Incoming: Dam Toys 1/6th scale SPETSNAZ in Beslan (2004) 12-inch Russian military figure

Important Note: This product is for military collectors & historic education purposes only, and it is not intended to glorify nor exploit the horrors and atrocities of war.

The Beslan school hostage crisis (also referred to as the Beslan school siege or Beslan massacre) started on 1 September 2004, lasted three days and involved the capture of over 1,100 people as hostages (including 777 children), ending with the death of 385 people.

The attack on the school took place on 1 September—the traditional start of the Russian school year, referred to as "First Bell" or Knowledge Day. A security cordon was soon established around the school, consisting of the Russian police (militsiya), Internal Troops, and Russian Army forces; spetsnaz, including the elite Alpha and Vega units of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB); and the OMON special units of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD).

Dam Toys 1/6th scale SPETSNAZ in Beslan (2004) 12-inch Russian military figure (Dam no.78021) will come with 1/6 Head sculpt, dam action 2.0 body, scarf, tactical gloved palms x 3, Altyn helmet, Altyn helmet visor, mask (blk), shirt, combat suit (partizan), combat pants (partizan), belt (blk), leather belt (blk), x-boots assault boots (blk), defender-2 low–profile armor vest(blk), M23 chest rig (woodland), vx radio with radio connector, ko-3 pistol holster, stetchkin apb pistol, apb pistol silencer, apb pistol buttstock, apb pistol mag x 2 + 1, as val assault rifle, pso-1 optical sniper sights, pso-1 lens cap, pso-1 goggle, as val sling, as val 20-rd mag x 3 + 1, as val 10-rd mag x 1, pmk bag, ak mag pouch, kneepad (blk), soviet nr-43 combat knife, scabbard (leather), rop flares x 2, rgd-5 grenade, arm tactical reflective stripe

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AMZ Toys 1/6 scale American gangster the first chapter: The king of brooklyn AKA "Z" is not DAM

We all know the famous saying / idiom: "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery" meaning that "Copying someone is flattering because it shows you want to be like that person". Unfortunately, sometimes the results do not measure up to the best intentions. Case-in-point: this upcoming product from AMZ Toys - a 1/6 scale American Gangster the first chapter: The king of brooklyn AKA "Z".

DAM Toys has been highly successful with their 1/6 scale Gangsters Kingdom series, having already produced and released a total of eight 12-inch figures so far, six regular releases and two exclusives (limited production run sold at toy fairs). You can check out the review I posted of the most recently released figure, Dam Toys Gangsters Kingdom 1/6 scale "Diamond 3" 12-inch figure on my toy blog HERE and HERE.

AMZ Toys hopes to emulate DAM Toys' success by producing a rival line along the Gangsters' theme which DAM has managed to run away with. Too bad AMZ seems to have fallen short of the yardstick in terms of quality and skill. I'm just not jumping at this as I did when I first saw the preview pictures of DAM Toys Spade J figure (posted HERE). The final delivered product was just as good looking as the prototype. You can check out my reviews of the DAM Toys Gangsters Kingdom 1/6 scale "Spade J" 12-inch figure (an animated / stylized Jason Statham) HERE, HERE and HERE.

AMZ is trying for a stylized Jay-Z 12-inch figure but the 1/6 scale head sculpt looks more like Bill Duke. It's "A" for effort but the final prototype does not resonate well with me. Scroll down to see the rest of the pictures. Be sure to click on them for bigger and better views.

Check out Medicom Toys Real Action Heroes RAH 702 1/6th Superman (The New 52 version)

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The New 52 is a 2011 revamp and relaunch by DC Comics of its entire line of ongoing monthly superhero books, in which all of its existing titles were cancelled, and fifty-two new series debuted in September 2011 with new first issues. Among the series being renumbered are Action Comics and Detective Comics, which had previously retained their original numbering since the 1930s. Touted as a large publishing event following the conclusion of the "Flashpoint" crossover storyline, DC's relaunch entails changes to both the publishing format and DC's fictional universe to entice new readers.

Over the years since his introduction, Superman has had several versions of not only his origins and history, but also the creation of his costume. In the New 52 universe, Clark once again didn't begin wearing a costume until early adulthood. Superman's armored Kryptonian bio-tech suit allows him to change his clothes without having to find a phone booth or having to wear the same blue suit, white shirt and red tie, that he did for decades before the Pre-Crisis reboot.

Besides the upcoming Medicom Toys Real Action Heroes RAH 701 1/6 scale Batman (The New 52 Version) figure - see the earlier post on my toy blog HERE, Medicom Toys next DC new 52 Real Action Hero is none other than the Man of Steel himself!

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Hot Toys 1/6 Captain America: Winter Soldier (STRIKE Stealth Suit) 12-inch Figure Review 2

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Did you know that the alternate movie title for the 2014 American superhero film "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" was "Run Rogers Run"? The film opens with Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) jogging around Washington, D.C. Catching up to him very quickly is Steve Rogers, aka Captain America (Chris Evans). Steve manages to do multiple laps over Sam. Later Rogers is on the run all over the Lemurian Star, a S.H.I.E.L.D. vessel which has been taken over by pirates. Then he's running after the Winter Soldier who manages to "kill" Nick Fury just before the big chase. After the incident, Rogers is running away from S.H.I.E.L.D. He meets up with Black Widow and together they are on the run from S.H.I.E.L.D. for the rest of the movie. Many times you see Rogers, he's running. Just kidding, of course ;p

But on a serious note, you are not going to get many dynamic poses from this Hot Toys MMS242 "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" 1/6th scale Captain America (Stealth S.T.R.I.K.E. Suit) Collectible Figure, especially in the upper torso / shoulder area. This is partly due to the highly accurate and detailed costume Hot Toys has put together for their 1/6th scale Captain America figure. The suit, known as "The S.H.I.E.L.D. (Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division) S.T.R.I.K.E. (Special Tactical Reserve for International Key Emergencies) Stealth suit", is textured and layered with embossed patterns, thus restricting the articulation of the arms a fair bit. I couldn't get Cap to raise his arm above his shoulders or reach to the back for his shield, as seen in the preview / prototype pictures.

