How to Build a Gundam with Clear Armor: Tips for MGEX Strike Freedom

Building a Gundam with clear armor is a different beast from a standard kit. Transparent parts are stunning when done right, but they also amplify every mistake: fingerprints, scratches, and even the faintest stress mark become glaringly obvious. The MGEX Strike Freedom, with its luminous gold frame and layered clear armor, is one of the most rewarding—and demanding—builds you can tackle.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential techniques for handling, cutting, sanding, and assembling clear parts. Whether you’re working on a premium kit or adding a clear armor option to an existing build, these tips will help you achieve a flawless finish. We’ll also touch on how to integrate accessories like custom decals and action bases to elevate your display.

Understanding Clear Parts: Why They Need Special Care

Clear armor parts are typically made from polystyrene that is either translucent or fully transparent. Unlike opaque plastic, they don't hide imperfections. Nub marks, scratches, and even the oils from your fingers can permanently cloud the surface. This means your entire workflow—from cutting the runner to final assembly—must be adapted.

The MGEX Strike Freedom’s clear armor is designed to show off the internal frame, so any blemish on the outer shell directly impacts the look. The good news is that with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can keep those parts crystal clear. The key is to minimize contact and avoid any technique that generates heat or friction.

• Wear nitrile gloves or wash your hands thoroughly before handling clear parts.
• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe parts instead of your fingers.
• Keep a small dish of water nearby to rinse parts after sanding.

Cutting and Sanding: The Nub Mark Challenge

Nub removal is the most critical step for clear parts. Standard nippers can leave stress marks that look like white cracks. Instead, use a sharp single-bladed nipper to cut the part away from the runner, leaving a small amount of the gate attached. Then, carefully shave off the remaining nub with a hobby knife, making sure not to dig into the surface.

For sanding, avoid coarse grits. Start with a 1000-grit sandpaper and work up to 3000 or even 5000 grit for a glass-like finish. Always sand in one direction, and use water to lubricate the surface—this prevents the plastic from heating up and becoming cloudy. After sanding, you can polish the area with a plastic polish compound to restore clarity.

• Use a glass file or nano glass file for the smoothest results.
• Never use a motorized tool on clear parts—the heat will ruin them.
• Test your technique on a spare runner before touching the actual part.

Assembly: Handling and Fitting Clear Armor

When assembling clear armor, you need to be extra gentle. The parts are often tight-fitting, and forcing them can cause stress marks or even cracks. If a piece doesn't slide in easily, check for nubs or flash that might be catching. Use a small amount of silicone-based lubricant on the pegs to ease assembly without damaging the plastic.

Another tip is to assemble the clear armor in stages. Dry-fit the pieces first to see how they align, then apply gentle pressure. For the MGEX Strike Freedom, the clear outer panels sit over the gold frame, so you want to avoid any scratches on the frame as well. Consider using a soft cloth or tissue to protect the frame while you work.

• Use a toothpick or plastic spatula to push parts into place instead of your fingernail.
• If a part is too tight, gently sand the peg, not the hole.
• Always assemble in a well-lit area to spot any imperfections early.

Enhancing Your Clear Build with Decals and Accessories

Clear armor doesn't mean you have to skip decals. In fact, the right decals can make your build pop. For a striking look, consider using holographic water decals that catch the light and complement the transparency. The Holographic Water Decal for MGEX Unicorn Gundam 1/100 is a great option for adding a futuristic vibe to any clear build. If you're working on a red-themed kit, the Holographic Water Decal for Royal Kitchen 1/100 Scale RG Sazabi offers a similar effect with a different color palette.

When applying decals to clear parts, be extra careful with the setting solution. Too much can leave a residue that clouds the plastic. Use a soft brush to position the decal and blot away excess moisture. After the decal is dry, you can apply a clear topcoat—but only a gloss coat, as matte will ruin the transparency.

• Apply decals before final assembly to avoid handling the part too much.
• Use a gloss topcoat in thin, even layers to protect the decals and the clear plastic.
• Consider using a clear action base to display your build without touching it.

Displaying and Maintaining Your Clear Armor Gundam

Once your MGEX Strike Freedom is complete, you'll want to show it off. Clear parts are susceptible to dust and scratches, so a display case is essential. If you don't have a case, use a dust cover or a soft brush to clean the kit regularly. Avoid using compressed air, as the force can be too strong and may dislodge parts.

For dynamic poses, invest in a sturdy action base. The Playman Studio Snake Bone Action Base Stand Black for PG 00 Raiser 1/60 is a premium option that can support larger kits and provides a sleek, industrial look. Even though it's designed for a PG, it works well for MG-sized builds with adapters. Alternatively, a simple clear stand will keep the focus on the kit itself.

• Keep your clear build out of direct sunlight to prevent yellowing.
• Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe dust off the clear parts.
• If you need to disassemble for maintenance, mark the parts with a soft pencil to remember their positions.

Building a clear armor Gundam like the MGEX Strike Freedom is a test of patience and precision, but the result is a stunning centerpiece that showcases your skills. By following these tips, you'll avoid the common pitfalls and enjoy a flawless finish. Ready to start your own clear armor project? Check out our selection of premium Gundam kits and accessories to find the perfect starting point.