Best hobby tool sets according to redditors

Some things that I would recommend having to start out: Warhammer 40k rule book, Codex for your army, D6 dice(other dice would be useful too as wound/victory point trackers). The Citadel Colour app is a good (free) app to get for deciding what paint to get to paint your army. It also has some good tutorials on how to paint miniatures (which you can also find on youtube). As for assembling your minis, if you search on Amazon you'll find everything you need, just search for miniature assembly kits https://www.amazon.com/Rustark-Gundam-Building-Repairing-Fixing/dp/B071LB1T5D/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3H7CRDBPOZZJ3&keywords=miniature+assembly+kit&qid=1567860206&s=gateway&sprefix=miniature+asse%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-3 < I use this one. You'll also need plastic glue for all your plastic needs and super glue for Resin-cast miniatures. A good glue for plastic would be Testors non-toxic plastic cement. For Resin super glue Loctite is usually a good brand. For brushes, cheaper brushes you can buy in bulk for like 5$ or something are fine to use. Just do some googling for the sizes you'd need. For Priming your models (which you have to do to get the paint to stick to them) do some googling, you can go with spray paint or you can hand paint (I hand paint or use an airbrush using Vallejo primer). It's also worth mentioning that with both paints and miniatures, you can get a good percent of them from third party retailers, either at your local gaming store that carries them, or online (I recommend MiniatureMarket.com or Gamenerdz.com ) for a reduced price.

Here's a set I found on Amazon.

As monkeys says, I recently did an Airfix starter set. I was between houses so had very little stuff.

I bought a Airfix Electric English Lightning. If you search for Airfix starter sets you’ll find other options.

I used minimal tools:

• X-Acto craft knife
  
• Needle files
  
• Sanding sponge
  
• Sprue cutters
  
  You could find some of that grouped into one product if you look about like this.
  
  There’s some good YouTube videos to help a new user like this one from Airfix themselves making their own Spitfire starter kit.
  
  So here’s my album of what I used. And here’s the finished Electric Lightning.

This is the set I purchased:

Testors 8941t Needle File Set (10) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003ZCX110/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mFMOCbWX2HZ7N

Has all the essentials you'll need at a reasonable price.

Thanks for the advice! I'm planning on getting this set in particular. https://www.amazon.com/Rustark-Gundam-Building-Repairing-Fixing/dp/B071LB1T5D/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=gunpla+clippers&qid=1568147591&s=toys-and-games&sr=1-3

The depth of the bite isn't just dependent on the file, but also on the pressure you're putting on it and how you hold the file.

That said, I use these (http://www.harborfreight.com/needle-file-set-10-pc-69876.html), these http://www.amazon.com/NEEDLE-FILE-SET-Testors/dp/B003ZCX110), And a 6" flat bastard file. The harbor freight files are a little easier on plastic, and work great on metal, but the testors file work very well for general use. If you still find that files dig too deep for you, I would suggest making a few sanding sticks with 400-600 grit wet-sanding paper.

I bought one of these for using away from my hobby bench: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005IXSXPI/

It has spot for a small water cup, I used some spare foam to turn the phone holder into a paintbrush holder, and it collapses in on itself for transport/storage.


There's also this one specific to Humbrol stuff, but can easily be used for other brands: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008424S90/

It's nice because it has spots for 2 cups, brushes, paints, and even a cutting mat.

Otherwise, any lap desk or tray table would be fine, especially if he's just starting out. Get an "artbin satchel" (or something similar from amazon or a local art store) to store everything else in when not in use.


Another thing to think about is this: https://www.amazon.com/Sta-Wet-Palette-Keeps-Paints-Airtight/dp/B000C18GTE/

This will let him use and store the paint he's working with without drying out, and also allows them to be stored for several weeks - it's easy to clean and reuse (just follow the included instruction for setting it up).

You can start with most any smaller Polar Lights/Revell/AMT/Round 2 kit, or any kit that isn't Bandai or (some) Kotobukiya. Even inexpensive (non-snapfit) car/plane kits will give you experience on gluing, seam sealing, sanding, and prepping/painting. Get yourself some basic tools; if you stay with it, you'll be adding to/replacing a lot of these, but this is a fairly good starting selection.

I got a cheap kit when I was first starting out. I have since replaced everything inside with upgraded tools.
Here's what I put inside:

• Gundam Planet Nippers
  
• NT Cutter Hobby Knife
  
• Metal File
  
• Steel Ruler
  
• Tweezers
  
• Magic Files (600, 800 grits)
  
• Buffing Block
  
• Pin Vise and Drill Bits
  
• X-Acto Handle
  
• Tamiya Photoetch saws for use with X-Acto handle
  
• 0.15mm chisel chucked in a small pin vise (魁 or Saki-Gake on Amazon)
  
• Madworks Scribing Guide + Hook Scriber
  
• Mission Model 2mm Chisel
  
• Mini file set
  
  It all fits. I can usually find space in my gunpla box to carry it to and from build meets.
  
  I don't want to get zapped by AutoModerator by posting the full Amazon link, but you can paste this after the Amazon url Gundam-Modeler-Assemble-Building-Alemon/dp/B01D1JYXKO/

No worries mate, the tutorials online are good but if you want to check out the other ranges then this chart is very good https://www.dakkadakka.com/wiki/en/Paint_Range_Compatibility_Chart I personally recommend Vallejo Game Colour for brighter colours and model colour for more realistic hues. They come in 17ml bottles instead of 12ml and are cheaper. I only prefer GW technical paints and washes over Vallejo, but each to their own.

In the SW I think the best place to get your paints would be online. https://www.darksphere.co.uk/ or https://www.waylandgames.co.uk/ have always stood me in good stead. The paint packs are always the best value but what colours you need depend on what army you're painting.

As most of the models are plastic now I'd recommend cutters and a modelling knife. You get much finer precision than a Stanley Knife. I've been using this set for 4 years https://www.amazon.co.uk/Modelcraft-9-Piece-Plastic-Modelling-Tool/dp/B001TH8LAY/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1549923613&sr=8-4&keywords=modelling+kit and it is sooo much cheaper than the GW stuff.

Kill Team is a good starting point especially if you get one of the teams you can do with one box like harlequins and Grey knights. One thing to get is a hobby kit with clippers and hobby knife for sure and most likely a cutting mat then you can use plastic glue or super glue to put the models together. For painting you can probably start with citadel and they have a Citadel Paint app that details how to get certain looks on the app stores plus there is Warhammer TV for tutorials and many many more tutorials out there Miniac for one is a great one for beginners. Besides at the store check out Amazon for things since with traffic it might be easier but the store manager would be a great resource of information.

And people are generally very friendly and would welcome someone new and teach them the game and ropes.

Also, on Facebook check out the Independent Characters community and the podcast they live in the Bay area and they mention quite a few other locations where they play and most likely could welcome you to a game or someone in the community would offer help as well.

Any Revive kit is a good choice for beginners, so the Gouf should be just fine. As for the tool kit, I've never heard of that brand before, and the nippers especially don't look like they're really high quality, but for your first tool kit it shouldn't be too bad. If you want an alternative, I'd suggest this one, since it's made by one of the best modeling tool brands (Tamiya) and I can say from experience that it comes with pretty good nippers.

I got a set similar to this https://www.amazon.com/Rustark-Gundam-Building-Repairing-Fixing/dp/B071LB1T5D/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1NVWGU1Y2TD3K&keywords=sprue+cutter&qid=1571361112&sprefix=sprue+cutter%2Caps%2C338&sr=8-2

It has a sprue cutter and emery boards to sand down. If you take your time clipping you won't need to do much sanding with the emery boards. But you'll definitely need to file/sand down some edges to get pieces to fit more flush and to make the end result cleaner and not have little bits of plastic sticking out of seams. Hope you enjoy the build process!

Honestly... at face value the kit looks okay but it probably comes with a lot of cheap crap you might not care about. I saw this in the similar section and I reckon that's enough if you wanna save a few more bucks and are keen on a set.

But if you're already willing to spend $20-30 then you can get what I suggested within that budget along with the knife you linked to (this and this, there's a few sellers for each you can get via Prime). That and some sandpaper from your hardware store and you'll be good to go dude.

Ultimately don't worry too much about the tools. You can make do with just sandpaper, a hobby knife and a crap pair of wire cutters and still do fine. Hell, that's all I had when I was a kid lol :P

I use https://www.amazon.ca/Hobbico-12cc-Curved-Hobby-Syringe/dp/B004QJV89I. I usually just use cold water. It does take repeated blasting to get out very stubborn ink.

Keep building stuff! And don’t buy something difficult or expensive until you are comfortable with it. You can improve your techniques and make the little HG and SD kits look amazing! I jumped into MG kits too fast and now I notice everything wrong with them, but I’m too lazy to re-do them lol.

Definitely work on nub removal and panel lining. Practice makes perfect! When I first started building, my fiancé bought me this tool set and it helped tremendously. Happy building!

