GAT-X105+P204QX LIGHTNING STRIKE GUNDAM
SPECIFICATION
BUILD LOG
It looks exactly like the metal build counterpart of Bandai. From the frame, to the armor. Bonus point if you add some Amax decals (the one included in the kit is okay but not good enough). I was surprised as I cut the parts from runner for assembling. They come painted and coated already, with the undergates everywhere.
Daban has gone a long way from 8825 (https://youtu.be/h8UcEr2BVBk) to 8830. In such a few years, it went from a loosing model kit to one that looks metal like the 8828 Destiny, and the 8829 8830 8832 Strike. I am fond of their coating. It's convenient for us who don't know how to do it and it's pleasant to those who know because they don't have to risk it.
Personally, the best thing about the 88xx line up is I finally have access to the figures I love pretty much but can't afford them. Bandai Metal Build is expensive, even more when some of them are P-Bandai.
The model kit doesn't come without issues though. There are a few of them.
The final product is a cool one. Even with the basic shield and rifle. You can display it separately from the backpacks of 8829 (Perfect Set), 8830 (Lightning Strike), and 8832 (Gunbarrel).
If you buy Amax decals, you have enough to apply for 6 different Strike bodies lol in two different style (Daban one and Bandai one):
https://www.bilibili.com/opus/1052655063626940434
https://www.bilibili.com/opus/1052655063626940434
The last thing about this model kit, I'm not sure if it is a pros or a cons: too many small pieces. For the bit that Bandai does painting or detailing using color, Daban decides to make a separate part for it, at various places. It creates depth on your kit but at the same time, they are quite annoying to deal with. Cement is recommended and don't hesitate to apply it on those tiny pieces to not lose them later.
BUILD NOTES
- The shoulder is fragile. Don't rush it. Take your time and gently put the parts together, attach them arms carefully. I have seen many broken shoulders from 8829.
- The clear parts on the backpack are difficult to put on. You may need to trim the pegs a bit then apply some forces.
- The joints on the backpack might need cement to stay on. They are moving parts so they often fall off when you try to pose. The same problem at the front skirts for me, I had to cement them in place. You would notice they are the same in my every poses.
PHOTO SET
