HG Aerial Rebuild Build Guide: WFM Model Kit Tips

Quick Answer

For a clean HG Aerial Rebuild build, focus on nub removal, careful clear-part handling, and a proper pose at the end. This guide walks you through each step with checkpoints to avoid common mistakes.

Build Steps

1. Prep your tools and workspace: Gather a hobby knife, nippers, a sanding stick or file, and a cutting mat. Work in a well-lit area. For clear parts, use a separate, clean nipper blade to avoid stress marks. Check that your nippers are sharp before starting; dull blades crush plastic and leave white marks.
2. Cut parts from runners carefully: Cut each part a few millimeters away from the gate, then trim closer with a knife. This two-step method reduces stress marks and nub damage. For clear parts, cut even farther from the gate and avoid sanding if possible; use a glass file for a clean edge.
3. Clean nubs on every part: Sand or scrape each nub flush with the surface. Start with a coarser grit and move to finer grit for a smooth finish. Pay extra attention to visible areas like the chest and shoulders. Test your sanding on a hidden part first to match the plastic's finish.
4. Assemble the torso and head: Follow the manual for the torso and head. The chest shell unit clear parts are delicate; press them in gently and avoid twisting. Ensure the head joint moves freely before attaching the face. If a clear part feels loose, a tiny drop of glue on the peg (not the clear surface) can secure it.
5. Build the arms and legs: Sand the shoulder and hip joints lightly for a snug fit. Attach the arms and legs, then test the range of motion. The Aerial Rebuild's joints are tight out of the box, so don't force them; if a joint is too tight, sand the peg slightly. Check that both legs are the same length and that the knee bends in the right direction before final assembly.
6. Attach the backpack, shield, and beam rifle: Fit the backpack onto the torso, then attach the shield and beam rifle. The shield can be positioned in multiple ways; test the angles to find a stable pose. If the shield makes the kit fall backward, adjust the stance or use the included display base if you have one.
7. Finish with panel lining and a topcoat (optional): Use a fine-tip panel liner to accent the lines, then wipe away excess. For a matte finish, apply a topcoat spray in a well-ventilated area. Avoid topcoating clear parts directly to keep them transparent. Do a light test spray on a runner to check the finish before applying to the whole kit.

Product Facts

• Gundam The Witch from Mercury - Aerial Rebuild #19 1/144 HG: This kit features a new mold and includes a shield, a beam rifle, and shell unit clear parts. The new mold gives a modern, accurate silhouette, and the included clear parts let you display the shell unit effect without extra purchases.