The Top Real Grade Gundam Kits That Prove You Know Your Building Skills

After assembling your RX-78-2, you might be wondering, “What’s next?” You’ve mastered the basics with beginner kits, honing your skills with nippers and perhaps even discovering panel lining. Now it’s time to venture into more challenging territories, where these kits not only impress visually but may also test your resolve as a model builder, making you ponder your life decisions.

These authentic Gundam model kits aren’t just attractive playthings; they come with functional components, precise fits, and manuals designed for individuals with deft hands and a good grasp of their craft. They can be a challenge to assemble, but the end result is worth it – they appear museum-worthy… or at least suitable for displays that convey expertise.

For beginners starting with Gunpla, these six models are outstanding options as they represent some of the most historic mobile suits from Gundam lore. You’ll find the machines involved in Amuro and Char’s climactic battles, iconic mecha ridden by renowned pilots like Heero and Kira, and models that shaped their respective series. These kits are suitable for intermediate builders and will let you construct mobile suits that play significant roles in the storylines.

1. RG Nu Gundam (Char’s Counterattack)

In essence, Amuro’s swan song is here, and let me tell you, it’s quite the grand farewell. The Nu Gundam, designed around Amuro’s battle style honed over decades of combat, is a perfect blend of speed, accuracy, and advanced technology to counter Char’s newtype abilities. The intriguing feature that armor parts move synchronously replicates how the actual Nu Gundam’s psycommu system would seamlessly coordinate all its functions simultaneously. The set includes an Amuro action figure and six fin funnels, given that this machine was so tailored to Amuro’s skills that likely no one else could effectively operate it.

You’ll receive the traditional setup of a beam rifle and hyper bazooka, similar to Amuro’s preference – these are versatile weapons for an experienced pilot who’s been part of the action since the One Year War began. At 15 cm, it matches up ideally with the Sazabi for those thrilling final battle scenes. The armor expanding across the body demonstrates just how far mobile suit technology had advanced by this stage, allowing for quick adaptability to various combat scenarios.

2. RG Sazabi (Char’s Counterattack)

In his last battle against the Federation, Char’s ultimate mobile suit stood an impressive 17.78 cm tall, designed as a command unit capable of overpowering any battlefield. Its six funnels with extendable fins symbolize the advanced newtype remote weapon system that made Char a formidable adversary in space battles. The cockpit hatch reveals the spot where the Red Comet took his final stand, and the numerous moving pistons indicate the powerful thrusters required to maneuver this massive combat machine gracefully.

As a fervent cinephile, I must confess that no character in cinematic history has ever been as extravagantly equipped as the enigmatic Char did, in his last mobile suit. This marvel of technology was brimming with a beam shot rifle, a beam tomahawk adorned with mesmerizing effects, two beam sabers, and an arsenal of firepower that could easily outmatch entire squadrons. The sight of the maintenance hatches unfolding revealed the intricate complexity hidden within this bespoke machine—certainly not a prototype destined for mass production but rather a lethal tool crafted exclusively for Char to redefine the world, according to his grand vision.

3. RG Destiny Gundam (Gundam Seed Destiny)

As a devotee of Shinn Asuka, I must admit that his ultimate mobile suit left me astounded, especially when it comes to the arsenal of weapons ZAFT equipped it with. Frankly, they seemed to have spared no expense in arming this machine. It boasts palm cannons, a high-energy beam cannon, an anti-ship sword, and a Flash Edge-2 system – essentially everything one might need to single-handedly dismantle entire fleets. To top it off, the mobile suit’s aerial maneuverability complements Shinn’s aggressive fighting style perfectly, as he was always known for striking from unexpected angles and taking enemies by surprise.

