Reddit mentions: The best figure model kits
We found 1,378 Reddit comments discussing the best figure model kits. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 660 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Bandai Hobby Wing Gundam Zero Version EW 1/100 - Master Grade
- Master Grade 1/100 scale (180mm, 7-8 inches)
- Many small pieces; models take up to 10 hours to complete
- Posable and flexible for display
- Improved proportions, internal structures, and movements
- Skill level: Expert
Features:
Specs:
Height | 6.6 Inches |
Length | 4 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2019 |
Weight | 1.8 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
2. Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit, 1:100 Scale
- Colored plastic, minimal to zero paint required
- Easy to assemble articulated model kit requiring no glue
- Runner x 22, Foil Sticker x1, Realistic decal x1, Instruction manual x1
- Package Weight: 0.408 kilograms
Features:
Specs:
Height | 8 Inches |
Length | 3 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2020 |
Weight | 1.25 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
3. Bandai Hobby MG Sazabi Version Ka Model Kit (1/100 Scale)
Easy to assemble articulated model kit requiring no glueColored plastic, minimal to zero paint requiredRunner x31, instruction manual x1, sticker x3
Specs:
Height | 4.724409444 Inches |
Length | 15.354330693 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | December 2013 |
Weight | 3.3951188348 Pounds |
Width | 23.228346433 Inches |
4. Bandai Hobby HG Orphans Gundam Barbatos Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphans Action Figure (BAN201873)
Includes giant mace and katanaApproximately 5" tallRunner x 7, sticker x 1, Instruction Manual x1
Specs:
Color | Multi-colored |
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 9 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | November 2015 |
Size | 8" |
Weight | 0.330693393 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
5. Bandai Hobby MG Freedom Gundam (Ver. 2.0) "Gundam Seed 1/100, Multi-Colored, 8" (BAN204883)
- An updated version of the freedom Gundam from mobile suit Gundam seed features stylized detail and proportion influenced from the mg RM Aile Strike Gundam
- All weapons have been carefully recreated including the beam rifle, beam sabers that can combine, Rail cannons, and Plasma cannons with added gimmicks
- Sliding armor panels in thighs and forearms and flip open hatches in wings allow new possible dynamic display options
- Display stand included, runner x16, dry transfer sheet, sticker sheet, and instruction manual
- Only product with affixed official Bluefin and Bandai Namco label has been thoroughly tested for safety and meets all North American consumer product safety regulations and entitles the purchaser to product support assistance
Features:
Specs:
Color | Multi-colored |
Height | 7 Inches |
Length | 2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | June 2016 |
Size | 8" |
Weight | 1 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
6. Bandai Hobby #05 Freedom Gundam 1/144 Real Grade
Features of a MG and PG kit at lower priceMolded in separate colors, no paint requiredEasy to snap together, no glue requiredOnly product with affixed official Bluefin and Bandai Namco label has been thoroughly tested for safety and meets all North American consumer product safety regulations and en...
Specs:
Color | Meerkleuren. |
Height | 5.5 Inches |
Length | 2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | December 2011 |
Weight | 0.551155655 Pounds |
Width | 1 Inches |
7. Bandai Hobby HGBF Wing Gundam Fenice Action Figure
Runner x12, foil sticker x1, instruction manual x1No glue requiredColor coded no paint required
Specs:
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 3 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | December 2013 |
Weight | 0.49 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
8. Games Workshop Warhammer 40,000 Citadel Base Paint Set
Citadel Base Paints are the foundation upon which a good paint job is builtIncludes 1 brush and 11 pots of Citadel paintsIncludes Leadbelcher, Macragge Blue, Waaagh! Flesh, Bugmans GlowColors cont'd: Mephiston Red, Mournfang Brown, Abaddon Black, Ceramite WhiteColors continued: Zandri Dust, Averland...
Specs:
Color | Multi-colored |
Height | 0.55905511754 Inches |
Length | 3.47244094134 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.7495716908 Pounds |
Width | 2.27952755673 Inches |
9. Bandai Hobby HGBF Star Build Strike Gundam Plavsky Wing Model Kit (1/144 Scale)
Colored plasticNo glue requiredRunner x 12, Foil Sticker x1, Instruction manual x1
Specs:
Height | 5.5 Inches |
Length | 2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.04375 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
10. Bandai Hobby RG #07 Gundam MK-II (Titans) Z Gundam Bandai RG 1/144
- Features of a mg and PG kit at lower price
- Molded in separate colors, no paint required
- Easy to snap together, no glue required
Features:
Specs:
Height | 5.5 Inches |
Length | 1 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | April 2012 |
Weight | 0.6172943336 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
11. Bandai Hobby MG Gundam Kai Model Kit (1/100 Scale), Astray Red Frame
- Runner x27, Foil Sticker x1, Dry Decal x1, Tetron Sticker x1, instruction manual x1
- Easy to snap together, no glue required
- Molded in separate colors, minimal to zero paint required
- Bluefin Distribution products are tested and comply with all USA consumer product safety regulations and are eligible for consumer support
Features:
Specs:
Color | Multicolor |
Height | 7.75 Inches |
Length | 5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | February 2010 |
Weight | 1.8 Pounds |
Width | 5 Inches |
12. Bandai Hobby #01 Gundam Age-1 Normal Gundam Age 1/144 - High Grade Age
Snap together; no glue requiredColored plastic; no paint requiredRunner x4; foil sticker x1; instruction manual x1
Specs:
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 5 Inches |
Weight | 0.440924524 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
13. Bandai Hobby HGCE Aile Strike Gundam Model Kit (1/144 Scale)
Runner x6, Foil sticker x1 instruction manual x1No glue requiredColor coded no paint requiredOnly product with affixed official Bluefin and Bandai Namco label has been thoroughly tested for safety and meets all North American consumer product safety regulations and entitles the purchaser to product ...
Specs:
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 3 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2014 |
Weight | 0.5732018812 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
14. Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka "Char's Counterattack" 1/100 - Master Grade
Snap together requiring no gluePlastic is colored no paint requiredRunner x25, water decals x1, instruction manual
Specs:
Height | 8.8 Inches |
Length | 5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 2.58 pounds |
Width | 4 Inches |
15. Gundam RB-79 Ball Ver Ka MG 1/100 Scale
1/100 scaleA Japanese BANDAI product. Gundam is a very popular character all over the world.Japan ImportJapan Import(C) SOTSU / Sunrise
Specs:
Height | 20 Inches |
Length | 31 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | December 2004 |
Weight | 0.87523518014 Pounds |
Width | 8 Inches |
16. Bandai Gundam Sandrock Ver EW 1/100 Master Grade
- Heat Shotels x2, Shield x1, Beam Submachine Gun x1
- Molded in separate colors, no paint required
- Easy to snap together, no glue required
- item package weight: 1.5 pounds
Features:
Specs:
Height | 7.5 Inches |
Length | 3 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | November 2011 |
Weight | 1.3 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
17. Bandai Hobby Wing Gundam Ver. EW Bandai MG Action Figure
No glue required for assembly, a hobby nipper is required to remove parts from runnersColored plastic, little to no paint required to replicate appearanceProduct bears official Bluefin Distribution logo ensuring purchaser is receiving authentic licensed item from approved U.S. retailerBluefin Distri...
