Custom HGUC 1/144 Prototype Messer: A Zeon-Inspired Build

Here’s my take on a custom HGUC 1/144 Prototype Messer, reimagined as a Zeon-inspired mobile suit crafted with Anaheim Electronics’ flair. This build blends original design tweaks with a gritty, mass-produced aesthetic.

Build Details

The goal was to make the Messer feel like a true Zeon machine. I swapped the backpack for surplus Psycho Doga parts (originally for Geara Doga), trimmed the rear armor, and fixed it in place for a Dom-like silhouette. The ankle thrusters were repurposed to the rear armor for extra flair. I moved the spike armor from the right to the left shoulder, replacing the original with Marasai’s spikes for a sharper look.

The color scheme screams Zeon: a mix of “HUG202 Blast Impulse Green” and “H-60 Dark Green” for the body, with black and gray accents across roughly ten shades for depth. All painting was done by hand with water-based hobby colors, inked with watercolors, and sealed with a matte top coat. Gundam decals add the final touch.

To shift away from the Federation vibe, I covered the chest duct with a plastic plate. A rubber craft cord serves as a power pipe at the waist. The head got a makeover—slicing the mono-eye stay and trimming the mouth duct gave it a Kampfer-esque edge. I used Bandai’s “Customized Material (3D Metallic Seal)” in pink for the mono-eye and crafted the antenna from a plastic plate.

The default beam rifle wasn’t my style, so I swapped it for a Lightning Z Gundam rifle from my parts bin. The legs got extra detail with Messer’s backpack cover and Kampfer’s shin pieces, plus third-party thrusters at the ankles. I also relocated the trimmed rear armor to the front skirt to tighten up gaps.

Weapons and Accessories

The standout is the oversized heat hawk, scratch-built from plastic plates, sticks, and junk parts, inspired by the Zaku IV from Moon Gundam. It’s massive but fits this hefty suit perfectly. The right shoulder sports a Zaku II-style L-shaped shield, made from cut Psycho Doga parts, with a Sturm Faust mounted on the back for good measure.

Final Thoughts

This Messer custom blends Zeon’s rugged charm with Anaheim’s precision. The heat hawk and green palette make it feel like a frontline beast, while the detailed mods keep it unique. Thanks for checking it out!

1/144, custom, gunpla, hguc