Instead of the initial SEED machines that primarily emphasized shape-shifting abilities, the Destiny opted for a straight-forward approach by prioritizing combat efficiency exclusively. The Flash Edge-2, a hybrid of beam boomerang and saber functions, symbolizes how second-generation Cosmic Era technology began to amalgamate various weapon systems into one unit. This demonstrates ZAFT at their pinnacle before political turmoil ensued, making it clear that they meant business when designing it.

4. RG Sinanju (Gundam UC)

The Full Frontal’s machine essentially takes on the form of Char’s spirit within a mobile suit. The shiny red exterior adorned with intricate golden embellishments wasn’t merely for show—it served as a means to propagate the myth. Neo Zeon was peddling the legend of the Red Comet, and the Sinanju stood as the main attraction. This device was designed for conquest in space: it boasted massive, independently moving rear thrusters, precise detailing, and an imposing silhouette that conveyed “you’re already outclassed.

Initially, the Sinanju Stein was a prototype from the Federation, but it was seized by the Sleeves and transformed into an incredibly swift and powerful suit. Equipped with a beam rifle, saber, and axe (each featuring impressive effects), its design aims for maximum brutality. With a height of 15.24 cm, it makes an imposing companion to late-UC suits such as the Unicorn, and when posed, it appears ready to launch an attack on your display shelf.

5. RG Wing Gundam Zero EW (Endless Waltz)

In the timeline of Endless Waltz, Heero’s ultimate machine, the Wing Zero, showcases its angelic wings not just as decoration. This Mobile Suit embodies the central theme of Endless Waltz: the decision between devastation and defense. The dual buster rifle system can separate for precise shots or unite for a destructive blast capable of eliminating everything in its path. Unlike Mobile Suits from the Universal Century, which were constructed for long-term warfare, the Wing Zero was engineered to resolve conflicts swiftly through immense power – essentially a Mobile Suit version of a nuclear deterrent.

The transformative ability demonstrates that After Colony tech prioritized adaptability, as these pilots frequently worked independently without backup. It’s logical to include the Heero figure because this machine wasn’t just about evaluating battle prowess; it was also about determining if humanity could wield ultimate power responsibly. Quite profound for a robot that morphs into an angel.

6. Full Mechanics Freedom Gundam Ver. GCP

Here, Kira’s distinctive vehicle receives an upgraded version, as it’s only available at Gundam Base – implying a unique experience for you. The Freedom mobile suit was ZAFT’s endeavor to merge Natural and Coordinator technology, symbolizing Kira who connected these two groups. Equipped with the HiMAT wings, the DRAGOON system is what made this unit almost invincible in space battles.

The nuclear-powered engine offered endless operational duration, aligning perfectly with Kira’s role as an enduring figure capable of outlasting any conflict. On a smaller scale, it gives a hint of the immense presence this machine would have against typical mobile suits. Its support arms and base provide a circular platform, indicating that this mobile suit was engineered for combat while airborne, utilizing its wings for both movement and attack. The unique color scheme reflects how the Freedom transitioned from being a weapon to embodying hope as a symbol.

FAQ

Q: What makes a kit “intermediate” level?

Typically, Intermediate Robotics Kits present more intricate tasks, such as transformation sequences involving precise part alignment, smaller components that need delicate handling to avoid breakage, or articulation systems with multiple joints coordinating their movements. These kits presume you’re able to maintain composure when the assembly instructions for a single arm component span across 15 steps.

Q: What’s the biggest difference in build time?

Instead of spending 2-3 hours on simpler kits, you should anticipate a duration of 4-6 hours due to the intricate assembly processes and the need for extra care when handling delicate parts. While it may not be more difficult overall, it certainly requires a higher level of detail.

Q: Do I need special tools for intermediate kits?

With good quality nippers and panel line markers, you can tackle most of your modelling tasks effectively. A hobby knife is handy for cleaning up in tight areas, while sanding sticks come in useful from time to time, but investing in a full workshop isn’t necessary. Intermediate builders often find they can achieve impressive results by simply using their tools with care and attention.

2025-06-01 15:08