Still, I would rather have a nicely detailed and highly accurate movie version of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers / Captain America as seen in "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" than a poorly produced product. The uniform / costume consists of: a dark blue embossed patterned uniform with silver star emblem and stripes on chest, a pair of dark blue embossed patterned pants with pouches, knee pad, and red trims plus a brown leather-like back shield holder and body strap, a brown leather-like belt with pouches, and a pair of black boots with brown straps. One can still get some nice poses out of this figure :)

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Preview Hot Toys "Avengers: Age of Ultron" 1/6th scale Captain America 12-inch Collectible Figure

Pre-order from Sideshow Collectibles

Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron will begin hitting the theatres worldwide in just a few months! Fans are already pumped for this epic sequel and eager to see the Earth’s mightiest heroes come together again to defend the world from the menacing Ultron! Today we are excited to continue the Avengers: Age of Ultron series and officially present the new 1/6th scale Captain America Collectible Figure!

The movie-accurate Captain America Collectible Figure is specially crafted based on the image of Chris Evans as Captain America/Steve Rogers in Avengers: Age of Ultron, featuring a newly painted helmeted head sculpt, a newly painted Steve Rogers head sculpt, finely tailored Captain America suit, magnetic metal Captain America shield with retractable handles, and a specially designed figure stand.

Hot Toys Movie Masterpiece Series MMS281 "Avengers: Age of Ultron" 1/6th scale Captain America Collectible Figure specially features: Authentic and detailed likeness of Chris Evans as Captain America in Avengers: Age of Ultron with Newly painted helmeted head sculpt, Newly painted unhelmeted head sculpt, Movie-accurate facial expression with detailed wrinkles and skin texture (Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted), Approximately 31 cm tall Body with over 30 points of articulations, Magnets embedded in figure’s forearms and back for holding shield, Eight (8) pieces of interchangeable gloved palms including: One (1) pair of relaxed palms, One (1) pair of fists, One (1) pair of shield holding palms with magnets, One (1) shield throwing right palm, One (1) shield catching left palm

Pre-order from Sideshow Collectibles

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Incoming: Medicom Toys Real Action Heroes RAH 701 1/6th Batman (The New 52 Version)

In September 2011, DC Comics' entire line of superhero books, including its Batman franchise, was canceled and relaunched with new #1 issues as part of The New 52 reboot. Bruce Wayne is the only character to be identified as Batman and will be featured in Batman, Detective Comics, Batman and Robin, and Batman: The Dark Knight. Dick Grayson returns to the mantle of Nightwing and appears in his own ongoing series. While many characters have their histories significantly altered to attract newer, younger readers, Batman's history remains mostly intact.

In the wake of the New 52, Batman wears another version of the Batsuit. It is designed by artist Jim Lee. This Batsuit appears using various elements from Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight Trilogy. Just as in The Dark Knight, it is made of hardened kevlar plates on titanium-dipped tri-weave fibers and is broken into multiple pieces of armor over a more flexible bodysuit for greater mobility. The gloves are made of a dense but malleable leather with ribbing on fingers (palm side), raised piping and convex metal knuckles (topside). Mesh detail appears just beneath the palm and inside the three recessed louver-like shapes located on both topside. The blades on the sides of Batman's gauntlets are now retractable and are capable of firing outwards as projectiles. The utility belt is now a convex metal ampules form, its buckle is made of beveled metal platelets. The back of the belt has an intricate containment device and can be detached to be used as a tool. Batman also adapts a para-cape that aerodynamically support himself for gliding.

This is the upcoming Medicom Toys Real Action Heroes RAH 701 1/6 scale Batman (The New 52 Version) figure. Medicom Toys has already released their Real Action Heroes (RAH) 1/6th scale Hush Batman and Joker 12-inch Figures (see the preview pictures HERE) and this looks like another version of Batman they are producing. I had recently gotten the All-New DC Comics Designer Series: Greg Capullo Batman action figure (see my toy blog post HERE) and until I see a better interpretation of Batman, that will do for me.

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Pre-order ThreeA WWR Rothchild Field Mechanic: 1/6th scale Night Fixer Jenkins figure

You can pre-order this from Sideshow Collectibles

Sideshow Collectibles and ThreeA are excited to present the latest release from the World War Robot figure series - Rothchild Field Mechanic - Night Fixer Jenkins. This fully articulated sixth scale figure was designed by renowned artist Ashley Wood and stands approximately 30 cm tall.

From 'SOTF (Survival of the Fittest)', the newest chapter in ThreeA's popular 'World War Robot' series, comes a figure of the elusive mechanic that repairs all sorts of Rothchild robots, Night Fixer Jenkins! The mysterious super mechanic follows forces that contain Rothchild robots deployed in them, and fixes up any machines that breakdown in no time... but nobody really knows if he is real, or simply another battlefield myth. The mechanic has been transformed into a 1/6th scale action figure in his night camouflage outfit made from real fabric. He also comes complete with a handgun, spanner and toolbox to recreate various different scenes.

This is certainly not the first 12-inch mechanic figure to be released. There's the Hot Toys 1/6 scale "Iron Man 3" Tony Stark the Mechanic 12-inch Limited Edition action figure which I have reviewed on my toy blog - see my posts HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE. As for workshop tools, you should check out the ZCWO Mens Hommes Vol.004 1/6th scale Construction Crew Tools and Accessories set which I also reviewed HERE. It comes with LOTS more than just a spanner and toolbox. How can you call yourself a mechanic when you only carry a spanner in your toolbox? LOL

You can pre-order this from Sideshow Collectibles

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Preview ZCWO 1/6 scale HK PTU (Hong Kong Police Tactical Unit) x 2 figures & Street View Set

From the ashes of the recent 2014 Hong Kong protests comes this pair of Hong Kong Police Tactical Unit officers as well as a very nice and detailed Street View Set.

The Police Tactical Unit (Abbreviation: PTU; Chinese: 警察機動部隊) is a paramilitary riot control unit of the Hong Kong Police Force. The Police Tactical Unit provides an immediate manpower reserve for use in any emergency, Unit companies are attached to all land Regions and are available for internal security, crowd control, anti-crime operations, disaster response and riot control throughout Hong Kong. The Police Tactical Unit is often referred as the 'Blue Berets', which is in reference to the blue berets worn as part of the uniform.

This Unit is made up of eleven Companies, comprising in total about 2,000 officers. Each company (under the command of a Superintendent) is made up of 4 platoons, each led by an Inspector or Senior Inspector. A platoon comprises 32 Officers with 1 Station Sergeant (senior NCO) and 8 Sergeants.

This set is rather cool, especially with the 1/6 scale Street View Set. Not much details have been given except we know that all three (figures and diorama) are sold separately so you can choose which figure to buy or consider getting just the street view set with the metal looking barriers, Police tape and dustbin.

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Review 1: Hot Toys 1/6 Captain America: Winter Soldier (Stealth Strike Suit) Collectible Figure

"Captain America: The Winter Soldier", released on 26 March 2014, is the sequel to "Captain America: The First Avenger" and following on from "The Avengers". It is the ninth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film finds Captain America and Black Widow going up against the assassin codename The Winter Soldier.

I'm a big fan of Captain America and I intend to collect all the significantly different costumes Chris Evans as Steve Rogers wears in all the films. In "Captain America: The First Avenger", Rogers wore three different costumes. His first costume is the classic uniform for the USO, the second was the USO uniform accompanied by a brown leather jacket and war pants which resembled the Ultimate Captain America uniform from the 1940's. His third costume is a mix of his Classic and Ultimate uniforms from the comics which I have reviewed on my toy blog HERE, HERE and HERE. In "Captain America: The Winter Soldier", Steve Rogers breaks into the Smithsonian and steals a variation of his Original World War II uniform (previewed HERE) for the climatic battle scene.

"Captain America: The Winter Soldier" also debuted the next stage of Captain America's uniform as it is modified once again as a stealth outfit for secret missions. The suit known as "The S.H.I.E.L.D. Strike Stealth suit" is a new ‘stealth’ suit — a navy blue, utilitarian-looking suit that moves fluidly. And allows for his shield to be attached to the back with a small magnetic alloy. The suit is textured and looks more real world with a Kevlar-based ballistic component that would protect Captain America but at the same time function like a military black-ops uniform. Presumably the uniform is also able to mask Steve Roger's heat signature, making him undetectable to night-vision equipment. The uniform also has comm-link for communicating with other S.H.I.E.L.D. operatives, including Black Widow.

This is the recently released Hot Toys MMS242 "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" 1/6th scale Captain America (Stealth S.T.R.I.K.E. Suit) 12-inch Collectible Figure - see my January 2015 haul post HERE. This is the latest Captain America costume / uniform until The Avengers: Age of Ultron film is released May 1 this year.

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MC TOYS 1/6th scale Dark Climbing Kroenen Set for 12-inch action figures Review II

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This is the fully kitted out MC TOYS 1/6th scale Dark Climbing Kroenen 12-inch action figure with all of his gear and accessories. MC Toys Item #F-042 1/6th scale Dark Climbing Kroenen Set comes with Kroenen head sculpt, Black Cap, Neck Gaiter, black Down Hooded Jacket, Shadow Shell Pants, Alpine Gloves, Rocky Mountain High Gaiters, Sabretooth Clip Crampons, TNF SLOT Winter Grip boots, Black military mountaineering backpack, Climbing Rope, Climbing Harness, Black molle belt, Screwgate Carabiner x 2, Nalgen 1000ml water bottle, water bottle pouch, Carbon Ski Pole x 2, BD Viper Ice Tool x 2, Spinner Leash with Screw Lock, Silver D-ring x 2. The only thing you will need to complete this set is a 12-inch figure body which is not included.