Specs:
Height | 16.535442 Inches |
Length | 13.779535 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | March 2011 |
Weight | 0.08375 Pounds |
Width | 25.0000135 Inches |
18. Bandai Hobby HGBF Strike Gundam Full Package Model Kit, 1/144 Scale
Easy to assemble articulated model kit requiring no glueColored plastic, minimal to zero paint requiredRunner x9, Foil Sticker x1, instruction manual x1
Specs:
Height | 5.5 Inches |
Length | 3 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Weight | 0.65918212033535 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
19. Tamiya 35096 1/35 German Pzkpw IV AUSFD Plastic Model Kit
- Kit includes three realistic figures
- Kit can be assembled as either an early version or a later African version
- 1/35 Scale Armor
Features:
Specs:
Height | 2.2 Inches |
Length | 13.9 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2019 |
Weight | 1.10231131 Pounds |
Width | 8 Inches |
20. Bandai Hobby #14 RG Strike Freedom Model Kit (1/144 Scale)
- Easy to assemble articulated model kit requiring no glue
- Colored plastic, minimal to zero paint required
- Runner x8, realistic decal x1, instruction manual
- Only product with affixed official Bluefin and Bandai Namco label has been thoroughly tested for safety and meets all North American consumer product safety regulations and entitles the purchaser to product support assistance
Features:
Specs:
Color | Multicolor |
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2020 |
Weight | 0.9700339528 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
🎓 Reddit experts on figure model kits
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where figure model kits are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
First comment:
Please upvote this by default so it stays towards the top. I'm still learning how2reddit
So I am NOT an artistic person so this is especially anxious for me. But, I needed something to keep my hands busy that wasn't masturbating, so here we are.
I have probably over studied techniques and materials, and I want this post to be a "documentary" if you will. Where someone who has no business painting is going to be doing just that.
So, I'll be documenting my pitfalls and approaches to everything here. With all of you lovely people, it'll also hopefully be a central location for someone like me or just wants to get into 40k can refer to.
Disclaimer: I'll be at work until 5pm EST. But my job is pretty cushy so I'll be adding planning details throughout the day
Tools and Such
Well, I probably overspent here. Only because I'm lazy and didn't want to make the drive to harbor freights. But then again, paying the premium to help support my local game shop is going to give me some karma in the long run. Here's the list of things that I ended up picking up:
Theory is Great and All (11.13.19)
So here are my updates from actually painting.
Life Sucks and I haven't gotten much done (11/15/19)
So I was only able to apply a second coat of to what I've already done. But honestly, not too shabby! Apparently I didn't water down the paint too much.
https://imgur.com/gallery/lA9LV1N
Also, I recently switched to a different cell phone carrier, and got a $200 prepaid card.... So I'm getting these.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004INERK4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3TMLEXVMVIW94&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002JLVM5U/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=A1Y3PCPH3CY53X&psc=1
There's a blog that I found (will have to find it again later) that recommended these.
Bandai is (IMO) the top of the Japanese heap, model-wise - well-engineered, complex but not fiddly. Their Eva offerings are OK, but where they really shine is the Gundam stuff. Currently, they're available as 1/144 HG (no inner frames, decent articulation and detail), 1/144 RG (inner frames and high detail) 1/100 Re/100 (no inner frames, decent external detail, 'niche' MS) 1/100 MG (current ones have internal frames and high detail; older ones, not so much), 1/60 PG (big scale, high detail inside and out), and some 1/144, 1/100 and other 'No Grade' (older, low-articulation, low color separation kits), and some non-Gundam stuff like VOTOMS (we'll get there in a bit). Like everything else, newer kits will have better parts layouts than older kits. You can check Dalong.net, for visual reviews, parts counts, scale comparisons, and so forth.
In HG, most of the kits from Char's Counterattack, Unicorn, Build Fighters/Try and Iron Blooded Orphans on are excellent kits, with prices running from £6 up to £35
In RG, (IMO) the best kit, in terms of detail, design, and durability is the RG Gundam Mk II AEUG, priced at a very reasonable £15.
MG run from £16.75 up (Ball is love; Ball is life) up to the mind-blowing, £95 Sazabi ver.Ka. Yes, it's pricey, but it's one of the best-engineered models you'll ever build. 37 runners of multicolored, snap-fit glory.
PGs are well out of your price range, all well over the £100 mark.
Outside the Gundamverse, Bandai also does 1/20 VOTOMS; but slightly over your cap at £65 They also do Macross kits (the current series is Delta; kits are just now being released), but their transforming requirements make them a little explodey. They also do Yamato and other spacecraft; I don't have a lot of experience with them.
Past Bandai, Kotobukiya does some excellent Armored Core (among other properties) kits; they are a little finickier fit wise, and a little pricier, coming in at around £45 and up. They work best for experienced modelers who aren't afraid of complex painting jobs. Hasegawa does non-transforming Valkyries; they will need glue and paint to look good. Hasegawa also does the love-to-get-grubby, need-glue-and-paint-and-patience Maschinen Krieger line.
Beyond that, you start getting into smaller makers, and resin kits, and imports direct from Asia, and probably out of your area of interest.
This hobby is a huge money/time sink if you want to do realistic models. To learn all the skill required takes years, and a lot of materials are used in the process.
I'm not sure what's your budget, but I'd start with simple 1/35 single colored military vehicles. Tamiya has a great range of kits with older tooling, and they can be bought for 15-25 dollars. They are not the best quality wise, but they still hold their own, and better then lots of modern kits. Bang for buck they are the best IMO.
Few examples:
https://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-Models-Russian-T-34-Tank/dp/B000LFSIV2?ref_=bl_dp_s_web_8888336011
https://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-Models-Armored-Sdkfz-Model/dp/B000WN6SRE?ref_=bl_dp_s_web_8888336011
https://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-Models-Pzkfw-Ausf-Model/dp/B000WN5AF0
https://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-Models-A6M2-Fighter-Model/dp/B000QSBXHK
https://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-Models-Russian-T-62-Model/dp/B000WBBVX2
(You can find these everywhere, amazon is just an example)
If you select your kit, you can check the main colors in the handbook, or on scalemates.com. Buy them as you need them, you will have a good set of colors after a few kits, and be ready for most camo patterns if you choose carefully. Use water based acrylics, like Revell aqua or Vallejo model color, because you can thin them with water. Tamiya paints need thinner, so they are more expensive to start with.
I'd suggest soviet armor, or german ww2 armor, because green and grey/dark yellow are base colors you'll always need.
EDIT: For the other tools, you need to get 4 things at start. A hobby knife, a panel cutter, some brushes and some cement. Tamiya extra thin, or Revell contacta(this is included in their starter kits or can be bought seperately.) are both great.
The other things like pigments, washes etc can wait. Buy them as you get better, and master the most basic stuff, like using cement, thinning paint, brushing...
You wanna be the best fiance ever u/vickicamfield?
Get him one of these.
His neck will thank you, his hands will thank you, his precision will thank you. Probably the best purchase I've ever made for minis. You can snag em at most hobby shops.
​
Bonus, if he wants to do detail work I recommend a cheap set of reading glasses. He won't have to strain his eyes as much and they are a nice magnifying glass....es... you get the point lol.
​
PS: I recommend bright white light for better color recognition and more akin to natural light.
Edit: Also if he is thinning with water, get this. I find it works better than water and mixes with metallics!
Edit 2: For brush care, dont forget to get some brush cleaner and conditioner. Maybe a wet palette for longer paint sessions. For brushes, winsor and newton are always a solid choice.
Edit 3: Folks are asking for essentials. Here is a short list:Vallejo thinner
Masters brush conditioner
Wet palette
Kolinsky brushes
Mini holder
Liquid cement for plastics
Vallejo paints
Citadel paints
Warhammer TV
Cheap airbrush for prime/basecoat
I started without watching too. Super hooked now. Please help.
My starter suggestions:
Right now all of these are available at pretty good prices with Prime shipping from Amazon.
Happy building!
Welcome to hobby!
First and foremost, if you've never built gunpla, or a model kit in general be sure to check the links on the side to get you started.
As for suggestions for a kit, I'd recommend getting an HG kit from your favorite series. You're bound to find your favorite suit in HG form. That being said; if you don't have one or still want suggestions I'd recommend:
All these are excellent kits in my opinion and have pretty good parts separation so they won't need a ton of panting(except the Build Strikes...their boosters need a lot of work). They're also relatively cheap. I used amazon as a general site since they have good prices generally and are even better if you have amazon prime. But you are free to find your stuff elsewhere.
As for completion times from start to finish? Its hard to say since everyone builds at different paces and touch ups can range from just panel lining + stickers, to panel lining+painting all the details instead of stickers and painting those details not covered by stickers at all + topcoat. In my case a High Grade, assuming it doesn't need a ton of painting, will run me 6-7 hours. But I'll panel line line, omit the stickers and paint everything I can, then top coat. So I'd say be prepared to take at least 3-4 hours depending on your building pace and nub management. Add 1 or 2 hours for detailing.
Hope this helps.
Real grades really aren't meant to be painted (not that they can't be, they just for the most part aren't meant to be) that's part of why I recommended them all you really need to do to make them look awesome is fully remove and sand nubs and panel line them and add all the cool warning stickers, strike freedom wasn't too difficult to assemble and I think it was like my tenth kit overall and all I did to mine was a straight build out of the box with panel lining and adding the stickers I didn't even top coat the kit and it looks badass as heck (I think mine looks EPIC! :D )
The only thing with assembling real grades is to pay close attention to the instructions and take your time don't be in a rush to finish, some of the parts like the v-fin on its head can be really tiny and somewhat delicate but as long as you don't rush he'll go together fine and wasn't too hard to build though building all the dragoons for the backpack did get a little overly repetitive
Finally to do the best poses he really needs an action base because the large wings/backpack make strike freedom back heavy
oh and if you want its display to really blow people away you could also always get the optional 'wings of the skies' expansion
There was a fairly recent release of a High Grade Wing Gundam Zero kit, but it looks like he prefers MGs... I think there are a few variations of the Wing Gundam kit, such as the Proto Version, Wing Gundam(EW), Wing Zero(EW). or if you want to be the best friend ever there is the Perfect Grade Wing Gundam.
If he is a fan of the Gundam Wing series, it is worth considering Deathscyth, Deathscythe Hell, or Sandrock, which are other 'protagonist' mobile suits that fight sort-of along side the Wing Gundam.
There is also Epyon and Tallgeese, two 'bad guy' mobile suits from the same series.
If he is a fan of the original Gundam series, the RX-78 or a Zaku kit(there are many variations) would be good as well.
Also, be careful buying on Amazon if you want it to be delivered by the 10th (or shortly after). Quite a few of the sellers with good prices are based in Japan so it can take upwards of a month or more for the item to arrive if you buy it from them. It can be easy to miss that information if you're not paying attention.
My first ever kit: HG Barbatos ($13)
Other easy (and cheap) kits I'd recommend:
HGUC RX-78-2 ($11)
HG Gusion ($13)
HG Graze Kai ($11)
I'd start with those, and based on the suggested products, just go from there! Really, I just like to buy kits based on what I think looks coolest. The HG kits are all pretty beginner-friendly, so it's really up to you!! Hope this helps!! And if you haven't already, subscribe to r/gunpla. It can be a fickle-bitch-of-a-sub when it comes to upvotes (which can be discouraging for new posters), but more often than not people there are more than willing to offer helpful advice. And if you have any questions, feel free to PM me. That goes for anyone reading this who's interested in possibly getting into the hobby as well. Good luck and happy building!
Your best bet is to delete this and post it again on r/Gunpla. They have an incredibly friendly community and they'd love to help you choose a good model to start with, as well as give you some recommendations on beginner tools.
For a more immediate answerm there are three MG versions of the Wing The TV version, the EW Version, the EW Zero Version, and the Proto Zero. The Wing Zero EW is an older kit, but does have the angel-style wings if you're looking for those, and my personal preference is the Wing EW.
Also, while there's certainly nothing wrong with starting with an MG, I highly recommend with either the HG Wing, or the HG Wing Zero. They're both really modern HG's that look great out of the box, and are cheaper too.
At the end of the day, you should definitely check out r/Gunpla for any further questions, or even just to check out some builds you're interested in.
If you're talking about the World of Tanks line of 1:35 model tanks, it's an iffy decision, unless you've got some model building under your belt. The kits are pretty old italeri molds which mean that they're not as accurate as some newer kits, but they're good enough. The worst part of the World of Tanks model kits are the tracks. They are god awful and will break when you try to put them on your tank, leaving you with a disappointing result. Yeah, you get some gold and some nice in game bonuses, but in my opinion, unless you have some spare tracks lying around that are better than the in-box italeri tracks, I'd probably buy a good old Tamiya kit. Easy to build, good tracks, little to no fuss, your just have to buy some Tamiya extra thin cement.
I just finished my AMX-30B from MENG, and while the tracks and suspension on the kit actually function, it's for advanced modellers and has a really hefty price tag. The tracks were the most painful part as you had to assemble each link (made of multiple parts) by hand 160 times.
Some really easy and cheap and good looking 1/35 builds from Tamiya are:
Panzer II , Walker bulldog ($12-15)
M4 Sherman ($30)
T-34 , Panzer Iv ($20)
Prices are estimates.
PM me if you'd like to chat, and come by /r/modelmakers if you're interested!
I believe I have finally decided on my first Gunpla, the HG Age II Magnum and want to make sure the items I have added to my Amazon cart are ideal or not for a beginner/future use for HG and MG kits. The list is as follows:
I know that this sub has a list of tools and tutorials, but because I'm trying to budget, I was thinking no more than $100 would be ideal for me to start with. Since I'm beginning with HG models, I don't think I need a full set of Gundam markers, but if it's needed/required/highly suggested, I might pick them up as well.
So I have read and seen that top coating and panel lining are essential for MG models to make them pop. Are they just as essential for HG model kits? Looking at pictures of the Age II Magnum I'm planning on getting from Amazon, it doesn't seem to have a lot of indents for panel lining. Of course, I could be wrong and be blind as a bat. If I don't do any sort of panel lining, is it still a good idea to add a top coat regardless?
Also, how soon can one get into MG kits? I was originally going to jump straight into either the MG GM Sniper II or the RX-78-2 Ver 3.0 but after doing some research over the past few days, I've decided I'll be doing a few HG's to begin with as I haven't built model kits since I was like 7 or 8 with my dad. I'm thinking after the Age II Magnum, I was thinking about getting either the HG Double O Diver or the HG 00 Shia Qan[T]. Maybe after I complete the 3 HG's I've listed, is it possible to jump to the the GM Sniper II?
TL;DR:
Oh man, uh... one that looked... cool? Just a sec
Okay,RG #07 Gundam MK II Titans is what it says on the box! And it looks really neat and that's all I know about it! I'm not familiar with Gundam but I got a little one like 9 years ago that I really liked building, so when I was at Otakon the other weekend I decided to indulge in another, nicer one! Spent like 20 minutes at the Gundam table picking something that looked cool, and I'm definitely satisfied with it. So far I have built: leg bones.
Welcome to the hobby!
Important terms you should know :)
HG: High Grade 1/144 scale. This is usually where beginners start
MG: Master Grade 1/100 scale. More advanced kit, usually comes with an inner frame.
RG: Real Grade 1/144 scale model but has the complexity of a MG model.
The HG Build Fighters line is a perfect place to start, espessally with the Fenice and Star Build Strike. For tools, I would suggest checking this baby out It comes with pretty much all the stuff you will need. I actually just use an x-acto knife and some really high grit sandpaper to get rid of nubs left after cutting the pieces off the gates.
As far as buying kits goes, Amazon has really good prices (especially if you have Amazon Prime). Here's the HG Fenice from Amazon.
