10 FAQs About Gunpla Answered

By Louie Bernadette

on Mar 4, 2025

A Blog by Louie Bernadette Papera

It doesn’t matter if you're new to the Gunpla scene or a seasoned builder, there’s always something new (or hilarious) to learn. From wondering if Gundams are Transformers to whether your model can actually shoot lasers, we’re tackling the 10 most frequently asked questions about Gunpla.

Grab your nippers and panel liners—let’s dive into the wonderful (and slightly ridiculous) world of Gunpla!

1. Is It Gundam or Gunpla?

Gundam refers to the massive franchise created by Sunrise in 1979, featuring anime, manga, video games, and more. It’s all about giant robots (called Mobile Suits) duking it out in futuristic warfare.
Gunpla is short for Gundam Plastic Model—the physical model kits you build, customise, and display.

In short: Gundam is the anime, and Gunpla is the model kit. If you love building cool mecha models, you’re into Gunpla!

2. Are Gundams Transformers, and Are All Transformers Gundam?

Nope—and don’t let a hardcore fan catch you asking this.

While both feature giant robots, Gundam and Transformers are entirely separate universes:

Gundams are piloted by humans in realistic (ish) military settings.
Transformers are sentient alien robots that can disguise themselves as vehicles.

Put it simply, Gundams need a pilot; Transformers drive themselves. And no, your RX-78-2 won’t turn into a truck—sorry.

3. Do Gunpla Models Actually Shoot Lasers, or Is That Just in the Anime?

As much as we’d love to fire off a beam rifle, Gunpla models don’t shoot lasers (bummer, right?).

What you can do is:

Pose your Gunpla with laser-like beam sabres and rifles for epic battle displays.
Use LED kits to light up their eyes and weapons.
Engage in imaginary battles—no judgment here.

So, while your Gunpla won’t defend Earth from Zeon forces, it’ll look amazing doing its best impression.

4. Why Are There So Many Different Types of Gundams and Gunpla? Can’t They Just Make One Really Good One?

Where’s the fun in that?

The variety is what makes Gunpla exciting. Different series, designs, and grades give builders endless possibilities. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Entry Grade (HG) – Easiest kits to build, beginner-friendly, and 1/144 scale.
High Grade (HG) – Moderate difficulty, detailed, and 1/144 scale.
Master Grade (MG) – Bigger (1/100 scale), with more detail and articulation.
Perfect Grade (PG) – The ultimate experience—1/60 scale, insane detail, and a hefty price tag.
Real Grade (RG) – Compact (1/144 scale) but with the detail of MG kits.
Super Deformed (SD) – Cute, chibi-style versions of your favourite Gundams.

Each grade has its own charm—whether you’re a beginner or a veteran builder, there’s always a new kit to conquer.

5. If I Mess Up a Piece While Building, Will My Gundam Be Weaker in Battle?

Relax—your Gunpla won’t lose a duel if you accidentally snip off the wrong part.

Mistakes happen, but here’s how to recover:

Spare Runners – Many kits come with extra parts for common mistakes.
Plastic Cement – Glue can help reattach broken pieces.
Battle Damage – Turn your mistake into a cool weathering effect!

Pro tip: Take your time and follow the instructions carefully. Even seasoned builders mess up—it’s part of the journey.

6. Can I Make My Gunpla Fight Someone Else's Gunpla in Real Life?

We wish. But unless you’ve discovered Plavsky Particles (like in Gundam Build Fighters), your Gunpla won’t come to life for an epic showdown.

That said, Gunpla Battle is very real—in a competitive sense! Gunpla enthusiasts worldwide participate in contests like:

Gunpla Builders World Cup (GBWC) – The ultimate Gunpla competition showcasing the best custom builds.
Local Hobby Shop Competitions – Many stores host Gunpla events where you can show off your skills.

While your Gunpla won’t physically duke it out, it can still claim victory through creativity and craftsmanship!

7. How Long Does It Take to Become a "Gunpla Expert," and Is There a Secret Society for Them?

Becoming a Gunpla expert is more about passion than time. Whether you’ve built 5 or 50 kits, it’s the love of the hobby that counts.

Tips to level up your skills:

Practise – Build regularly and try different grades and styles.
Experiment – Customise your kits with paint, panel lining, and weathering.
Join the Community – There are online groups, forums, and local meetups where enthusiasts share techniques and advice.

Is there a secret society? We can neither confirm nor deny—but rumour has it you need to perfect a panel line while blindfolded.

8. If I Drop My Gunpla and It Breaks, Do I Have to Hold a Funeral or Can I Frankenstein It with Other Kits?

It’s your world—why not both?

Some builders embrace the "Gunpla Graveyard" approach, using broken pieces to create new, custom designs (called kitbashing). If your beloved kit takes a fall, consider:

Repairing – Super glue works wonders.
Upgrading – Combine parts from different kits for a unique look.
Memorialising – Give your fallen Gunpla a heroic sendoff (dramatic music optional).

9. Is It Cheating If I Use Glue While Building Gunpla?

Nope—glue is your friend in advanced Gunpla building. While modern kits snap together without glue, using adhesive can:

Reinforce fragile parts.
Seal seams for a smoother finish.
Help with custom modifications.

If you’re worried about purists calling you out—don’t be. Gunpla is freedom—build it your way!

10. What’s the Most Expensive Gunpla Kit Ever Made?

Hold onto your wallet—the most expensive Gunpla ever made is the PG 1/60 RX-78-2 Gundam Gold Version crafted from pure gold, priced at over $9,000 USD!

For us mere mortals, Perfect Grade Unleashed RX-78-2 and PG Gundam Astray Red Frame are among the priciest, offering jaw-dropping detail and articulation.

Start Your Gunpla Journey at Hobbyco

Hobbyco has everything you need to fuel your Gunpla obsession.

Huge Range – From Entry Grade to Perfect Grade.
Expert Advice – Our team knows their Gundams inside and out.
Online & In Store – Shop from anywhere, anytime.

With locations conveniently located throughout Metro Sydney, finding the perfect hobby shop near you has never been easier. Experience the excitement of exploring our vast selection of Gunpla, expert advice, and exceptional customer service. Discover why Hobbyco is the number one hobby shop in Australia. Customers can buy products online through our platform.