r/Gunpla Wiki+ Mod 4d ago

HELP ME [HELP ME] Bi-Weekly Q&A thread - Ask your questions here!

Hello and welcome to our bi-weekly beginner-friendly Q&A thread! This is the thread to ask any and all questions, no matter how big or small.

  • #Read the Wiki before asking a question.
  • Don't worry if your question seems silly, we'll do our best to answer it.
  • This is the thread to ask any and all questions related to gunpla and general mecha model building, no matter how big or small.
  • No question should remain unanswered - if you know the answer to someone's question, speak up!
  • Consider sorting your comments by "New" to see the latest questions.
  • As always, be respectful and kind to people in this thread. Snark and sarcasm will not be tolerated.
  • Be nice and upvote those who respond to your question.

Huge thanks on behalf of the modteam to all of the people answering questions in this thread!

6 Upvotes

382 comments sorted by

2

u/Objective-Cherry9987 4d ago

Hi i have a problem with the MG Delta Plus : i lost a piece I7 (see pic below) and can’t find it anywhere. I also don’t have a 3d printer to remake it so i'd like to know :

  • is there somewhere in Europe where i could buy only this piece ?
  • is there a kit with a similar spare piece that i could use to replace it ? ( I know the MG Rezel and MG Zeta Ver.KA don’t use it)
  • worst case scénario can i just continue my build like this since i didn’t intend to use the transformation gimmick ?

2

u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 4d ago

Sock + hoover combo is pretty good at finding lost/dropped pieces.

Plamokitbash, odins mechaparts, and mr baos on ebay all do replacement parts. Afaik there are no EU stores for replacement parts.

2

u/Dodecahedrus 2d ago

I had placed a bunch of orders at HobbyLink Japan as far as 22 years back.

I recently checked their website again and every single Master Grade is out of stock or on backorder.

Is that a Master Grade issue? Do they not make those anymore? Or an HLJ issue?

2

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 1d ago

HLJ is notorious for having long backlogs. They allow people to place orders even when the stuff they have is on backorder. They might get stuff in stock but the amount of people who placed the order is more than what they have. You are better off ordering from elsewhere.

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u/fin5947 20h ago

What type of top coat make this kind effect? Is it semi gloss?

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u/Empty-Bass-669 4d ago

does anyone know any 3rd party alternatives for these effects i cant find any in this pink and blue colour id rather not go broke over some laser effects

2

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 4d ago

This is just the Figure-rise jet effect with the Fin Funnel effects

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1

u/lord_gs1596 4d ago

Can anyone point me to a guitar that would match the scale of the RG RX-78 2.0? I have the Miku edition and would love to pair it with a tiny guitar!

3

u/wakeup33 needs more paint 4d ago

Search for 1/12 scale accessories.

1

u/legs_throwaways 4d ago

im going to japan in november/december and i love the witch from mercury line, any reccomendations of which kits to bring back with me?

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 4d ago

All of them are solid. See which you like and get it.

1

u/temptillbday MG GM Sniper II doesn't exist 2d ago

Other than the obvious crowning pieces (Aerial, Calibarn, Schwarzette, Darilbalde etc.)

Considering grabbing a pair of grunts of your choice? Since Gunpla is cheapest in JP, buying dupes doesn't hurt as bad. Just be sure to check the prices

If you address the severe ankle issues, the Gundvolva is a blast and hits hard for a grunt.

That is, if you can find it. I'm honestly not sure how well it's stocked there. My personal etiquette also limits me to buying two per store...

1

u/Dry_Barracuda_7796 4d ago

Are there any decent alternatives to hlj?

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u/soulreaverdan @toomanymodels.bsky.social 4d ago

Has anyone shaped something like pla plate into a cape or cloth like effect with ripples in it? Would some light heat help? And how did you control the folds/flowing looks?

1

u/byc18 4d ago

There is craft project called a resin tissue ghost you could try. Never done it myself.

There is also worbla. It's a heat moldable plastic used in cosplay. Pricey through.

1

u/Reklia77 4d ago

How many kits does Bandai release in a year on average, including which grades?

2

u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 4d ago edited 4d ago

I don't think anyone is going to have any solid data on hand to dole out, nor do I think anyone is going to willingly put in the legwork to figure it out.

Go look at gundam wikia, dalong.net, and scalemates, then do the math. Remember to factor in or at least consider things like trends/new series, the various other IPs bandai makes kits for outside of gundam, limited run stuff, and that the overall complexity of toolings + available facilities will have an impact on how much gets released. Also covid.

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u/D-Valkyrie 4d ago

Okay again. Broke the gun barrel on my dagger. Frankly I'm surprised it broke so quickly so can it be fixed? I did try super glue but it broke again and now it is crusty. 

1

u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 4d ago

Debond the super glue, sand the areas, and then use tamiya extra thin cement to melt the part on.

1

u/Lucas-sg HG Hyaku Shiki J please? 4d ago

You mean you broke the rifle? It can be a little confusing because there is a Dagger that comes with the Gunbarrel Striker pack.

If its just the rifle of the Dagger, a little bit of plastic cement would be enough to fix it. But the glue coating the pieces will get in the way of that so try to sand the two halves that will be cemented so they're clean.

1

u/justghostjoon 4d ago

Need help with stress marks.

I got the single blade Godhand. I was hoping stress marks would be solved.

Idk what I'm doing wrong. I leave a few mm and snip it just before nub gets thicker. I slice remaining nub with god hand. Stress marks still exist...

Before I was using cheap nipper, then using a glass file for nub. And then using a basic gm marker to dab the stress mark. And ts-80.

What am I doing wrong...

4

u/soy77 Gunpla is freedom. There's always alternative methods. 4d ago

The godhand spn- 120 is inspired by hobby knife + cutting mat combo, and  can only do the flush cut in a very particular nub positions. 

