Ordering online may be a good option; however, it can be pricier due to online shipping costs. General retailers such as Barnes & Nobles, Target, and Hobby Lobby have begun selling these kits. Local hobby shops may not have these kits since they are a niche.
High Grade (1/144) are more available to purchase as they’re more plentiful. Recommended for beginners due to their simplicity Real Grade (1/144) are designed around an inner frame and to look more realistic and functional compared to their high grade counterpart. Master Grade (1/100) are larger than their high grade counterparts. They have more detail as well as an inner-frame that’s designed for it. Perfect Grade (1/60) are considerably larger and more time-consuming, so therefore more to assemble due to a higher part count. Mega Size (1/48) are the largest models offered; yet, they are cheaper compared to Perfect Grades. You should choose what looks the best to you as well as what gimmicks that specific model offers. It’s ultimately your choice in what you want to build and what you like the most.
Most tools can be obtained through a local hobby store around you A cutting mat isn’t necessarily an essential item to have, but if you are thinking about doing this hobby in the long-run, it is becomes essential.
A light source, such as a lamp, will help a lot for getting some focus on a specific part. Gunpla assembly is very messy with excess plastic. It’s best to have a plastic bag for the leftover plastic. A comfortable environment is important! Make sure you have everything necessary. Music or a show to listen/watch in the background enhances the overall experience.
The box is also something you should not cut as it’s designed for the bottom to slide out when shaken. The box is also a great place to store your frames and Gunpla, so don’t throw it away! The sprues (or plastic frames) & decal sheets when unwrapped should be placed in the box so they’re not easily lost & forgotten.
The instruction manual holds key information for the decals, or stickers, to place on key parts of the figure. Each part of the Gunpla is numbered and labeled. With some kits, they even label what sprue (or plastic frame) is necessary for building that part or what decal must be placed. (e. g. head, arms, torso, legs, accessories) Be extremely careful, and make sure to re-read the instruction manual throughout assembly! There are small indicators throughout the manual on what to cut and what not to cut! Making a big mistake could potentially turn things upside down.
For certain builds, having damaged plastic can enhance a model. These models are known as “battle-damaged Gunpla” and are great for dioramas or for a more gritty and realistic look to it. Some plastic connectors are incredibly important to the build itself, and you can find out on the instruction manual since it’s always labeled.
Panel lining your model isn’t necessary, but it overall adds a “Wow!” factor into the finished build. It’s recommended to panel line when all the Be careful in filing your model kit because it can ruin the opportunity for panel lining in general. Nubs should always be filed down, but anything can go as Gunpla is freedom. Decaling is always optional and doesn’t need to be applied. It is, however, recommended as it adds a whole level to your model.
Make sure not to apply too much pressure; otherwise, the plastic will break! The plastic that’s used to manufacture these models are strong, but they are not strong enough to withstand a the pressure of a human-being. If a part is loose, there are various methods on how to tighten a part, but it usually depends on the severity of the looseness. Superglue and Tamiya Cement are the most used products and preferred methods of re-tightening a part.
For more dynamic poses, it’s best to purchase a Hobby Action Kit which allows your model kit to stay airborne! Make sure the Hobby Action Kit is the correct size as well as if the adapter will connect with your model kit Don’t try to make your Gunpla do anything crazy with the poses otherwise it can fall. Depending on what model kit you have purchased, that model may be fragile and can fall apart.
