Macross VF-11B Thunderbolt with Fast Pack

One of the most solid and highly rated Yamato Macross builds belongs to Macross VF-11B Thunderbolt with fast packs. A review on collection DX of VF-11B showed that the three forms of Thunderbolt are perfectly done. I would have to say that among the other Valkyries I own, this one is truly admirable in all its modes.

But before I go on praising my VF-11B with fast packs, I like to mention one thing about it that grinds my gears – the landing gear. Well compared to the DX Chogokin Macross, the tires of the landing gear of the Thunderbolt is made of plastic while Bandai version is made of rubber. Another problem I have with the Yamato VF-11B landing gear is how hard it is to bring it out. When I first fiddled with it, I couldn’t get it out and I had to use a nail file set it in place.

Yamato Macross VF-11B Thunderbolt with fast pack - Fighter mode

Macross VF 11B and VF 25F - Better landing gear for DX Chogokin

Another difficulty in the transformation can be encountered in setting the heat shield in place when transforming to battroid mode. But after a few minutes of tinkering, once set the battroid mode is really a thing of beauty.

Beyond those issues, the Macross Yamato VF-11b Thunderbolt  with Fast Pack is one of the best valkyries out there! I like the jet and battroid modes best, but the gerwalk is also something to rave about, again compared to DX Chogokin VF-25 F where posability is nearly impossible.

Yamato Macross VF-11B in Semi Gerwalk mode

Macross VF 11B and 25F - Battroid mode

Yamato Macross VF 11B - Battroid Mode (Nice looking heat shield)

Even with the fast packs, VF-11b  can still be decently posed, given that you have positioned the legs properly.

Things would have been perfect nevertheless if this baby came with a sturdy stand. But I guess you just cant have everything!

So finally, if you want a new addition to your Macross collection, or if you are contemplating on your first Valkyrie, then I strongly recommend the VF 11B Thunderbolt from Yamato.