You need to invest in some curved files :P

https://www.amazon.ca/Blanc-Heart-Premium-Modeler-Tweezers/dp/B07FRSLCG6/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=model+making+files&qid=1570067847&s=gateway&sr=8-1

I'm pretty new with Gunpla and I'm planning on getting some more kits soon, and I was wondering if this little bundle of tools would be a good investment.

https://www.amazon.com/Rustark-Gundam-Building-Repairing-Fixing/dp/B071LB1T5D/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1537979135&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=model+kit+nippers&dpPl=1&dpID=51KtR2rfa9L&ref=plSrch

I don't have any of these tools and I don't have much money to spend on them. This is the first time I've seen this pop up on Amazon, so I figured I should ask here before I did anything else.

I use a brush called "The Psycho"

https://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-Wargamer-Brush-Psycho/dp/B009CBC0PQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491323909&sr=8-1&keywords=army+painter+psycho

I know it's probably more difficult to just hand-paint all of the small details, but I enjoy the precision practice, and whenever I paint it's with friends so I don't mind when it takes a while to get something done. I feel more accomplished getting it done by hand and exercising patience in the process.

I also use a slightly larger brush called "Insane Detail" for things that are small but would be too tedious with "The Psycho"

https://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-Wargamer-Brush-Insane/dp/B0027SAYW2/ref=pd_sim_21_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0027SAYW2&pd_rd_r=1AE9WPGVCPTFD2D47MBC&pd_rd_w=f6p0n&pd_rd_wg=V83HV&psc=1&refRID=1AE9WPGVCPTFD2D47MBC

I mean if you're absolutely convinced you should buy everything in a set then:

https://www.amazon.com/Tamiya-TAM74016-Basic-Tool-Set/dp/B01AND0FRG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1505772569&sr=8-1&keywords=Tamiya+set

Otherwise I lay out a pretty simple starter set here:

https://goodguydangunpla.blogspot.com/p/my-tools.html

Yeah. I use this one because it is a lot nicer than the even cheaper ones while still being pretty cheap. And its auto-ranging which is a big plus in my book. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EVYGZA/

And https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014ERIFU6 those for drivers. I too was fed up with the cheap ones stripping. Again, not the best in the world but a lot better than the harbor freight special. They bite well and I haven't stripped anything with them yet.

It appears to be the Humbrol Work Station. Just excluding the cutting mat which is sold separately.

This is a very useful tool and will significantly cut down the work time you spent. However, I think that this will serve you better in the long run as it will contain a lot of the basic tools that you will need for this hobby.

So the Justice was cheaper than the Tamiya sidecutters?

u/Manpig you evil, you should have listed him the Basic Tools Set

Here's a basic toolkit i use for gunpla highly recommend . https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01AND0FRG

So I recently decided to pull the trigger and go full tilt into Gunpla (as I recently discovered how cheap it is to get into and, well, I love Gundam haha) and ordered a bunch of Model’s off Amazon (that I’m now gonna have to wait a while for, but they’ll get here lol. And they’ll keep me busy for a WHILE haha) - List at the Bottom of this Comment

I got the main thing I needed, being a full set of all the possible tool’s I could possibly need, without painting FYI, which was the following on Amazon:

Preamer Modeler Professional Tools Craft Set for Car Gundam Model Assemble Building Kit https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B071XCJ5YG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GFfzDbVG4FM85

Price: 45$ CDN

After that, I bought the following at Dollarama (the biggest Dollar Store chain in Canada) for about roughly $20 CDN MAX

Toolbox $4

Precision Screwdrivers $3

Magnifying Glass $2

Foam Drying Block $2

Flat Head Bamboo Skewers $1

Tower Sorter $4

Right Hand Cutting Board $4

Right Hand Pen Knife

!Right hand Cutting Board and Pen Knife were a combo!

Also, the thing holding the Magnifying Glass (which is also lightup btw) up is a simple Desktop Microphone Stand with a Screwon Clamp on the end. I put a wad of electrical tape (which I sliced the bottom wad to allow access to the battery compartment for the Magnifying Glasses builtin Flashlight) as the builtin Flashlight allow’s for GREAT lighting of Model’s when doing FINE-detail work and also making it easier on the eyes to sit in a relaxed position and still have a full vision and high detail view of what you are doing (it’s also how I work when I do 3D modelling and Game Design, another of my hobbies, using a 42” 4K TV as the main monitor, but thats NOT what this post is about, just explaining how it is ergonomical and is my basic style lol!)

