Trying something new!

After watching the new episodes at Hobblink.tv, more specifically the episode that introduced other plastic model kits of other series, instead of just Bandai's Gundam line of model kits, I was inspired to try one of the kits that were shown.

The Frame Arms line of kits from Kotobukiya, famous for the Zoids, and Super Robot Wars plastic kits. The Frame Arms line is unique that they have given your the inner frame of the kit pre-made, and each kit share the same basic frame inside. This allow the modeller the freedom to mix and match parts between the other kits.

The Frame Arms line also has various support weapons and other such add-on from Kotobukiya M.S.G (modeling support goods) products.


The pictures of the box before and after I opened the box.




Some pictures from the manual that is included with the kit. A quick scan show me that the manual is alot less detailed than the ones I'm used to with Bandai's kit ^_^;; But it's still easy enough for me to follow thankfully!!



Runners from the kit.


A look at the basic frame, the base of all the Frame Arms line of kits. The atriculation of the frame is nice, and I would say that much better that some MG frames too!

But despite all the good stuffs, there are flaws too. The joints and parts are loose, much looser than the frames from Bandai's Gundam kits. The legs part below the knee keep on falling as I tried to pose it. And the connection between the chest and torso also keep on falling out ^_^;;

Many modeler have also commenter on this issue, so some gluing would be needed to keep the parts firm together. But then again, it's deal breaker issue to me, so I guess it's shall be a learning experience for me.





Parts for the chest, and the completed picture of how the head and chest look together. Pretty good I must say!


Comparison between the arm and leg with the fully armored part and just the inner frame one.



Some action poses for the fully assemble kit! Looking good!

Though I had some issues with the kit. With the armor on, the leg keep on falling off easier! Trying to pose the mech, the bottom of the leg keep on popping out as well. More gluing look like it! ^_^;;





These were taken after I had fully assemble it, out of idle curiosity(and hands!) I decided to take the kit apart and pose the inner skeleton more :P

The part came aparts easier than the Bandai's kit, guess that's a must since exchanging of parts is one of the biggest attraction to this line of kit :)

So thoughts on the Frame Arms:

Pro: Nice articulation of the inner skeleton, sleek and stylish Mech design, fully customization parts with various support ad-on.

Con: Loose connectors, parts are easy to fall off, gluing require

While not a pro or con, the kit does need extensive painting to look it's best, might not be a kit for modelers who do not like to paint (like me :P). And I think I shall take up painting to make it look good! And I'll definitely like to try some of the M.S.G parts, with custom weapons and such. And of course more kits from this line!