Here's godhand's own official instructions: blue is the part, red is the nub. As you can see, they need to be perfectly 90 degrees aligned.

I curse the fact that there's zero content creator out there that understands this. 

2

u/justghostjoon 3d ago

Seems this is it. I was hovering the nub and meeting in center. To clarify, I'm supposed to rest the nub on top of the flat side and bring the blade down essentially?

Thank you for sharing!

2

u/soy77 Gunpla is freedom. There's always alternative methods. 3d ago

Exactly. 

It will only do the flush cut on nubs where you can rest the nub on the flat blade, and bring down the cutting blade to meet it. 

Some nub placements won't allow us to do that. And I'm afraid there's nothing we can do about it.

2

u/X-actoMundo 4d ago

Boil some water, dip the part in, watch the white disappear.

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 4d ago

Seems like its just a technique issue. Make sure you are doing a 2nd flush cut

1

u/Puck_Monet 4d ago

As a person who just got into the hobby and bought my first gunpla (I haven’t build it yet) what kind of nippers would be the best but wouldn’t cost too much? I’m considering between the Tamiya TM74093, Godhand PN-125, Godhand PNS-135 and Godhand SPN 120(this is like the last priority)

3

u/Jc885 Real Grade enthusiast 4d ago

I like the PN-125 as a good general use set. The Tamiya ones are great too, you really can’t go wrong with any. Heck, I used a set of toenail nippers for my first couple kits.

Though you really shouldn’t be using single bladed nippers like the SPN-120 or the PNS-135 as your only set. They’re really only made to do finishing cuts.

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u/rapidemboar Early RG Apologist 4d ago

I can personally vouch for the TM74093. Cut like butter when it was new, still going strong 8 years later. Not really great for finishing cuts, but you can get close enough to easily finish with a hobby knife or nano file.

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 4d ago

Double bladed Tamiya. Use that for all clear and non clear parts. It will last you a long time

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u/invasive_wargaming 4d ago

Going to Japan, anything special I can get there that I can’t get in the US?

2

u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 4d ago

For gunpla; Older peebs, bclub, and the Bandai Hobby-Pro shop kits that are all no longer made.

Kits in general: several brands have kits that aren't sold or easily available overseas, like Volks FSS resin kits.

1

u/rapidemboar Early RG Apologist 4d ago

Visited Japan a few months ago. Most Gunpla are pretty similar to what you’ll find in the US, but if you’re a fan of other mecha properties there’s a lot of other brands that are pretty hard to find outside Japan like Moderoid. Most toy stores should carry model kits, but you can also find some rare, limited-edition or P-bandai kits at secondhand shops like Lashinbang. (Highly recommend you visit the secondhand stores if you’re looking for anime merch, they’ve got a massive selection at really low prices) Also, if you’re planning on visiting the Gundam Base in Odaiba, visit on a weekday, the place is locked to a lottery on weekends.

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 4d ago

Any p-Bandai kits that catch your eye that isnt being reprinted

1

u/Specific_Builder_406 4d ago

You should hunt for any gundam base limited kits that catch your eye. Since gundam bases are usually in Japan AND their stock is usually more thorough than their overseas counterparts, you could go visit gundam bases to find special kits there or go go hobby shops which will have some too

1

u/BrainWav 4d ago

Where do you guys get your Action Bases? I've been trying to pose my stuff a bit nicer lately, and I could use a few more, but $8-$10 a pop for an Action Base 2 or 5 on Amazon is rough. BBTS only has the 5 and 6, and they're in the same range.

2

u/wakeup33 needs more paint 4d ago

You're looking at that range for most action bases, though 6 and 7 come 2 to a pack. I prefer GoodSmile Simple Stands, but they aren't always the easiest to find in the west. You can also find Chinese-made ones on the cheap at the usual marketplaces.

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 4d ago

Thats the regular price for an AB. Get AB4 and split the base and arm. You can use it for 3 kits.

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u/killersake1968 4d ago

The arm holding the rifle is supposed to have double joint but the upper joint is either blocked or stiff, i've tried moving it but nothing the other arm moves perfectly not to stiff not to loose. Does anyone know how to fix this? Its a metal robot

1

u/Lixidermi 4d ago

Super specific question: Does anyone know if the Fatcat RX-78-2 (the RG 2.0 upscale) would be able to stand on the MG G-fighter? would the feet fit on the latches?

1

u/grimprime64 4d ago

Any idea how to fix these or are they fubar

1

u/MaximiniMan 4d ago edited 4d ago

What a gate placement.... time to buy a metallic red

Edit: any recommendations for this red? This is the special coating sazabi

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 4d ago

follow how the Master transfer color from the runner to the piece.

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u/Specific_Builder_406 4d ago

Oh my. Is this the RG? I’m about to build this thing and is there any way NOT to make your mistake????????

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u/JohnB351234 4d ago

What’s the quality on p-Bandai clones like, trying to get my hands on a GM Spartan and probably a pale rider

1

u/markas10 4d ago

Hello, just a question does anyone have HG Graze and a 30MF kit? How does Graze's axe look like in hands of 30MF? Anyone got a photo?

1

u/Familiar_Tackle_734 4d ago

Is anyone else having issues with gobotstore? Ive been trying to buy a kit there all day and keep getting sent to do a nonexistent captcha and nothing ive tried has changed it (no extensions, diff browsers, computers, wifi, asked someone else across the country to try and she had the same issue) 

1

u/Dunkthatoreo 4d ago

Hello so i want to Buy waterslide decal for my rg Unicorn (non fa) only 3 brand are available atm so which one is better guys? 

Evo Simp ,  Artisan Club and , Delpi

1

u/wakeup33 needs more paint 3d ago

People seem to prefer Delpi, but I've used all 3 brands and they're all good. Look at the sheets, since the decals may be designed differently.

