The MGEX Strike Freedom Gundam is a masterpiece of engineering, and the mechanical clear armor version takes it to another level. The transparent armor panels reveal the intricate inner frame, making every joint and piston visible. But building a clear kit comes with its own set of challenges—scratches, stress marks, and fingerprints are your enemies. In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process, from preparation to final assembly, so you can enjoy a flawless mechanical clear build.
Whether you're a seasoned builder or just starting with clear parts, these tips will help you avoid common pitfalls. We'll cover everything from the right tools to the best techniques for cutting, sanding, and assembling clear plastic. By the end, you'll have a stunning MGEX Strike Freedom that showcases the mechanical beauty of the inner frame.
Understanding the MGEX Strike Freedom Mechanical Clear Version
The MGEX Strike Freedom is known for its detailed inner frame, and the mechanical clear armor is designed to show it off. Unlike standard opaque armor, the clear parts are transparent, allowing you to see the gold-plated frame and internal mechanisms. This makes the build more visually impressive but also more demanding. You need to handle the clear parts with care to avoid any damage that could ruin the look.
Before you start, it's important to understand the kit's structure. The MGEX Strike Freedom features a pre-assembled inner frame, which is a game-changer for clear builds. This means you don't have to worry about painting the frame—it's already beautifully finished. Your main focus will be on the clear armor pieces, which require a delicate touch.
- Familiarize yourself with the manual and identify all clear parts before cutting.
- Keep your work area clean and well-lit to spot any dust or smudges.
- Consider wearing cotton gloves to avoid fingerprints on the clear plastic.
Essential Tools for Clear Parts Building
Building a clear kit like the MGEX Strike Freedom requires specific tools to ensure a clean finish. Standard nippers are fine, but you'll want a sharp, single-bladed cutter to avoid stress marks. A good pair of hobby tweezers is also essential for handling small clear pieces without dropping them.
Sanding is another critical step. Clear plastic tends to scratch easily, so use fine-grit sandpaper (1000-2000 grit) and consider using a sanding sponge for curved surfaces. Polishing compounds can help restore clarity after sanding, but use them sparingly. Finally, a glass file or a dedicated clear-part file can make nub removal much easier.
- Invest in a high-quality single-bladed nipper for clean cuts.
- Use a hobby knife to shave off remaining nubs, but be careful not to gouge the plastic.
- Have a polishing cloth ready to buff out any minor scratches.
Cutting and Nub Removal: The Key to a Flawless Clear Build
The most critical step in any clear build is cutting the parts from the runners. If you cut too close to the part, you risk stressing the plastic and creating white marks. Instead, cut a few millimeters away from the part, then trim the nub down with a hobby knife. This two-step process prevents stress marks and keeps the clear surface clean.
After cutting, you'll need to sand the nub area. Start with a coarser grit (800) and work your way up to 2000 grit. Always sand in one direction, and avoid applying too much pressure. For a truly clear finish, you can use a polishing compound at the end, but test it on a spare runner first to ensure it doesn't cloud the plastic.
- Never cut directly at the part; leave a small nub to trim later.
- Use a glass file for a quick and clean nub removal without sanding.
- If you do get stress marks, try applying a tiny bit of heat with a hairdryer—it can sometimes make them disappear.
Assembling the Clear Armor: Tips and Tricks
When assembling the clear armor, take your time. The pieces are often tight, and forcing them can cause cracks or scratches. Use a gentle twisting motion to fit parts together, and if something doesn't align, check the manual—you might have the part upside down.
One of the biggest challenges is avoiding fingerprints. The oils from your skin can leave smudges that are hard to remove. Wear cotton gloves or handle the parts by the edges. If you do get fingerprints, clean them with a microfiber cloth and a bit of lens cleaner. Avoid using alcohol, as it can damage the plastic.
- Apply a small amount of silicone-based polish to the inner frame to make it shine through the clear parts.
- Use a parts separator tool to gently pry apart pieces if you need to adjust them.
- For a stable display, consider using a stand to avoid stress on the clear joints.
Showcasing Your Mechanical Clear Build
Once your MGEX Strike Freedom is complete, you'll want to display it in the best light. The clear armor looks stunning with LED lighting behind it, so consider adding LED units to illuminate the inner frame. The Kosmos Colorful RGB LED Units for MG Gundam Vidar are a great option, and they can be adapted for other kits with a little creativity.
Kosmos Colorful RGB LED Units for MG Gundam Vidar
If you're looking to enhance your build further, you can also add water decals to the clear parts. The RG 1/144 Gundam GP01+FB EVO Water Decal is a popular choice, but for the MGEX Strike Freedom, you might want to use decals specifically designed for it. However, be careful—decals on clear parts can be tricky. Apply them carefully and seal them with a clear coat to prevent peeling.
RG 1/144 Gundam GP01+FB EVO Water Decal
- Use a display case to protect your build from dust and accidental scratches.
- Position LED lights inside the chest and wings to highlight the frame.
- Take photos with a dark background to make the clear parts pop.
Building the MGEX Strike Freedom with mechanical clear armor is a rewarding experience that showcases the beauty of the inner frame. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a flawless finish that will be the centerpiece of your collection. If you're ready to start your own clear build, check out the MGEX Strike Freedom and other clear kits at Cool Dragon Hobby.
