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

Model building: A beginner's guide to fantastic kits and essential supplies.

Model building is a captivating hobby, but starting can feel overwhelming. With countless kits available, ranging from military vehicles to anime robots, it's easy to be intimidated. However, you don't need a vast workshop or years of experience to create impressive models.

This guide simplifies the process, offering a curated selection of kits perfect for beginners, categorized by type and skill level. We'll also cover essential tools and supplies, and where to find them.

No-Glue, No-Paint Kits: The Easy Start

Many kits now offer pre-colored, snap-together designs, eliminating the need for glue and paint. While some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, plenty provide a satisfying challenge without messy materials. Gundam kits are a prime example:

Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit (Under $25) 1/144 scale.

Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit (Under $100) 1/100 scale.

Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG). HG is a good starting point.

Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero (HG)

Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos (MG)

Beyond Gundam, other franchises offer similar easy-build options:

Star Wars Model Kits

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

Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1:72 Y-Wing Starfighter Building Kit

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

(Note: Some less colorful Star Wars kits may benefit from a basic wash or dry-brushing to enhance detail.)

Anime Model Kits

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

Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw Moderoid Plastic Model Kit

Good Smile Company Aliens: Power Loader Moderoid Plastic Model Kit

Other Unique Kits

Bandai Hobby - Imaginary Skeleton – 1:32 Imaginary Skeleton Tyrannosaurus

Bandai Store Triceratops

Bandai Store 1:1 Cup Noodle

Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R Custom White 1:32 Scale Model Kit

Military Model Kits

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

Tamiya Models M1A2 Abrams Model Kit

Hasegawa 1:72 AV-8B Harrier II Plus

Hasegawa 1:48 AV-8B Harrier II

Car Model Kits

Hasegawa 621123 Model Car BMW 2002 Tii 1:24 Model Kit

Revell of Germany 07051 McLaren 570S

Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 11 1:24 Scale Model Kit

Aoshima Volkswagen 13AD Beetle 1303S ’73 1:24 Model Kit

Aoshima Bunka Kyozai 1:24 Mobile Sales Series No. 8 Yakitori Ryuho Plastic Model

Essential Tools and Supplies

• Tool Set: BXQINLEN 8-Piece Model Tools Set
• Cutting Mat: anezus 12inch x 18inch Rotary Cutting Mat
• Cement: Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue
• Primer: GSI Creos Mr. Hobby B519 Mr. Surfacer 1000
• Acrylic Paints: Vallejo Basic USA Acrylic Colors Paint Set
• Spray Paint: Tamiya PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint (or other colors)

Where to Buy:

• Amazon
• HobbyLink Japan
• MegaHobby
• IGN Store
• Local hobby shops

Remember, model building is a journey. Start with simpler kits, gradually increasing complexity as your skills develop. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun! Online resources like SpruesNBrews, NightShift, Jun’s Mini Garage, Laser Creation-World, and Minibricks offer inspiration and tutorials.