REVIEW MG 1/100 MS-06K Zaku Cannon [ Gundam Unicorn ver. ], Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla MG 1/100 MS-06K Zaku Cannon [ Gundam Unicorn ver. ] from Mobile Suit Gundam UC series.

P-Bandai Gunpla MG 1/100 MS-06K Zaku Cannon [ Gundam Unicorn ver. ] Review

This review covers the MG Zaku Cannon (Unicorn Color Ver.), which is modeled after the color scheme featured in Gundam UC. Originally released in 2013, this kit has seen recent reissues and is available exclusively through Premium Bandai for ¥4,950. While the kit includes the standard MG Zaku Cannon instruction manual, a supplementary sheet is added to detail excess parts and coloring adjustments for this version.

Contents and Accessories

Included in the set are the Zaku Machine Gun, Zaku Bazooka, Heat Hawk & Mounting Joint, a pilot figure, a rabbit-type antenna, and a stand joint.

The kit also comes with both marking stickers and Gundam decals that are transfers. These decals are carried over from the regular Zaku Cannon, meaning it also includes the personal emblems of characters such as Alfredino=Lam and Lieutenant Graden.

Excess Parts and Runners

The kit comes with a large number of excess parts. To recreate the color scheme via pre-molded plastic, multiple runners in different colors have been included, with many leftover pieces. Notably, there are three K-runners, where only a single light brown antenna part is used.

Unicorn Color Scheme

In Gundam UC, the Zaku Cannon participates in the assault on Torrington Base, and this kit reflects that event's Unicorn color variant. The model is based on the previously released MG Zaku Cannon, with changes to the plastic colors. Although the sandy tones remain consistent, more dark green has been added, giving the overall color scheme a sharper, more dynamic look. However, being a color variant kit, there are no changes in the model's structure or design.

Key Features

The Zaku Cannon is equipped with the iconic 180mm cannon mounted on its backpack and the large Big Gun on its waist. The model is built on the Zaku Ver. 2.0 framework, meaning the inner frame is made of a combination of ABS plastic and polycaps. While the Zaku 2.0 kits are now relatively old, their intricate design still holds up well today.

Color Reproduction

The coloring of the model is mostly achieved through the use of pre-molded parts, as is typical of Master Grade (MG) kits. Some areas differ from the standard Zaku Cannon, and the kit compensates for this by including multiple runners of the same type in different colors. While this leads to many leftover parts, the price of the kit remains the same.

Head and Body Detailing

The head captures the sleek, pipe-free look, with a seam-free structure and clear parts for the mono-eye guard and top camera. The antenna can also be swapped out for the rabbit-type version.

The mono-eye is linked to the movement of the neck, as seen in other MG Zaku Ver. 2.0 kits. The mono-eye is a clear part, though not color-separated, and a sticker is provided. However, applying the sticker to the curved surface can lead to wrinkles or peeling.

The torso shows a shift from the standard Zaku, featuring a more angular and flat design. The pipes are positioned differently, and the backpack has a unique shape. The waist skirt armor also differs slightly, while the pipes are created with flexible plastic tubes threaded through individual plastic pieces for added realism.

Weapon Systems

The 180mm cannon is split in a way that avoids visible seams and can move up and down, though not side-to-side. The base of the cannon also has detailing for the shell rounds. The Big Gun also features seam detailing, with a separate part for the muzzle, and has a movable grip and detachable magazine.

Shield and Arm Detailing

The shield has a more intricate design than the standard Zaku, with color separation down to the thin lines. While the backside has some hollow sections, the detailing remains thorough, and the arm-mounted connection allows for a wide range of movement.

The shoulder armor is more streamlined than usual, also connected by an arm joint for flexible movement. The forearms have a slightly angular shape and are colored in dark green, marking a departure from the standard Zaku's design.

Movement and Poseability

Thanks to the Zaku Ver. 2.0 framework, the upper body has great flexibility, and the Big Gun can swing without hindering movement. The shield and spiked armor also allow for a good range of motion. The knees and hips are highly mobile, though the ankle articulation is somewhat limited due to the internal cylinder mechanisms.

Comparison with Other Kits

When placed alongside the MG Zaku Cannon (Ian Graden Custom), both models exhibit a military-inspired, subdued color scheme. Comparisons with the MG Char's Zaku Ver. 2.0 show significant differences in both weaponry and armor design, making it enjoyable to compare the two side-by-side.

Summary

The MG Zaku Cannon (Unicorn Color Ver.) is an impressive color variant kit. While there are no structural changes, the abundance of spare parts, particularly the extra pipes, makes it useful for customizations or creating additional cable detailing. The model’s solid construction, thanks to the Zaku Ver. 2.0 base, ensures excellent stability and attention to detail. The angular armor, 180mm cannon, and Big Gun differentiate it significantly from standard Zaku models, making it a standout addition to any collection.