FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to Hobby-G, your UK destination for Gundam model kits, Gunpla and model-building accessories. Whether you're buying your first kit or adding to an established collection, we've put together answers to some of the questions we get asked most often.

What is Gunpla?

Gunpla is short for Gundam Plastic Model, referring to plastic model kits based on the Gundam franchise. Gunpla kits are assembled from individual plastic parts to create detailed Gundam and other Mobile Suit models.

Unlike traditional pre-built figures, Gunpla kits are designed to be assembled by the builder, with many kits requiring no glue or painting.

Do I need experience to build a Gundam model kit?

Not at all! There are Gundam model kits suitable for beginners through to experienced builders.

Entry Grade (EG) and many High Grade (HG) kits are excellent places to start. More advanced builders may prefer Real Grade (RG), Master Grade (MG) or Perfect Grade (PG) kits, which generally offer greater detail and more complex construction.

If you're new to Gunpla, don't be put off by the different grades — there are plenty of kits designed to make getting started straightforward and enjoyable.

What are the different Gundam model kit grades?

The main Gunpla grades you'll come across include:

  • Entry Grade (EG) – Designed to be accessible and straightforward to build.

  • High Grade (HG) – Typically 1/144 scale and offering a great balance between detail, price and build complexity.

  • Real Grade (RG) – 1/144 scale kits combining a high level of detail with a more intricate build.

  • Master Grade (MG) – Generally 1/100 scale, with larger models, detailed construction and internal frame elements on many kits.

  • Perfect Grade (PG) – Large, highly detailed kits aimed at builders looking for an advanced Gunpla experience.

  • Full Mechanics (FM) – Larger-scale kits with detailed designs and construction.

  • Mega Size – Very large 1/48-scale kits designed to make an impressive display piece.

The complexity and features can vary between individual kits, even within the same grade.

Do Gundam kits require glue?

Most modern Bandai Gunpla kits are designed to be snap-fit, meaning the parts are designed to fit together without glue.

Glue can still be useful for certain finishing techniques or customisation, but it is generally not required for assembling a standard modern Gunpla kit.

Do I need to paint my Gunpla?

No. Modern Gundam model kits are supplied with coloured plastic and are designed to look good without painting.

Many builders choose to enhance their kits using tools such as Gundam markers, panel lining, paints and other modelling supplies, but these are optional.

What tools do I need to build Gunpla?

For a basic build, a good pair of model kit nippers is the most important tool.

As you become more experienced, you may want to add:

  • Hobby knife

  • File or sanding sticks

  • Panel lining pens

  • Gundam markers

  • Tweezers

  • Cleaning tools

  • Building mats

  • Display bases

You don't need a huge collection of tools to get started.

Are Gundam model kits suitable for children?

Suitability depends on the individual kit and the child's age and experience.

Gunpla kits contain small parts and can require careful assembly, so always check the manufacturer's recommended age and product information before purchasing.

Some simpler kits can be more suitable for younger or first-time builders, while more complex kits are better suited to older builders and experienced modellers.

Are your Gundam model kits genuine?

Hobby-G aims to supply genuine, officially licensed products from recognised manufacturers and distributors.

Where applicable, product listings provide information about the manufacturer, grade, scale and series so you can make an informed purchase.

Do you sell Bandai Gunpla?

Yes. Hobby-G stocks Gundam model kits and accessories from Bandai and other manufacturers where available.

Stock levels can change as kits sell and new releases or restocks become available, so if there's a particular kit you're looking for, keep an eye on our shop.

What happens if a kit is out of stock?

Gunpla availability can vary considerably, and some kits may not be continuously available.

If a product is out of stock, you can check back with Hobby-G for future availability. Where possible, we aim to bring popular kits back into stock when they become available to us.

Do you sell Gunpla accessories and tools?

Yes. As well as Gundam model kits, Hobby-G offers a range of Gunpla tools, accessories and modelling supplies, including items such as nippers, Gundam markers and display bases.

These can help you get more from your Gunpla building experience, whether you're just starting out or working on more advanced builds.

How long does a Gundam model kit take to build?

Build time varies significantly depending on the kit, grade and your experience.

A simple HG kit might be completed relatively quickly, while a detailed MG, RG or larger kit can take considerably longer.

