Gunpla Display Cases: Measure the Kit, Weapons and Base First

日本語：ガンプラのディスプレイケースの選び方｜HG・MGと台座のサイズ確認

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Choose a Gunpla display case by measuring the complete model—including weapons, wings and its stand—and comparing that envelope with the case’s usable internal dimensions. HG or MG alone cannot tell you whether a model will fit. Equipment and pose can change the required space even among kits of the same scale.

This guide explains a measurement method rather than promising that a named case fits every kit. The illustration is a schematic, not a photographed fit test.

Do not choose a case from HG or MG height alone

Scale describes a reduction from the fictional machine’s size. It does not make all 1/144 models equally tall. A rifle pointed forward, extended wings or a raised stand can increase the display envelope considerably.

Choose the intended pose first, then measure its outermost points. Measuring only the head height before adding a stand or beam saber can leave you with a lid that will not close.

Measure width, depth and height

1. Width: include the outer edges of shields, wings and weapons.
2. Depth: measure from the backpack to the farthest forward projection.
3. Height: measure from the surface supporting the model to its highest antenna, weapon or support component.
4. Base footprint: confirm that the separate stand fits the case floor too.

Marking the proposed footprint with cardboard can make the numbers easier to visualise. Allow space according to fragile projections and how the lid opens; there is no single clearance figure that suits every model and case.

Internal and external dimensions answer different questions

Edges, seams or supports may reduce usable space. Look at the manufacturer’s dimension drawing and construction, not just a size in the product name. Include the case and base in the shelf’s supported weight.

A small case example: WAVE T-Case VL

The manufacturer lists TC141 at 145 × 145 × 245 mm internally and 155 × 155 × 275 mm externally, in width × depth × height order. This illustrates why internal and external measurements should not be interchanged. These are published specifications, not measurements from a fit test performed for this article.

A wide stand, extended rifle or larger model may not fit. Compare your complete display envelope and check the case’s assembly and opening arrangement before purchasing.

Consider dust, sunlight and access

A cover can help keep dust off, but sealing and material properties vary. Do not assume a transparent case blocks ultraviolet light unless the manufacturer specifies it. Avoid direct sunlight and unsuitable heat or humidity.

A display that requires substantial disassembly every time you clean it may become inconvenient. Think about removing the cover without hitting antennas, and about moving the case without allowing the model to shift.

Frequently asked questions

Will an HG fit this case?

The HG label is insufficient to guarantee fit. Measure the completed model with equipment, pose and stand. If a manufacturer specifies compatibility with a particular kit, check the exact configuration.

What if I do not have space for a case?

Before buying a larger enclosure, consider selective display and rotation storage. Separating displayed models from stored ones can be more practical than crowding a shelf edge or walkway.

More guides for building and displaying Gunpla

• Best First Gunpla: How to Choose Between EG and HG
• How to Build Gunpla: Instructions, Parts and Your First Straight Build
• Gunpla Nub Removal: Two Cuts, Sanding and Stress Marks
• How to Pose Gunpla: Natural Stances and Supported Action Poses
• No Room for Gunpla? Small-Space Displays and Rotation Storage

Sources and manufacturer information

• ウェーブ T・ケース【VL】／WAVE official dimensions