In the first part review of this MC Toys outfit set on my toy blog (posted HERE), I was able to show pictures and turnaround views of the padded black down hooded jacket which has some nice decals as well as the Shadow Shell Pants and TNF SLOT Winter Grip boots. Once you put on the full gear including the Black military mountaineering backpack, Rocky Mountain High Gaiters and Sabretooth Clip Crampons, some of the details which I was able to show earlier are now obscured. This figure set looks best with its full complements so this post covers the subject matter in its entirety.

The Alpine Gloves were a pain to put on and that was probably because I did it with a fixed pose gun gripping hand with trigger finger. These loose 1/6 scale gloves are usually much easier to assemble if you were to use bendy finger type of hands but those type of hands are less common these days. They can be found on most of the 12-inch figures released by ArtFigures. Check out my action figure reviews of the Art-Figures: SAVES "Punisher: War Zone" Figure HERE and HERE as well as the Art Figures AF-005 1/6 Avenger AKA Thomas Jane 12-inch Punisher Figure HERE and HERE.

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Review 1: MC TOYS 1/6th scale Dark Climbing Kroenen Set for 12-inch action figures - CoOL!

Mountaineering or mountain climbing is no small feat. Mountaineering is often called Alpinism, especially in European languages, which implies climbing with difficulty such high mountains as the Alps. A mountaineer with such great skill is called an Alpinist. Besides the right attire to keep one warm against the extremely cold weather, special equipment is also needed to traverse the difficult and unpredictable terrain. Basic gear includes crampons and ice axes.

The subject matter was what attracted me to this set. This is the MC TOYS 1/6 scale Dark Climbing Kroenen Set which I had gotten in November 2014 - see my toy blog post HERE. The 1/6th scale climbing gear and outfit looked to be quite nicely detailed and pretty amazing in miniature scale. The preview pictures made the whole deal very tempting (posted earlier HERE).

Besides the outfit, the 1/6th scale head sculpt that was included with this set was rather odd, to say the least. The sixth scale portrait is that of Karl Ruprecht Kroenen, a fictional character in the Hellboy comic book series, created by Mike Mignola. Director Guillermo del Toro created a significantly expanded biography for the character, to appear as a villain in the 2004 film adaptation. I don't recall seeing Kroenen being outfitted in this getup. This set can be just a generic mountaineering set with a generic head sculpt or as the title suggest, a Dark Climbing Kroenen 12-inch action figure with the head sculpt included with this set. The whole black ensemble also appeals to me as well.

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Abracadabra! Kotobukiya DC Comics 1/7 scale Zatanna Bishoujo 10-inch tall Statue is magical!

A Kotobukiya Japanese import! Continuing the lineup of beautiful bishoujo-inspired statues combining the superheroines and villains of DC Comics with traditional Japanese stylings is a truly magical lady, the sorceress Zatanna! Daughter of the famous stage magician Giovanni “John” Zatara, Zatanna debuted in 1964 as a powerful addition to the mystical side of the DC universe. In addition to performing on stage like her father, the skilled magician has worked with various versions of the Justice League, Sentinels of Magic, and more with her unique backwards English spell casting. Zatanna appears in this brand new Japanese bishoujo (pretty girl) styled statue based on original character art by world famous illustrator Shunya Yamashita!

Using sleight of hand as well as her considerable beauty, Zatanna distracts you, her audience, as she prepares to pull something out of her hat. The magician looks like she is frozen in mid-performance, wearing her stage costume and sculpted in a unique pose. Zatanna balances on one foot with the other pulled up under her as she leans to the side, dramatically aiming her wand at her outstretched top hat. The beguiling sorceress wears her classic costume, a feminine version of a traditional magician’s outfit with high heeled boots, fishnet stockings, white gloves, a black bodysuit, and a complex top with tuxedo elements. There is an incredible amount of sculpted detail in Zatanna’s intricate clothing as well as her long, flowing hair and captivating bishoujo-styled face.

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Sideshow Collectibles Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope Imperial TIE Fighter Pilot Figure

"Look out!" - Preview pictures of the 1/6th scale Imperial TIE Fighter Pilot have been released by Sideshow.

Sideshow Collectibles is proud to present the Exclusive Imperial TIE Fighter Pilot Sixth Scale Figure from Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. Dispatched under the direct command of Darth Vader during the Battle of Yavin IV, high-ranking and fearless Imperial TIE Fighter pilots swarmed the skies to defend the Death Star from Rebel assault.

Emblazoned with stark white Imperial insignia, the pilot wears his unmistakable streamlined helmet, and glossy black armor fitted over a pristine standard-issue flight suit. Interchangeable wrist gauntlets allow dexterity for handling TIE Fighter controls, and positive gravity pressure boots keep him grounded in all situations. Although typically found in the cockpit, Sideshow’s Exclusive TIE Fighter Pilot also comes armed with a ‘retro’ inspired blaster – a nostalgic feature Star Wars collectors are sure to enjoy.

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Preview DAM Toys 1/6 scale Chinese People's Liberation Army Special Forces Recon figure

The People's Liberation Army Special Operations Forces is the Special forces branch of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Ground Force. It specializes in rapid reaction combat in a limited regional war under high-tech conditions, commando operations, counter-terrorism, and intelligence gathering. Although the size of the Special Operations Forces is classified, it is estimated to number 7,000 ~ 14,000 troops.