If you don't want to buy from Amazon, I would suggest purchasing from Gundam Planet or from Hobby Link Japan Hobby Link Japan also has a ton of videos on Youtube on gunpla showing tutorials, and all stuff gundam related.
Hope this helps!
As a few others have mentioned, the MG Sazabi Ver. Ka is the companion kit to the Nu Ver. Ka. Right now it is $85 on amazon, which is $15 above your price range. However, $85 is a great price for the kit considering the lowest price it has been on amazon was $74. As a side note, I have to say the Sazabi Ver Ka is one of the best kits I have ever built.
Another option is the Hi-Nu Ver. Ka. It is an alternate version of the Nu Gundam (the one that you linked). From what I understand, the Hi-Nu is an amazing kit, and is currently $73 on amazon.
Keeping in the same set of kits, you can get several SD kits. They are smaller cuter versions of the full kits and are much cheaper and easier to build. Plus getting three of them will cost about $40. Here are the links:
Nu Gundam SD
Sazabi SD
Hi-Nu Gundam SD
I hope this helped. If you can find out more about which series they like, we can offer more suggestions.
This forum is great and has talented people.
Keep in mind two things about this forums popular suggestions:
1.) They love grunt suits. So don't let them bully you into a grunt suit unless that is what you want.
2.) MG Ball Ver Ka seems to be a favorite on here, don't let that influence you unless you like the ball.
My personal recommendation is the new MG Freedom Gundam 2.0
Build the suit you like!
I will be getting the 1/100th grimgerde
I started building gunpla early this year and have done about 30 kits, so no expert but I have some experience to stand on. That being said, the HGUC RX-78-2 Revive was my first kit and I'd recommend that to anyone. The kit is forgiving (white doesn't show nub-marks/stress marks as much as dark colors), it doesn't require too much from the builder, and the end result is very stable and articulate. It's what cemented my new hobby. And it's relatively cheap at ~$14 US.
For a lengthier and more complicated build (though I would argue not really more difficult) I'd suggest the RG Gundam Mark II. Again, the kit succeeds in being stable, articulate, and the build progresses rather seamlessly. It also looks really awesome when completed.
There are a few other builds that for me stand out as being just very satisfying-- the HG Gerbera Tetra, the RG Char's Z'Gok- but the two I've singled out above are superlative in my opinion.
dude. you need to try at least one real grade. I used to be exclusively MG like you, but my experiences with the RG Zaku and Strike totally changed my mind.
Plus if you enjoy placing decals and working with tweezers, then it is pure heaven. If you decide to get one, I'd recommend avoiding the "winged" kits since they are just a hair more frustrating -- for example, my strike freedom is definitely harder to pose than the Aile strike.
Amazon sells RG's for awesome prices. If you have amazon prime, you can get an RG zaku for $33.51 or an RX-178 for $32.37
The Gundam brand is owned by Bandai, so they are the only ones who make kits. There are some knockoffs of dubious quality which are best ignored.
Bandai kits are snap together and molded in correct colors, so glue and paint are not needed.
As /u/SonuNova said, start with an HG kit. They usually run about $20. Most have pretty good color separation and newer ones use very few stickers. Pick your favorite. If you want suggestions start with the Build Strike or 00 Gundam.
The only tools you'll need are a hobby knife (read: xacto) and some side cutters.
A panel line marker or wash (enamel paint + lighter fluid) and some flat top coat (e.g. flat clear coat) are useful for detailing and finishing to make the kit look less toy-like.
The expense of the hobby comes from the gotta-catch-em-all mentality. Some of the larger MG kits can run upwards of $100, and Perfect Grade kits three times [faster] than that.
You definitely have better options
With 10-20 bucks, you can get a great HG kit. HG (high Grade) kits are much more fun and are generally much better in quality. May i suggest one of these:
----: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IAGUS7G/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=354ZD0WDE1CHP&coliid=IKLBTEST96E20
----: http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Amazing-Model-Scale/dp/B00E3JH52K/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1420200253&sr=1-2&keywords=hg+zaku
----: http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Fenice-Action/dp/B00FKL6E4K/ref=pd_sim_t_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=04P9J2F778V4ZT3CWPWB
Also, it's a really good idea to check online reviews.
That strike is shit quality and no i don't mean your craftsmanship, looks good in that regard. Get yourself the better HG Strike, much better detail and part separation, the grey frame parts on the body arms and legs are their own parts that don't require stickers, the shield has proper yellow bits as well and the overall quality and joint strength is better too. The Perfect Strike pack is 100% compatible with it, i'm using it with mine.
Edit: I was wrong about the model i linked being a Revive kit, it is still a much better kit than the original strike that comes with the Perfect Strike though.
The essentials kit comes with 1 brush, clippers, glue, and 13 three ml pots of paint. That's a good variety of colors and some useful tools, but the pots are very small and may not last very long. A standard Citadel Colour paint pots are 12ml each. If you're just dipping your toe in, and you're not 100% sure that you want to paint as a hobby, it's a good way to get the materials necessary to try painting out. On the other hand, if you are sure that you want to paint, you'll end up replacing the paint very quickly and the Citadel Base Paint Set may be a better choice. Or a set from another manufacturer.
It's not the size of the 1/144 scale, its the size of the pieces - once again, its not inherently hard, it just can be tricky.
Since you're thinking of ordering RG Freedom and Strike Freedom, might I suggest HGCE Aile Strike or any of the variations.
All of these kits are based on a new mold created in 2014 (as opposed to the original HG SEED Aile Strike made 2002). They're all definitely great for beginners and are at a good price point.
I could also suggest the Build Burning, as /u/Mirarii already has, though you'd be trading play options for 2 sets of effect parts (blue and orange) - Build Burning Gundam has zero weapons (which may not be a problem for you).
***
I noticed your updated list has an Action Base 1. Those are typically for 1/100 scale.
You had the Action Base 2 before which is for 1/144 scale: you should switch it back.
In our Wiki we have a list of retailers listed under "Shopping". As a general suggestion from me, Amazon (with Prime shipping, otherwise it might come from Japan, taking a few weeks to a month to arrive) is usually the easiest way to get your first kit. Figure out international shipping once you get into the hobby.
As a beginner, it would be a good idea to check out the rest of the wiki for some useful info before you start.
Also, the PG is considered pretty bad. The MG and RG kits are fairly well regarded. The old HG is outdated but not too bad, might be your best bet for a first kit.
Another option is the SDEX if you like chibi proportions.
Total noob here about to dive in scared on my first-ever build with a Master Grade kit. Just had to have this love at first sight.
Is a tool set like this a smart buy over getting the main essential ones separately?
If not, could you guys kindly recommend a list of half-decent quality tools that would fit a budget of $20-30 (or possibly for a bit more if absolutely necessary for a quality build)?
Thanks guys.
Here is the MG Freedom 2.0- Bandai Hobby MG Freedom Gundam Version 2.0 "Gundam Seed" Building Kit (1/100 Scale) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BD3NJ8C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_E9lAzbHWFDMMV
Here is the MG Strike Freedom kit in the photo- Bandai Hobby Strike Freedom Gundam Seed Destiny Mobile Suit Model Kit (1/100 Scale) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JCES5W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_.-lAzb6Q0GKQJ
[I'd throw in the HG Titus as well] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005JABVFO/ref=s9_simh_gw_p21_d0_i5?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=desktop-1&pf_rd_r=0W7K6S9HK2VJ6V1XGHBH&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=1970559082&pf_rd_i=desktop)
[Also, if you want a bit of a challenge and want to spend about $5 more I'd suggest buying the MG Ball. The kit is wonderful, has great part separation, is straight forward, and looks great when fully built.] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B0006TNAIO/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new)
I just don't know what to make of Gundams on Amazon. On the one hand, I could get the RG Mk II Titan for $30 with longer (but free) shipping, but on the other hand, the seller name is 'canada post office is delayed extra 15-30days'. But on the other, other hand, it's got 826 ratings over the last 12 months, most of them very positive.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Version-Counterattack/dp/B0091O17LM I'm planning on putting the LED in this guy once I get him (He's on his way) because the lit up eyes would just look great on him. I love gunpla just because the designs are cool and it's a step closer to the reality (Besides the 1:1 scale) To where I can believe that it's possible for gundam to exist in the near future. Also it gives a personal touch to you figures instead of saying "I bought it and now it's posed here" I can say "I built this and look how great it looks and how much time and effort I put into this."
