What Is Gunpla?

Bandai Gunpla (“Gundam Plastic Model”) kits are snap-fit model kits based on the iconic mecha from the Mobile Suit Gundam universe. Most kits require no glue and are designed to be assembled with simple tools.

Whether you’re building your first Entry Grade or tackling a Perfect Grade masterpiece, the process is fun, relaxing, and highly rewarding.

Gunpla Grades Explained

Entry Grade (EG)

Perfect for beginners.

• Easy assembly
• Very few parts
• No tools usually required
• Great colour separation
• Ideal for first-time builders

Best for:

• Kids
• Complete beginners
• Quick relaxing builds

High Grade (HG)

The most popular Gunpla line.

• 1/144 scale
• Affordable
• Huge range of designs
• Great balance of detail and simplicity

Best for:

• Beginners wanting more detail
• Collectors with limited space
• Army building displays

Real Grade (RG)

Small scale with incredible detail.

• 1/144 scale
• Advanced engineering
• Detailed inner frames
• Realistic decals and panel lines

Best for:

• Intermediate builders
• Builders who love detail
• Display-focused collections

Master Grade (MG)

Large, detailed, and highly poseable.

• 1/100 scale
• Detailed inner frames
• Better articulation
• Longer build times

Best for:

• Dedicated hobbyists
• Display centrepieces
• Builders wanting a full experience

Perfect Grade (PG)

The ultimate Gunpla challenge.

• Massive kits
• Extreme detail
• LED options on many kits
• Premium experience

Best for:

• Experienced builders
• Serious collectors
• Showcase displays

Essential Tools

Basic Starter Tools

Must-Have

• Side cutters / nippers
• Hobby knife
• Sanding sticks or files

Optional Upgrades

• Glass file
• Panel lining pens
• Tweezers
• Cutting mat

Understanding the Runner

Each plastic frame is called a “runner.”

Every part has:

• A letter (runner ID)
• A number (part number)

Example:

• A12
• B4
• C17

The instruction manual tells you exactly where every part is located.

Step-by-Step Build Process

1. Read the Manual

Take a quick look through the instructions before starting.

This helps you:

• Understand the build order
• Identify stickers and accessories
• Avoid mistakes

2. Cut the Parts

Tips:

• Don’t cut directly against the part immediately
• Leave a small nub first
• Trim carefully afterwards

This reduces stress marks on the plastic.

3. Clean Nub Marks

Use:

• Sanding sticks
• Hobby knife
• Glass file

Work slowly for the cleanest finish.

4. Assemble Sections

Most kits build in sections:

• Head
• Torso
• Arms
• Legs
• Backpack
• Weapons

Take your time and enjoy the process.

5. Add Stickers or Decals

Sticker Types:

• Foil stickers
• Marking stickers
• Waterslide decals

Tweezers make this much easier.

6. Panel Lining (Optional)

Panel lining adds depth and realism.

Popular colours:

• Black
• Grey
• Brown

Use fine-tip markers or panel line wash.

7. Pose and Display

Once complete:

• Experiment with poses
• Use action bases
• Build a display shelf

Gunpla is freedom — make it your own style.

Beginner Tips

Do:

• Build slowly
• Keep parts organised
• Use good lighting
• Enjoy the process

Don’t:

• Rush
• Force parts together
• Panic over mistakes
• Compare yourself to experts

Every builder improves with every kit.

Recommended First Kits

Great Starter Kits

• Entry Grade RX-78-2 Gundam
• HG Aerial
• HG Barbatos
• EG Strike Gundam

Final Thoughts

Gunpla is one of the most enjoyable hobbies around because:

• It’s relaxing
• Creative
• Collectable
• Beginner friendly
• Deep enough for advanced hobbyists

The best advice?
Start building.

Your first kit won’t be perfect — and that’s exactly how every great builder started.

Which Gunpla Grade Should You Start With?

Final Thoughts

Every Gunpla grade offers something different:

• EG teaches the basics
• HG gives variety and value
• RG delivers detail in compact form
• MG provides the full building experience
• PG becomes a true centerpiece build

There’s no “best” grade — only the one that fits your budget, skill level, display space, and favourite Gundam designs.