Model building offers a rewarding hobby, but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. With a century of injection-molded plastic kits covering everything from military vehicles to anime robots, the sheer variety can be daunting. While master modelers' creations might seem unattainable, requiring extensive tools and years of practice, the reality is far more accessible. This guide simplifies the process, offering a curated list of kits to jumpstart your model-building journey.

To ease your entry into this engaging pastime, I've compiled a selection of kits, many based on personal experience. We'll start with kits requiring minimal supplies (no glue or paint!), then progress to options for those ready to embrace more involved techniques. Finally, we'll cover essential tools and where to find them.

No Paint? No Glue? No Problem!

Traditionally, model kits demanded glue and paint. However, many companies now offer pre-colored, snap-together kits perfect for beginners. While some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, plenty offer a satisfying challenge without messy adhesives or paints. Gundam kits are a prime example. If giant robots appeal to you, these are excellent starting points:

Under $25
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit
1:144 Scale. Recommended age: 15+.
$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+.
$51.50 at Amazon

Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG). HG kits are generally $15-30, around 6 inches tall. MG kits cost $30-50, slightly taller and more detailed. Other grades offer varying levels of complexity.

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 warrants its own detailed guide, but for those less interested in giant robots, similar snap-together kits exist for other franchises.

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 Hobby Boba Fett, Bandai Spirits Hobby 1/12 Plastic Model Kit
$17.02 at Amazon

Bandai offers numerous pre-colored Star Wars kits. While some benefit from a wash or dry-brushing to enhance details, others, like Boba Fett, look great straight from the box.

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, encompassing characters from Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and more.

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 CompanyHorizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
$107.64 at Amazon

Good Smile CompanyAliens: Power Loader Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
See it

Beyond Gundam, other impressive mecha kits are available, often pre-painted for ease of assembly.

Other Model Kits

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

A diverse range of kits caters to various interests, from dinosaurs to cars and even instant ramen.

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, particularly tanks, offer forgiving canvases for painting and weathering 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 from classic vehicles to more modern designs, offering varying levels of detail and complexity.

How to Get Started with Model Kits

Essential tools and supplies will enhance your model-building experience.

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 a combination of spray cans and acrylics. Primer is crucial for paint adhesion.

GSI Creos Mr. Hobby B519 Mr. Surfacer 1000 Large Spray (Primer)
$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

Water-based acrylics offer easy cleanup. Spray lacquers provide efficient base coats for larger areas.

Model building is a continually evolving hobby. Online resources, such as YouTube channels (SpruesNBrews, NightShift, Jun’s Mini Garage, Laser Creation-World, Minibricks), offer inspiration and tutorials.

Model Kit FAQs

Where is the best place to buy model kits?

Several options exist: Amazon (check for reseller markups), HobbyLink Japan (extensive selection, expensive shipping), MegaHobby (good selection), IGN Store (smaller selection, focuses on anime/pop culture), and local hobby shops (support local businesses, knowledgeable staff).