Synopsis: This isn't the typical review for this site given that there is no figure to review. However I found that since this is a limited item and my readers can still find this rare item from sellers on ebay, the need to find whether or not this set is worth the prices paid is an issue to consider.

The February 2003 Issue of Dengeki Hobby Magazine included a weapons set that was geared for the mass production Zaku II Version 2.0 which was just released in December. This set includes additional weapons and accessories to either change the look of the space Zaku into resembling the ground variant. As soon as Newtype Asylum broke the news the collector in me jumped at the chance to pick up a Japanese limited release even if it was just a weapon's set. Since I was already ordering Char's Zaku II Vers 2.0 and the mass production Zaku II Vers 2.0 from HLJ it seemed only natural to attach the magazine to my order (sorry they're now sold out.). So enjoy the review.
The Figure: See the Zaku II vers 2.0 review for figure description or see pictures below of the Zaku using them.

MS-06J Shield: This piece helps make the Zaku II more formidable and more distinct then the other Zaku II ver 1.0s displayed. It's about the same size as the version two shield and it fits well on the Ball joint. The darker green seems to make the make the Zaku look better as well.

Gatling Shield: This is essentially the gatling shield of the of the Gouf Custom with a minor exception in that shield attaches to the back of the forearm and not by the same odd peg system used in the Gatling Shield of the Gouf Custom. Also the paint scheme follows the Zaku with light and darker greens. The gatling assembly seems to have received more coloring then the Gouf Custom's as well. The Gouf Custom's Heat sword does NOT fit in the shield. Like the Gouf Custom the shield and gatling barrel were separate when packaged providing a minor pain in assembling however this gatling shield is no where near as tight-fitting risking popping of with a sudden motion.

Strum Faust: The Strum Faust is a nice addition to the though like the Kampher and Geara Doga before it (though this one is thicker and more stable), it looks the least interesting of the set due to its lack of color. It comes with a holster attachment that plugs into the skirt armor of the Zaku like the Cracker grenade attachment and heat hawk.

Play Value: Without the figure or others that can wield it this set is useless but when added to the wealth of weaponry included with the either Zaku II version 2.0 this makes for added versatility of the figure.

Display Value: To be brief: If a Zaku II with a gatling shield doesn't grab your attention what will?

Dollar Value: I received this set along with the magazine that was 318 pages long although in Japanese, the illustrations are interesting making the $8.14 pricetag for the magazine and weapon set reasonable. I forgot the exact shipping cost but the $22-24 starting prices found on ebay seem a little too pricy but I guess I'd leave that to the Fan's perception on the urgency for wanting the set.

Conclusion: These are one of those times where U.S. Fans wished they could get these limited offers as easily as those living in Japan however look on the bright side, they still haven't released the Gouf Custom in Japan yet. But I digress this isn't a bad set as long as you avoid being overcharged.