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Basic Skills Required
Skill Level 3

Kits that we have rated as skill level 3 are traditional model kits that require all basic modeling skills to complete. This includes cutting parts from runners and trimming or sanding them prior to use, test fitting prior to final assembly, the use of cement to assemble the parts, and the use of paint to complete them. A few kits in the this category, such as Bandai's Master Grade kits, do not require cement or paint, but include a very large number of small parts as compared to other model kits. In addition, accessory parts sold individually for use with other model kits are generally included in this class.

To properly complete a level 3 kit, you will want to have at least a basic set of modeling supplies available. This would include a set of plastic nippers, a hobby knife, files and/or sandpaper, plastic cement (for injection-plastic kits) and/or instant (cyanoacrylate) cement (for resin, soft-vinyl or metal parts), painting supplies including brushes, paint, thinner and masking tape, gap-filling putty, tweezers and possibly decal softener for applying decals to difficult areas.

Kits in this class are not suitable for small children unless there is complete parental supervision. Adults who have never before completed a plastic model kit will probably want to read one of the many excellent modeling guides available at most hobby shops before trying to build one of these kits.

Skill level 3 kits include a very large portion of our catalog. Most traditional plastic model kits fall into this category, as do relatively simple resin figure kits.