[RG] Gundam Astray Red Frame

RG Astray Red Frame and Its Universe

The RG Astray Red Frame brings the striking MBF-P02 from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Astray to life in 1/144 scale. As the 19th kit in Bandai’s Real Grade lineup, this version of the iconic mobile suit—piloted by fan-favorite Lowe Guele—delivers stunning accuracy, mechanical depth, and a bold red-on-white color scheme that highlights its katana-wielding uniqueness.

Built with dynamic articulation and a slim yet aggressive silhouette, the Red Frame excels in close-combat aesthetics. Its signature katana, Gerbera Straight, comes molded in metallic silver and gold-plated plastic, complete with a working sheath and gripping hand parts for both hands.

Release Date and Price of the RG Astray Red Frame

The RG 1/144 Astray Red Frame was officially released in July 2015 as the 19th entry in Bandai’s Real Grade line. At launch, it retailed for ¥2,500 (Japanese Yen), making it an affordable yet highly detailed offering for both collectors and SEED fans.

Pros and Cons Analysis

Pros

Outstanding Articulation and Poseability
This kit excels in mobility, especially in the arms and shoulders. Dual-handed sword poses are fully achievable, making it a joy to pose in dynamic action stances.

Excellent Color Separation and Mold Quality
Multiple runners in bold red, white, and gray deliver crisp color accuracy right out of the box, minimizing the need for painting.

Gerbera Straight with Premium Finish
The sword is a visual centerpiece, molded with chrome and gold-plated parts, paired with a sheath for practical and aesthetic versatility.

Well-Balanced for Standing Poses
Despite its slim profile, the frame holds stable in most poses without being back-heavy, a refreshing trait among RG kits.

Cons

Wrist Joints Can Be Slightly Weak
The Gerbera Straight’s weight can strain the wrist joints over time, especially in extended poses.

Limited Weapon Loadout
The armament configuration faithfully reflects the original setting, consisting mainly of a katana and two beam sabers, with only a beam rifle additionally included. No other weapons or shields are included.

Minimal Hand Part Variety
The kit includes just enough hand parts for basic poses, but lacks expressive or open hands for added versatility.

Exposed Frame Sections May Divide Opinion
Some mechanical frame parts are intentionally visible around joints—this adds realism for some, but may feel distracting to others.

Community Feedback

The RG Astray Red Frame is often praised as one of the more stylish and poseable entries in the Real Grade series. Its articulation and signature swordplay look make it stand out among fans of Gundam SEED and close-combat suits. While some mention its modest hand part selection or wrist stability issues, these are minor concerns for an otherwise standout kit.

Conclusion

The RG Astray Red Frame delivers a unique and satisfying Real Grade experience. It’s elegant, combat-ready, and faithfully brings the sword-wielding flair of Lowe Guele’s machine to life. Strong articulation, high-detail molding, and a premium katana centerpiece make it a must-build for SEED fans and Real Grade collectors alike.

Final rating for the RG Astray Red Frame is 4.4/5.