Bandai 1/144 Option Parts Set Gunpla 08 (Bolden Arm Arms)
The Bolden Arm Arms first appeared in Gundam Build Fighters Try as a support machine that could fly independently or dock onto a mobile suit's back as an enhanced weapons platform. It's been a favourite of kitbashers and custom builders since the original HGBC release in 2015, and it's back as part of Bandai's Option Parts Set Gunpla line.
This kit is two things at once. On the surface, it's a support unit that transforms between flight mode and combined mode. Underneath, it's a box of standardised Bandai joint parts that builders use for everything from replacing worn-out elbows on older HGs to scratch-building entirely new limbs. Most builders who pick this up are buying it for the joints.
Build Difficulty
About as simple as it gets. Four runners, all grey, snap-fit assembly, no polycaps, no stickers. You'll have this put together in under 30 minutes. The real time goes into deciding what you're going to do with all the spare joints once the support unit is built.
Technical Highlights
The joint parts are moulded in KPS (a flexible engineering plastic that resists wear), so they hold their position well and don't loosen quickly with repeated posing. Every connection is 3mm standard, which means the parts are compatible with modern HG, HGUC, and even 30MM kits out of the box. The ball joints come in three sizes (large, medium, small), and each has a cut-out in the socket that allows roughly 90 degrees of bend. The single-axis and dual-axis joints are sized for 1/144 scale and sit naturally in most HG limbs without looking oversized.
The support unit itself connects to any mobile suit with a single 3mm back-mount hole. The manual recommends the HGUC Dom/Rick Dom, HG Crossbone Gundam Maoh, HG Gundam Exia Dark Matter, HG Mega-Shiki, and HG Petit'gguy, but anything with a standard 3mm port will work.
What Makes This Kit Special
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Five single-axis joints, three dual-axis joints, and three sizes of ball joint included. More joint parts per dollar than almost anything else in the Bandai catalogue.
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KPS plastic joints with good retention. They hold poses without sagging and resist the wear that comes with repeated repositioning.
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Universal 3mm compatibility. Every joint and connection point uses the standard 3mm system. Fits modern HG, HGUC, HGCE, HGIBO, HGBD, and 30MM kits without modification.
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Two display modes. Flight form (independent support unit) and combined form (backpack-mounted on a mobile suit).
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Missile pod detail. The missile pod covers are removable, and the internal warheads are sculpted. A nice touch for a kit at this price.
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Anchor part with flexible multi-joint articulation for posing as a tail, a grasping arm, or a weapon mount.
What's In The Box
- Bolden Arm Arms support unit (1 set: wings, armour plates, missile pods, anchor)
- Single-axis joint parts x5
- Dual-axis joint parts x3
- Ball joint parts: large, medium, and small
- Anchor part x1
- 4 runners, grey single colour
- Instruction manual
No stickers, no decals, no polycaps included. Mobile suit kits shown in promotional images are sold separately.
Explore the Option Parts Set Gunpla Line
If you're building up a parts library for custom work, these sets pair well together:
Build Specifications
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Series: Gundam Build Fighters Try
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Product Line: Option Parts Set Gunpla
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Scale: 1/144
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Type: Support Unit / Accessory (not a standalone mobile suit)
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Manufacturer: Bandai Spirits
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Weight (package): 120g
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Box Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 4.8 cm
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Barcode (JAN): 4573102671448
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Assembly: Snap-fit, no cement required
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Paint Required: No
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Runners: 4 (grey single colour, by design)
Perfect For
- Custom builders who kitbash and need a stock of standardised joints on hand.
- Builders who want to upgrade or repair the articulation on older HG and HGUC kits.
- Anyone looking to add a backpack-mounted support unit to an existing 1/144 collection.
- 30MM builders who want additional joint options in standard Bandai sizes.
- New builders who want an inexpensive way to start experimenting with customisation before committing to bigger projects.
Fast Australian Shipping
In stock and shipping from Brisbane. Orders placed before 2pm weekdays (AEST) dispatch same day. Free shipping on orders over $199 within Australia. This is a small, lightweight kit that qualifies for letter rate shipping from $3.
What to Watch For
The grey single colour is the official design, not a cost-saving measure. The box art shows the same grey, so what you see is what you get. If you want colour, you'll need to paint.
One reviewer noted that the left missile pod peg can sit a little loose in combined form. If yours feels like it wants to pop out, score the peg lightly with a hobby knife or nipper blade to increase the friction. Takes ten seconds.
Builder Tip: Don't overlook the joints. Even if you build the support unit as intended, keep the spare joints in a parts drawer. They'll come in handy the next time you need to replace a worn-out elbow or add articulation to an older kit.
Build Notes
No glue required. No painting required. Basic nipper is the only tool needed. Build time is under 30 minutes for the support unit form. The joint parts are simple push-fit assemblies. Recommended age 8+.
Last updated: 7 June 2026 (AEST)