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Freedom-Gundam-Real-Grade/dp/B005JABU82/ref=sr_1_1?m=A2L77EE7U53NWQ&ie=UTF8&qid=1421787866&sr=8-1&keywords=gundam&pebp=1421787872393&peasin=B005JABU82
Dunno if this helps you, but <24 for an RG Freedom. Can add $11 worth of stuff on Amazon to get free shipping too.
That is a good recommendation above, but the best bang for your buck would be this tool set.
http://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-74016-Basic-Tool-Set/dp/B000BMYWXI/
It's got cutters, a knife and a file, along with some screwdrivers if you ever build Action Bases.
As for starter MG's, I'd suggest the MG Aile Strike Ver RM.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Strike-Gundam-Action/dp/B00C0NRVKW/
It comes with its own stand and usually sells for around 40-50$.
If you're not a seed fan then you can't go wrong with the RX-78-2 version 3.0.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-RX-78-2-Action/dp/B00CRSXK4Q/
It doesn't come with an action base but its still one of the best MG's out there.
If you're not into painting - the first bundle is fine if you're willing to put the money into it, the other bundles are too much for a beginner IMO
Something like:
https://www.amazon.com/Miniatures-Highlighting-Miniature-Army-Painter/dp/B01MTXRU2L/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1518146756&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=army+painter+kit
Is a cheaper entry point - look for something in the same category as this, the primary colours + a few extras, a shade and a standard sized paint brush
This way you can try out painting and if you enjoy it, you can add to it from there, while not investing as heavily as the suggested bundles in the link are asking
Another option ~
https://www.amazon.com/Games-Workshop-60-22-Base-Paint/dp/B00KOCXDT4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1518147023&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=citadel+paint+kit
Any paints from Army painter/Citadel/Vallejo are great places to start, just get whatever's got the best deal on at the time.
Only other suggestion would be to get a spray undercoat such as
https://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-CP3001-Base-Primer/dp/B005WH3LVG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1518147186&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=miniature+undercoat+spray
Undercoat sprays make painting a mini MUCH easier and MUCH quicker, however, if you are only painting the bases and not any detail on the mini, you can get away with no undercoat spray
(You can get cheaper sprays but I find when you're new, picking one model paint brand and sticking to it to start with makes things easier to manage)
I've just grabbed links from Amazon, but you can find these products all over the place
Without knowing your boyfriend's taste in gunpla, this newly released MG 1/100 Freedom Gundam 2.0 kit is pretty popular. It has also been praised by gunpla reviewers for its quality and poseability.
The best quality brand that I've ever used is called Citadel. But they're a bit more on the expensive side. Which means that if you don't have the exact right shade, you might have wasted some cash. The other thing is that they're only sold in gaming shops in the Warhammer/D&D section. If you don't have one of those nearby, it's hard to bring your piece to a store and correctly match the colors.
So instead I've been going with much cheaper brands that you can find at Hobby Lobby, Michael's, or even Walmart. DecoArt is a fine brand and costs about $2 a bottle. Another brand that I use is called Folk Art. It's also very cheap - looks like Michael's is selling them for 57 cents!
You definitely want to use acrylic paint, not enamel. Other than that it's up to you if you prefer a glossy, satin, or matte finish. Every color usually comes in each of those options.
When it comes to actual painting, the great thing about acrylics is that you can mix water with them to get just the right thickness (which avoids globbing). I've never actually measured the amount of paint that I squirt out of the bottle. But I always add a couple droplets of water to it to slightly thin it out.
I use paper plates for a palette (the wax coated kind) and just chuck out when I'm done. You'll also need a bright desk lamp right over what you're painting so you can see into every nook and cranny of the piece. Nothing worse than thinking you've completely painted something, only to see a spot you missed show up on camera later.
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Wing-Gundam-Version/dp/B0004EAFWK/ref=pd_lpo_21_tr_t_3?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=Z7C2JSX8Y465QD7G8Q0X
Your love of wing is as great as mine this is a solid and beautiful rendition of the Wing Zero so I would recommend this or this
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-GUNDAM-VER-Ka-Master-Action/dp/B00030EUTY
I'm gonna assume that you ONLY have that $28 and can't purchase the $35 needed for free shipping, so I'll go with a HG kit.
Fenice Rinascita most of the sellers are in Japan and might take forever to get here, but there's one I see from Canada that JUST fits your budget.
Build Burning Gundam Just makes your budget buying from Amazon with Standard Shipping.
Age-FX For this one You'd have to buy from Japan, but I think it's a good kit and an underrated suit because it's from AGE.
Star Build Strike Plavsky Wing Not technically a SEED kit. lol
Age-1 Normal I've heard nothing but good things about this kit, and it's REALLY cheap.
And Lastly I'll suggest the 0 Gundam. This version isn't very colorful, but it comes with some cool wing effect parts. But there's a colored version that's cheaper that doesn't come with the wings here.
i geussed it was probably on the box but i was hoping there was a way to check before hand so i dont need to wait for the kit and check then buy it and have to wait for days for the paint but im getting this https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tamiya-35-PzKfw-Ausf-35096/dp/B000WN5AF0?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1#customerReviews also note the product detail "contains 3 boy faces" lol
MG Jesta. Amazing articulation, can use an LED, Just an all around amazing grunt suit kit. Also Amazon has it on sale with Prime for only $47. This really is a no brainier :D
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Jesta-Model-Kit/dp/B00B596V6W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1405955484&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=mg+jesta
Or if you want a great upgrade to an old school kit, get RX-78-2 MG 3.0, $45 with prime.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-RX-78-2-Action/dp/B00CRSXK4Q/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1405955604&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=mg+jesta
This kit looks great, and it IS great! I have it on my shelf, and it's really solid, although it doesn't stand out much.
I think Jobby's torso issue is only his kit, or at least I haven't heard about it until now- That part is incredibly solid on my kit.
You can get this kit on Amazon!
Chill, anti-social, likes moderate mind-fucking (but not deep into mind-fucking), and is loving, especially whenever they make a bond with someone.
MG Freedom 2.0 or the MG Wing Fenice Rinascita
This is a second to the first post I made. Here's some examples of the specials I was talking about that pop up.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Gundam-Unicorn-Banshee-Master/dp/B0071QGXHU/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1380737796&amp;sr=8-5&amp;keywords=wing+gundam+ver+ka
http://www.amazon.com/XXXG-01W-Gundam-scale-Model-JAPAN/dp/B004KJ41F2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1380737796&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=wing+gundam+ver+ka
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Gundam-Sandrock-Master-Grade/dp/B005ED3PAU/ref=pd_bxgy_t_img_y
The shipping times are AWESOME, and FREE with prime!
