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

Model building: A beginner's guide to assembling plastic kits

Model making is a fantastic hobby, but knowing where to begin can be daunting. The sheer variety of injection-molded plastic kits – from military vehicles to anime robots – can be overwhelming. While experienced modelers create stunning works, the reality is that you don't need a vast workshop or years of practice to build something impressive.

To simplify your entry into this rewarding pastime, I've compiled a list of recommended kits, many based on personal experience. We'll start with kits requiring minimal tools and supplies, then progress to those demanding more advanced techniques. Finally, I'll outline essential tools and where to purchase these fantastic alternatives to LEGO.

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

Traditional model kits often require glue and paint. However, many companies now offer pre-colored, snap-together kits ideal 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:

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

41:144 Scale. Recommended age: 15 years and up.$15.14 save 14%$12.99 at AmazonUnder $100### Bandai Hobby Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit

21:100 Scale. Recommended age: 15 years and up.$59.20 save 13%$51.50 at Amazon

Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG). HG kits (around $15-30) are generally 6 inches tall, while MG kits ($30-50) are slightly larger and more detailed.

High Grade### Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero

5The Wing Zero HG kit includes a twin buster rifle, beam sabers, shield, and cannons.$20.99 save 24%$16.00 at AmazonMaster Grade### Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos, Bandai Spirits MG 1:100

2The Gundam Barbatos 4th form MG kit features detailed internal mechanics and a recreated Ahab Reactor!$54.69 save 0%$54.69 at Amazon

Beyond Gundam: Other No-Fuss Kits

Bandai's snap-together approach extends to other franchises, notably Star Wars:

Star Wars Model Kits

### Bandai Hobby Bandai AT-ST 1:48 Scale Star Wars All Terrain Scout Transport Walker

0Y-Wing Starfighter kit features a detailed cockpit.See it at Amazon### Bandai Hobby Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1:72 Y-Wing Starfighter Building Kit

1AT-ST kit boasts articulated legs, rotating head, and weapon systems.$29.64 save 0%$29.64 at Amazon

### Bandai Hobby Boba Fett, Bandai Spirits Hobby 1/12 Plastic Model Kit

0The 1/12 scale Boba Fett kit includes interchangeable hands and accessories.$29.99 save 43%$17.02 at Amazon

Bandai also offers Figure-Rise kits of anime characters:

Anime Model Kits

1. Anime Model Kit### Bandai Hobby Son Goku Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit

0The Son Goku kit features an upgraded Muscle Build-Up System.$34.95 save 6%$32.99 at Amazon2. Anime Model Kit### Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit

0The Naruto kit allows for action poses and signature moves.$32.58 save 0%$32.58 at Amazon

Giant Robot Kits (Beyond Gundam) and Other Options

### Kotobukiya Kotobukiya Metal Gear Solid: Metal Gear Rex (Black Ver.) Model Kit

2The 1:100 scale Metal Gear Rex kit is a large, detailed model.$154.00 save 0%$154.00 at Amazon### Good Smile CompanyHorizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw Moderoid Plastic Model Kit

1The 15-inch Thunderjaw kit is a stunning build for Horizon fans.$107.64 at Amazon### Good Smile CompanyAliens: Power Loader Moderoid Plastic Model Kit

3Includes Ellen Ripley!See it

Good Smile Company's Moderoid line is pre-painted and pricier. Bandai also offers dinosaur skeletons and even a 1:1 Cup Noodle kit! Aoshima's Snap Kit car models are also easy to assemble.

Military and Car Model Kits

### Tamiya Tamiya 35346 1/35 US Medium Tank M4A3E8 Sherman Plastic Model Kit

2The M4A3E8 Sherman tank kit is ideal for painting and weathering.$44.99 save 0%$44.99 at Amazon### Tamiya Tamiya Models M1A2 Abrams Model Kit

1The 1/35 Abrams tank kit includes figures.$34.30 save 0%$34.30 at Amazon

Tamiya offers excellent armor kits. Hasegawa produces aircraft models, and Aoshima offers a wide selection of cars and food trucks. Hasegawa's BMW 2002 Tii and Revell's McLaren 570S are good car kit options. Remember, Revell of Germany kits are generally preferred over Revell USA.

Getting Started: Tools and Supplies

### Essential Tools:

### BXQINLENX8-Piece Model Tools Set

0A basic tool set for beginners.$7.99 save 0%$7.99 at Amazon

Invest in good hobby shears/nippers for clean cuts. A cutting mat protects your work surface. Model cement is preferred over regular glue for plastic kits.

### anezus 12inch x 18inch Rotary Cutting Mat Double Sided 5-Ply Craft Cutting Board

0Multipurpose craft mat.$15.98 save 44%$8.99 at Amazon### Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue Fine Tip 40ml

0Model cement for plastic kits.$8.99 save 0%$8.99 at Amazon

Paints:

For painting, use hobby-grade spray paint (like Tamiya) for base coats and water-based acrylics (like Vallejo) for details. Primer (like Mr. Hobby Mr. Surfacer) is crucial.

Best Primer### GSI Creos Mr. Hobby B519 Mr. Surfacer 1000 Large Spray

0Excellent primer for model kits.$15.35 save 0%$15.35 at AmazonON SALE!### Vallejo Vallejo Basic USA Acrylic Colors Paint Set

0Non-toxic acrylic paint set.$59.99 save 43%$34.04 at Amazon### Tamiya Tamiya 86034 PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint, 100ml Spray Can

1High-quality spray paint.$9.30 save 25%See it

Where to Buy Model Kits

• Amazon: Offers deals but watch out for inflated reseller prices.
• HobbyLink Japan (HLJ): Huge selection but expensive and slow shipping.
• MegaHobby: Large selection with generally faster shipping than HLJ.
• IGN Store: Modest selection, primarily anime/pop culture kits.
• Local hobby shops: Support your local hobby stores!

Remember, model making is a journey. Enjoy the process, explore online resources (like SpruesNBrews, NightShift, Jun’s Mini Garage, Laser Creation-World, and Minibricks on YouTube), and happy building!