Top 5 best Gunpla nippers for beginners in 2025 (Tried and tested)

Looking for the best Gunpla nippers? Japan Figure got your back! Whether you're just starting your Gunpla adventure or upgrading your toolkit, finding reliable nippers can make or break your crafting experience. Here’s a trusted guide to the best nippers for Gunpla in 2025 tested, reviewed, and loved by builders worldwide.

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1. What are Gunpla nippers?

Gunpla nippers are precision-cutting tools used to detach parts from runner sprues on Gundam model kits. Unlike regular cutters, they slice through plastic cleanly without stressing or damaging the parts. They’re essential for achieving crisp edges, minimal sanding, and a polished finish.

2. Top 5 best Gunpla nippers in 2025 (tried and tested)

Here are our top 5 best picks for Gunpla nippers based on customer reviews, builder feedback, and expert comparisons. Each tool on this list has been carefully evaluated for precision, comfort, and durability to ensure you get the best results in your builds. 

1. GodHand SPN‑120 Ultimate Nipper

2. Tamiya Sharp Pointed Side Cutter

3. DSPIAE ST‑A 3.0 Single‑Blade Nipper

4. Stedi MS‑109 Ultimate Model Nipper

5. Bandai Spirits Entry Nippers

2.1 GodHand SPN-120 Ultimate Nipper

The gold standard in Gunpla cutting tools, this single-blade nipper offers razor-sharp precision with minimal stress marks. Crafted by Kobe Steel, it features premium spring tension and durability.

Pros:

• Ultra-clean cuts, no sanding

• Highly durable blades

• Protective leather sleeve

Cons:

• High-end price

• Single blade may need careful maintenance

Price range: $45–$60 USD 

Buy GodHand SPN-120 Ultimate Nipper now

2.2 Tamiya Sharp Pointed Side Cutter

A reliable mid-tier choice known for its slim-pointed jaw. Perfect for removing delicate parts with control and finesse. 

Pros:

• Sharp, durable blades

• Slim jaw for tight spaces

• Good balance of cost and performance

Cons:

• Not as sharp as single-blade options

• Occasional slight burrs

Price range: $39–$49 USD

2.3 DSPIAE ST-A 3.0 Single-Blade Nipper

The ST-A 3.0 brings GodHand-level performance at a fraction of the cost. Superb blade sharpness and ergonomic design earned it raves in modeling communities. 

Pros:

• Clean cuts and minimal sanding

• Coated handles improve grip

• Great value for money

Cons:

• Not as brand-recognized as GodHand

Price range: $34.99–$39.95 USD

2.4 Stedi MS-109 Ultimate Model Nipper

Amazon reviewers say the MS-109 rivals GodHand for just a fraction of the price. Sharp, thin blades with ergonomic comfort make it a serious contender.

Pros:

• Razor-sharp blade

• Value-priced

• Comfortable grip

Cons:

• Slight variability in QC

• Less known brand

Price range: ~$45 USD

2.5 Bandai Spirits Entry Nippers

Perfect for beginners and entry-grade kits, these nippers combine affordability with decent performance, coming straight from the Gundam experts at Bandai. 

Pros:

• Very affordable

• Beginner-friendly

• Gundam-themed design

Cons:

• Lower precision

• May require sanding

Price range: $7.99–$9.99 USD

Add Bandai Spirits Entry Nippers to your cart 

3. How to choose the best nippers for your Gunpla journey?

Choosing the right nipper depends on your experience level, budget, and the type of Gunpla kits you build most often. Beginners may prefer affordable, easy-to-use options, while advanced builders often invest in high-precision tools for the cleanest cuts. By matching your tool to your building style, you’ll not only work more efficiently but also enjoy a smoother, more satisfying Gunpla experience.

4. FAQ – People also ask about best Gunpla nippers

Before we wrap up, here are quick answers to the most common questions readers ask about best nippers for Gunpla.

4.1 Are nippers required for Gunpla?

No, you don't need nippers to build Gunpla, but high-quality nippers make slicing parts from sprues cleaner and safer, reducing the need for extensive sanding.

4.2 Can nail nippers be used for Gunpla?

You can use nail clippers, but hobby nippers are designed to cut plastic sprues cleanly. Budget nail clippers may stress or crack parts, so hobby-grade tools are highly recommended.

4.3 What is the best clippers in Gunpla?

Single-blade nippers like GodHand SPN-120 or DSPIAE ST-A 3.0 are considered the best due to their precision and near-zero stress cuts.

4.4 Do Gundams come with nippers?

No, Gundam model kits don’t include nippers. These tools are sold separately and come in various types depending on your cutting preference.

4.5 Do you need nippers for entry grade?

Technically no, but even entry-grade kits benefit from using nippers; they make cutting parts much cleaner and are especially forgiving on beginner hands.

Investing in the best gunpla nippers pays off in smoother builds, faster assembly, and happier hobby sessions. From beginner-friendly Bandai nippers to elite tools like GodHand, each model suits different needs and budgets. Trust in Japan Figure to guide your craftsmanship journey, because the right tool truly hones your skills and elevates your creation. Ready to take your Gunpla to the next level? Choose your perfect pair today, and slice with confidence!

Rikuya Takamine

Rikuya Takamine has been writing about Japanese pop culture for over seven years. With a background in media and communications, he covers major TCG releases and collectible figure launches with accuracy and excitement for leading Japanese pop culture platforms.

View articles by Rikuya Takamine