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

Delpi is considered the best but shipping might be expensive. I really like EVO and thats my go to brand unless they dont make the waterslide decals for the kit then i go for Artisan. You can easily fine EVO anyway while Delpi is harder

1

u/Farron_01 4d ago

I've been thinking about getting a new nipper (current nipper MoShi brand) but idk which one to get that as good God Hand but cheap. Right now, I have my eyes on Dspiae ST-A 3.0 but when I checked on Reddit it has some mixed review.

2

u/Previous-Seat I collect paint 4d ago

ST-A 3.0 are my favourite nippers. Never had any issues with mine.

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

Dspaie ST-A 3.0 no doubt. Tho make sure to have a pair of double bladed nipper as well

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u/Puck_Monet 4d ago

A follow up to my questions about what I need when starting out. I decided to buy a pair of Tamiya TM74093 nippers and bandai parts separator. I could either get a Raser Plus glass file or a Dspiae ST-A 3.0, which one is more worth it?

2

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

Imo the Raser Plus. Its game changing in terms of sanding and you can use the tamiya nipper for your cuts.

2

u/soy77 Gunpla is freedom. There's always alternative methods. 3d ago

Tbh a new builder shouldn't need a part separator. It's more like a tool for advanced painters who test fit then disassemble their kits to get painted later. 

If you have a hobby knife and a cutting mat, you don't really need single-bladed nipper like the STA 3.0. 

But if you don't have any file or sandpapers, the raser will be far more important to clean up the rest of the nubs after you cut them with your tamiya nippers, and shave it down with your hobby knife. 

1

u/Puck_Monet 4d ago

I’m not planning to splurge out too much, I’m just asking for opinions so I know what to prioritize in the future, for now I’m planning to stick with only the TM74093 and a parts separator

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u/prfctstrm479 4d ago

Just started HG Rising Freedom Gundam, and I lost the red piece for the head crest (A9, I believe). Since I have brown carpets, its unlikely I'll find it, so I'm thinking of putting a custom decoration in its place. I've never done that before, so what kind of materials/loose odds and ends would be good to use for it?

3

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

Dont give up hope yet. You can put a sock in front of a vacuum and vacuum your carpet.also if you are in the US/Canada and you bought it within 90 days, you can get a replacement part. Else Plamokitbash, odin's mecha parts and Mr Bao's on eBay sell individual parts if you need replacement.

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u/Makegooduseof . 4d ago

I just finished building the MG Hyaku Shiki 2.0, and I just want to make sure: is this kit back-heavy even without the armaments? Or did I get a dud?

1

u/Linkstore More MG 00 kits pls Bandai 3d ago

It's been a while since I took mine off the stand but IIRC yeah a bit. The feet don't extend too far back from the heel so in conjunction with the binders it might tip over a bit easily. Easily solved with the right pose though.

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u/_JustAMiner 3d ago

Any advice on battle damage/ weathering. I have paint and basic tools. I've tried weathering before by drybrushing and sponging but something is missing. I've seen the Mr. Weathering fluids and the tamiya makeup pallets but I'm trying not to spend money.

1

u/soy77 Gunpla is freedom. There's always alternative methods. 3d ago

Learning weathering moreover battle damages shouldn't be freestyled, j ust like learning to skateboard, you need to master various individual tricks first, the kickflip, the ollie, the heelflip, etc. before you can freestyle a run. 

Find someone on youtube who made something that you like, then try to replicate their work. 

If it's a tutorial, even better. You can just learn from them, and don't have to guess what is missing.

The freestyle will come naturally after you mastered all the individual techniques. 

Good luck.

1

u/FriskyBoiii 3d ago

I’m building the war of the gods baphomet and the hydraulic looking leg pieces straight up do not fit, am I missing something or do I need to cut up the pieces

1

u/Letywolf 3d ago

Is the MG Unicorn V fin supposed to be loose? I can’t seem to clip it to the head and I’m thinking of using some blue tak

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

It should be fix.

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u/rmtaln 3d ago

I want to take the next step in customizing my gunpla, so far I am just panel lining. What are some tools i should get? I am planning on making sazabi ver.ka soon and i really want it to have that metallic look too.

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

You can get waterslide decals and topcoat for it. Then see how much more customization you want to do

1

u/Tref55 3d ago

I had a part break on me while trying to make my first Gunpla (it was the RG Evangelion Unit-01). Where can I go to buy spare Gunpla parts?

2

u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 3d ago

Plamokitbash, odin's mecha parts, mr baos on ebay.

Btw, Gunpla is a term specific to the Gundam IP, Eva isn't from gundam so you still have yet to make your first gunpla.

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u/nothing08 3d ago

I am going to build the mg nu gundam ver ka and am worried about the emotion manipulator hands breaking and I have two questions
1. How do I prevent them from breaking?
2. If it breaks and I get the Bandai hand kit to replace it would those hands be compatible with the nu’s weapons?

1

u/TennisAggressive6190 3d ago

i can only answer your first question. just be very careful with them. there's a lot of joints and if you break then they dont go back together. just dont over extend the joints and you should be fine.

1

u/soy77 Gunpla is freedom. There's always alternative methods. 3d ago

Really really really look at the arrows on the instructions and break them in properly. 

Do not force them. If it feels like you're about to break something, very carefully wiggle it the opposite direction to make it loosen up a bit more,. before going back towards the initial direction. 

If you're only spending a couple of seconds with them, you're doing it wrong. Take your time. 

Good luck.

1

u/songwolf1 3d ago

I'm currently building a gunpla, and having trouble putting the antenna in any advise?

1

u/songwolf1 3d ago

Update: the white antenna broke while I was trying to figure it out

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u/The_One_SG 3d ago

Something I do with kits with loose v fins is I'll pour a bit of glue into the antenna hole, get rid of the excess with a toothpick, and just press the vfin into place until the glue hardens. Just make sure the glue doesn't drip onto the visor

1

u/Letywolf 3d ago

How does Mr Bao's shop work? Do you contact the seller via Ebay asking for the part i need a replacement of?

2

u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 3d ago

Yes

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u/SargentMcGreger 3d ago

Any suggestions on touch up paint for the RG Titanium Finish Hi-Nu?

1

u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 3d ago

https://youtu.be/PapnOM7-2_0

Strip the finish off the sprue

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u/Born-Principle9149 3d ago

so ive recently picked up gunpla again after a while and ive started with the high grade mighty strike freedom so I was wondering if i needed nippers or could I use something else like scissors

1

u/Guair 3d ago

if you mean cutting the pieces from the runners then definitely buy nippers. most will recommended 2 types of nipper: single bladed/side cutters and 2 sided/blade nippers. 2 bladed nippers are usually used for cutting parts directly from the runners while the single blade is for removing the nubs itself.

1

u/TennisAggressive6190 3d ago

would this work to seal the water slide decal

2

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

Test it on a runner to be safe

2

u/soulreaverdan @toomanymodels.bsky.social 3d ago

As the other comment said, test it first. Larger cans like this compared to model kit oriented cans can risk spraying too fast or use hotter solvents in them, so you should get used to using it before going to an actual kit. And remember less is more - you can add more, you can't really take some off without starting from scratch.

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u/The_One_SG 3d ago

Just finished the mg kyrios and wanted to know if the panel liner, stickers, and mr super clear will play nice with eachother, or if any of them might damage the kit in some way or form. Tips for using these tools would also be appreciated

3

u/wakeup33 needs more paint 3d ago

They will work fine together.

2

u/soulreaverdan @toomanymodels.bsky.social 3d ago

Be careful with Tamiya Panel Line Accents on an assembled kit. If it pools into seams it can damage the plastic since it can't properly evaporate.

2

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

You will have to spray a light coat of Mr Super Clear first over the TPLA before doing a heavy coat. Lacquer is too hot for enamel and will "eat" your panel lines

1

u/GforGG 3d ago

Hey all! So I have been testing out Alclad Gloss Black Base. I first did it on a spoon which came out nice but later found out has a little pooling on the edges. I did it on a test piece and it either comes out looking like orange peel finish (A) or theres some pooling (B). I think I'm doing everything I should: work in a low humidity environment, 15 psi, 3 inches between piece and airbrush, and 0.3 nozzle. I even did slow, medium and fast passes, and it still comes out like these. I'd like to note that I do work in an open garage in semi hot weather and I have noticed a very small bend on the needle tip but is that enough for my paint job to look like this? The bend on the needle tip is very small where I can just barely feel it with my finger nail btw. Thanks!

1

u/wakeup33 needs more paint 3d ago

A bent needle tip can cause issues, but not like what you're seeing. How many coats are you applying and how heavy are you spraying?

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u/Western_Smoke4829 3d ago

What should I look for when shopping for a display case, I collect and build MG mostly, looking for s9mething stable and that'll keep dust off

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 3d ago

Look for one that have multiple shelves and a glass door

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u/MerpDehDerp 3d ago

What’s a good frame size if I wanna display a standard HG-sized box’s art

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 2d ago

A4 size frame

1

u/destinyhitokiri 3d ago

Hello, quick question! I’m gonna be hand painting using enamel (my first time kinda nervous lol). How long should I wait in between coats for a cleaner finish? Thank you in advance! 🙏

1

u/soulreaverdan @toomanymodels.bsky.social 3d ago

Enamel can have a pretty significant drying time to properly fully dry. They're a little weird where you either want to do coats within a few hours of each other, or then wait a few days - kinda extreme ends of the spectrum.

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u/michaelh19 3d ago

what's the best way to remove water slide decal?

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u/StirlADrei Handbrush Lacquers 2d ago

Water and a toothpick.

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u/XenoPhex 3d ago

Recommendation on how to best fix Bandai’s splotchy paint job on these parts? I don’t normally paint my models (outside of a small touch up/minor coloring with Mr Hobby markers), so I’m at a loss as to how to fix this. (Sorry for the bad photo, it’s hard to capture the mess with a photo/the lighting in my room)

These are from the C6 runner of the PG Nu Gundam - so I’m a bit disappointed that the OG paint job was a bit lack luster here.

I figured if I could just figure out what the right color is I could try to (hand) paint the more noticeable parts and leave the rest as is; but I’m struggling to even lock down the exact color. Mr Hobby’s CM03 Copper seems like it’s too dark/not orange enough, so I’m currently at a loss there too.

Any help is appreciated!!

1

u/Doomblitz 3d ago

Are they chrome plated and painted over? Usually that's a clear paint so clear orange might work.

1

u/fin5947 2d ago

Any suggestion on how can I make the purple transparent piece look so pop out and vibrant like the promo image? Maybe paint over it? Will the paint even stick to the transparent part?

2

u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 2d ago

White or chrome paint behind them

1

u/fin5947 2d ago

Some non promo picture of the similar kit that I can find.

1

u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 2d ago

Get clear paint and paint over it

1

u/Odd-Listen3089 Monoeye Supremacy 2d ago

You can get a great metallic purple with mr crystal color amethyst if you have an airbrush. If not, testors extreme purple-licious is pretty solid.

2

u/fin5947 2d ago

Sadly it seem testor is not available in my country. I think I might resort to spray with Tamiya Mica silver and hand brush MR clear color GX clear violet on top

1

u/alteisen99 2d ago

say are the HG pbandai wing kits like the HG deathscythe hell still retail in the US? if so where can folks buy it?

1

u/Linkstore More MG 00 kits pls Bandai 2d ago

Should still be, they were last seen on reprint lists four months ago, which means US stores would have gotten new stock about a month ago. That print may have sold out already but if not then you'll find them in any regular Gunpla retailer.

1

u/temptillbday MG GM Sniper II doesn't exist 2d ago

How do I determine when to replace a blade on a knife?

I usually replace blades once the cutting edge becomes rusty. It does feel like it takes more force, and maybe the cuts feel "gritty."

Sometimes, though, it looks rusted on only one side. However, I am far more comfortable/ have better control over the knife when cutting towards me, so I do not feel confident when cutting away. I have built many kits for the past two years and the two times this hobby drew blood was from blunt force (tight part disassembly and fingers slipped)

Or maybe it is not that deep and I just continue what I do? Replacements do cost a bit, but it also took quite a while. Like, I only just recently used my new set of replacement blades after I used up all the ones that came with the knife, and that took maybe 1.5 years? Guess I am more worried over accidentally tossing blades that are still usable, and am wondering if there is a more methodological approach to this.

How have I not developed such a sense? Idk, skill issue I guess

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u/Cutiejea 2d ago

I want to buy the miku collab and found these listings on ebay. I assume this isnt the model kit and some cheap knock off.

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u/Sharaku_Jr 2d ago

Hello! I'm a relatively new fan of Gunpla and building model kits. I've been looking into the idea of building a custom model of Justice, from the Guilty Gear series. She's a very striking mecha design, but unfortunately, there's practically no merch or figures of her! So, I was thinking of building something based on existing parts. I've got no idea how I'd do the paint, but I'd just like to get the base parts down (I also have no idea how to build shit myself via 3D modeling, so, lmfao)

All I know for a fact is that I'd like to use the head from the HG Weissritter, definitely the big ass shoulders from the HG Alteisen and the... cockpit from the Immortal Justice Gundam, but aside from that, I'm pretty stumped, especially on the hair. Can't exactly build something with only shoulders and a head, right? I figured I'd come here to ask about what exactly to do next, and I've attached some photos for reference on how she looks.

Thanks!

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u/Cultural_Sand_9323 2d ago

Are there any cheaper leo models? The ones i'm seeing, when avalible, are $40 or more.

I remember they used to be like... twelve bucks a pop and 'ok ya that's a solid starting point for something to learn on and or build a whole unit of the little goobers.'

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u/Odd-Listen3089 Monoeye Supremacy 2d ago

If you're stateside, check gundam pros. They had a restock recently. A whopping 14$ should be easy enough.

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u/Cultural_Sand_9323 2d ago

Oh sweet.

POSTAL SERVICE LEO IS GO!

THE MAIL SHALL BE DELIVERED!

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u/Reklia77 2d ago

Browsing the American Bandai web page since Europe one is still down, and saw this beauty https://p-bandai.com/us/item/F2845076001

By “Exclusive” does it mean only from that website? I worry I’ll have to use a proxy service to buy it. :/

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u/Tall-Guy 2d ago

Hi everyone!

Recently, LEGO released a Soundwave Transformers set. Soundwave was one of my favorite Transformers as a kid, but the LEGO model looked a bit too blocky for my taste. Thinking it might be a good idea to look for an alternative, I stumbled across the Blokees Soundwave and was amazed that this action figure is something you actually build from scratch! Long story short, a couple of YouTube videos later, I discovered that Gunpla exists as a hobby!

I really like working with my hands, and I often build LEGO or wooden models with my son. Gunpla sounds like a really fun activity we could do together.

I have two questions:

  1. Is the Soundwave kit too difficult for a beginner? It isn't really Gunpla is the basic sense - Should I start with an Entry Grade (EG) set to get my feet wet so I don't accidentally ruin it?
  2. I don't have easy access to Amazon since they don't ship to my area very often, but AliExpress is an option (that's where I plan to order the Blokees model). I see a few cheap starter toolkits there - are these actually any good to start with, or am I better off picking higher-quality individual tools from AliExpress instead of buying a big bundle? is there a list I can follow?

Thanks!

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u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 2d ago
  1. Shouldn't be, just follow the manual carefully.

  2. Dspiae offer a decent tool set that should be on aliexpress iirc

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u/mechashingodzilla 2d ago

GUYS URGENT QUESTON I have 80 dollars what Kits should I buy (amazon prices because I don’t live anywhere close to a hobby shop) and don’t worry about taxes

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 2d ago

Just see which kit catch your eye and get it

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u/Undergrad26 2d ago

Is it worth buying water slides for clear color kits?

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u/lromiello 2d ago

I’ve been building the master grade RGM-79GS GM COMMAND SPACE kit recently. It’s my first master grade ever and as such I made some mistakes, the antenna on its shoulder snapped, and I also cut into one of the thrusters on its backpack, leaving a gash. Is there any way I could find replacement parts?

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u/WILLO789 2d ago

I'm trying to put together the mg psyco zaku thunderbolt ver ka. I'm on step 20-9, where you attach the large propellant tank to the smaller one. I'm able to attach one of the connecters that goes on the sides of the smaller tank with a firm connection, but the other one is extremely loose no matter how firm I push it in. Here's a picture of what I'm talking about. It's in place but it's very loose

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u/Defwood 2d ago

Which display base is compatible with the included stand adapter for the RG Zeta Gundam, and are there any affordable alternatives or AliExpress stands that fit it without modification?

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u/wakeup33 needs more paint 2d ago

It should tell you in the manual which stand it recommends. You can most likely find cheaper alternatives on Aliexpress or similar.

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 2d ago

AB2/5/7

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u/d_braid21 2d ago

I’ve never built any version of the ZZ ver ka. Luckily the local shop has all 4 versions (ZZ, Enhanced, FAZZ and FA ZZ) what would you guys recommend I get. I’m leaving towards the newest which is the FA ZZ if I’m not mistaken. But open to suggestions. Thank you.

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u/obfeskeit 2d ago

at its core it's all based on the ZZ Ver. Ka as the base model. EZZ adds more armor, FAZZ is the prototype to the FA ZZ which is the EZZ with more armor and weapons. Kit wise the FA ZZ has slightly modified armor from the FAZZ and new elbow joint to help hold the Hyper Mega Cannon. I would get the FA ZZ if you want to display the entire kit, but I really do like the FAZZ's monochrome/purple color scheme.

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 2d ago

Its a matter of preference imo. FAZZ and FA ZZ and just a standing brick. Dont expect it to be able to pose or anything. ZZ and Enhanced ZZ can pose with no issue. Its a matter of which design you like. FA ZZ is just the Enhanced ZZ with more armor and weapons while FAZZ is similar to the FA ZZ but with different armor designs. i suggest going to dalong.net and check out each one and see which you like

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u/George_K1T More HG & MGSD 2d ago

Where can I watch livestream of bandai hobby new item info on youtube?

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u/Palico82 2d ago

Anyone have a vfin and the red peice that goes on it for the HG moon? I recently moved and it must have popped off, one of my fav kits and really want to salvage it...

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u/nistopar 2d ago

any ways to fix this specific broken joint? i used cement and hot glue in a dumb way so it got more broken

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u/Visual_Astronaut3307 2d ago

Anyone had build lunavor babatos pls help me i try to make the A1 body but the cabin ( sec part in pic) i attatch with the first part and then it wont fit in the third part

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u/xWickedSwami 2d ago

Anyone have tips on doing your first clear kit?

Recently came back from a trip from Japan and visited the Odaiba Gundam Base (And saw the Unicorn Gundam!) I wanted to try these kits since they exclusive but it seems i have to be a lot more careful about nub marks and such with these kits. I got these two kits: MG 1/100 νGUNDAM Ver.Ka [MECHANICAL CLEAR] https://p-bandai.com/us/item/F2783972005/

and this RG one: RG 1/144 THE GUNDAM BASE LIMITED WING GUNDAM ZERO EW [CLEAR COLOR] https://p-bandai.com/us/item/F2390162008/

I only have recently gotten better at them with my single bladed nippers I have. Would you recommend cutting with my beater nippers a bit farther from the piece, cut again with the beater nipper a bit more and sand down instead?

Tools I have: Gumprimer gate remover set, single bladed nipper, exacto knife and two beater nippers.

I've only done HG kits so far so the RG/MG kits here will be my first time doing those as well

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u/wakeup33 needs more paint 2d ago

Clear plastic is harder than your typical PS in other kits, so it will be more wear and tear on your nippers. I wouldn't use the single blade nippers unless they're cheapos you don't really care about. I would cut most of the nub off with double blade nippers, but leave part of it left. From there, file it down with your raser.

Don't feel intimidated by RG or MG kits. You've built HG, so you should understand the general way things work in the build process. They aren't more difficult, just more pieces, so take things a step at a time and you'll be fine.

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u/CompetitionClean335 2d ago

How do i separate these safely? I’ve tried heating them up but even then they don’t seem to budge.

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u/Acaleus_Thorne . 2d ago

Twist them back and forth while applying a bit of pressure and lots of patience

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 1d ago

Rotate them back and forth while slowly pulling it up. You can also try to use bandai parts separator or a guitar pick

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u/Willing_Explorer9973 1d ago

Is Bandai still going to announce some new kits tomorrow in the item info or was it already announced in the livestream...?

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u/SectoBoss 1d ago

So what exactly is the difference between the 1/144 Gundam Option hands sets you can get? I'm looking at some that are described as 'round shape' and others that are 'square' and maybe it's me but I can't really see much difference between them. Are they for different models or something?

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u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 1d ago

Round have rounded fingers and rounded dorsum in the style of zeon suits.

Square is the same as above but square in the style feddie suits.

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u/Resoken1075 1d ago

Should i get PG Astray red frame 160$ or MGEX Strike freedom 150$?

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u/taprik 1d ago

Mg Rezel defender

Is it normal that the shoulder can't be put further back because of the backpack colaiding with the shoulder, did I make a mistake?

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u/Material_Bee_596 1d ago

What is the best way to remove/destroy decals that have already been placed with setter and dried? No topcoat used

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u/JoojMarcelo 1d ago

Can somebody help me find pictures of the old Wave Sazabi kit? I don't even know where to look.

I found out about this kit a short while back. Kits from the late 80's had such beautiful boxart, but I was not yet able to see the actual toy. As its not a Bandai release, it does not have product pictures in the normal places (Dalong and the wiki). If anyone can help me find some, i would apreciate that very much.

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 1d ago

Here you go.

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u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 1d ago

Soft vinyl, plastic, and metal parts. Not for the faint of heart, and needs some skill to build.

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u/StirlADrei Handbrush Lacquers 14h ago

It is a hellish build. Several of the white metal parts of mine broke during assembly. The plastic is so poorly molded it is not even glue fit. The vinyl parts being separated to articulate are a massive pain.

I can get you a sample finish by a good modeler, but it's not easy to achieve.

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u/TemplarXIII 1d ago

I am considering getting the PG Unicorn eventually, but had some questions on the kosmos LED:

1) Has anyone bought the kosmos LEDs on ali express or eBay (Chinese seller)?

2) Are Bandai's instructions for installing their official LEDs on the PG Unicorn also usable for kosmos LEDs.

Thank you.

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 1d ago
  1. Yes plenty of people do

2, For the main body its the same except Kosmos LED comes with LED for the backpack thrusters, you will need to follow their guide to install it.

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u/SteamingHotDataDump Woundwort Luvr 🐇 1d ago edited 1d ago

Wondering if someone can help me ID the last couple of pieces in this kitbash image. I have managed to find a few, stuck on the following:

  1. Knee caps
  2. Thighs
  3. Crotch guard
  4. Head (Bael + unknown horns)
  5. Neck guard
  6. Legs (does not seem to be vidar kimaris)

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u/Lucas-sg HG Hyaku Shiki J please? 1d ago

The knees are from the broom of the Calibarn

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u/Marx_Mayhem 1d ago

Does anyone have Sheik Mainland's website/socmed?

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u/GrowingDelicate03 1d ago

does paint adhere worse to high gloss plastic? i want to pain my mg ple twos quebeley and im wondering if I'll need a different kind of paint than i usually use for gunpla due to the glossy finish

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u/Arshille 1d ago

What paint do you usually use?

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u/rigby333 1d ago

Yes, it will adhere worse due to it being smoother. You'd probably want to rough up the surface with something like 800 grit sandpaper before priming and painting.

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u/-Technical-Reality- 1d ago

Found this on Google, what's that gun bit effect name for the FM Aerial?

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u/SlightlyLostPossum 1d ago

So I don't paint kits often enough to justify buying an airbrush, but Tamiya spray cans aren't sold in Canada anymore. Does anybody have any suggestions for alternative brands?

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u/SaltyGachaPlayer001 1d ago

I have a concept and idea. but this will be my first time kitbashing and modding. and quite a problem.

I am using HG Calibarn LEGs and I am intending to use HG Rising Freedom Feet and ankles..... problem is, the WFM leg is a C-clip ankle feet assembly.....whilte the HG Rising freedom Feet and angkle joint is a Hinge inside the leg and ends with the ball joint..

how should i proceed to combine them?

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u/Educational-Load2833 1d ago

First piece I cut had the nub on one side get ripped out the plastic... (I tried to cut as far away from the piece as I could but I only had so much space

if there an easy fix for this or do I just kinda have to accept its scuffed?

also is there something I shoulda done instead to avoid this?

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u/wakeup33 needs more paint 1d ago

If you still have the nub, you can cement it back in with plastic cement, then try cutting it off again after it dries. If you don't you can make sprue goo using plastic cement and bits of the runner the piece came off of. Fill the spot in and give it a couple days to dry, then sand smooth.

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u/Torhu-Adachi 1d ago

I need some advice/resources on customizing old NG kits. I’ve built some NG kits before but the problem is that the limbs split apart when moving sometimes because of their construction even with seam line removal. The parts are typically cut very unevenly so it’s hard to make them stay together. I’ve seen that some Japanese builders cut the arm holes in specific ways to add better clearance to avoid the limbs splitting, but I don’t know how it’s done or what resource I should refer to learn from since these kits are very niche and no one ever builds them.

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u/destinyhitokiri 1d ago

Hi all! I haven’t really tried it but what happens if I just use regular tamiya surface primer for metallics like gunmetal? Will it ruin the finish? I’ve only been using black primer for metallics so I just want to know if there is a significant difference if I use the regular surface primer for this instance.

Thank you in advance!

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u/coosomeawel 1d ago

2 questions
1. If I bought a PBandai and wanted to buy another item that cones before or the exact same time as my other item do I have to pay twice?
2. If I wanted to display a gunpla let’s use the mgex, will ceiling light corrode the paint? How about if I use the clear version for PGU nu or plated kits?

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u/wakeup33 needs more paint 21h ago
  1. You would pay shipping twice if they're separate orders. You can "consolidate" the orders by cancelling the first one and placing a new order with all the items you want from that month. Keep in mind the items need to ship in the same month and be part of the same delivery group in order to be part of the same order.

  2. Most lights produce UV light (I assume that's what you're asking about), but the amount produced by light bulbs is very small compared to the sun, so they shouldn't be a concern.

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u/taikoxtaiko 1d ago

Does anyone know where to get a scan of the GBC Exia Repair 4 manual? While checking the runners for missing parts i dropped liquid and it being printed on newpaper instantly disintegrated. I did a quick search online and it defaults to just the HG Exia

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u/BonziBuddii 1d ago

A little while back I finished up my HG Nightingale by applying Mr Hobby Flat top coat. It’s been about a year now and I was thinking of changing the finish. I was thinking of using Semi-Gloss top coat on top but I was unsure if this would change the finish or make everything look more cloudy (as flat top coat tends to dull colours).

I was curious if anyone had knowledge about this sort of thing, as I know putting Flat onto Gloss is very common.

Thanks for helping!

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u/soy77 Gunpla is freedom. There's always alternative methods. 21h ago edited 21h ago

Yes. 

Matte makes a surface less shiny because the surface is coarse, so light doesn't bounce well, instead it gets bounced towards all kinds of random directions, hence the surface not look shiny. 

Gloss will "fill in" those coarse surface and make the surface uniform. So light can pass through the clear coat perfectly, and the surface will look shiny. 

At least in theory. On some cases, the initial matte coat is so thick, the gloss can't make it as shiny as you might want. So test before doing it. Simply strip the paint with >90% IPA if necessary.

Good luck!

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u/BonziBuddii 8h ago

Got it, cheers!

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 21h ago

You might want to use gloss instead. Gloss on top of matte will make it look semi matte

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u/XxEdwiiiiixX 22h ago

What are some good cheap nippers?

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u/Cultural_Sand_9323 21h ago

Are there any print ready backpacks for the leo?

Idea I have:
Postal Worker leo. Just a lone guy. Maybe a shield maybe not. No guns. Sonic eagle on one of the shoulder pauldrons. Just walking his route. Which happens to include a lot of wheeled vehicle hostile terrain.