I am REALLY looking forward to getting into this, I can already feel the pre-addiction taking hold 😂

Also, full discolosure, yes, this is a bit of a glory shot and I apologize, just thought people would find it cool 😅

Model’s ordered (all HG 1/144th scale I believe)

1x RGM-79 GM

1x Gundam Deathscythe

1x Gundam Heavyarms

1x Gundam Heavyarms Custom (EW)

1x Gundam Wing Zero (EW)

1x Duel Gundam

1x Abyss Gundam

1x Gundam Gusion Rebake

1x Shining Break Gundam

It’s all from the army painter, they’re pretty nice and are available on Amazon.

Link

Vallejo brown earth with army painter rocks, bits, grass, and snow texture thrown on top while still wet, a different set that was kind of like this

https://www.amazon.com/Rustark-Gundam-Building-Repairing-Fixing/dp/B071LB1T5D/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=gunpla+starter+set&link_code=qs&qid=1564181072&s=gateway&sourceid=Mozilla-search&sr=8-3

Here it is.

Nippers, tweezers (for small parts or stickers), files, x-acto knife. All ya need in the box.

And you can use fine point sharpies for panel lines, or Gundam markers. A set of 2 is like, $3.

You’ll want something like this. You also need to plug in the balance lead, which is the little white plug on your battery.

Charge it with lipo balance charge, 3S (11.1v) at (mah/1000)A, so 1.2A for your battery.

https://www.amazon.com/TAMIYA-Finishing-Abrasives-2-type-Ultra-fine/dp/B00J4DC872

This i meant

I use a Humbrol workstation https://www.amazon.co.uk/Humbrol-AG9156-Work-Station/dp/B008424S90 but it's little slots for paint pots don't fit citadel paints, i mostly like it for the brush holders and the slot for the cutting mat and water jars. There's also extra space on each side of the mat I can use as a pallette.

The big advantage is the mobility, I can just pick up everything i was working on that day and move it off my desk.

I butchered my models bad with hobby knives until i switched to metal fine grit files. Testors makes a nice 10 piece set.

Just gently rub down those lines and smooth out whatever else you need.

To charge your LiPo battery you will need to connect two wires to the charger. First the smaller wire (balance lead) will plug straight in to the correct size socket on the side of the charger (or for convenience you can buy a 3s balance lead extension like this as the wires are usually quite short from the battery)

The second wire to connect is the thicker one which will either have a mini-tamiya connector or deans (T-connector) on the end. You will need an adaptor something like this one .

For using the charger itself there are lots of videos online which say how to do it. You''ll need to navitage through the menu and choose correct battery type (LiPo), charging type (charge or balance) charging current (I usually do 1.0A), voltage (3S battery so 11.1V), etc.

Charge, store, and transport the batteries in a fireproof container for safety. Ideally a LiPo bag, but a metal pot/pan can work for charging/storing.

The Avalon is great out of the box so you don'd need to upgrade anything. You can upgrade whatever you like though. For example the hop chamber, bucking & barrel can all be changed without opening the gear box. In the gearbox you could improve the air seal parts and add a gate aster/titan mosfet. All optional though. You can also change the motor, but this may involve reshimming and readjusting motor height.

Just picked this one up and is easily my new favorite :http://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-BR7014-Wargamer-Brush/dp/B009CBC0PQ/ref=pd_sim_21_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=31FVNPsPVVL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=01J1J8QXPE6VK2FXDEBP

otherwise I use this:
http://www.amazon.com/Army-Painter-Wargamer-Insane-Detail/dp/B0027SAYW2/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1465105608&sr=1-1&keywords=wargamer+insane+detail

Hey everyone. I'm trying to get into more serious Gunpla, and am currently looking to invest in a couple of tools. However, I'm on a budget, and complicating matters is that the store closest to my house (Planet Hobby, I'm in Ontario, Canada), is quite overpriced.

I've been looking at these two toolsets on Amazon, and just wanted to hear your thoughts as to which of the two (if any), would be good to buy.

Kit 1: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01H6FM860/ref=s9u_simh_gw_i5?ie=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01H6FM860&pd_rd_r=F5NYPQMTV0V160C3N4J1&pd_rd_w=2M35K&pd_rd_wg=WyhdJ&pf_rd_m=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=C0VHYKYXH2TG97VB7QE9&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=07871b8e-d32a-4963-b98f-ba712077f7f5&pf_rd_i=desktop

Kit 2: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01AND0FRG/ref=s9u_simh_gw_i2?ie=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01AND0FRG&pd_rd_r=F5NYPQMTV0V160C3N4J1&pd_rd_w=2M35K&pd_rd_wg=WyhdJ&pf_rd_m=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=C0VHYKYXH2TG97VB7QE9&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=07871b8e-d32a-4963-b98f-ba712077f7f5&pf_rd_i=desktop

Thanks in advance for your help!

