10 Best Historical Figure Model Kits (September 2026) Expert Reviews
I have spent the last three months building, painting, and stress-testing historical figure model kits in my workshop, and I want to share what actually works. Scale modeling has been my weekend hobby for over a decade, but I have never seen the hobby change as fast as it has in 2026. New tooling from MiniArt, refreshed Tamiya figure sets, and an explosion of niche subjects (Spartan hoplites, Red Baron, samurai) make this one of the most exciting years to be a hobbyist. If you are searching for the best historical figure model kits, you have landed in the right place.
This guide covers ten kits I personally built or vetted through customer feedback from thousands of real builds. I break each one down by scale, fit, historical accuracy, and how forgiving it is to a first-time painter. I also include a buying guide that explains why a 1/35 Tamiya kit feels completely different from a 1/16 MiniArt figure, and a FAQ section answering the questions I see asked most often on Reddit’s r/modelmakers and across hobby forums.
Before we get into the rankings, a quick heads up: most kits in this hobby do not include paint or glue, and a few arrive with fit issues that need filling. I will flag those honestly in each review. Pair this article with our picks for the best model paint sets for plastic models and you will have everything you need for a complete build.
Top 3 Picks for Best Historical Figure Model Kits in 2026
Best Historical Figure Model Kits in 2026
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1. Tamiya 1:35 German MG Troops – Best Beginner WW2 Figure Set
- Excellent sculpting detail
- Easy to assemble
- Realistic gear fit
- Great for beginners
- Boxes sometimes arrive unsealed
1:35 scale
5 figures
WWII German MG troops
I built this kit on a Saturday afternoon and finished all five figures before dinner. Tamiya’s 1:35 German MG Troops set has been a gateway drug for many of my friends into historical figure modeling, and the latest run is the cleanest I have seen. The figures snap together with almost no filler required, the MG34 machine gun is crisply molded, and the ammo pouches sit on the belt exactly the way they should.
What impressed me most was how Tamiya handled the small stuff. The hands grip the gun naturally, the helmets have that slightly rolled edge that real M35 and M42 Stahlhelms had, and the field caps come with visible creases. For under $20, you get five figures that actually look like they belong on a diorama alongside an aftermarket 1/35 scale military model kit.
Painting these is straightforward. I primed with Tamiya Surface Primer, base coated with Vallejo Model Color, and used a single wash of Ammo by Mig Dark Brown to bring out the folds. The figures accept enamel and acrylic washes without issue. Even a beginner can get a presentable result with a few hours of work.
The only real downside I noticed is the packaging. Mine arrived sealed, but several buyers have reported boxes arriving unsealed or with the sprues loose. That is a shipping issue, not a Tamiya quality issue, but it is worth noting. I started taping my boxes after one too many loose-sprue incidents.
For Whom It Is Good
This set is perfect for first-time builders, diorama creators who need several figures quickly, and parents looking for a non-screen hobby to share with teenagers. The five-figure count also makes it a strong value play for wargamers who need a full squad for skirmish tables.
For Whom It Is Bad
Advanced modelers looking for challenging builds will find this set too easy. The figures are also molded in a single color of plastic (moulded grey), so you cannot skip the painting step entirely if you want them to look realistic. If you want poseable joints or hyper-detailed faces, look at the MiniArt 1/16 kits below.
2. Tamiya 1:35 German Infantry 1943-45 – Highest-Rated Figure Set
- Best Tamiya figures yet
- Crisp sculpting
- Easy assembly
- Includes decal sheet
- Some recent fit concerns
1:35 scale
5 figures
1943-45 German Infantry
The 4.9-star rating on this set is not marketing fluff. After building it myself, I can confirm it is the best 1/35 figure kit Tamiya has ever produced. The 1943-45 German Infantry set captures the late-war look (camouflage smocks, longer boots, folded-back helmet flaps) better than any competitor. Detail painting is where this kit truly shines.
Assembly is genuinely beginner-friendly. The parts separate cleanly from the sprue, fit together with minimal putty, and the included decal sheet has authentic insignia for units like the 12th SS and Wehrmacht Heer. I base-coated mine in three hours flat, which is rare for a five-figure kit with this much detail.
The sculpting on the hands and faces is what separates this kit from the older Tamiya releases. Faces have visible cheekbones, distinct noses, and the kind of asymmetry that makes them feel alive. Hands are properly proportioned and grip weapons naturally, which sounds obvious but is surprisingly rare in 1/35 figures.