DAM Toys will be releasing a 12-inch figure from the People's Liberation Army Special Operations Forces Recon figure as their next figure set. What I like about these sets is that they are "officially licensed". Dam Toys got special permission and the official license to produce and market these figures so accuracy to details is definitely spot on here. I already got the Chinese People's Armed Police Force 12-inch figure as part of my January 2015 haul - see my toy blog post HERE. Each DAM Toys 1/6th scale Chinese People's Liberation Army Special Forces Recon figure set comes outfitted in China's very unique pixelated camouflage pattern, from the uniform down to the equipment, and utilizes their QZB-95 assault rifle.

DAM Toys 1/6 scale Chinese People's Liberation Army Special Forces Recon figure will come with 1/6 scale head sculpt, DAM action body, one (1) pair of gloved palms for holding weapon, fist gloved palm, ballistic helmet with cover, Profile NVG goggle, night vision goggle, NVG helmet mount, NVG 3x magnification, SOF camouflage jungle hat, T-shirt, SOF camouflage BDU coat with PLA SOF patch, flag patch. SOF camouflage BDU pants, BDU belt, Type 07 boots, tactical vest, rifle mag pouch x 4, double grenade pouch x 2, S belt, mask bag, water canteen and canteen pouch, rifle scope pouch, Fist Aid pouch, backpack, elbow pads, knee pads, drop leg holster, QSZ92 pistol, 9mm mag x1, QBZ95 rifle, rifle scope, 5.8mm mag x3, QLG91grenade launcher, 35 mm grenade x4, rifle sling, TBR-115 radio, radio pouch, handset, radio antenna, enhance antenna

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InFlames / R.E.D. Mark 1/6 scale Ninja Storm Ver 2.0 figure set - Kakashi Hatake from Naruto

Naruto (ナルト) is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Masashi Kishimoto. It tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, an adolescent ninja who constantly searches for recognition and dreams to become the Hokage, the ninja in his village who is acknowledged as the leader and the strongest of all.

InFlames and R.E.D. Mark has collaborated to release Kakashi Hatake, a fictional character in the Naruto manga. Kakashi is the leader and teacher of Team 7, consisting of the series' primary characters, Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto. He is initially portrayed as a detached and apathetic figure, but as the series progresses, his loyalty to his friends and students becomes increasingly apparent. InFlames / R.E.D. Mark manages to capture 1:6 scale Kakashi Hatake with nice details, from the spiky white hair to the blue power bolts that emanate from his hands.

InFlames / R.E.D. Mark 1/6 scale Ninja Storm Version 2.0 figure set specially features: Elaborately sculpted heads x 2, Approximately 30 cm tall FB02 type body, Interchangeable hands x 8, false gloves (to pose the gesture of hand in pockets) x 2, Dark blue long-sleeved top, Green tactical vest, Dark blue pants, white leg wrappings x 2, Tactical packet x 2, Ninja Dagger x 2, One pair of ninja boots, Lightning effects, Kakashi Hatake's favorite book, Square stage with transparent pillar figure stand.

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Jan 2015 Haul: Chinese People's Armed Police, Captain America, Hawkman, Zombie Survivor

This year 2015 is certainly starting out in a bright way :)

I am quite pleased with my first haul for 2015 so far. They include Dam Toys 1/6 scale Chinese People's Armed Police Force Special Forces operator, Hot Toys "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" 1/6th scale Captain America (Stealth S.T.R.I.K.E. Suit version), Square Enix Play Arts Kai DC Variant Hawkman collectible figure and Easy & Simple (E&S) 1/6th scale Zombie Survivor set for 12-inch figure, most likely inspired by the character Gerry Lane portrayed by Brad Pitt in the 2013 American disaster zombie film "World War Z". Note the small packaging compared to the rest.

I grew up reading lots of comic books, mostly DC and Marvel, with a preference for Marvel characters and Captain America was right there at the top of the list along with The Avengers, Fantastic Four and X-Men. I never imagined that all these two-dimensional superhero characters I read about on paper would one day grace the movie screen in such a big way so I must say what a thrill it has been to be able watch my childhood heroes come to life. What's even better is to have companies like Hot Toys produce and release these figures in three-dimensional form in 1:6 scale with so much detail and accuracy it just blows the mind. You can see the preview pictures of this Hot Toys "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" 1/6th scale Captain America (Stealth S.T.R.I.K.E. Suit version) posted on my toy blog HERE.

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Check out the Bandai Japan S.H. Figuarts Star Wars Stormtrooper 5.75-inch tall action figure

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The Imperial Stormtroopers are the main ground-force of the Galactic Empire, under the leadership of Emperor Palpatine and his commanders, most notably Darth Vader and Grand Moff Tarkin. The order of battle of the Stormtrooper Corps is unspecified in the Star Wars universe, but its numbers are far fewer than those of the Imperial Army's regular troopers. Despite this, the apparently high combat effectiveness of the Stormtroopers as well as their harsh reputation serve as the main reasons for deploying them almost exclusively in most of the military engagements of the Galactic Empire.

They are shown in collective groups of varying organizational sizes ranging from squads to legions, and for some, their armor and training is modified for special operations and environments. The troopers' most distinctive equipment is their white battle armor, inherited from their time as clone troopers. The complete armor set completely encases the body and typically has no individually distinguishing marking (in contrast to the clone trooper armor, which typically had various colorings to denote rank or unit, Stormtrooper armor has no rank affiliation).

