Instagram Photo Archive: MG Astrays

I do have a soft spot for the Astrays.

I decided to remove the converted Aile Pack from the Astray D, and then just put in the Tactical Arms. Surprisngly, it looked even better. I also left the thigh-mounted knives in.

Here's another shot, with full backpack and the TA.

MG 1/100 Astray Red Frame

Although I basically prefer 1/144 scale now, i still do have some 1/100 kits. This is one particular favorite, the MG 1/100 Astray Red Frame.

1) If you're wondering what the weird clay-like stuff is on the sword's "wing roots," they're sticky-tac. It's one of the weaknesses of the construction - ABS-to-ABS joints. Shield is from an MG Strike, and I replaced the right katana with an extra Blue Frame dagger. Spare sword hilt comes with the kit.

Bandai HGGS 1/144 MBF-P03 Astray Blue Frame Second L - Review - Part 2

Welcome back!

I'd like to apologize for the long wait, but things got a bit busy in real life. Anyway, here's the second part of the Blue Astray Review.

Gundam Wikia: MBF-P03 Second L
MAHQ.net: MBF-P03 Second L
Click here for the first part of the review

The Tactical Arms Weapons System
I'm a big fan of multiple-mode weapons systems, but even I have to admit, the TA system for the Blue Astray was quite a surprise. It's a flight pack with a "tailgun" that transforms into a cannon/artillery unit, and of course, it has a BFG (Big F***ing Sword) mode.

We've already seen it in the flight mode in the first part of the interview, and as observed, it didn;t look too good in it. Here, in Gun/Cannon mode, it looks passable.

The two ammo clips at top and bottom are stored at the back waist plates.

Bandai HGGS 1/144 MBF-P03 Astray Blue Frame Second L - Review

This is one of my favorite designs from Gundam Seed - scratch that, from all Gundam! The basic design is known as the Astray, and this particular variant is known as the Astray Blue, Second L.

In a nut shell, this mecha is an upgraded unit, now boasting of a multiple-mode weapon and propulsion system known as the Tactical Arms, which has three modes: a winged flight pack, a gun system, and a large sword with rocket thrusters.

For more information, you can check out the history in the following links:

Gundam Wikia: MBF-P03 Second L
MAHQ.net: MBF-P03 Second L

Yes, it can be balanced while at a relaxed stance - but not with a straight-on, equal-footing stance.