REVIEW FM 1/100 GAT-X133 Sword Calamity Gundam, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla FM 1/100 GAT-X133 Sword Calamity Gundam from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED MSV series.

P-Bandai Gunpla FM 1/100 GAT-X133 Sword Calamity Gundam

The Sword Calamity Gundam, newly released in the Full Mechanics 1/100 series, is available for 6,050 yen as an exclusive item on Premium Bandai. While the package design is monochromatic, the manual is in color and includes detailed explanations of the mobile suit. This kit comes with a variety of accessories, including the Schwert Gewehr effect set, Midas Messer effect parts, lead wires for Panzer Eisen, stand joints, and two Action Base 6 stands. It also includes foil stickers for the camera areas and marking stickers, with some spare parts left over from the runners.

Design and Customization

The Sword Calamity Gundam, piloted by Edward Harrelson from "Gundam SEED MSV," has been adapted into the SEED Full Mechanics series. Unlike its base model, the Calamity, which featured various shooting weapons like the Schlage, this version is heavily geared towards melee combat with the addition of the Schwert Gewehr and Midas Messer. Its primary color has also shifted to a bright orange, setting it apart from the usual Calamity design.

Construction and Details

Most of the kit utilizes parts from the previously released normal Calamity. It features highly detailed and flashy designs comparable to SEED MG models, with all joints made of KPS, avoiding ABS or polycaps for a more cohesive build. Despite its intricate details, it remains relatively easy to assemble compared to MG kits.

Color and Detailing

The kit’s coloring is primarily achieved through molded plastic rather than stickers, ensuring a vibrant and durable finish. Detailed areas, such as the camera and twin eyes, are accurately reproduced with separate parts. Some parts, like the head and chest, feature detailed molds and mesh designs to avoid a monotonous look.

Joint Mechanisms

The joints maintain the same design as the normal Calamity, with KPS joints providing robust articulation. The shoulder armor includes a new beam boomerang, the Midas Messer, which is securely attached and color-separated for added realism. The forearms feature the Panzer Eisen rocket anchors, with movable claws and well-designed wrist joints.

Armament

The calf area houses the Armor Schneider combat knives, with detailed engravings and sharp finishes. The Schwert Gewehr, included as a pair, can be equipped with various beam effect parts for dynamic posing. The Panzer Eisen can be displayed in firing mode with attached wire parts, and the Midas Messer can be displayed using dedicated stands.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to the normal Calamity, the Sword Calamity lacks the long Schlage but compensates with multiple melee weapons and a distinct color pattern. The thoughtful part separation allows for accurate color representation without extensive painting.

Posing and Display

The kit's articulation allows for a wide range of dynamic poses, with the ability to extend the hip joints for increased leg mobility. The Schwert Gewehr arms can rotate and swing, enhancing display flexibility. However, the side armor and upper arm parts may require adjustments for more stable posing.

Summary

The Full Mechanics 1/100 Sword Calamity Gundam is a versatile and exciting addition to the Gundam model lineup, with a strong emphasis on melee combat and dynamic posing capabilities. Its vibrant orange color and diverse weaponry make it a visually striking kit that stands out in any collection. The combination of detailed parts and ease of assembly ensures that it is both a pleasure to build and display.