Accompanying the Bandai Japan S.H. Figuarts Star Wars Darth Vader 6" action figure with bonus Special Base (posted HERE) will be this Bandai Japan S.H. Figuarts Star Wars Stormtrooper 5.75-inch (145mm) tall action figure. The figure will be made of PVC, ABS material and the set contents: Main figure; Optional hand parts x 2 types, both sides; Blaster rifle. NOTE the height difference which will help make these figures more screen accurate.

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Bandai Japan S.H. Figuarts Star Wars Darth Vader 6" action figure with bonus Special Base

This year the seventh installment in the Star Wars film series, titled "Star Wars: The Force Awakens (also known as Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens)" will be released in cinemas / theaters on December 18, 2015. This will probably be one of the most anticipated films of the year with J.J. Abrams at the helm as director and producer. The story is set approximately 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi (1983) and some familiar scenes have already been shown in the trailer / teaser.

With the new trilogy coming out, expect lots of Star Wars merchandise as well. On that note, Bandai Japan has released pictures of their S.H. Figuarts Star Wars Darth Vader 6-inch action figure with bonus Special Base. Being the first figure in their new Star Wars line, a First Release Bonus Display stand will be included as well.

Bandai Japan S.H. Figuarts Star Wars Darth Vader 6-inch (155mm) action figure with bonus Special Base will be made of PVC, ABS material. Set contents include: Main figure; Optional hand parts x 2 types, both sides; Optional lower arm part; Lightsaber x 2 types; First Release Bonus: Display stand

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Comparing Sideshow Collectibles 1/6 scale Star Wars ANH and ROTJ Darth Vader action figures

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Size matters! To me, anyway. We are talking about scale here, where differences in height can ruin an otherwise good figure. According to wikipedia, 1:6 scale modeling, a.k.a. Playscale Miniaturism, is a hobby focusing on the collecting and / or customization of commercially produced 1:6 scale action figures and accessories. Playscale miniaturism (with emphasis on articulated figures) emerged as a hobby in 1964 when toy company Hasbro introduced the first fully articulated action figure: G.I. Joe.

The original G.I. Joe was made to be 12 inches tall. 1 inch in his world equals 6 inches in ours which means that a 12-inch tall figure would be 6 feet (12 x 6 = 72 inches) tall in our world. While most 1:6 scale figures are generally 12 inches tall, some figures should actually be taller because in the real world, they tower over most normal people. Case in point: Darth Vader!

Besides being clad in an all black suit with armor from head to toe, Darth Vader's height did play a big part in projecting him as a fearsome and intimidating villain figure. His towering presence helped. So in producing a 1/6 scale Darth Vader figure, he cannot be 12 inches tall as that would put him on the same level as the Stormtroopers and that would have been so wrong. I have posted an entry on my toy blog HERE, comparing the various 1:6 scale Darth Vader figures released before this latest Deluxe Darth Vader figure. In that earlier post, the disparity in height of Medicom Toys' RAH Darth Vader figure was alarming and almost comical, making it look like a hobbit had dressed up as the sith lord. Even though the figure had nice details, the wrong height and size meant that the supposedly 1/6th scale Medicom Toys Darth Vader can never be displayed alongside other 12-inch figures. It was a case of scale gone horribly wrong. What's worse was that over time, the costume simply disintegrated - you can see the pictures HERE.

This latest Darth Vader 1:6 scale figure, released by Sideshow Collectibles and reviewed earlier HERE and HERE, is 13.75 inches (or 35cm) tall which I think is just the right height for one of the most iconic villain and symbol of evil for all time. In the pictures posted, he's standing with the Sideshow Collectibles Stormtroopers which were reviewed HERE and HERE.

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Sideshow 1/6 "Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi" Darth Vader Deluxe figure Review II

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Before we got to hear Darth Vader's heavy breathing and his deep, mechanical voice (both aspects did play a big part of what made him famous), we first saw his tall dark figure emerging from the smoke after the all-white Stormtroopers of the 501st had boarded the Tantive IV and taken control of the ship in "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope". The Sith Lord Darth Vader's all black ensemble from his helmet, mask, body suit and armor was as intimidating and fearsome as they come.

Interestingly enough, Darth Vader's famous outfit drew inspiration from the armor of Japanese Samurai Warriors, especially the armor worn by Samurai Date Masamune - check out the 1:6 scale version posted on my toy blog HERE. The 12-inch Samurai figure was released by DID many years ago and you can to see the uncanny resemblance there. Darth Vader’s costume is a perfect fuse of the old (gusoku samurai) and new (sci-fi technology), making him one of the most iconic villains in film history.

In producing the first Star Wars film (which would be re-titled "Episode IV"), the original ANH (A New Hope) Darth Vader helmet and mask had a duller appearance as the costume picked up bumps and bangs along the way and the use of dulling spray on the glossy dome didn't help. The ESB (Empire Strikes Back) and ROTJ (Return Of The Jedi) Vader, while hardly pristine is not as beaten up as the ANH version, with a more glossy look about him. The ESB / ROTJ Darth Vader has a more refined and sophisticated look to the dark lord with more complexity compared to a more basic ANH costume.

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Review 1: Sideshow Collectibles Star Wars Episode VI: ROTJ Darth Vader Deluxe 1/6 figure

Sideshow celebrated the 30th anniversary of "Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi" last year with the new Darth Vader Deluxe Sixth Scale Figure. Sideshow had already released the "Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope" Darth Vader some time ago. That was way back in 2009. Check out my reviews HERE and HERE. The fact that Sideshow Collectibles chose to revisit this famous villain once again was probably because their first attempt fell a bit short in terms of standards so this was their second chance to get it right. And I'm very glad they did.