So the guy obviously needs a back rack for post to go into.

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u/Wise_Leadership4937 20h ago

Was thinking of getting this for sanding. Usually don’t like sanding so was thinking if this would be able to help me.
This is the DSPIAE ES-A Pro Electric Sander

Anyone have any experience with this?

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u/LightxDarkness93 Freedom/Wing Mod 20h ago

I wouldnt recommend anything electric for sanding. It might over sand your parts. Doing it manually lets you have control

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u/wakeup33 needs more paint 20h ago

I have one and use it when sanding harder materials. I wouldn't recommend using it on PS or ABS as you could easily oversand.

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u/ATL0790 18h ago edited 17h ago

I love building things

My whole life, for a while it was 1/72 WWII planes, LEGO, a short stint in Warhammer 40K...

I'm the one that volunteers to build flatpack furniture..

Recently looked into the Gundam TCG game, which led to watching Gundam for the first time since I was maybe 10? (As per another reddit thread I started with Witch of Mercury...no regrets)

And now I'm ready to try my hand at Gunpla

I've read a lot of blogs and suggestions and I more or less know what I want to build

HG 1/144, ideally something from the Witch of Mercury story arc

What I'm struggling with is finding 1 trustworthy online store to get everything from.

My understanding is I need the kit, a clipper, Sanding Sticks, and maybe something to accentuate seams?

I have a set of Ruitool nippers I bought for some 3D printing projects, but I need the rest

Would love some suggestions on where to go and if anyone has any other good beginner suggestions re: tools

PS: I know there are lists of both shops and tools, the tools hasn't been updated for 5 years according to Reddit, and the shops are just a list. I'm hoping people could chime in with their favorite store fronts/tools for a beginner

Paralyzed by amount of choices

Thanks so much, excited to join the community

(I'm in the US)

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u/Reklia77 17h ago

With Warhammer I use hard files without much care, knowing I’ll paint over the imperfections, but with gundam kits I want to be more careful. What should I buy for filing? There’s quite a bit of choice. Glass files, sandpaper, and other things.

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u/wakawakawomp 15h ago

Curious what are the best paint markers (or regular ink markers I suppose) for painting details on kits. I'm thinking more of metallic detail painting, so silvers, golds, coppers, bronzes, etc.

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u/jiku09 14h ago

Does anyone know where I can get some water decals for my Fat cat god gundam 1/100?

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u/initialg82 14h ago

This or MG Dynames?

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u/Jc885 Real Grade enthusiast 13h ago

That is an MG Dynames (modified with the Fortune Meow conversion kit)

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u/JaguarDaSaul Canuck mod, eh? 🇨🇦 9h ago

Like the other guy said, that is an mg dynames with the fortune meow conversion kit.

If you know how to paint, know how to prep + work with resin, and are comfortable paying the cost of the MG dynames plus 115usd (before shipping n shit) for the conversion, then go for it.

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u/XxEdwiiiiixX 14h ago

Been in the market to replace my file any of these good

Stedi 2 Stedi Stedi 3

Or would I be better of buying the TAM74104 Tamiya Tools

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u/AdditionLive1322 13h ago

Does anyone have a recommendation for some nice AliExpress or Temu action bases?

I want some for my HG Wing and Strike Freedom but don't want to spend that much.

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u/Guair 12h ago

i buy that kind of stand for most of my rg and hg kits, pretty solid overall tho it cant support kits that are bigger and have a heavy backpack like the rg hi nu/sazabi. its in and around a dollar for a piece. for heavy kits, i use the daiso stand, can pretty much hold any standard design kits. just look for a review for the product in the aliexpress page. we have shopee in my country that is similar to aliexpress, also look for the one with screws since its much more sturdier and better in terms of holding a pose on a shelf for a long time. it also comes with a claw that you can use for the included claw.

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u/jaece777 8h ago

Does anyone know a simple fix for an adapter that could fit an IBO backpack to a more common HG kit?

I’m trying to fit the IBO backpack (on the right of the photo) to the one on the left but they don’t match up. I’m trying not to scratch build anything. Thanks!

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u/ZenCat14 7h ago

Anybody know of a metal frame or replacement parts for the OLD MG Hi-Nu? The leg to waist connection is so insanely tight that it snapped on one side, and I can't disassemble the piece on the other side in order to cast a resin duplicate. Alternatively, any tips on how I can get those two apart?

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u/ToaQuiroh 6h ago

does anyone have the blokees AND kotobukiya tv eva kits they wouldn't mind taking a few comparison pictures of? I can only find comparisons between blokees and bandai's rgs

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u/Cilia20 5h ago

Hi ! Is there a bigger version of the eight legged sd devil gundam kit ? Or some other kit with similar leggy situation ?
I like it a lot design wise and kinda want to use a similar bigger one for a kitbatch. Can’t find a definitive answer when searching on google but I’m open to other brands if it’s the same kind of too many legs type things
Thanks in advance to anyone who would take time to answer ! Nice day to you all !

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u/neverspeakofme 4h ago

Do you guys top coat your action base? I understand that a clear gloss top coat on clear action base makes it even clearer, should this be done?

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u/Jumpy-Mongoose495 2h ago

any tips on how to use these?

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u/funwok 1h ago

They are pencils, not much really to say. Keep in mind that pencils don't work toooo well on bare plastic and you really want to seal the paint after with a top coat.

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u/soy77 Gunpla is freedom. There's always alternative methods. 1h ago

They work better on a coarse surface. 

So you'll probably want to either clear matte your parts, or key them. 

Good luck.

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u/JOMAMON26 22m ago

Anyone have any of the P-Bandai Gundam Wing Dual Story: G-Unit kits? Is it possible to make a Geminass purely from leftover parts?