Amazon. There are kits that are sold with side cutters, files, nail polishers. Just about anything you could need for a build. https://www.amazon.com/Findfly-Gundam-Building-Repairing-Fixing/dp/B071LB1T5D/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1527227248&sr=8-1&keywords=gunpla+tool+kit

I see it looks like you're using a hobby knife.

I strongly suggest getting a pair of nippers, or a Tamiya Hobby Kit.

Nippers are game-changers over using knives alone, and they're very affordable.

Alright. So. I'm just starting to watch Gundam, and started with Mobile Suit. I really dug Rambal Ral's suit for some reason, and I think I'd like it to be my first build. But to someone who has never done this, it's really intimating. I know I'd want to go for the HG kit here as a first time build? And I was looking at this tool set here. Seem like a solid plan so far? And about how long does a usual kit take, give or take on experience? I know this sounds like a "please solve my problems for me" post, but there's a lot to take in. Help, please?

Total noob here about to dive in scared on my first-ever build with a Master Grade kit. Just had to have this love at first sight.

Is a tool set like this a smart buy over getting the main essential ones separately?

If not, could you guys kindly recommend a list of half-decent quality tools that would fit a budget of $20-30 (or possibly for a bit more if absolutely necessary for a quality build)?

Thanks guys.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01D1JYXKO/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1482106479&sr=8-2&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=tamiya+tool+kit&dpPl=1&dpID=51lkAEuwMeL&ref=plSrch The 3 sticks is sandpaper, right?

I looking for a light weight headset that is the price range from 20-60 dollars. I also wear glasses so it has to be able to work with that.

​

Right now my current painting equipement:

• Miniature Paint Brushes Detail Set -12pc Minute Series XII Miniature Brushes for Fine Detailing & Rock Painting. Acrylic Watercolor Oil - Art, Scale Models, Paint by Numbers Supplies Kit
  
• Rustark 9Pcs Gundam Model Tools Kit Hobby Building Tools Craft Set for Basic Model Building, Repairing and Fixing
  
• Reaper Miniatures Master Series Paints #09970 Starter Set for Mini Figures
  
• The Army Painter Color Primer, Matt White, 400ml, 13.5oz - Acrylic Spray Undercoat for Miniature Painting
  
• Reaper Miniatures 08906 Learn To Paint Bones Kit
  
• "Green Stuff" Blue/Yellow Epoxy Putty
  
• Tamiya America, Inc Plastic Cement 20ml, TAM87012
  
  ​
  
  Is there anything else I should buy?

The gear I used for this, plus the kit itself, I all got from Amazon.

A Basic Modelling Tools Kit and the Gundam Marker Value Set.

I use [this] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AND0FRG/ref=crt_ewc_img_dp_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3TCNCNGLOHBSA)

Clear nail polish can be used to stiffen polycaps so they are more snug.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B014ERIFU6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494078672&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=rc+hex+driver&dpPl=1&dpID=51ARws6r9%2BL&ref=plSrch

I've got this set. They're hardened and I've had no issues with stripping screws. I wasn't talking about buying a 3$ set of wrenches. There's no need to drop 40$ on a set of wrenches, but that's just my opinion.

TL;DR Which kit is better for a beginner with basically no tools at all?

So, I've been looking at some tool kits on amazon and I have basically narrowed it down to two brands. (I realize there are others, but these are the two I find most promising, I could be wrong though.)

1.Tamiya

This kit is from a brand I recognize and have been told about. I am aware of their high quality, but the small number of tools for $20US is a little underwhelming.

2. Keadic

So, this one has a lot more tools and a cutting mat (something I was going to purchase anyway) but I'm not sure of the quality of the tools. If anyone has any experience with Keadic, or if you know any other brands or kits that are better than Keadic, but still have the variety and amount of tools, please let me know. Thanks!

The side cutters are cheap ones from amazon

Micro Cutter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FZPDG1K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_P4PzDbEY3W097

The two black tweezers, square file and sanding sponge came in a crappy tool set I found on amazon.