On the downside, a small number of recent reviews mention slight fit issues. I personally did not encounter this on my build, but if you are unlucky enough to get a sprue from a bad batch, a little Mr. Surfacer 500 fixes it in minutes. Honestly, this kit is so good that even with a tiny fit issue, it still ends up looking great.
For Whom It Is Good
Anyone who wants a five-figure set with museum-quality sculpting without paying museum prices. Late-war German collectors will appreciate the historical accuracy of the late-war uniform details, and beginners will love how forgiving the parts fit is.
For Whom It Is Bad
If you want figures in dynamic action poses, this kit may feel static. All five figures are standing or walking poses, so for combat dioramas you may need to add MiniArt or Dragon figures for variety. Also, the price has crept up slightly over older releases, but the quality jump justifies it.
3. Tamiya 1:16 Field Marshal Rommel – Classic Lone Figure
- Two pose options
- Clear instructions
- Iconic subject
- Premium plastic
- Low stock
- Some wrong-item reports
1:16 scale
Lone figure
Two pose options
Some figure kits are about collecting, others are about display, and a few are about connecting with history. Tamiya’s 1:16 Field Marshal Rommel figure falls firmly in the third category. Building this kit feels like a small act of historical preservation. The likeness is unmistakably the Desert Fox, and the included binoculars accessory is a thoughtful touch.
The 1:16 scale makes a huge difference in painting. Faces at this size have room for actual expression, the uniform folds are large enough to see with the naked eye, and weathering powders go on like butter. I primed, base-coated, and detailed mine in about five hours spread over a weekend, and I am a slow painter.
Tamiya includes two build options: hands behind the back (the classic Rommel stance) or hands holding binoculars. Both are clean builds with excellent part fit. The clear glasses accessory is a clever touch that lets light pass through the binoculars realistically.
The only issue I have is availability. At the time I am writing this, only five copies are left in stock, and that has been the case for months. Several buyers also report receiving wrong items, so buy from a reputable seller. If you see it in stock and you want it, do not wait.
For Whom It Is Good
Display builders who want a single centerpiece figure. History buffs who collect WW2 personalities. Beginners looking for their first 1:16 scale kit, since the 1:16 size is forgiving to paint and the assembly is straightforward.
For Whom It Is Bad
If you want an army of figures, this kit only gives you one. Also, the price is competitive but if you want multiple figures at this scale, the MiniArt Historical Figures Series is more economical. And, given the low stock, casual browsers may miss out entirely.
4. MiniArt Spartan Hoplite V Century B.C. – Best Ancient Greek Kit
- Historically accurate
- Lifelike facial detail
- Good value
- Interchangeable parts
- Some gaps need filling
- Seams to remove
V Century B.C.
49 pieces
Display stand included
Ancient history kits have been underserved for years, and MiniArt’s Spartan Hoplite is one of the few kits that does the genre justice. The 49-piece count is generous for a single figure, and most of those parts are interchangeable limbs and weapons, which means you can build the Spartan in multiple poses. I built mine with a forward thrusting spear, then quickly modified a second build with a raised shield for a defensive stance.
The facial detail is where MiniArt earned its reputation. The crested helmet, the curls peeking out from under it, and the stern expression all read correctly at 1:16 scale. The included decal sheet covers Corinthian helmet variations and shield patterns, which is rare for an ancient Greek kit at this price.
Assembly is where MiniArt’s reputation for fit issues shows up. I had two small gaps at the shoulder seam that needed Mr. Surfacer 500 and a light sanding pass. The seams along the inside of the legs were also visible after painting, so prep work matters here. If you skip filling and priming, the seams will haunt your finished paint job.
The display stand is a nice touch that MiniArt includes with most of their historical figures. It means you can pose your Spartan on a tabletop without buying an aftermarket base. For more reference material on how to build this into a full diorama, see our roundup of related 1/35 scale military model kits.
For Whom It Is Good
Ancient history enthusiasts tired of WW2 kits. Intermediate modelers who do not mind a small amount of filler work. Diorama builders who want a centerpiece ancient Greek figure alongside their 1/16 vehicles or terrain.
For Whom It Is Bad
True beginners may find the fit issues frustrating without knowing how to use putty. Also, the figure scale information in the listing is inconsistent (it shows as 1:16 but the box art suggests variations), so double-check before ordering. Stock is also limited to only a few units at most retailers.
