AMX-109 Kapool

Toy Number: 068
Scale: 1:144

I am well known to be a slobbering Syd Mead fanboy. While the American icon’s take on Gundam was and continues to be a controversial subject, I love anything and everything Turn A. I even love that goofy mustache on the Gundam. So I am pleased whenever Bandai gives us Turn A product. The latest Turn A release is the Robot Spirits Kapool, a rotund amphibious mobile suit.

The Kapool is one of the more bare bones of the RS pieces. It’s packaged in a smallish, though typically nice window box.

kap box front

kap box back

Inside, you’ll find the figure and only a handful of accessories. I am personally put off by a large assortment of accessories, so I’m cool with a few functional additions (in this case two arm-mounted cannons and a head extension – more on those later).

kap box inside

Kapool is a slight and lightweight figure. He feels very similar to a classic HCM figure, but with more sophistication.

kap front

Materials are all high quality ABS and POM plastics. Paint apps are minimal, but appropriate and crisp.

kap back

Even mostly hidden details are addressed. He looks as good from the bottom as the top.

kap underside

The Kapool’s most distinguishing features are its unique, multi-segmented arms. I like them, though they aren’t as articulated as they could be.

kap arms

The chest opens to reveal a bank of eye-like energy weapons.

kap chest

The addition of the arm cannons improves Kap’s presence.

kap guns

A little head-piece extension is also included. I’m assuming this acts like a periscope?

kap head ext

Articulation isn’t the Kapool’s strong suit, but it moves surprisingly well for a stocky little ball. His waist joint is smooth and multi-faceted.

kap pose 1

kap pose 4

kap pose 3

I like the Wolverine-quality of the claws.

kap pose 2

Kapool can also assume a more compact “down” form, where it kind of contracts and sits on its haunches. This is the closest I can get to what’s shown on the box and instructions.

kap down

While I generally enjoy Gundam, I’m typically bored with the samey quality to the mobile suits. The Kapool is a welcome break from the same old boring Gundam mecha.