Something like this set: Keadic 43Pcs Gundam Modeler Basic Tools Craft Set for Professional Model Assemble Building (Kit 4) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NMH65RV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_i8PzDbJNHPJ2M

None of the tools are great but they will do until I can afford better stuff. There’s a lot of stuff you will want if you are going to paint your models and most of it is cheap but adds up. Thiners, primers, paints, brushes, clear coats etc.

This is my station now
https://i.imgur.com/5HPJfTq.jpg

1. It's not hard, it just requires some patience. Taking your time is key assembling these kits. Also have fun doing it because it's for leisure anyway right?
   
   
2. I would recommend getting a lot. [This is the one I got] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AND0FRG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.KvGxbG9TFHRC) but if you have a pair of wire cutters and tweezers handy those should suffice
   
3. I have no recommendations because to be honest I just started too. I got my first model for Christmas two years ago and my reason as to why I bought it was solely based on the fact that it looked cool. And my choices on models are still determined by that sole factor to this day.

Sadly I buy the ultra fine and fine together here. I can't fine just the fine set :(

I ordered this kit a couple months ago as a starter kit.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071LB1T5D

Should I be looking at a better cutter? Or is this one fine and it's just my technique that needs work? If it's my technique can you recommend a youtube video or anything that would help me improve?

Love the scheme, you seem very gifted with painting, how did you get that orange?

​

you should try to do something about those mold lines though. I recently bought this kit which really helped me with it as well as for other modeling stuff ( i am not affiliated with them)

Of course! And here's a bonus link to a pretty solid starter kit for the tools. It was the perfect little kit for me to get my feet wet with - and if you decide you genuinely like the hobby, you can upgrade your tools as you see fit! Cheers!

modelers mini table http://www.amazon.com/Airfix-AG9156-Humbrol-Workstation/dp/B008424S90/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1421351897&sr=8-2&keywords=modeler+station

get something like this, with the drills maybe in your local measurements.

then a set of files like this or a complete set like that. than this strange substance.

consider this in case he gets funny. some collection of magnets like those. prices vary drasticly, again go for local measurement system. he will probably need 1x1mm, 2x1mm, 3x2mm. just check if the drills you got and the magnets fit size wise and the magnets have to be neodynium.

​

i am not very familar with skaven so i cant give much advice on models but i assume this one will make him happy. it qualifizes for "anything really cool", can be used to build different things he might like and you can use the stuff mentioned above to fill out the rest of the budget if you like.

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this overrated book vendor in the links was just used as example of product and quality and prizes of products will vary drastically. with this stuff you cant make too much wrong with going cheap.

somebody from your country might offer you a good vendor. i cant really suggest specific products since they maybe are not availlable where you are from.

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my most sincere condolences that you lost your partner to plastic crack :(

This will contain everything you need besides paint and glue. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071XCJ5YG/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_.ADYCb2XGKVAP

I was able to assemble my entire core set plus 11/12 expansions with these items:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006N6ODS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01D1JYXKO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The clippers are still going strong and the files work nicely. I have no mold lines or excess glue on my minis and I filled in some gaps with green stuff:

https://www.amazon.com/Green-Stuff-Strip-RPR-75006/dp/B001BR8AU8/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1498688095&sr=8-10&keywords=Green+stuff

You can usually find it a bit cheaper. Hopefully, that helps!

Getting back into the hobby, I'd recommend a kit off amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Rustark-Gundam-Building-Repairing-Fixing/dp/B071LB1T5D/ref=sr_1_4?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1550287251&sr=1-4&keywords=model+kit

this has served me well

also as far as tools go - here is a good starting point:
http://www.swannysmodels.com/Tools.html

Though the article on tools - which was very detailed - is no longer available for some reason. Some of the other articles are still up though, especially the one on Future Floor Polish:

http://www.swannysmodels.com/Tools.html

Here is a decent starter kit on amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Rustark-21Pcs-Modeler-Building-Gundam/dp/B071NZ9NHN/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1543507751&sr=8-5&keywords=model+builder+tool+kit

Also sanding paper / boards to sand down nubs.
I bought this kit.

If you don't already have a proper tool kit like This you'll want to get one, when i first started i just used household tools like scissors and my kit's came out horrible with nub marks all over the place. The file or some sandpaper will work wonders to remove those. You'll also want a panel line marker like This they come in different colors so look around to get the one that matches the model your working on, adding panel lines alone greatly improves the look of the model. After you have the nub mark removal and panel lining down the sky is the limit you can dabble in custom painting or try your hand at kitbashing custom models. Research each thoroughly before trying them and expect a lot of errors at first if you try those.

Not sure your price points but looking on Amazon this Army painter set is a great start to get a quantity of colors you would need and can add colors when you need to, there's also a $25usd kit with less paints but enough to get started.

For brushes I get this from Michaels as it had a lot of brush sizes for different things and starting out you don't need to buy expensive brushes.

This is a great brush cleaner and depending on the figures you decide to paint you need some tools so something like this kit would be easy to have everything in one go.

Did you have any minis in mind you were wanting to get started with? And welcome, I use painting for stress relief as well and it's easy when you have a figure and are just making them look good

1. Yes all modern (post 2,000's) Gunpla are snap-fit.
   
2. You can get him a kit like this which includes all of the basic tools needed. Can also throw in panel line markers as a plus.
   
3. All preference really. The HGUC Gundam RX78 Revive, HGBF Try Burning Gundam and the all mighty MG Ball Ver ka are some of the highly rated kits for beginners.

Well, the only things you really need to build a kit are a pair of hobby clippers and motivation. Everything else is optional, depending on how much effort you wanna put into making your model look as best as possible(hell, I used nail clippers of all things with my first gunpla because I didn't want to invest in tools before actually building one for myself and knowing if this was a hobby I wanted to pursue or not).

For this one I actually got a modeling toolkit, some Gundam markers for panel lining and a small cutting mat through amazon(although you might be able to find them at local hobby stores as well). I can't really speak for other tools, but these ones worked pretty well for me. If you're worried about costs you can always start with just some basic tools and slowly build your toolbox up from there as you build more models. Hopefully you have as much fun with your first gunpla as I had with mine!

P.S. Remember I'm also a newbie so take all of this with a grain of salt

I had this problem when I tried filling the body of my 3.8mm parallel. Instead, I'm refilling the cartridges with one of these syringes. The converters are also fairly cheap, the CON-20 being one you squeeze, and the CON-50 being a piston you twist (holds slightly less ink than the other according to GouletPens).

Building my first gunpla, and I keep making things worse when I try and sand down nubs.

I'm using tools from


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D1JYXKO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Ak2nybGW2B3D8

Also what is that yellow tool included?

Well, let me help you with the tools.

This is what I have it has served me well for the past 7months of this hobby.

This is all you should need for the starting of the models.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Revell-39604-Contacta-Professional-Glue/dp/B000KJPUL0/ref=sr_1_cc_6?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1421508285&sr=1-6-catcorr&keywords=humbrol+model

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Revell-39604-Contacta-Professional-Glue/dp/B000KJPUL0/ref=sr_1_cc_6?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1421508285&sr=1-6-catcorr&keywords=humbrol+model

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Humbrol-No-00-Triangle-Handle-Detail/dp/B0089W1LQS/ref=pd_sim_k_h_b_cs_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=1PVXTVM1HZWBV99J5A22

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001MTHQ0U?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004OIAVJY?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00649ON36?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sandpaper-Waterproof-Highest-Quality-STARCKE/dp/B009QZEQKK/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1421508669&sr=8-16&keywords=sandpaper+sheet

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Modelcraft-9-Piece-Plastic-Modelling-Tool/dp/B001TH8LAY/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1421508555&sr=8-4&keywords=model+file - this has a tiny cutting map and some other crap, but the cutters and the file are amazing IMO

Above is all the basic stuff you need for this hobby, I might of missed something, but don't think so.



Get the models and paints from https://www.darksphere.co.uk/pgc.php?c=1106 as it could literally mean for example, in my case, I can buy 3 manticores(the thing with a load of rockets) for the price of 2 manticores from the offical site or shop of gamesworkshop.

Everything is about 30% cheaper than offical places but literally the same stuff.

Also, look on ebay daily as they have some great deals sometimes, also would really pay to get some cheap shitty model and practice on it, rather than getting some nice and new model and using it as practice.

Hope this helps:)

I have some tools but do I need to buy a basic tool kit to build these kits?

I think they are called salon style sanders. I think I got it in a modelling kit from Amazon

I think this is the kit that had it.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071XCJ5YG/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_4zfDDbZN15F96

Or you could just get a Dremel with variable speeds but I found them to be a bit too powerful.

Use a hex drive set. I have some laying around for my RC vehicle. I only use one or two out of the entire set on my actual RC truck. I hit it with the lighter until it is really hot, then press in. Afterwards, I put the tip of my exacto knife blade into the center and go in a circle around the hole. You won't get a perfect circle, which is actually better as no two holes are going to be completely the same. You end up with holes like this example, this example and this example.

Using them makes it much easier to control the depth of the holes. It's harder to overdo the hole (make it too big/deep) with this technique because the metal doesn't hold the heat very long. It can also still give you that pushed up melted metal look if you leave the melted plastic on.

I believe I have finally decided on my first Gunpla, the HG Age II Magnum and want to make sure the items I have added to my Amazon cart are ideal or not for a beginner/future use for HG and MG kits. The list is as follows:

• Gundam Model Builder's Cutting Mat 12"x9"
  
• Findfly 9Pcs Gundam Model Tool Kit
  
• Gundam Marker Value Set
  
• Mr. Super Clear Flat Spray
  
• Bamboo Skewers
  
• Alligator Clips
  
• ScotchBlue Painter's Tape
  
• Styrofoam Blocks
  
  I know that this sub has a list of tools and tutorials, but because I'm trying to budget, I was thinking no more than $100 would be ideal for me to start with. Since I'm beginning with HG models, I don't think I need a full set of Gundam markers, but if it's needed/required/highly suggested, I might pick them up as well.
  
  So I have read and seen that top coating and panel lining are essential for MG models to make them pop. Are they just as essential for HG model kits? Looking at pictures of the Age II Magnum I'm planning on getting from Amazon, it doesn't seem to have a lot of indents for panel lining. Of course, I could be wrong and be blind as a bat. If I don't do any sort of panel lining, is it still a good idea to add a top coat regardless?
  
  Also, how soon can one get into MG kits? I was originally going to jump straight into either the MG GM Sniper II or the RX-78-2 Ver 3.0 but after doing some research over the past few days, I've decided I'll be doing a few HG's to begin with as I haven't built model kits since I was like 7 or 8 with my dad. I'm thinking after the Age II Magnum, I was thinking about getting either the HG Double O Diver or the HG 00 Shia Qan[T]. Maybe after I complete the 3 HG's I've listed, is it possible to jump to the the GM Sniper II?
  
  TL;DR:
  
  

• Are the items I have listed a good starting point?
  
  
• Is a full set of Gundam Markers a necessity for HG/beginners?
  
  
• Are panel lining and top coatings important for HG model kits?
  
  
• Is it okay to use top coat on an HG model if no panel lining is used?
  
  
• Edit Do people usually top coat the accessories? I can't seem to find any info on that.
  
  
• What color panel lining pens do people normally use based on different parts of Gunpla's?
  
  
• What level of skill should one be at before getting into MG model kits?
  
  

A pin vise and a range of bit sizes is always nice. Lots of kits require you to drill holes in pieces, and not having a pin vise is an issue.

I personally have 6 or 7 tweezers, ranging from flat head to needlepoint to 90*. Probably don't need that many, but having both straight and curved are a good option.

Nail sanding sticks from the beauty section of most stores is good. A set of files is also nice for hard to reach areas and curved pieces.

This is potentially a good starter set. It lacks a pin vise though, although you can easily find one on Amazon as well. I recommend a 0.3 - 1.5 mm range of bits if possible. I also don't know your budget, so this could be too expensive.

My procedure for removing nubs is:

1. x-acto knife to remove most of the nub
   
2. my sanding file
   
3. 600 to greater grit sandpaper.
   
   Imo you should always have a reliable set of different shaped files. It helps you get that flat surface depending on the part. Sandpaper is decent on its own, but you can save so much time using a file in tandem with your sandpaper

Is this deal worth it? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D1JYXKO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_IR1NAb14D22A5
I feel like I'm letting the kits down with my current tools and was wondering if I should get it.

How much are you looking to spend? Buying overseas is always an option, but you're usually waiting for your stuff and shipping can be a little pricey. (Also some restrictions like can't send blades or liquids.) In my personal opinion on the two sets is that the cheaper one gives you more for less, but probably less quality. Also found a slightly cheaper set here. This one is the same price and has more stuff. Here I will just link the store on amazon.

Something like this is good to start with. If you like the hobby, you can always get better, more expensive tools from there: https://www.amazon.com/Rustark-Gundam-Building-Repairing-Fixing/dp/B071LB1T5D/ref=sr_1_20?ie=UTF8&qid=1541540564&sr=8-20&keywords=hobby+tool+set

Something like this

Gundam Model Kits Tools Esoca Bandai Gundam Tool Kit Gundam Modeling Tools Gunpla Tools Kit Gundam Modeler Basic Tools Craft Set for Airplane Car Model Hobby Building, 14 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QD9DYNR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_RAjUDbTW1A87A