How to Start Your Gunpla Journey: A Complete Beginner's Guide
Overwhelmed by High Grade, Master Grade, and Perfect Grade? This guide walks you through every Gunpla grade, the tools you need, and how to pick your first kit without regret.
What Is Gunpla?
Gunpla (Gundam Plastic Models) are injection-moulded model kits produced by Bandai since 1980. They require no glue, snap together perfectly, and come in grades ranging from beginner-friendly to achingly complex.
Understanding the Grades
- SD (Super Deformed) — Chibi-proportioned, ~50 pieces, great for kids and first-timers.
- HG (High Grade, 1/144) — The sweet spot for beginners. Affordable (₹800–₹2,500), articulated, and plentiful.
- RG (Real Grade, 1/144) — Advanced inner-frame detail in a small footprint. Not for absolute beginners.
- MG (Master Grade, 1/100) — Rich inner skeleton, panel lines, and accessories. 3–6 hours build time.
- PG (Perfect Grade, 1/60) — The mountain to climb. LED-lit options, 400+ pieces, 15–30 hours. Our Gundam Wing Zero Custom is an example.
Essential First-Time Tools
You only need three things to start: a pair of Tamiya side-cutters (₹600), a hobby knife (₹300), and a grey panel-lining pen (₹350). Everything else is optional.
Your First Kit Recommendation
Start with an HG RX-78-2 or an HG Zaku II — both are ~₹900, have clean designs, and teach you the fundamentals without frustration.
Where to Buy
LetItRip lists both new and second-hand Gunpla, including rare PG builds like our Wing Zero Custom. Pre-orders are available for upcoming Bandai releases.