Bandit - Tech Gunners were a light frame pre-mech that was mass produced during the Chaos Wars on Delta 7. Until first fired upon the open style cockpit was seen as a weakness. But these Bandit's had a suprise waiting. It was built with strong electromagnetic field generators that activate when fired upon to deflect any metallic munitions trajectories. These generators also could create localized EMP fields shutting down any enemy mech within range. Of course the pilot still has a bullet proof windscreen and wears a Ultra helmet in case of system failures.
So open canopy style mech here, some matrix/Final Fantasy inspiration perhaps. I know the problems with open cockpit mechs - attempted to rationalize with backstory because I just think it looks cool.
Really neat design! Love the legs. I know what you mean about the open cockpit design. A lot of people are against glass canopies(a personal favorite of mine) for many of the same reasons. Nicely done. ^Blub^