The release of this kit launched the iconic High Grade Universal Century (HGUC) line in 1999.
In May 1999, Bandai launched one of its most iconic lines with the release of kit number 001: the HGUC RX-77-2 Guncannon. This choice, over the more predictable RX-78-2 Gundam, was a strategic move that established the Guncannon as a pioneer. This model not only represents a landmark Mobile Suit from the original Mobile Suit Gundam series but also served as the cornerstone that set the standard for 1/144 scale model kits for decades to come. This launch allowed Bandai to perfect its snap-fit engineering and polycap integration on a beloved design before applying them to its flagship units.
Product Information
- Price: 880 JPY (tax included)
- Release Date: May 1999
- Scale: 1/144
- Size: Approx. 12.6 cm
- Series: Mobile Suit Gundam
- Line: High Grade Universal Century (HGUC)
- Product Type: Regular retail
Features
The 1999 HGUC Guncannon delivered an advanced building experience for its time. A key feature is its customizable main armament. The shoulder-mounted 240mm cannons, its most recognizable weapon, can be swapped for a pair of spray missile launchers, providing a distinctive alternative look.
This model includes the BAUVA·XBR-L beam rifle as its primary handheld weapon.
Thoughtful part design includes plastic covers to hide joint polycaps, enhancing the model's mechanical look.
To improve the final presentation, the kit incorporates plastic covers for the elbow and knee joints, hiding the polycaps that disrupted the mechanical aesthetic in earlier models. It also provides specific hand parts, including a pair of flat hands designed to recreate the Guncannon's memorable prone firing pose from the anime series.
This alternative weapon loadout is a unique customization feature of the 1999 model.
Contents
To deliver this comprehensive experience, the High Grade kit comes with everything modelers need to build their preferred version of the Guncannon.
- Parts to build the HGUC RX-77-2 Guncannon
- A pair of 240mm cannons
- A pair of spray missile launchers
- One beam rifle
- Hand parts (trigger-finger right hand, open-palm left hand, a pair of flat hands)
- Stickers to identify units C-108 (Kai Shiden) and C-109 (Hayato Kobayashi)
The included trigger-finger right hand allows for this dynamic rifle pose.
This memorable scene from the anime can be recreated thanks to the included pair of flat hands.
Comparative Analysis with the "Revive" Version (2015)
In 2015, Bandai released a modernized version of this kit, the HGUC #190 RX-77-2 Guncannon (Revive). This new model is superior in its engineering, featuring more stylized proportions and a much more advanced level of articulation, including double joints in the elbows and knees, as well as abdominal flexion. However, the "Revive" kit omits the spray missile launchers, making the original 1999 release a must-have for modelers wanting to build a Guncannon with this unique, battle-ready loadout.
Mobile Suit Summary: RX-77-2 Guncannon
Developed by the Earth Federation as part of Project V, the RX-77-2 Guncannon is a prototype mid-range fire support unit that served alongside the RX-75 Guntank and the RX-78-2 Gundam. Engineered for devastating fire support, its bulky frame is shielded by a thick layer of Lunar Titanium alloy armor, making it a walking fortress. While less agile than the Gundam, it features the Core Block System, which allows the cockpit to eject and transform into the FF-X7 Core Fighter escape craft. During the One Year War, units C-108 and C-109, primarily piloted by Kai Shiden and Hayato Kobayashi, served aboard the SCV-70 White Base and participated in crucial battles from the defense of Jaburo to the final assault on A Baoa Qu.
The original HGUC Guncannon holds a special place in Gunpla history. Which version do you prefer on your shelf: the classic charm of the 1999 original with its missile launchers, or the sleek articulation of the modern "Revive"? Share your pick in the comments below!
Where to Buy
Explore these stores for a wide variety of kits and figures. Please note that these are general affiliate links to the storefronts and do not necessarily lead to the specific product mentioned in this article. Your purchase directly supports the site.
For HobbyLink Japan: Get your favorite model kits and anime figures straight from the source. Shop the latest releases on HobbyLink Japan.
For Amazon Japan: Building your next Gunpla or searching for the latest releases from Japan? Find the widest selection of kits and exclusive figures on Amazon Japan.
For Amazon USA: Looking for fast shipping within the US? Find a great selection of popular Gunpla kits and Gundam figures on Amazon USA.
Every purchase through these links helps support the site!
Sources
- HGUC 1/144 RX-77 ガンキャノン | バンダイ ホビーサイト. (Accessed June 13, 2025)
- HGUC RX-77-2 Guncannon (1999) | Gunplapedia. (Accessed June 13, 2025)
- RX-77-2 Guncannon | MechaBay. (Accessed June 13, 2025)
- List of Mobile Suit Gundam characters | Wikipedia. (Accessed June 13, 2025)
- 1/144 HGUC 190 RX-77-2 Guncannon | GKgundamkit. (Accessed June 13, 2025)
