HG 1/144 CGUE D.E.E.P. Arms Zwei by @line-U82f969020f1a22ee93700d2385db016b

HG 1/144 CGUE D.E.E.P. Arms Zwei by ザンギマキシム is a gunpla custom build by a builder with name ザンギマキシム with gumpla.jp account @line-U82f969020f1a22ee93700d2385db016b.

Gunpla Custom Build : HG 1/144 CGUE D.E.E.P. Arms Zwei by @line-U82f969020f1a22ee93700d2385db016b

The HG 1/144 CGUE D.E.E.P. Arms Zwei, masterfully customized by the Gunpla builder @line-U82f969020f1a22ee93700d2385db016b, stands as an exemplary model of unique modification and intricate detailing.

The project was not finished in time! While there is a mix of happiness over creating the best work so far and regret for not making it to the contest, here's an introduction to "Sig," the new creation.

The mixing for this build involved parts from the Entry Grade Strike Gundam, a 1/200-scale Hazel, 30MM kits, and various pieces scavenged from the junk bin. This was the first attempt at semi-scratch-building and using metallic paints, with detail-up parts added where they seemed fitting.

Theme: Designed for Gunpla Battles. Inspired by Fujiki-kun, a sneaky character, the concept is to aim for a quick win. The idea is for the Gunpla to charge out from the terminal at the start of the battle and shoot down the enemy Gunpla using the unique blue and red "vomit beams" from SEED, hoping to provoke lines like, "An attack from outside our search range!?" for dramatic effect.

The model started with the intention to enhance the signature Prototype Directional Thermal Energy Cannons found on both arms of the Deep Arms unit. It was the first time attempting a weapon modification. Symmetry was a priority, but a lack of precision resulted in some tilted parts, which is something to work on for future builds.

To facilitate long-range beam attacks, two large sensor camera units were mounted on each shoulder. The resin gave them a clear and vibrant finish. Of all the additional details, the shoulder cables were a favorite, added at the last minute but fitting in well, contributing to a simpler design inspired by Exia.

Filled with personal touches and favorite elements, there were many points of focus, but the Deep Arms kit itself stood out as impressive for an older kit, with excellent curves and design distinct from the Jin. It's almost as if the pilot, Shiho Hahnenfuss, influenced the sleek, feminine curves of the body while the weapon design emphasized bold lines for a striking contrast. Though the personal mark of the balsam flower was considered, it was ultimately left out.

The back side of the model used 30MM parts and Kotobukiya junk. Everything fit together like a puzzle, a process that made the builder proud of their progress since two years ago. The model features two small dual-barrel guns with beam swords. Generally, the builder doesn’t favor units without weaknesses, so there was initially no plan for melee weapons, but since this is a custom build for Fujiki-kun, they were added anyway, despite the impracticality due to the shoulder parts.

Reflecting on time, it's been a rapid journey—creating models from Iron-Blooded Orphans, The Witch from Mercury, and the Universal Century, while developing new techniques. With the announcement of the Gundam SEED movie, the SEED competition started, and it was time to finish the model. Compared to two years ago, the builder's skills had improved, thanks to accumulated Gunpla kits, techniques, putty, brass wire, and airbrushing. Yet, there was the summer vacation to consider, and with family visits, time ran out. The detour into creating a Mighty Strike was another misstep.

The initial idea came in 2022, spurred by a successful first modification of Asmodeus, and the builder wanted to try out the new Wave detail punch for scratch-building. However, it was too ambitious. The details were lacking, gaps couldn't be filled, and the detachable parts needed for painting halted progress. At that time, the builder's parts collection was limited to the EG Strike.

If only the design had been refined further before starting, there would have been fewer issues. Ultimately, the Deep Arms was always a favorite since its release, even purchased at a premium from a second-hand shop. Shiho is a real beauty (look her up!). While satisfied that the two-year-long dream had come true, there were still issues with the accuracy and roughness in the latter stages of the build.

Lessons Learned: