[Kit Insight] Bandai Gundam Seed Full Mechanics 1/100 GAT-X131 Calamity Gundam - Light Build

Model Number: GAT-X131
Designation: OMNI Enforcer Prototype Artillery Mobile Suit

The latest model kit iteration of this mobile suit is thankfully not a calamity!While the build experience is very similar to a kit from the RE100 line, the absence of polycaps makes the Calamity build like a Master Grade, especially with the multi-part assemblies that make up its frame. There is also plenty of surface detail and mechanical characterisation on both the outer armour and frame components, with lots of MG-style armour show-throughs and layering.

The stock colours are quite good with a robust amount of both part and colour separation which come through really nicely with just a simple straight build. I used DSPIAE Markers on the joints to give the Calamity a little variation there as the parts used in these areas are all molded in one colour.

As a bulky model kit with an assortment of big guns and other heavy equipment, the Calamity Gundam is surprisingly nimble and dexterous in articulation, supported by simple frame assemblies that are nice and tight. It can easily pull off a near-perfect kneeling stance with everything it has pointed at the target. The big flat feet help to plant the Calamity firmly on the ground to pull off its myriad of gun-toting poses, but the plasma sabot bazooka does get in the way at times which necessitate the adjusting of the Schlag cannons to accommodate the lengthy implement.

Since the Calamity is just a Full Mechanics model kit, it's not as hefty as a Master Grade and also feels a little hollow overall but ironically still feels more substantial than the MG 1/100 Gunner ZAKU Warrior.

The Bandai Full Mechanics 1/100 Calamity Gundam is of a good size, stature and proportions, easily going toe-to-toe with Master Grades in terms of both model height and detail. It can be easily mistaken for a MG if not for the fact that the Calamity lacks a full inner frame, but almost everything else is pretty comparable to higher-end 1/100 scale model kits.

Can't wait to see more Full Mechanics Gundam Seed kits!

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