Wednesday, May 27, 2020

[Kit Insight] Bandai HG 1/144 RX-79[G] Gundam Ground Type - Straight Build


Model Number: RX-79[G]
Designation: EFGF Limited Production Ground Use General Purpose Mobile Suit

#CircuitBreakerBacklogChallenge Build #18 - an enhanced blast the the past!
This kit had been languishing in some corner of the house for the better part of two years after its shoulder armour units were cannibalised for a customised build. The leftover Normal-type shoulders bundled with the P-Bandai HGUC 1/144 RX-78-6 Gundam G06 Mudrock work nicely as alternative parts, blending well with the RX-79's exceedingly U.C. blocky aesthetic.

As compared to the 2007 version of the HGUC 1/144 Gundam Ground Type (images of this oldie below this paragraph), the 2018 remake is obviously heads and shoulders above its predecessor. Yet, certain features such as the beam saber compartments on the calves are carried over largely unchanged, a testament to excellent design and engineering from 2007.



As with the "true" HG 1/144 GM Ground Type, the HG 1/144 RX-79[G] Gundam Ground Type is a very satisfying build, with excellent part and colour separation in place throughout the model kit, most evident in the "spiked" knees. The unit's eyes are achieved by clear parts, although a foil sticker is also provided.

Articulation is very good on this model kit with satisfyingly tight joints all over, but somehow it also feels a little loose and hollow. The upper waist section just kind of sits there, sandwiched between the chest unit and the lower waist without any connection to either. The white cover surrounding the yellow vent on the right side of the chest also tends to fall off a lot, so a little cement will save you quite a bit of frustration. But none of these are deal-breakers for what is a very stellar High Grade.

The 180mm cannon is arguably the coolest weapon in the HG 1/144 RX-79[G] Gundam Ground Type's extensive arsenal, and can be broken down into five parts and neatly stored in the Weapons Container that fits onto the Weapon Rack. The fantastic poseability and tight joints on the model kit allows for effortless dynamic poses with the 180mm cannon: you can put the Gundam in any pose you want and it will hold it. The large backpack does pose some balancing challenges but it's not a very big deal.

Overall, the Bandai HG 1/144 RX-79[G] Gundam Ground Type is a great kit for straight builders and customisers alike.

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2 comments:

  1. so whenever i move it around too much theres an issue of how the ball joint in his waist would pop out is there a fix to that?

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    Replies
    1. You can use a little bit of hobby cement or nail polish on the ball joint to thicken it up.

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