Entry Grade Strike Gundam: A Beginner's Model Kit Review

by Jhon Lennon 57 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to dive into the awesome world of Gunpla (Gundam Plastic Model kits) but felt a bit intimidated? Maybe you've seen those super detailed, complex kits and thought, "Whoa, that's a bit much!" Well, I'm here to tell you about the perfect entry point: the Entry Grade (EG) 1/144 scale Gat-X105 Strike Gundam model kit. This is the ultimate starting point for anyone curious about building Gundam models. This review will break down everything you need to know, from what's in the box to the final, awesome result. Let's get building!

What Makes the Entry Grade Strike Gundam So Great for Beginners?

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. The Entry Grade Strike Gundam is specifically designed with beginners in mind. That's its whole deal, and it excels at it. Here’s why it's such a fantastic choice:

  • Simplified Construction: One of the key features of the EG line is its focus on ease of assembly. Forget about complicated instructions and a million tiny parts. This kit utilizes an innovative design that snaps together with minimal effort. You won't need glue, and you'll find that many of the parts fit together perfectly right out of the box.
  • Color Separation: The EG Strike Gundam boasts excellent color separation. What this means is that the different colored parts of the model (red, blue, yellow, white, etc.) are already molded in their respective colors. You won't have to worry about painting individual components unless you want to add extra detail. This is a huge time-saver and makes the kit look fantastic right away.
  • Snap-Fit Assembly: The parts click together, no glue required. This is a massive advantage for beginners because it eliminates the need for messy adhesives and allows you to build your Strike Gundam quickly and easily. Snap-fit also means that you can take the model apart if you make a mistake (or just want to try a different pose).
  • Affordable Price: The Entry Grade Strike Gundam is one of the most budget-friendly Gunpla kits on the market. It's a fantastic way to experience the joy of building a model without breaking the bank. This makes it a perfect impulse buy or a gift for someone who's never tried Gunpla before.
  • Great Articulation: Despite being an entry-level kit, the EG Strike Gundam has a surprising amount of articulation. You can pose it in various dynamic positions, making it fun to display and photograph.

So, if you're a complete newbie, the Entry Grade Strike Gundam is like a welcoming hug into the Gunpla hobby. The ease of assembly and great value make it an ideal starting point.

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

So, you've got your hands on the Entry Grade Strike Gundam! Let's see what's inside the box. Usually, you'll find the following:

  • The Runners: These are the plastic frames containing all the individual parts of the model. The parts are connected to the runners by small gates (also called nubs). These are where you'll be using your nippers (or a hobby knife) to detach the parts.
  • The Instructions: A clear, step-by-step guide with diagrams that show you how to assemble the model. The instructions are generally very straightforward, making it easy to follow along.
  • Stickers (Sometimes): Some EG kits may include stickers for adding extra details, such as the Gundam's eyes or various markings. Note that the Entry Grade Strike Gundam typically doesn't have a lot of stickers, as the color separation is already quite good.

Upon opening the box, you'll immediately notice the high quality of the plastic. The parts are molded with great detail, and the colors are vibrant. The instructions are clear and easy to understand, and the overall presentation is very appealing. Even before you start building, you'll be impressed by the quality of this entry-level kit.

Now, let's talk about the build experience itself. One of the best things about the Entry Grade Strike Gundam is how quickly you can assemble it. You can build it in a single sitting, and even if you've never built a model kit before, you'll be able to complete it without any problems. The parts fit together perfectly, and the instructions are easy to follow. You won't need any special tools, although having a pair of hobby nippers will make the process much smoother.

Building the Entry Grade Strike Gundam: Step-by-Step

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of building your Entry Grade Strike Gundam. Here's a general overview of the process:

  1. Preparation: Lay out your tools. You'll need your nippers (or a hobby knife), the instructions, and a small container to hold the parts. It's also a good idea to have a cutting mat to protect your work surface.
  2. Detaching Parts: Using your nippers, carefully detach the parts from the runners. Cut as close to the part as possible to minimize the need for cleanup. You can use your hobby knife to trim any remaining nubs.
  3. Assembly: Follow the instructions carefully. Each step will show you how to connect the different parts. The parts are designed to snap together, so you shouldn't need any glue. Pay attention to the orientation of the parts, as some may only fit in one direction.
  4. Articulation and Posing: Once you've assembled the entire model, you can start posing it. The EG Strike Gundam has a good range of articulation, allowing you to create various dynamic poses.

Throughout the building process, take your time and enjoy it. Don't rush, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. If you make a mistake, simply detach the parts and try again. The key is to have fun and enjoy the process.

One tip: After detaching each part, you might want to consider using a hobby knife or a file to clean up any remaining nubs or imperfections. This will give your model a cleaner look. Although, even without this step, the Entry Grade Strike Gundam looks great.

Customization and Beyond: Taking Your Strike Gundam to the Next Level

Okay, so you've built your Entry Grade Strike Gundam. Congrats! Now what?

  • Panel Lining: This is a simple technique that involves using a fine-tipped marker or pen to draw lines in the panel lines of the model. This adds depth and detail to your model, making it look more realistic. Even with the Entry Grade Strike Gundam a good panel line can improve it significantly.
  • Adding Decals: Some kits come with stickers or water slide decals. Applying these decals can add even more detail and customization to your model.
  • Painting (Optional): If you're feeling adventurous, you can paint your model. This is where you can really get creative and personalize your Strike Gundam. However, you should note that painting is an advanced technique and not recommended for beginners. Although, if you want a different look for your Entry Grade Strike Gundam, there's nothing that can stop you.
  • Weathering (Optional): Weathering techniques can be used to make your model look more realistic by adding wear and tear effects. This is another advanced technique, but it can be really cool.
  • Building More Gunpla: Once you've finished your Entry Grade Strike Gundam, you might find yourself hooked! There's a whole world of Gunpla kits out there, from the simple to the incredibly complex. You can move on to other kits from the Entry Grade line, or try out kits from other grades, such as High Grade (HG), Real Grade (RG), or Master Grade (MG).

Final Thoughts: Is the Entry Grade Strike Gundam Right for You?

So, is the Entry Grade Strike Gundam the right kit for you? Absolutely, if you are:

  • A Beginner: This kit is designed for you. Its ease of assembly and affordability make it the perfect starting point.
  • Looking for a Quick and Fun Build: This kit is a great choice if you want to experience the joy of building a model without spending a lot of time or money.
  • A Gundam Fan: If you're a fan of the Gundam series, this kit is a must-have.

Even if you're an experienced model builder, the Entry Grade Strike Gundam is still a great kit to have. It's a fun and relaxing build that's perfect for when you just want to build something simple. So, what are you waiting for? Go grab an Entry Grade Strike Gundam and start building!

I really hope you enjoy building your Entry Grade Strike Gundam as much as I did. Happy building, and may the Gunpla gods be with you!