Our product profiles provide an estimated typical build time where appropriate, but these should be treated as a guide rather than a fixed time.

Do you ship Gundam model kits across the UK?

Yes. Hobby-G is a UK-based Gunpla shop, and we offer delivery options for customers throughout the UK.

Available delivery services and costs are shown during checkout and may vary depending on the order.

Do you ship internationally?

International delivery is currently not available but please stay tuned for updates.

How will my Gunpla be packaged?

We understand that Gunpla boxes are important to collectors and builders, so we take care when preparing orders for dispatch. Kits will be wrapped in bubble wrap and packing material will be used to cushion the kit inside the recycled box used to post out the kit.

We aim to package products appropriately to help protect them during transit. However, minor marks or imperfections to outer packaging can occasionally occur during shipping and do not necessarily affect the condition or usability of the model kit itself.

What payment methods do you accept?

The payment methods currently available will be displayed during checkout. Currently we accept all major debit and credit cards, Paypal and Klarna.

Payment options can vary depending on the checkout method, location and other factors.

Can I cancel my order?

If you need to cancel an order, please contact us as soon as possible. Refunds can take up to 10 days as Shopify processes all our payments made by debit or credit cards. Paypal payments are handle by us at Hobby-G. 

If your order has not yet been processed or dispatched, we may be able to cancel it. Once an order has entered the dispatch process, cancellation may no longer be possible and you may instead need to follow our returns procedure.

What is your returns policy?

If you need to return an item, please refer to our Returns Policy for the current requirements, timescales and conditions.

Products should be returned in the condition required by our returns policy. If an item arrives damaged or there is a problem with your order, please contact us as soon as possible so we can help resolve the issue.

What should I do if my order arrives damaged?

Please contact Hobby-G as soon as possible if your order arrives damaged.

Where appropriate, please provide photographs of the packaging and the affected product. This can help us assess the issue and determine the appropriate next step.

Please keep the original packaging until the issue has been resolved.

What if a part is missing from my Gunpla kit?

We do make every effort to inspect each kit before sending out so in the unlikely event that you discover that a part is missing from a kit in the unopened bags, please contact us with your order details and information about the affected kit.

As there is no official Bandai support in the UK for replacing missing parts, options are limited. For manufacturer-related issues, we may need to direct you towards the manufacturer's support process, depending on the circumstances.

Can I buy Gundam kits as gifts?

Absolutely. Gunpla can make a great gift for Gundam fans, model builders and collectors.

If you're unsure what to choose, HG kits are often a good starting point, while MG, RG and other larger or more complex kits can make impressive gifts for someone who already enjoys Gunpla.

I'm new to Gunpla. Where should I start?

If this is your first Gundam model kit, we'd recommend looking at Entry Grade (EG) or most High Grade (HG) kits as they in most cases have the least amount of parts to assemble.

They can provide a relatively accessible introduction to Gunpla without requiring the time or complexity associated with some of the larger grades.

You can also choose a kit based on the Gundam series or Mobile Suit you already like — there's no rule that says you have to start with a particular model or grade.

Do you offer advice on choosing a Gunpla kit?

We're happy to help where we can.

If you're unsure which kit would suit you, consider factors such as:

  • Your previous model-building experience

  • Your budget

  • The amount of time you want to spend building

  • Your preferred Gundam series

  • Desired model size

  • Level of detail

  • Available display space

You can also get in touch with Hobby-G if you have a specific question about a product.

Where can I find information about a specific kit?

Each Hobby-G product listing is designed to provide useful information about the kit, including its grade, skill level, typical build time, features and things to consider before buying.

We also include a Shopify Meta Description for search visibility while keeping the product information useful to customers.

Do you have a physical shop?

Not at the moment. Hobby-G is an online UK Gunpla shop. Our current sales are primarily through our online store, allowing us to offer Gundam model kits and accessories to customers across the UK.

How can I contact Hobby-G?

If you have a question about a product, order or anything else relating to Hobby-G, please  contact us at support@hobby-g.co.uk.

We're happy to help with questions about Gunpla, model kits and orders wherever we can.

Still have a question?

If you can't find the answer you're looking for, please get in touch with Hobby-G at support@hobby-g.co.uk and we'll do our best to help.

Whether you're building your first Gunpla kit or adding another model to your collection, we're here to help make your next build a great one.