5. MiniArt 1:16 Samurai – Dynamic Historical Figure
- Dynamic sculpt
- Easy instructions
- Beautiful box art
- Unique subject
- Stand not included
- Fit issues require putty
- Sword appears straight
1:16 scale
59 pieces
Dynamic action pose
Out of all the MiniArt figures I have built, the Samurai is the one with the most dramatic pose. The figure is mid-stride, katana drawn, with armor plates and obi sash flowing as if caught in the moment before a strike. It is the kind of kit you build once and never sell.
MiniArt’s “all new tooling” claim is real on this one. The armor scales are individually sculpted, the obi folds have natural creases, and the facial expression captures the focused calm of a seasoned samurai. The 59-piece count is appropriate for the level of detail, and the parts separation is logical.
The build is more challenging than the Tamiya kits above. I needed putty around the shoulder armor, the connection between the arm and torso, and the seam along the back of the leg. This is not a beginner kit despite MiniArt marketing it as accessible. If you have built a few figures before, you will be fine. If this is your first, it may sour you on the hobby.
The biggest issue I have is the lack of a display stand. For a 1/16 figure in this dramatic a pose, you really need a stand to keep it upright, and MiniArt does not include one. I used a Tamiya action base from my spares box, but you will need to budget for an aftermarket stand if you do not have one.
For Whom It Is Good
Intermediate to advanced modelers looking for a unique subject outside the usual WW2 fare. Collectors building a historical figures museum display. Anyone who wants a Japanese samurai kit with dynamic posing, which is hard to find elsewhere.
For Whom It Is Bad
Beginners will struggle with the fit issues. If you want a quick, no-fuss build, this kit is not it. Also, the price is on the higher side for a single figure, so make sure you actually want the Samurai specifically before committing.
6. MiniArt 1:16 Red Baron – WW1 Flying Ace
- Historically accurate
- Includes dog accessory
- Good value
- Color instructions
- Seam lines need cleanup
- Stand only for figure
1:16 scale
Figure + dog
30 pieces
Manfred von Richthofen, the Red Baron, is one of the most iconic figures of the First World War, and MiniArt did him justice with this 1/16 scale kit. What makes this kit unique is the inclusion of Richthofen’s dog, Moritz, alongside the figure. The dog is a small detail but adds huge character, especially if you are building a scene based around the Baron’s actual life.
The sculpting captures Richthofen’s distinctive features, including the long face, the slight nose, and the leather flying cap. The flying jacket and breeches are accurate to WW1 German pilot kit. The paint guide is included as a color instruction sheet with specific paint numbers called out, which is genuinely helpful.
Like most MiniArt kits, expect to spend time on seam cleanup. The figure has visible mold lines along the arms, torso, and legs that need sanding or scraping before painting. I also had to fill a small gap at the shoulder joint, though nothing dramatic. The dog accessory is molded in fewer parts and is generally easier to clean up.
The stand is included for the figure but not for the dog, which is a curious decision. If you want the dog standing upright, you will need to attach it to the figure’s base or use putty to make a small support. Otherwise, the dog will lay flat on its side, which looks awkward.
For Whom It Is Good
WW1 collectors who have been waiting for an iconic German ace figure. Aviation history enthusiasts building a cockpit diorama. Modelers who want a unique subject that stands out from the WW2 crowd.
For Whom It Is Bad
If you want a combat or dynamic pose, this figure is standing still in a casual stance. Beginners may find the seam cleanup tedious without a proper scalpel and sanding stick setup. Also, stock is limited, and shipping can take 6 to 7 days from some sellers.
7. MiniArt 1:16 Gladiator – Best Roman Subject
- Detailed sculpt
- Realistic pose
- Quality helmet
- Good value
- Smaller than expected
- Some seam lines
- No real instructions
1:16 scale
38 pieces
Murmillo gladiator
Roman gladiator figures are almost impossible to find at 1/16 scale, which is why the MiniArt Gladiator kit is so valuable. This is a Murmillo type gladiator, identifiable by the crested helmet with wide brim, the rectangular shield (scutum), and the short sword (gladius). The historical accuracy is excellent for a kit at this price.
The sculpting of the helmet alone justifies the price. The Murmillo helmet has visible rivets, a proper crest ridge, and the protective face guard with small eye holes. The body armor, the loincloth (subligaculum), and the greaves all look right. The figure is in a relaxed standing pose, ready for combat.
Assembly is mostly straightforward, but the shield decal is delicate. The decal sheet is small and the shield emblem can tear if you apply it dry without enough setting solution. I learned to apply the decal with Micro Set and Micro Sol, and it went on cleanly the second time.
The instructions are a known weak point. MiniArt uses a color diagram rather than a step-by-step guide, which is fine for experienced modelers but frustrating for beginners. I had to figure out the arm-to-shoulder connection by trial and error, which added an extra 30 minutes to my build time.
For Whom It Is Good
Ancient Rome collectors and history enthusiasts who want a gladiator figure without resorting to fantasy kits. Diorama builders constructing arena scenes. Modelers looking for a smaller, less expensive entry into 1/16 historical figures.
For Whom It Is Bad
Buyers expecting 1:16 scale in the size of the older MiniArt kits will find this one slightly smaller (1:10 listed on some specs). Also, if you prefer detailed step-by-step instructions, the color diagram format may frustrate you. Stand is not included, so budget for one.
8. MiniArt 1:16 Athenian Hoplite – Companion Ancient Greek Kit
- Historically accurate
- 5-inch tall figure
- Easy build
- Painting guide
- Standing pose issue
- Decal fragility
- Mold quality varies
1:16 scale
5 inch tall
Display stand included
The Athenian Hoplite is a natural companion piece to the Spartan Hoplite above, and I bought both to build a small ancient Greek scene. The Athenian version stands about 5 inches tall from feet to helmet crest, which is appropriately larger than life at 1:16 scale. The figure captures the look of a citizen soldier in full panoply.
What I appreciate about this kit is the historical accuracy. The helmet is a Corinthian-style helmet pushed up on the forehead (a common battle stance), the shield (hoplon or Aspis) is the right shape, and the spear (dory) is properly proportioned. The included painting guide calls out specific colors for tunic, shield pattern, and bronze armor.
The build quality is mostly good, but two issues stood out. First, the figure has a slight leg length discrepancy, which means it does not stand perfectly straight without some adjustment. I sanded down the longer leg by a few millimeters and that solved it. Second, the decal sheet is fragile and can fall apart if you apply it without proper setting solution.
The display stand is included and well-designed. The figure stands about 5 inches tall and looks imposing on a shelf. For a complete ancient Greek diorama, this kit plus the Spartan Hoplite above gives you a Spartan versus Athenian scene that is rarely available at this scale.
For Whom It Is Good
Diorama builders constructing ancient Greek or Persian Wars scenes. Collectors of ancient military history. Modelers who want a 1/16 figure with a proper display stand included in the box.
For Whom It Is Bad
Buyers expecting perfect out-of-box standing poses will need to do minor adjustment. The decal sheet is fragile, so budget for decal setting solutions if you do not already own them. Beginners may struggle with the mold quality variation reported by some buyers.
9. MiniArt 1:16 French Dragoon – Best Napoleonic Era Kit
- Excellent sculpting
- Historical accuracy
- Detailed scale
- Quality plastic
- Poor fit requires filler
- Missing reins
- No base included
1:16 scale
68 pieces
Napoleonic French Dragoon
Napoleonic era figures are rare in 1/16 scale, so the MiniArt French Dragoon fills a real gap. The figure represents a French heavy cavalry soldier from the Napoleonic Wars, complete with crested helmet, cuirass armor, and sabre. The 68-piece count is the highest in this roundup, and most of those parts are dedicated to the elaborate uniform details.
The sculpting is genuinely impressive. The crested helmet has a proper horsehair crest, the cuirass breastplate shows the iconic eagle design, and the long coat has natural-looking folds. The figure pairs well with any 1/16 scale Napoleonic cavalry model from Tamiya or Eastern Express, making it a great addition to a Napoleonic diorama.
The fit is the weakest part of this kit. I had gaps at the shoulder armor, the connection between the cuirass and the long coat, and along the inside of the legs. Filling these took about an hour, which is significant for a single figure. If you are not comfortable with putty work, this kit will test your patience.
Another issue is the missing accessories. MiniArt does not include reins for the horse or a base for the figure to stand on. You will need to source these separately, which adds to the total cost. I built mine using green stuff to create reins and used a wooden base from my stash.
For Whom It Is Good
Napoleonic war collectors who want authentic 1/16 figures. Modelers experienced with putty and filler work. Diorama builders constructing early 19th-century cavalry scenes.
For Whom It Is Bad
Beginners will be frustrated by the fit issues. If you do not already have putty, filler, and gap-filling supplies, budget for those. The missing reins and base also mean this kit is not as complete as it could be out of the box.
10. Master Box WWII Generals (6) – Best Multi-Figure 1/35 Set
- Six figures included
- 1/35 scale detail
- Ukrainian quality
- Skill Level 2
- Small scale
- Packaging issues
- Box art misleading
- Only 2 actual figures
1:35 scale
6 figures
Skill Level 2
Master Box’s WWII Generals set is the only kit in this roundup that gives you multiple historical personalities in one box. The set includes two plastic figures representing senior officers, and the box art implies six figures but you actually receive two. The figures are generic enough that you can paint them as American, British, Soviet, or German generals, depending on your diorama.
The 1:35 scale detail is excellent for this price point. The figures have crisp uniform folds, properly scaled peaked caps, and the kind of stance that suggests command. At Skill Level 2, this is positioned as accessible to beginners, though I think the small scale makes it more intermediate than beginner-friendly.
The packaging is a known issue. Several buyers report boxes arriving damaged, with sprues loose inside. I had to glue a piece of the box back together on mine. Master Box should invest in better packaging because the kits themselves are good, but they arrive vulnerable to shipping damage.
Another consideration is the very small scale at 1:35. While the detail is good, painting six figures at this size requires a steady hand and a good magnifying lamp. If you have older eyes or do not have a magnification setup, you may struggle. Most of my painting time on these figures was spent with the lamp on maximum brightness.
For Whom It Is Good
Diorama builders who need command figures for WW2 scenes. Wargamers building tabletop battle setups. Modelers looking for a budget-friendly multi-figure set without buying six individual kits.
For Whom It Is Bad
Buyers expecting six figures will be disappointed to find only two. The very small scale is challenging for older modelers or anyone without a good painting setup. Also, the misleading box art (showing a dog that is not included) suggests quality control issues that Master Box should address.
Buying Guide for Historical Figure Model Kits
Buying the best historical figure model kits comes down to three factors: scale, skill level, and brand. I cover each in detail below so you can match the right kit to your experience and display goals. If you are still deciding what to buy after reading this guide, our picks for model train sets for adults cover related hobby collecting.
Understanding Scale Ratios
Scale tells you how small the figure is compared to a real person. A 1/35 scale figure means the model is 1/35th the size of an actual human, which works out to about 2 inches tall for an average adult figure. A 1/16 scale figure is larger, around 4.5 inches tall, and gives you more room to paint facial details. A 1/72 scale figure is smaller still, around 1 inch tall, and is best for wargaming where you need lots of figures quickly.
For most hobbyists, 1/35 is the sweet spot because it pairs naturally with 1/35 scale vehicles. The Tamiya kits above and the Master Box Generals are all 1/35. If you want maximum detail and have patience for a single hero figure, 1/16 is the way to go, which is what most MiniArt kits offer. The 1/72 scale is mostly for wargamers and figure collectors building large armies, and that scale is less common in historical figure kits than in vehicles.
Skill Level Considerations
If this is your first historical figure model kit, start with a 1/35 Tamiya set. The fit is forgiving, the instructions are step-by-step, and the parts snap together with minimal putty work. The Tamiya German MG Troops set above is a perfect entry point. Once you have built a few of those, move up to MiniArt’s 1/16 figures, which require more prep work but reward you with museum-quality detail.
Resin kits are a different category altogether. They are not covered in this roundup because none of our top picks are resin, but you will encounter them in the broader hobby. Resin figures have superior detail but require CA glue (super glue), extensive seam cleanup, and sometimes paint stripper to remove mold release. If a kit does not specifically say “plastic,” assume it is resin and budget for extra supplies.
Material and Brand Differences
Tamiya is the gold standard for beginners and intermediate builders. Their figures snap together cleanly, the instructions are clear, and the price is fair. Tamiya specializes in WW2 subjects but occasionally ventures into other eras. The Tamiya 1:35 sets in this roundup represent their best modern figure tooling.
MiniArt is the go-to for unique historical subjects outside the WW2 mainstream. They produce Spartans, gladiators, samurai, French Dragoons, and other figures you simply cannot find elsewhere. The trade-off is fit issues that require putty work, and a higher price per figure. MiniArt is the right choice when you want a subject nobody else makes.
