As someone deeply involved in the garage kit community, I’ve witnessed many misunderstandings surrounding these collectible figures. One major misconception is that certain garage kits, like those sculpted by Naomi and produced under FreeWillStudio, are extremely rare or exist in only a handful of copies. In reality, these kits are often sold at multiple events such as Tonari no Mokei Festival 8 and Wonder Festival 2025, with authentic versions still available online and secondhand. Collectors often face frustration when they see a high demand coupled with limited availability, which sometimes pushes buyers to consider bootlegs. However, supporting legitimate artists and studios is crucial to preserving the craftsmanship and creativity behind these figures. Bootlegs might seem like an easy fix, but they typically undervalue the artist's work and the community as a whole. In my experience, patience and researching the sales history of kits can lead you to find authentic copies at reasonable prices. Events in Japan and China frequently restock or showcase new versions, such as the Tsubasa Ver., often made from high-quality resin material. Prices may vary—usually around 33,455 to 35,000 JPY or equivalent in CNY—but investing in genuine kits maintains the hobby’s integrity and supports the talented artists behind each piece. Finally, collecting garage kits is undeniably expensive, but it’s also rewarding when you own a legitimate product that reflects the dedication of skilled sculptors, color producers, and photographers. Understanding this dynamic helps balance the urge for instant gratification with the respect owed to the craftsmanship and the culture of garage kit collecting.