Bandai 5057719 - HGBF 1/144 Sengoku Astray Gundam No. 007  [B-5057719]

Building the Bandai HGBF 1/144 Sengoku Astray Gundam – A Detailed Guide for Enthusiasts

The Sengoku Astray Gundam, a standout from the "Gundam Build Fighters" series, offers a unique blend of samurai aesthetics and robust design. This High Grade (HG) kit is an exciting opportunity for experienced builders seeking to explore both traditional and modern elements in Gunpla modeling. Let's dive into the intricacies of this kit and see what makes it a must-have for serious collectors.

Design and Aesthetics: Samurai Meets Gundam

The Sengoku Astray Gundam is sourced from the "Gundam Build Fighters" universe, where it combines the classic Astray frame with samurai-inspired armor. The kit includes two large katanas that complement its striking visual style, making it a centerpiece for any collection. The color separation is impressive for a High Grade kit, with vibrant reds and whites that require minimal painting to achieve a polished look.

Build Quality: Precision and Fit

Experienced builders will appreciate the precision of the part fit in this kit. With Bandai's advanced engineering, the Sengoku Astray features excellent joint stability and articulation. The elbow and knee joints are particularly noteworthy for their sturdiness, ensuring dynamic poses without sacrificing balance. Builders should note the presence of undergating, which facilitates a cleaner finish by minimizing visible nub marks.

Customization Opportunities

While the Sengoku Astray looks great straight out of the box, its true potential shines through customization. The kit's design allows for easy disassembly, making it ideal for custom paint jobs. For those interested in panel lining, the deep grooves on the armor provide perfect opportunities to enhance the model's details. Builders can experiment with metallic paints on the katanas to add a realistic sheen.

Expert Tips for a Seamless Build

• Use a 600-800 grit sandpaper for smoothing out nub marks, especially on the white parts to avoid discoloration.
• Consider using Tamiya primer for a solid base coat that adheres well to the ABS plastic components.
• For complex masking, utilize flexible masking tapes to cover curved surfaces without leaving gaps.

The Bandai HGBF 1/144 Sengoku Astray Gundam is an exceptional kit for those who enjoy both building and customizing. Its solid build quality and aesthetic appeal make it a rewarding model for enthusiasts looking to expand their collection with a unique and culturally rich design.