An Expert's Guide to the Best Model Kits For Adults in 2025

Model building: A beginner's guide to this rewarding hobby. Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of model kits available? This guide simplifies the process, offering recommendations for various skill levels and interests. From no-glue, no-paint options to more advanced kits, we've got you covered.

No-Glue, No-Paint Kits: A Perfect Starting Point

Traditional model kits often require glue and paint, but many beginner-friendly options are pre-colored and snap together easily. While some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, many offer a satisfying challenge without the mess.

Gundam Kits: A popular choice for beginners, Gundam kits are categorized by grade:

• Entry Grade: For absolute beginners.
• High Grade (HG): Generally $15-30, around 6 inches tall when completed.
• Real Grade: Between HG and MG in complexity.
• Master Grade (MG): Around $30-50, taller and more detailed than HG.
• Perfect Grade: For advanced builders.

Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit (Under $25)

Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit (Under $100)

Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero (High Grade)

Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos (Master Grade)

Beyond Gundam: Bandai offers snap-together kits for other franchises, including:

Star Wars:

Bandai Hobby Bandai AT-ST (1:48 Scale)

Bandai Hobby Star Wars Y-Wing Starfighter (1:72 Scale)

Bandai Hobby Boba Fett (1/12 Scale)

Bandai Stormtrooper Model Kits (Multiple Images)

Anime:

Bandai Hobby Son Goku Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit

Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit

Giant Robot Kits (Beyond Gundam):

Kotobukiya Metal Gear Rex (1:100 Scale)

Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw

Good Smile Company Aliens: Power Loader

Other Unique Kits:

Bandai Imaginary Skeleton Tyrannosaurus (1:32 Scale)

Bandai Triceratops (1:32 Scale)

Bandai 1:1 Cup Noodle

Car Model Kits:

Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R (1:32 Scale)

Revell of Germany McLaren 570S

Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 (1:24 Scale)

Aoshima Volkswagen Beetle 1303S (1:24 Scale)

Aoshima Yakitori Ryuho Food Truck (1:24 Scale)

Military Model Kits:

Tamiya US Medium Tank M4A3E8 Sherman (1:35 Scale)

Tamiya M1A2 Abrams Tank (1:35 Scale)

Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II Plus (1:72 Scale)

Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II (1:48 Scale)

Essential Tools and Supplies:

• Model Tool Set: A basic set with pliers, a carving knife, blades, sanding tools, and tweezers.
• Cutting Mat: Protects your work surface.
• Model Cement: A solvent that melts plastic for fusing parts.
• Primer: Prepares the surface for painting (Mr. Hobby Surfacer recommended).
• Acrylic Paints: Water-based, easy cleanup (Vallejo recommended).
• Spray Paint: For larger areas (Tamiya recommended).

BXQINLEN 8-Piece Model Tools Set

anezus Cutting Mat

Tamiya Extra Thin Cement

GSI Creos Mr. Hobby Surfacer 1000

Vallejo Basic USA Acrylic Colors Paint Set

Tamiya PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint

Where to Buy:

• Amazon
• HobbyLink Japan
• MegaHobby
• Local hobby shops

Remember, model building is a journey. Start with a kit that interests you, and don't be afraid to experiment! Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands.