REVIEW RG 1/144 MS-06R-1A Zaku II Black Tri Star, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla RG 1/144 MS-06R-1A Zaku II Black Tri Star from Mobile Suit Gundam MSV.

P-Bandai Gunpla RG 1/144 MS-06R-1A Zaku II Black Tri Star Review

The MS-06R-1A Zaku II "Black Tri-Stars" has seen multiple releases across various Gunpla lines, but today we’re taking a detailed look at the RG version released in 2018 via Premium Bandai. Priced originally at 3,300 yen, this kit brings a high level of detail and articulation in line with Real Grade standards.

The kit comes with a solid array of accessories:

• Zaku Machine Gun
• Zaku Bazooka
• Giant Baz
• Heat Hawk + mounting joints
• Swappable hands (movable, weapon-holding, open-palm)
• Stand joint
• Alternate antenna-less head
• Gaia pilot figure (same scale)
• Weapon mount for shield
• Realistic decals for markings and detailing

Design and Aesthetics

As a high-mobility type Zaku II, the 06R-1A variant sports large thrusters on the back and legs, giving it a bulkier, more mechanical look. The dark blue and purple color scheme is iconic to the Black Tri-Stars and is faithfully reproduced in this kit, with excellent part separation, especially for an early RG.

The color accuracy is excellent overall, though some red accents (like those on the backpack) are covered using stickers. Markings are replicated using RG-style realistic decals.

Build and Engineering

This kit is based on the original RG Zaku II (Char’s version), and includes some leftover parts from that version. It features Advanced MS Joint technology throughout the body, which allows for a highly articulated inner frame. However, being from the early RG era, ABS plastic is used, which can result in looser joints over time—particularly in the shoulders.

The legs, especially the thighs and lower legs, are noticeably more robust than the standard Zaku, contributing to its heavy-duty appearance. The feet are also uniquely styled—shorter but thicker, giving it a firm and grounded look.

The head sculpt is sharp, with a clear mono-eye lens that moves with the neck. The power pipes are all individually molded parts, enhancing realism. You can replicate Gaia’s unit (with antenna) or Ortega & Mash’s units (without antenna) by swapping the headpiece.

Mechanical Details

The backpack is a standout piece with movable fins and detailed vernier thrusters. The cockpit hatch opens and includes a tiny Gaia figure. The shoulder shield is mounted on a movable arm with layered detail underneath.

The spiked shoulder armor also connects via a movable joint and leaves no visible seam lines. The hip armor is movable, and you can adjust the hip joint positioning using the inner frame. The knees feature a double-joint system with armor sliding mechanisms for added realism.

Feet soles are fully detailed with no hollow parts, and the toes are also articulated.

Articulation

Despite its bulk, the articulation is impressive:

• Wide waist and shoulder rotation
• Good elbow and arm lift range, with the shoulder spike armor allowing free movement
• Leg mobility is decent, though knee bend is limited to around 90° due to design
• Ankle articulation is slightly limited, but the hips are more flexible than expected for a bulky MS

Weaponry

• Zaku Machine Gun: Includes clear scope parts, movable sub-grip. Slight seam lines on the main body.
• Zaku Bazooka: Reused from previous kits, minor seam lines, no clear parts.
• Giant Baz: A signature weapon for the Black Tri-Stars. Looks great and features moving grips and scope. Right-hand grip only. Some seam lines present.
• Heat Hawk: The blade is molded separately for added realism. Can be mounted on the waist.

Weapons attach securely using rotating pegs, but be cautious—these are thin and can be tight to remove.

All weapons can be mounted on the shield via included joints, though the weight of these accessories may affect the kit’s balance. The stand connector attaches at the crotch and uses the early RG system (no 3mm peg compatibility).

Comparisons

• RG Char’s Zaku II: Similar base structure, but this kit features improved side armor connections that don’t fall off as easily.
• RG Shin Matsunaga’s Zaku II: Differences include shoulder vents, elbow shapes, and unique thruster cartridge detailing on the calves.
• HGUC & HG Origin versions: The RG feels the slimmest and most detailed of the three, though HGUC offers a more saturated color tone.

Summary

The RG MS-06R-1A Zaku II "Black Tri-Stars" is a fantastic addition to the RG line and a standout among the 06R variants. Its sinister color scheme, detailed armor, and iconic weapon loadout (especially the Giant Baz) make it a must-have for fans of the Black Tri-Stars.

While it carries the usual early-RG caveats like slightly loose Advanced MS Joints in the shoulders, it still offers a dense, mechanically satisfying build. If you're a fan of detailed inner frames and aggressive aesthetics, this is a top-tier RG kit worth adding to your collection.

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