.99 at Amazon
anezus 12inch x 18inch Rotary Cutting Mat
$8.99 at Amazon
Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue
$8.99 at Amazon
Paint:
For painting, consider using spray cans and water-based acrylics. Primer is essential for better paint adhesion. Mr. Hobby's Mr. Surfacer is a recommended primer.
GSI Creos Mr. Hobby B519 Mr. Surfacer 1000
$15.35 at Amazon
Vallejo Vallejo Basic USA Acrylic Colors Paint Set
$34.04 at Amazon
Tamiya Tamiya 86034 PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint
See it
Model making is a continuously evolving hobby with a wealth of online resources. YouTube channels like SpruesNBrews, NightShift, Jun’s Mini Garage, Laser Creation-World, and Minibricks offer inspiration and tutorials.
Model Kit FAQs
Where is the best place to buy model kits?
Several options exist: Amazon (beware of inflated reseller prices), HobbyLink Japan (extensive selection but expensive shipping), MegaHobby (good selection), IGN Store (modest selection, often featuring anime/pop-culture kits), and your local hobby shop (supports local businesses and offers expert advice).