Hi there! Great gift idea. My gf actually picked out my first kit for me recently and chose a HG Barbatos model for my studio. Definitely would recommend that. http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Orphans-Barbatos-Iron-Blooded/dp/B0129DW0WG
From a pure aesthetic perspective, the MG Shin Musha Gundam is fucking DOPE! Nothin screams wifey material more than buying yo man a robot samurai lol... Def next on my buy list. http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-BAN153804-Shin-Musha-Gundam/dp/B0018P09QQ
collecting robot action figures. Cheapest way to get into it is buying kits you put together yourself, most of which are models from the Gundam sci-fi universe. There are a lot of factors that go into collecting including articulation, color accuracy, stability, materials, and price point, but that's not terribly relevant in the beginning!
if you want to try it out, all you need is a pair of wire cutters or an xacto knife! I'd recommend the high grade Gundam Barbatos or the high grade Burning Gundam. High grade means smallish and easy to put together in an afternoon, so for less than the cost of snacks and a movie you can put together your own little shelf buddy.
I can relate to that. I've never really had a SAL package go missing or get damaged, but its worth the peace of mind to go for the more expensive options on more valuable purchases.
I actually purchased my Sazabi Ver Ka locally (even though it was 60$ more expensive) because I was mortified that the box would get dinged up due to its sheer size, so I wanted it to travel as small a distance as possible.
I don't know anything about these models- can they be played with at all, or are they only for display? Thinking as a gift for my 9 year old, who will want to play with it.
Referring to models like: https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Freedom-Version-Building/dp/B01BD3NJ8C/ref=sr_1_23?keywords=gunpla+kit&amp;link_code=qs&amp;qid=1570492231&amp;sourceid=Mozilla-search&amp;sr=8-23
Not gonna lie I don't know the model number. I am not the biggest Gundam guy, I just like the way this one looked and it was fun to build. I will link the amazon page for it though :)
https://www.amazon.ca/Bandai-Gundam-Astray-Customize-MBF-PO2KAI/dp/B0042VJ018/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1487129988&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=gundam+red
It's not necessarily beefy, but what about the Gran-Daddy gundam himself? RX-78-2 http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-RX-78-2-Action/dp/B00CRSXK4Q/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417067802&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=Gundam+MG
Or try the Sandrock http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Gundam-Sandrock-Master-Grade/dp/B005ED3PAU/ref=sr_1_24?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417067871&amp;sr=8-24&amp;keywords=Gundam+MG
Good luck in choosing your kit!
Looks good, man! If you're looking to get an HG, most of the HGBF (the kits from the Build Figther series) are really fun to build. I would highly recommend the Wing Gundam Fenice. I had a blast building that kit.
Thanks for the contest
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-RX-78-2-Action/dp/B00CRSXK4Q
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Master-Action/dp/B002BRUGI6/ref=sr_1_5?s=toys-and-games&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1485290673&amp;sr=1-5&amp;keywords=master+grade+gundams
these are just my personals as they are fairly light weight in terms of armor and weapons but they do great. i especially recommend the 3.0 but its abit fragile but it poses, articulates and has alot of movies pieces.
I'd recommend the Sinanju OVA Ver. or the Nu Gundam Ver. KA because I've heard they both look really good and are fun to put together.
Well, good news, you can get them in HG! :)
&#x200B;
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Orphans-Barbatos-Iron-Blooded/dp/B0129DW0WG/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=hg+barbatos&qid=1555211105&s=gateway&sr=8-1
&#x200B;
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Barbatos-Blooded-Orphans/dp/B018TGV2TE/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=hg+barbatos&qid=1555211105&s=gateway&sr=8-9
If you are looking at kits, here are two versions of the original Gundam:
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-RX-78-2-Action/dp/B00CRSXK4Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?keywords=rx-78-2+gundam&amp;qid=1575079694&amp;sprefix=rx-78-2&amp;sr=8-6
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-RX-78-2-Gundam-Real-Grade/dp/B003KX5OXW/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=rx-78-2+gundam&amp;qid=1575079764&amp;sprefix=rx-78-2&amp;sr=8-2
The MG is larger and more complex, the HG is smaller. Both are good, detailed kits! And those are just the Gundam itself - there are lots of other kits from the original series, too! For instance, the Zaku I And Zaku II, Gouf, Gelgoog, GM, and more. If you want some more suggestions, you might try the r/gunpla subreddit, too.
Edit: You could also just look for kits labeled HGUC - that means High Grade Universal Century. High Grade is a type of model, Universal Century is sort of the “main” Gundam series - so, the original series and its sequels.
Wow. Actually I'm building a similar one, the 05 Freedom
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005JABU82/ref=oh_o00_s00_i00_details
The 1/60 looks so much more ornate - I'd be all over that if I knew what I was doing.
Usualy Toy Shop Japan Hobbyone are great to order from if you don't mind ordering straight from Japan. They usually have the cheapest prices on Amazon, have a lot of things stocked regularly, and they ship registered SAL (has tracking info) which most others who sell from Japan don't. I have been using them for awhile now, and they ship fairly fast too considering it's from Japan. I usually get things at the two week mark here in California.
If you're looking to order straight from the states then you're going to have to pay a bit more than you would from Japan.
Hope this helped =)
Hey folks, I just recently found out about these amazing looking mecha's.
I've never built anything like this before, but I'd really like to get into it.
Also would prefer to paint my own,
been looking at this
http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10319728
or this
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Model-Astray/dp/B0042VJ018/ref=pd_sim_21_3?ie=UTF8&amp;dpID=51BH3GVlTfL&amp;dpSrc=sims&amp;preST=_AC_UL160_SR108%2C160_&amp;refRID=0YS2GXRZNKXKJW85BV0Q
What would I have to do to paint on top of the factory paint?
The unboxing videoes I've seen online make it look really complicated, tons of small parts etc. Is this just something I need to learn through trial and error or?
Tools ?
Sorry about all the questions lol
There have been some great DVD / Blu-Ray releases by RightStuf in NA. I might recommend those because once they are out of print, it may be a long time before someone releases them again. There is also the absolutely superb "Mobile Suit Gundam: Origin" graphic novels on amazon for very reasonable prices.
If you are dead set on a model, I would recommend getting either a Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin HG Model or an RG model. But it's difficult to say which one to get, because which suit to get varies a lot from person to person.
However, one alternative option would be: https://www.amazon.com/Gundam-RB-79-Ball-Ver-Scale/dp/B0006TNAIO
If you reply to this comment I can give you more suggestions.
The HG Age 1 Normal is just in your budget and is considered to have one of the best articulation. It's a good kit for beginners.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-AGE-1-Normal/dp/B0058KSCU2
That's an amazing kit to get for a first one. Elegant build and tons of articulation
Some are typical sales, others are actually pretty good. All have available free shipping. There's still more too.
HG Gafran
HG V2
HG Strike Full package
HG Aile Strike
HG Genoace II
HG Gundam AGE 1
HG Star Build Strike
HG Ez8
HG Zedas
HG Build mkII
HG GM Custom
HG Baqto
HG Shaldoll
HG Gundam Kryios Trans-Am Mode
HG Sengoku Astray
HG Banshee
HG Gold Frame Astray
HG Gundam Airmaster
HG Zaku II
HG Red Frame Astray
HG GM III
HG GM Sniper II
HG Gundam Age 3 Orbital
HG Banshee
HG Jegan
HG Strike Freedom
HG Doven Wolf
HG Banshee Destroy mode
HG Delta Plus
RG Justice
RG Freedom
HG Miss Sazabi
RG Aile Strike
HG Burning Gundam
HG Rozen Zulu
Basically, things sold by Toy shop japan hobbyone tend to be a little cheaper with good shipping. They do have an issue with a few things that appear to not be HGs listed as HGs though.
I think getting a couple master grades would be better than a single perfect grade.