I already got my Sideshow Collectibles Darth Vader Deluxe Sixth Scale Figure last year in May 2014 (see my haul post HERE) but never really got around to reviewing it until the recent announcement by Hot Toys that they were also releasing their version of the Sith Lord - the "Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope" 1/6th Darth Vader Collectible Figure previewed earlier in my toy blog HERE. The announcement by Hot Toys made me want to see how different Sideshow's version 2.0 Darth Vader compares to Hot Toys' version.

Darth Vader first appeared on the big screen in May 1977 when Star Wars was first released. At that point in time, the film was just called "Star Wars" since it was the first and only film released and nobody expected that there'll be a sequel then. Darth Vader has since become a symbol for evil and probably the most famous of all Star Wars characters, if not of all science-fiction) movie characters. The American Film Institute listed him as the third greatest movie villain in cinema history on 100 Years... 100 Heroes and Villains, behind Hannibal Lecter and Norman Bates.

Darth Vader (Anakin Skywalker) may have appeared in all six Star Wars films and was in his signature costume in Episodes IV to VI but there are differences in his costume design in Episode IV: A New Hope (ANH) when compared with Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (ESB) and Episode VI: Return of The Jedi (ROTJ). This particular review covers the Star Wars Episode VI: Return of The Jedi (ROTJ) Darth Vader figure (deluxe version).

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Sideshow Collectibles Star Wars 104th Battalion Wolfpack Clone Trooper 12-inch Figure Review II

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Under the command of Jedi General Plo Koon and Commander Wolffe, the loyal Clone Troopers of the Wolfpack squad identify themselves with a distinctive blue-grey decor, designed to honor fallen comrades at the hands of General Grievous during the Battle of Abregado.

What caught my eye with this Star Wars 1/6th scale Wolfpack Clone Trooper from the 104th Battalion by Sideshow Collectibles was the wolf symbol on his helmet. Since I doubt there were wolves in the Star Wars universe as all these events happened in a galaxy far far away, I wonder what it might have been if these Wolfpack Clone Troopers were stationed on Earth.

Needless to say, I had to take some pictures of this recently released Sideshow Collectibles Star Wars 104th Battalion Wolfpack Clone Trooper 12-inch Figure beside a 1:6 scale wolf creature. For those of you who are curious to know, the wolf is a 1/6 scale articulated Timber from Sideshow Collectibles G.I. Joe 12-inch Snake Eyes And 1/6 scale Timber Figure Set. I had posted pictures of Timber Wolf previously on my toy blog HERE as well as pictures of Timber and Hot Toys 1/6 scale G.I. Joe Retaliation Snake Eyes 12-inch figure HERE in an entry titled "Fetch that Cobra!"

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Review 1: Sideshow Collectibles Star Wars 104th Battalion Wolfpack Clone Trooper 12-inch Figure

Inspired by Sergeant Sinker in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Sideshow Collectibles produced and released this Wolfpack Clone Trooper: 104th Battalion Sixth Scale Figure as part of their Militaries of Star Wars collection. This was part of my December 2014 haul which I had posted on my toy blog HERE.

Under the command of Jedi General Plo Koon and Commander Wolffe, the loyal Clone Troopers of the Wolfpack squad identify themselves with a distinctive blue-grey decor, designed to honor fallen comrades at the hands of General Grievous during the Battle of Abregado. Ready for the next mission, the Wolfpack Clone Trooper Sixth Scale Figure comes equipped with a standard issue jetpack, complete arsenal of weapons and full range of articulation.

I don't get every Clone Trooper that is released by Sideshow Collectibles but I found myself drawn to this particular Trooper, partly because of the blue-grey design that is the Battle Weathered Full Body Armor with 104th Marking Deco and the fact that there's a wolf symbol on his helmet. The Clone Troopers belong to a galaxy far, far away so there shouldn't be any wolves living on any of the planets, right? Anyway, the wolf symbol on the helmet is still pretty cool. This Wolfpack Clone Trooper 12-inch figure also came with a JT-12 Jet Pack and a backpack with fabric cover.

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Incoming from Original Effect: OE Army Attractive Series Vol.12 - 1/6 Himiko female action figure

This is the next Original Effect Army Attractive Series female figure - Vol.12 Himiko. I only got the OE Army Attractive Series Vol.1 Viola female figure (femfig) which I have reviewed earlier HERE and HERE. I got OE Army Attractive Series Viola because I liked the Japanese anime / manga style head sculpt and the Nazi-themed outfit but the body was crap. Thankfully Original Effect has improved their 13-inch female figure body since then and I've added two more OE female figures to the collection - OE (original effect) 1/6 scale killer instinct SAM 13-inch female action figure and Original Effect OE Killer Instinct series 1/6 scale Righter 13.5" tall female action figure. I even got the OE (Original Effect) 1/6 Reborn Body which is an alternative female body for 1/6 scale kitbashing. You can check out my toy blog posts HERE and HERE

The problem with the Original Effect female figures was that they were all 13 inches tall which would make them look like giants in the world of 12-inch male dominated figures. To counter this problem, OE came out with their Teenie Body which is 12-inch tall. OE has kept all their female head sculpts anime-like to be a consistent part of their company's branding. No realistic looking life-like head sculpts here.

