Bandai 1/144 MS-06FZ Zaku II FZ

This is one of the literally dozens of characters in the wide Gundam world. For those of you who, like I, know next to nothing about this, here is a bit from Wikipedia:  Mobile Report Gundam Wing (新機動戦記ガンダムWウイング, Shin Kidō Senki Gandamu Uingu), is a 1995 Japanese mecha anime series directed by Masashi Ikeda and written by Katsuyuki Sumizawa. The plot of Gundam Wing centers on a war in the future (specifically, the year After Colony 195) between Earth and its orbital colonies in the Earth-Moon system.

If you want to know more, a google will provide you with more info.

Bandai SF kits are, for the most part, snap kits designed to provide a completed model in the least amount of time without the use of cements. This one appears to be the same. Gundam kits come in two major scales. The larger, more expensive ones are in 1/100 scale while the smaller and somewhat less complex kits are 1/144. While this one is the smaller scale. the 44 construction steps belies any attempt at calling this one less complex.

These kits are molded in color in order to alleviate any need for paint and this one is not exception. The majority of the kit is in olive green and medium grey with parts of the sprues in dark grey, red, and a light brown. A fair number of the sprue parts are dedicated to the various joints and hinges. This allows the figure to assume just about any pose you might wish. This also increases its play value among younger builders.

I have no idea how this one fits into the Gundam universe as everything is written in Japanese. Instructions show it armed with one of two weapons. One is a large machine gun and the other is an axe of some sort with a glowing blade. Despite the lack of English, the construction steps are very easy to follow and should result in a hassle free build. Of course it can be painted if desired and a painting guide is provided, but it is not necessary. There is a small decal sheet included which looks as if it is to be applied to the shoulder armor. . 

One of these days I'm going to have to build one of these. This is the second I've gotten in the last year so perhaps 2025 will see one on the bench. I've seen these kits built and they are quite impressive.  

February 2025

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