The "HG Sengoku Astray" is based on the Astray Red Frame, which you can get in MG here: http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Model-Astray/dp/B0042VJ018/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1411528820&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=mg+red+frame
the BF hasn't posted here in a while so maybe you can get him non-gundam related items with the leftover money, unless you know he wants to really get into the hobby
http://www.amazon.co.uk/German-20mm-Flakvierling-38-MITSd-Ah52/dp/B00061HJ9S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1426191226&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=tamiya+flak+38
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Military-Minatures-German-Hanomag-Sd-kfz/dp/B000WN8AHA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1426191248&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=tamiya+hanomag
http://www.amazon.co.uk/TAMIYA-Military-Kit-Panzer-Campaign/dp/B004LVOUZU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1426191263&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=tamiya+panzer+III
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Panzer-Kampfwagen-IV-Ausf-D-Military/dp/B000WN5AF0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1426191287&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=tamiya+panzer+IV
http://www.amazon.co.uk/German-75mm-Anti-tank-Gun-Military/dp/B000WN8AQG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1426191306&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=tamiya+PAK+40
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tamiya-3-7cm-Anti-Tank-Gun/dp/B000WN5A0K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1426191322&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=tamiya+PAK+36
http://www.amazon.co.uk/ITALERI-Military-Vehicle-320-Commando/dp/B00061HLHI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1426191346&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=italeri+commando+car
Beware. Many of the retailers I see on here ship out of East Asia. That means it will take a long time to get the product. Search for the SKUs or model numbers among local shops and you'll probably pay a bit more, but save yourself some aggravation.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Jeep-Willys-MB-Military-Tamiya/dp/B000WN6QAI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1426191424&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=tamiya+jeep
Honestly if you have model building experience I don't think you'll have much of an issue with RG kits. The only really fiddly part of most of them is the decals, so if you have any experience in that area you'll probably be okay. Personally I'm a big fan of the RG Strike Freedom, which has a really awesome set of wings and a lot of nice shiny gold parts. I also quite like the gold frame RG Amatsu Mina. It's got a very unique look, and I'm kind of a sucker for asymmetrical kits. Its decals aren't the best, as a lot of the bigger ones are really thick and chunky, but that's pretty much my only complaint with the kit.
http://camelcamelcamel.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Model-Astray/product/B0042VJ018
I bought the used one on Amazon warehouse for $41, but I figured I'd share the rest with anyone else looking to pick up a Gundam with a greatsword / bow (anyone else play Monster Hunter? :p)
Thanks just ordered it and it will be my first ver ka. It’s like $40 off on amazon
Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka "Char's Counterattack" 1/100 - Master Grade https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0091O17LM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4i1ACbD041P6Y
Just ordered this too
Bandai Hobby MG 1/100 Sinanju Stein Ver. Ka Model Kit Action Figure https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00APB7930/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ln1ACbZY5DJ48
OP what have you done to me
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Sazabi-Version-Model/dp/B00EOEBG2Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417304074&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=sazabi+ver+ka
Here you go :D well it's not really a store but better than nothin :D
The HG Perfect Strike might take a little longer because of the extra backpack and shoulder equipment but a standard HG usually takes me one day and by that i mean about 10 hours. Also the Strike that comes with the HG Perfect Strike kit is shit, get yourself the Newer HG Strike and attach the Perfect Striker gear to that.
Barbatos (HG 1/144)
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Orphans-Barbatos-Iron-Blooded/dp/B0129DW0WG
I did paint the sword and the red marks rather than use stickers as well as the gold accents and panel lines and did the usual matte top coat.
Almost finished with my G Self as well just need the top coat.
I think these might be more of a challenge. Hope the links work. http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Sazabi-Version-Model/dp/B00EOEBG2Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1449005374&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=sazabi+ver+ka http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Unicorn-Gundam-Ver-Ka-Master/dp/B005QKF860/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1449005374&amp;sr=8-9&amp;keywords=sazabi+ver+ka http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Sengoku-Astray-Gundam/dp/B00HD4ILWK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1449005701&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=Sengoku+Astray+Gundamhttp://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Model-Astray/dp/B0042VJ018/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1449005374&amp;sr=8-12&amp;keywords=sazabi+ver+ka
YOU SAID LOCALLY SO I CAN'T HELP WITH THAT, BUT MIGHT I SUGGEST THE RG STRIKE FREEDOM?
IT'S BASICALLY MG LEVEL DETAILS AT THE SAME SIZE AND PRICE AS THE SMALLER HG'S
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Strike-Freedom-Model/dp/B00EOEB95S
Sure, maybe check out this one: Bandai Hobby Wing Gundam Zero Version EW 1/100 - Master Grade https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0004EAFWK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6KmCCb1YYNJAD
I think it would look really nice with a glossy look.
Researching the best possible colors of paint for my Nu Gundam Ver. Ka..
Bandai Hobby MG Freedom Gundam (Ver. 2.0) "Gundam Seed 1/100 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BD3NJ8C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_BhIQCbZ8XC978
This one?
The Astray is $51.49 right now if you have prime- ordinarily it's $65. I haven't built one myself, but I've never heard anything bad about it. People generally rave about its flexibility, if anything.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Model-Astray/dp/B0042VJ018/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1397012446&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=mg+astray
MG Sazabi is a beast of a kit, and it's just barely under $100 on Amazon at the moment.
Any version of the Unicorn Gundam is a good pick, though I'm not sure on Prime availability.
HG Kshatriya with Prime is ~$60.
Maybe a variation on the Sinanju? Stein, Ver. Ka, or Animation Color
Don't be sorry man. I'm feeling just like you. It had been years since I had build the 1/144 models I got from toys r us as a kid.
it's the master grade wing zero kit. I got it from a local store but I've seen it on Amazon and Gundam USA store.
Usa Gundam store :
https://www.usagundamstore.com/products/bandai-hobby-wing-gundam-zero-version-ew-1-100-master-grade
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Wing-Gundam-Version/dp/B0004EAFWK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=master+grade+wing+zero&amp;qid=1575140321&amp;sr=8-1
Not to my knowledge but they do make plastic model kits. At the end of the day it's all the same thing. They use similar materials and similar processes to make a similar product. Banpresto, Tamiya, Testors, GW all make plastic model kits. Sure, in GW's case the models are used differently but that doesn't matter from a manufacturing standpoint. Their shit is over priced. When Banpresto can sell me a model that has far more parts and is far larger for less money, you know GW is fucking you.
If they still made their figures out of pewter that would be different but it's the same shit as anyone else and Banpresto has colored parts that are more accurate with detail and require less cleanup before assembly. Like I said, they have likely the most advanced model kits on the market.
Take their real grade gunpla kits for example. They have an extreme parts count, a great deal of poseability and detail and you can buy them for $20 online. Physically they are around the size of the vehicle kits GW puts out but a fraction of the cost.
Here's the Amazon price tracker page for proof. I can't get this myself due to no money syndrome, but I hope you guys get this if you haven't already!
I reccomended cool gunplas that familiar like this
Finally got a useful "spam" email from Amazon, here are some of the kits that appear to be on sale.
MG Sandrock - $42.64
MG Heavyarms - $42.40
MG Deathscythe Hell - $48.90
MG Wing Zero Custom - $43.66
MG Shenlong - $41.49
MG Deathscythe - $41.79
MG Wing Ver.Ka - $47.95
MG Wing - $44.29
MG Buster - $47.50
MG Nu Ver.Ka - $72.07
Those are some good ones. When you step up to RG kits, a couple of my favorites are the RX-178 Mk II Titans Ver and the Astray Red Frame. I've pretty much gone 1/100 scale and up for Gunpla because the parts for HG and RG kits kill my fingers with how tiny they are.
Bandai's non-Gundam kits are great too, especially their Star Wars ones.
Which models? I own this gunpla, though I don't have it with me at the moment. Gunpla are fun.
I got this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0004EAFWK/ref=nav_timeline_asin?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1
and this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006N149M/ref=nav_timeline_asin?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1
my two favorites 15 years ago
Hey everyone!
I'm as new as it gets. So, I made a shopping list after doing some research on everything that I think I need to start. I'll place the links to all the items in the lines below. Everything is on Amazon because... well why not?
Gundam
Glue
Marker
Tweezers
Knife
Cutters
Mat
More Markers!
*Krylon Matte Finish
Am I missing anything?
If I remember it right, ver. EW kits are Katoki's redesigns based on Endless Waltz manga, not the OVA/movie. I guess they're very close to original anime designs there.
EW movie versions usually have 'Custom' or 'Kai' suffix.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-AGE-1-Normal/dp/B0058KSCU2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1381629672&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=gundam+age
Its at 15 right now, and one of the better HG kits in terms of engineering and complexity.
lol my bad.yeah i mixed up the wing zero with the wing.i meant the mg wing gundam.
this kit:
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Action-Figure/dp/B004KJ41F2/ref=pd_sim_21_12?ie=UTF8&amp;dpID=41Bxuo7BQBL&amp;dpSrc=sims&amp;preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&amp;refRID=1NSFW98PCKPTNXK80Y4C
It's currently at $90 on Amazon.
As for the Gatling Guns, those are a third party add on. Made by Playwright
It's even cheaper from a different seller for $23.
Link
You could try cancelling your order if it's not too late and if you care for the $3.
EDIT: The seller I linked changed his price to $28. Apologies.
ohh ok that makes more sense and is much more reasonable. I was thinking something more along the lines of this
Just grab a Barbatos and a Graze. I think I'm going to start another graze now myself =P
Or if you want to apreciate how far bandai has come with the kits, grab a Barbatos and The old HGUC Gun Cannon or RGM-79 kit
You're right! Thanks for the warning I found it from another source for about $13 CDN
Here
Has a 93% positive rating as a source
EDIT: Rip I forgot about shipping, since it's less then 20 I have to pay for shipping :(
It's on Amazon for around $20. Here's the link
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GT6XLYQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The biggest part of japanese culture for me growing up (Other than cars) has been Gundams! So I submit one of my favourites: The Freedom
He is only like $35 on Amazon and is Prime also, not bad at all right now. It wasn't that fun of a kit, the shield and shoulder pieces were the only thing that was "unique." Although you have to put on mega decals lol (the shoulders in particular have a stupid amount of decal on them as you can see in my pictures lol).
both of them are RG, and I picked them up on Amazon, as there aren't any local dealers near me Freedom here, and
Exia here
It would be this one if you buy from Amazon.
Personally I think the MG Nu ver Ka is an excellent kit that anyone would be excited as hell to get.
I've got this guy waiting on me for when I get home! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0129DW0WG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_JICfAb21FM6G1
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-RX-78-2-Action/dp/B00CRSXK4Q
Is this the new Nu in question?
Is there a difference in quaility?
I was thinking of getting one of these
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Astray-Action/dp/B00YGEKDLW/ref=pd_sim_21_82?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B00YGEKDLW&amp;pd_rd_r=WPRNSE268G5FJB4SEV0W&amp;pd_rd_w=aGLQu&amp;pd_rd_wg=eSvL4&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=WPRNSE268G5FJB4SEV0W
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Freedom-Gundam-Real-Grade/dp/B005JABU82/ref=pd_sim_21_62?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B005JABU82&amp;pd_rd_r=WPRNSE268G5FJB4SEV0W&amp;pd_rd_w=aGLQu&amp;pd_rd_wg=eSvL4&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=WPRNSE268G5FJB4SEV0W
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Destiny-Gundam-Model/dp/B00B596VB2/ref=pd_sim_21_36?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B00B596VB2&amp;pd_rd_r=WPRNSE268G5FJB4SEV0W&amp;pd_rd_w=aGLQu&amp;pd_rd_wg=eSvL4&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=WPRNSE268G5FJB4SEV0W
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-UNICORN-GUNDAM-Destroy/dp/B002NE795A/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1493257506&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=gundam+unicorn
mg ball ver ka is a 20-25$ kit + shipping.....depending on where you go
GP for 23$
USAgundam 20$
Ebay 23$
Amazon 25$
I think this matches better
The Sazabi on my shelf is the MG Sazabi Ver. Ka
Is it this one? https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Version-Counterattack/dp/B0091O17LM
Should be this one!
https://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Gundam-Model-Astray/dp/B0042VJ018
Besides the price is there any difference between this and this? One of them says Kai and the other one says Revise.
Bandai Hobby MG Gundam Kai Model Kit (1/100 Scale), Astray Red Frame https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0042VJ018
I don't. If it's any consolation, Amazon has them listed for even less than what I parted with mine for:
Bandai Hobby MG Sazabi Version Ka Model Kit (1/100 Scale) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EOEBG2Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_AM1NAb889NPRG
Update: its now almost $90
So could you explain the difference between these two versions?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004KJ41F2/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_dUbHwbVC5A09C
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00030EUTY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_wXbHwbGT0ES4S
It was purchased as New http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FKL6E4K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
That was easy.
I ended up going with this guy! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EOEBG2Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Sorry, I meant to say MG (Master Grade):
Bandai Hobby MG Sazabi Version Ka Model Kit (1/100 Scale) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EOEBG2Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-GOPDbSXK9MWN
The PG looks to be the Strike Freedom
Second from left is the Sazabi Ver. Ka
Far right is one of the Unicorns, maybe Full Armor? Not sure about far left or second from right.
I'm also planning on buying one and from what I looked into, first image is an earlier version, around 2004.
bigger image You can see the year if you zoom in.
and the 2nd image is a newer version, maybe 2010+ since the other ew are at around 2012.
There's a review in amazon about it that lists the difference, not sure if this is true or accurate though.
I'll see if anyone else says anything about this as I want to know too if there are any major differences in each but that's what I know about these 2 for now.
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Version-Sinanju-Animation/dp/B00B596V26?ie=UTF8&amp;keywords=sinanju&amp;qid=1465330289&amp;ref_=sr_1_1&amp;sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-Freedom-Version-Building/dp/B01BD3NJ8C?ie=UTF8&amp;fpl=fresh&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=s9_simh_gw_g21_i1_r
http://www.amazon.com/Bandai-Hobby-RX-93-2-Gundam-Counterattack/dp/B00KRVJBFW?ie=UTF8&amp;keywords=hi%20nu%20ver%20ka&amp;qid=1465330281&amp;ref_=sr_1_1&amp;sr=8-1
there is 3 suggestions. 2nd comes out Friday. Price range is about 50 - 75 dollars.
or hell, if you can sneak a few pictures of kits he already has (to give us an idea on what type of kits he might like). if that is above your desired price range lemme know, I can go into the lower price tier of model kit.
I think I'm somewhere between your taste and mechanized flaming eagle wings. This first one is especially a blend between spacecraft aesthetic and medieval armor, but it doesn't exactly fit the bill as being a realistic war machine.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00APB7930?colid=3RMXBH3PKYJGI&amp;coliid=I1O66RJ8F39X9C&amp;ref_=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008KZ5B2E?colid=3RMXBH3PKYJGI&amp;coliid=ISV2S0P4G7A8P&amp;ref_=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_ttl
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0091O17LM?colid=3RMXBH3PKYJGI&amp;coliid=I34HD7IS9IX5AA&amp;ref_=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl
First kit I ever did was a HG Epyon. Being the dumb kid I was, I just broke the pieces off the runner and then chewed the nubs off. ....I know.
I ordered this guy as well as this little dude.
MG Epyon is next, followed by Deathscythe Hell then Tallgeese III, and of course SD versions of all.