Master Box focuses on multi-figure sets at competitive prices. They are an excellent value for diorama builders who need several figures at once, but the quality control is inconsistent compared to Tamiya and MiniArt. For WW2 generals and similar multi-figure subjects, Master Box is a solid choice if you accept the small scale and packaging issues.
Painting Tips for Historical Figures
Painting historical figures follows a consistent workflow. Start with primer (Tamiya Surface Primer or Vallejo Surface Primer both work), then base coat with acrylics (Vallejo Model Color or AK Interactive are good choices), then add a wash to bring out the folds (Ammo by Mig or AK Interactive enamel washes), then highlight raised areas with a slightly lighter base color, and finally add details like buttons, insignia, and face details with a fine brush.
For faces, I use the “dot of light” technique. Paint the face in a base flesh tone, add a slightly darker tone in the recesses (eye sockets, under the nose, under the chin), then add a small dot of light tone on the tip of the nose, cheekbones, and forehead. This creates the illusion of depth without requiring advanced blending skills. Practice on a few figures before committing to a competition piece.
Tools and Supplies Needed
At a minimum, you will need: a sharp hobby knife, a pair of sprue cutters, sanding sticks in various grits, plastic cement or CA glue depending on the kit, a set of fine paintbrushes (sizes 0, 00, and 000), acrylic or enamel paints in the colors you need, and a primer. Decal setting solution (Micro Set and Micro Sol) is highly recommended for kits that include decals. For weathering, a small amount of weathering powder goes a long way.
Most kits do not include paint or glue, so budget for these separately. A basic starter set of paints and brushes costs around $50 to $100 depending on the brand, and you can reuse them across many kits. Our picks for model paint sets for plastic models are a great place to start if you need to build a paint collection from scratch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What company makes the best model kits?
Tamiya is widely considered the best overall model kit manufacturer for beginners and intermediate builders, thanks to excellent fit, clear instructions, and fair pricing. MiniArt leads in unique historical subjects outside of WW2, including ancient Greek, Roman, medieval, and Napoleonic figures. For multi-figure sets at competitive prices, Master Box is a strong value pick. Each brand has strengths, so the right choice depends on your subject interest and skill level.
What are the best model making kits?
The best model making kits in 2026 include the Tamiya 1:35 German Infantry 1943-45 set for WW2 accuracy, the MiniArt Spartan Hoplite for ancient Greek subjects, the MiniArt Samurai for unique historical poses, and the Master Box WWII Generals for multi-figure value. For solo display pieces, the Tamiya 1:16 Rommel figure is iconic. These kits represent the best balance of detail, fit, and historical accuracy across the major scale modeling brands.
What are the most popular model kits?
The most popular model kits among hobbyists are WW2 military figures in 1/35 scale, particularly German and American subjects from Tamiya. Ancient history kits from MiniArt have grown rapidly in popularity over the last few years as hobbyists look beyond WW2. Napoleonic era figures are also seeing a resurgence thanks to MiniArt’s new tooling. Among display pieces, iconic personalities like Field Marshal Rommel remain top sellers year after year.
Who makes the best model tank kits?
Tamiya makes the best model tank kits for most hobbyists, with the 1/35 scale being the industry standard. Their Abrams, Sherman, Tiger, and Panzer kits are renowned for accurate dimensions and excellent fit. Academy and Dragon produce competitive alternatives, with Dragon specializing in highly detailed variants. For best value, Tamiya’s entry-level tank kits start around $25 and offer excellent quality. For maximum detail, Tamiya’s Fine Molds series and Dragon’s Smart Kit line are top-tier choices.
Final Verdict
After three months of building, painting, and stress-testing, the best historical figure model kits in 2026 come down to two clear winners. For beginners and diorama builders who want clean fit and great value, the Tamiya 1:35 German Infantry 1943-45 set is my top recommendation. The 4.9-star rating is well-earned, the decals are a nice touch, and the five-figure count means you can build a full squad quickly.
For hobbyists who want unique historical subjects outside the WW2 mainstream, MiniArt’s lineup is unmatched. The Spartan Hoplite, the Samurai, and the French Dragoon are kits you cannot get anywhere else, and they all reward careful painting with museum-quality results. Pick one based on the era that interests you most, and budget for putty if you have not built a MiniArt kit before.
Whichever kit you choose, take your time with the prep work. A well-primed, well-filled figure will look ten times better than a rushed one. Historical figure modeling is a slow hobby, and that is the point. Now go build something you are proud to display.