Original Effect Army Attractive Series Vol.12 - Himiko female action figure will come with: 1/6 scale Himiko head sculpt, 12-inch Teenie Body, 2 pairs of interchangeable palms including: 1 pair of relaxed palms, 1 pair of sword holding palms. Also has Bare feet, Geta feet, Forearm armor, Leg armor, Oni shoulder plate, Himiko's fabric clothes, Underwear, Hair band, Tube top, Waistband, Belt, Stockings and Sword

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Review Belet 1/6 scale Speed Rider Outfit and Head Sculpt Set (Fast & Furious Dom Toretto?)

From my December 2014 haul last year - see post HERE :)

Dominic Toretto is a fictional character and the lead protagonist of The Fast and the Furious series. He is portrayed by Vin Diesel and was created by screenwriter Gary Scott Thompson. Dom is introduced in the first film of the series The Fast and the Furious (2001). The role put Diesel on Hollywood's A-list, and won him the 2002 MTV Movie Award for Best On-Screen Team with Paul Walker. Diesel's portrayal of the character has been given much of the credit for the longevity of The Fast and the Furious film series, and the actor has become strongly identified with the character.

This is the recently released Belet 1/6 scale Speed Rider Outfit and Head Sculpt Set which seems to be very much inspired by Vin Diesel's Dominic Toretto character in the Fast & Furious films. The set does not come with a 12-inch figure body. To complete the look, I chose to use the Hot Toys TTM19 TrueType Muscular Body Figure - see my full review of the HT TTM19 12-inch figure HERE.

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Pre-order Original Effect Killer Instinct Series Vol.4 - Candy 1/6 scale female action figure

Original Effect Killer Instinct Series Vol.4 - Candy 1/6 scale female action figure is up for pre-order. With movable eyes, movable mechanical hand, detachable machinery arm, Large Battle Axe, two optional faces, eye-patch and lollipop!

More girls are being added to the Original Effect Killer Instinct Series. Check out the OE (original effect) 1/6 scale killer instinct SAM 13-inch female action figure reviewed HERE, HERE and HERE followed by Original Effect OE Killer Instinct series 1/6 scale Righter 13.5" tall female action figure reviews posted n my toy blog HERE and HERE, with comparison pictures of Original Effect OE Killer Instinct series 1/6 scale Righter 13.5" tall female action figure with the first released Killer Instinct Sam figure as well as size comparisons with other 1/6 scale female figures posted HERE

Original Effect Killer Instinct Series Vol.4 - Candy 1/6 scale female action figure will come with: 2 Candy head sculpts with movable eyes, Hairstyle, Body, Sailor outfit, Underwear, Hair band, Skeleton eye patch, Collar, Pink silk stockings, High boots, Tactical harness, Waist protector, Belt x 2, Skirt armor x 8, Mechanical arm, Lollipop, Arm guard, Large Battle Axe

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Check out this 1/6th scale CIA Agent by Craftone - a 12" dead ringer for Liam Neeson in Taken?

In the 2008 action thriller film "Taken", Liam Neeson is Bryan Mills, a former government operative (CIA), who goes into action mode when his worst fears become real after sex slavers abduct his daughter Kim (Maggie Grace) and her friend shortly after they arrive in Paris for vacation. With just four days until Kim will be auctioned off (sold to the highest bidder in the black market), Bryan must call on every skill he learned in black ops to rescue her.

Numerous media outlets have cited the film as a turning point in Neeson's career that redefined and transformed him to an action film star. There has already been a sequel, Taken 2 which was released in France on 3 October 2012 with a third film, Taken 3 coming out this year.

This 1/6th scale CIA Agent 12-inch action figure by Craftone will feature: Real-like Head sculpts x 2 (one Normal and one with Injury - sometimes called battle-damaged), 12-inch figure made of PVC Muscular Body, Interchangeable Hands x 9, Grey Jacket (with working zipper), Long Sleeves Shirt, Jeans (with Belt), Black boots, P.99 Pistol, M92F Pistol, Notebook Computer, Cell Phone, Recorder

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ZCWO 1/6th scale United States Riot Police "Shawn" 12-inch action figure Review II

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Happy New Year 2015 :) Looks like the world celebrated the new year rather peacefully and these guys were not called into action which is a very good thing.

Riot police may be regular police who act in the role of riot police in particular situations or they may be separate units organised within or in parallel to regular police forces. Riot police are used in a variety of different situations and for a variety of different purposes. They may be employed to control riots as their name suggests, to disperse or control crowds, to maintain public order or discourage criminality, to protect people or property, to function as a tool of political repression by breaking up protests and suppressing dissent or civil disobedience.

Riot police often use special equipment termed riot gear to help protect themselves and attack others. Riot gear typically includes personal armor, batons, riot shields and riot helmets. Many riot police teams also deploy specialized less-than-lethal weapons, such as pepper spray, tear gas, rifles that fire rubber bullets, stun grenades, and Long Range Acoustic Devices.

This ZCWO 1/6th scale United States Riot Policeman "Shawn" 12-inch figure is based quite closely on the Riot Police seen in the 2007 political action film "Battle in Seattle". In the first part review posted HERE, I showed the box contents and laid them all out for easier viewing. That was followed by equipping "Shawn" first with the basic police gear before adding on the riot protective gear, including the pepper spray and megaphone / loud hailer. In this second-part review, I've added the riot police helmet, gas mask (which comes with an additional face shield), shield and long stick for dealing with rioters and trouble makers who wish to disturb the peace.

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