HG Gouf, The Start Part 1

Bandai has re-released older models and it's actually really cool to see how much they have improved their designs and process of making their current selection of model kits. Hence, since I recently got an older version of the HG Gouf model, I'm gonna talk about it, before all the painting and stuff.

(Above) Dat old school box art!

(Above) They model does not come with those gaps when properly assembled, I basically didn't assemble them properly because I would take the parts apart again. This was done simply to see which parts require gluing to remove the seam lines, and also which parts do not. But usually I glue them anyway. 

After assembling the model and also after having assembled many of Bandai's newer line up of models, you can clearly see the improvements they have made to their products. The newer models come rich with details, fine panel lines which understandably are absent from their older models. This is actually something I like, because it makes sanding them so much easier. Removing the worry of sanding off a panel line, and just worrying on evenly sanding the model. 

(Above) If there's one thing I hated from the older line, it's the lack of clear parts. No how in the world am I going to paint this looking like a beam weapon.

(Above) The rifle is split right down the center with add-on parts to form the complete rifle. The split down the center is fairly visible, and with that, glue and sanding will be a must. However nice part separation, which will make colour accents very easy.

(Above) The shield is extremely plain. No panel lines on the outside, as well as very little detail on the inner part of the shield. While this makes painting it easy, I'm not sure it will look that good.

(Above) I really like that as old as the model is, they took into account how people would like to paint this model. The segmented connections on the arm reflect that, as the only parts that need to be placed in between the two parts are the polycaps, which are then connected to elbow or knee part, before connecting to another polycap. This makes painting the separate parts easy, as you don't have to paint the connecting parts first, sandwich them in between the other parts before gluing and removing the seam line, then praying to god as you paint the newly glued and sanded part without touching the connecting part.

So this would be officially my third model of Zeon's mobile suits. And currently I am still deciding what colour scheme to choose for this model.

JIM-san