PG 1/60 RX-78-2 Gundam — The Original Perfect Grade

The original PG RX-78-2 from 1998 invented the Perfect Grade format. Full inner skeleton, opening cockpit hatch, individual finger articulation — revolutionary for its time and still a satisfying build by modern standards. Historical significance alone makes this a must-own.

PG RX-78-2 Gundam: The Original Perfect Grade

The PG 1/60 RX-78-2 Gundam (1999) is the kit that started Bandai's Perfect Grade line. The Perfect Grade format was created specifically for this release — to demonstrate that 1/60 scale Gunpla could rival professional scale-model engineering.

For PG collectors, this is the historical foundation of the format. Despite being 25+ years old, the kit remains in production and competitive with newer PGs in many respects.

The Inner Frame Achievement

The PG RX-78 introduced full inner-frame engineering at 1/60 scale — a complete mechanical skeleton with articulation, then armor layered over it. This was unprecedented when released.

Every joint articulates. Every armor panel removes for inner-frame display. The level of detail rivals professional model kits costing 10x the PG's price.

The Weapons Loadout

Standard RX-78-2 weapons at PG scale: beam rifle (with extending stock), two beam sabers (clear pink), shield (full size), hyper bazooka (with magazine), and the iconic Gundam Hammer with chain.

All weapons articulated. The hammer's chain is genuine metal at PG scale (heavier and more authentic than the HG/MG versions).

The Build Time

40-60 hours for a careful first build. This is a 'project kit' — multiple weeks of evening work. Speed-building is not advisable.

The build divides into manageable phases: inner frame assembly, armor sections, weapons, and base. Each phase is satisfying as a milestone.

The Updated Variants

Bandai released several PG RX-78 variants: standard (1999), 30th Anniversary Extra Finish (2009, with metallic plating), and the 'PG Unleashed' RX-78-2 (2021, completely redesigned PG).

The 'PG Unleashed' is the modern equivalent — newer engineering, refined proportions, but still ~50 hours of build time. Most builders own one PG RX-78 (the original) plus consider the Unleashed as an alternate option.

Display Real Estate

The PG RX-78 stands approximately 30cm tall. Plan shelf space accordingly. The kit's weight (~1kg) requires a stable display surface.

Why Build It

For the experience. The PG RX-78 is the foundational PG and deserves recognition. Building it teaches techniques (panel-line work at 1/60 scale, paint considerations, joint maintenance) that elevate every smaller kit you build afterward.