Bandai SD Gundam EX Standard Unicorn Gundam (Destroy Mode)
Unicorn Gundam in Destroy Mode at SD EX-Standard size, with exposed psycho-frame panels
This is the SD Gundam EX-Standard Unicorn Gundam (Destroy Mode), kit number 005, released by Bandai in July 2016. It is the RX-0 from Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn with its armour open and the red psycho-frame showing. Bandai's own text says this line has much better mobility than conventional SD kits, and that parts can be swapped with the HG series for customising.
Build difficulty
Skill Level 1. Bandai rates the kit for ages 8 and up. One Japanese reviewer found that parts come off the runners by hand with no nippers, and that the main extra work is a decent amount of stickers, which are easy to apply but take time. It suits a first SD kit.
Technical highlights
- Polycap joints throughout, with ball-joint polycaps at the neck, shoulders, waist, hips and ankles per one review.
- Moulded mostly in white, with a dark blue backpack and soles and clear red parts on the head, chest and arms. The psycho-frame is exposed in red.
- Rear armour is open to show the thrusters, and the front skirt armour moves on ball joints.
- Waist turns a full 360 degrees according to one review, and the hips roll for a wide stance.
What makes this kit special
-
Destroy Mode look: the open, glowing psycho-frame version of the Unicorn rather than the closed Unicorn Mode armour.
-
HG compatibility: Bandai states the kit is compatible with the HG series. One reviewer found the backpack fits some HGUC and HG backpacks, and there are 3.0 mm holes in the forearms and soles for extra parts.
-
SD EX-Standard articulation: Bandai says mobility is much improved over conventional SD kits.
What's in the box
- Pre-coloured runners in white, dark blue and clear red
- Beam Magnum
- Shield
- Sticker sheet
- Instruction manual
Not included: an Action Base, which is sold separately.
Compatible accessories
The kit has a standard 3.0 mm stand connection point per one reviewer, so it can be displayed on an Action Base. The base is sold separately.
Build your Unicorn collection
Currently in stock at Mecha Express: Bandai 1/144 HGUC Juaggu (Unicorn Ver.) and Bandai 1/144 HGUC AMX-014 Doven Wolf (Unicorn Ver.).
Build specifications
- Line: SD Gundam EX-Standard, number 005
- Design: RX-0 Unicorn Gundam (Destroy Mode), Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn
- Release: July 2016, Bandai
- Retail box weight: approx. 130 g (box approx. 20.5 x 15.2 x 5.2 cm)
- Barcode: 4573102656193
- Skill Level: 1 (Beginner)
- Assembly: Snap-fit, parts removable by hand per one reviewer
- Paint required: No, parts are moulded in colour and stickers cover the detail
- Recommended age: 8 years and up (Bandai)
Perfect for
- Unicorn Gundam fans who want a small Destroy Mode on the shelf
- Builders who like swapping parts between SD and HG kits
- First-time builders after a small, simple kit
Fast Australian shipping
Dispatched same day from Brisbane if ordered before 2pm AEST on weekdays. Free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $199. Packed securely in a sturdy outer box with water-soluble cornstarch void fill that dissolves cleanly in the sink.
What to watch for
Drawing on a Japanese builder blog, a video review and community threads. Coverage is mostly single-reviewer, so treat these as notes rather than confirmed patterns:
- Stickers carry a lot of the detail, including the antenna, sensors, white armour and psycho-frame sections. Community threads describe SD EX-Standard kits as sticker-heavy in general.
- Hollow areas show in the inner upper arms, backs of the hands, underside of the legs and soles, per one reviewer.
- Posing is described as limited by one video reviewer, while a Japanese review found it slightly more open than other SD EX-Standard kits.
- One reviewer reported that the shoulder and hip ball joints can occasionally pop out.
Build notes
No cement needed. Nippers are optional per one reviewer. A few details such as the sensors and backpack can be painted if you want more colour, but it is not required. Suitable for ages 8 and up per Bandai.
Last updated: 14 October 2026 (AEST)