Chegg’s Egg-spert Guide: Tools of the Trade for Gunpla Builders
Willar Tang
So you’ve cracked into the world of Gunpla — now what? Whether you’re an eggs-perienced builder or just hatching your first kit, having the right tools makes all the difference. Let’s go over some egg-sential basics and some fancier gadgets that’ll turn your build from meh to omelette-ing.
The Basics: Entry-Level Tools
- Entry-Level Nippers
- Perfect for beginners using the two-cut method:
- First snip away from the part to avoid stress marks
- Then snip closer with precision to clean it up
- Budget-friendly picks like the Tamiya Basic or GodHand Entry Nippers get the job done without scrambling your wallet.
- Hobby Knife
- To shave off nub marks after snipping. Always slice away from your yolk-holding hand.
- To shave off nub marks after snipping. Always slice away from your yolk-holding hand.
- Cutting Mat
- Self-healing mats not only protect your desk but give you that sweet grid aesthetic. Choose one you won’t be afraid to mess up.
Going Mid-Tier: Smoother Finishes, Cleaner Builds
- Mid-Grade Nippers
- Like the DSPIAE ST-A or the GodHand SPN-120. These will give you a cleaner second cut with less sanding required.
- Like the DSPIAE ST-A or the GodHand SPN-120. These will give you a cleaner second cut with less sanding required.
- Sandpaper and Sanding Sponges
- Get a mix from 400 to 2000 grit. Sponges help you contour around curvy bits like those egg-shaped shoulder armor plates.
- Get a mix from 400 to 2000 grit. Sponges help you contour around curvy bits like those egg-shaped shoulder armor plates.
- Buffing Blocks
- Smooth things out after sanding. You’ll thank yourself when the plastic shines without needing topcoat.
Advanced Tools: Shell Out for Precision
- Precision Nippers
- Top-of-the-line cutters like the GodHand Ultimate or Madworks Single Blade are for pros who take pride in barely needing cleanup. (Handle with care — they’re fragile, unlike your thick shell.)
- Top-of-the-line cutters like the GodHand Ultimate or Madworks Single Blade are for pros who take pride in barely needing cleanup. (Handle with care — they’re fragile, unlike your thick shell.)
- Gunprimer Glass Files
- A miracle for clean, mark-free edges. They’re reusable, washable, and oddly satisfying. Your parts will thank you.
- A miracle for clean, mark-free edges. They’re reusable, washable, and oddly satisfying. Your parts will thank you.
- Detailing Tools
- From chisels to decals to panel liners — this is where your build gets its personality. Just like Chegg’s signature mono-eye.
Bonus Egg-spertise: Two-Cut Method Recap
- First cut farther from the part
- Second cut close to the gate, with precision nippers
- Finish with sanding or a glass file if needed
- Buff and admire your smooth work
Whether you’re just cracking into the hobby or going full fried-egg mode with advanced tools, remember: building Gunpla is about patience, practice, and having the right gear. Chegg believes in you — one cut at a time.