Adventure Team Fan Creates His Own Toys Using 3-D Printing Technology; Produces 1/18th Scale Mobile Support Vehicle & “Mummy’s Tomb” ATV

David Pruitt’s groundbreaking custom 1:18 scale Mobile Support Vehicle is the first of its type produced by a GIjOE fan using 3-D printing technology. The one-of-a-kind (so far) MSV features a detachable forward cab, removable clear windshield, rolling wheels, hollow trailer, raising rear hatch, retractable control panel, maps and chairs—just like its 1:6 scale predecessor. Outstanding! (Photo: David Pruitt)

GIjOE fan, collector and customizer, David Pruitt, a pioneer in the use of 3-D printing, poses with some of his recent creations. (Photo: David Pruitt)

“Who needs Hasbro?”

Prior to 2013, such brash talk would have seemed almost sacrilegious coming out of the mouth of a devoted GIjOE fan. But not any longer. As of this month, David Pruitt, a self-professed, longtime fan of the Adventure Team, can back up those challenging words with a hard, physical reality—he makes his OWN custom toys! According to Pruitt:

“After growing up with Adventure Team as a kid, I was blown away with the GIjOE Collector’s Club releases of the 3 3/4 Adventurers. Naturally, I had to have some retro vehicles to go with those extremely cool figures, so I decided to build my own!”

Pruitt, a professional design engineer from Jonesboro, Arkansas, has been making headlines all over the internet since revealing his creation of superb 1:18 scale replicas of vintage GIjOE vehicles. Of course, talented individuals around the world have been making their own toys for years, all by hand, without the aid of a Hasbro or Mattel (See: Kampfgruppe Von Abt). So what makes David’s achievements so unique? Let’s take a closer look…

Pruitt’s 1:18 scale 6×6 ATV works perfectly with his diminutive Adventure Team. (Photo: David Pruitt)

Using measurements taken from his 1:6 scale MSV, Pruitt produced this early CAD rendering (viewable from all angles) and scaled it down to 1:18 scale, providing the data required by the 3-D printer. (Artwork: David Pruitt)

“Simply AMAZING!”

What makes Pruitt’s custom creations so absolutely extraordinary is not that they were made, but how they were made. By combining his knowledge of 3-D CAD software and the capabilities of 3-D printing (3DP), David has shown fans, collectors and other customizers around the world, that professional-level toy production is now within reach of the “average Joe.” Prices of 3-D printers continue to fall, and 3-D printing services will soon become commonplace at quick-print shops such as Kinkos. This is BIG, folks. Hold on to your pith helmets!

Pruitt’s CAD drawing of the ATV’s main body is ready for production by a 3-D printer. (Art: David Pruitt)

How Does 3-D Printing Work?

Simply put, 3-dimensional objects can now be produced in a variety of materials (including metals and plastics) based upon the specifications set forth in a 3-D CAD drawing created on a computer. Such technology has been in use by major toy companies and manufacturers for years, primarily to create prototypes of their own products. But recently, “desktop” 3-D printers have come down in price to such a point that home users are beginning to get interested—VERY interested. Pruitt further explains the process this way:

“Today’s 3-D printer moves in x and y directions and prints layer over layer to build up the z part (height). The spooled ABS material feeds into the printing tip similar to a hot-melt glue gun. All in all, it’s a much less technical way of creating a 3-D part than the older, more labor-intensive methods.”

The various parts of Pruitt’s 1:18 scale MSV were “printed” in gray plastic. Here they are prior to the finishing steps of sanding, painting and final assembly. (Photo: David Pruitt)

After “printing,” new parts (like this ATV body) can be sanded, primed and painted any color. Hmm…Maybe yellow. What do you guys think? (Photo: David Pruitt)

Why “3DP” is Great News for Joeheads

Imagine being able to design and produce your own spare parts and accessories— on demand—out of solid plastic—without ever touching a sheet of styrene, a jar of resin or a putty knife. Imagine being able to simply hit “PRINT” on your computer’s keyboard and a much-desired part “magically” appears. Such an exciting concept has long been a fantasy for many.

And why not? Who wouldn’t want to replace a missing Crash Crew Truck handrail, broken Sea Sled spear gun or other rare vintage part? We clearly can’t rely on Hasbro. There’s simply not enough profit in it for them to bother.

After adding some yellow paint, the MSV is starting to look VERY familiar. (Photo: David Pruitt)

What Else Should We Know?

The only real “hang-ups” with 3DP are cost and time. Regardless of  what you’re planning to do with them, these machines can be both expensive and slow. According to Pruitt:

“3-D printers range in cost from thousands of dollars to as little as $500 (HERE). As an example, all of the parts for my MSV were printed at one time and took about 17 hours to complete. Materials-wise, 17 cubic inches of ABS spooled extrusion material were used, at a total cost of around $70. The costs and time required depend entirely on what you’re making.”

Almost done! This closeup of Pruitt’s new 3DP ATV shows it is only lacking some crane rope, a hook and the two little steering pegs. Outstanding work! (Photo: David Pruitt)

New 3-D printing technology reminds many of an early version of the famous “replicator” devices shown on episodes of Star Trek. Both use a process called “additive manufacturing” (AM) to create 3-dimensional objects, seemingly from thin air! (Photo: Paramount)

“This All Seems…Strangely Familiar.”

It should! Remember the “replicators” from TV’s Star Trek? The computerized, almost magical devices that seemed like they could make almost anything out of thin air? Today’s 3-D printing is very similar. Here’s how Wikipedia describes the Star Trek replicator:

“A replicator works by rearranging subatomic particles, which are abundant everywhere in the universe, to form molecules and arrange those molecules to form the object. For example, to create a pork chop, the replicator would first form atoms of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, etc., then arrange them into amino acids, proteins, and cells, and assemble the particles into the form of a pork chop.”

Although it’s unlikely GIjOE fans will be creating pork chops with 3-D printers anytime soon, it’s a sure bet they’ll be following in the footsteps of 3DP pioneers such as Pruitt and making their own spare parts, accessories and vehicles.

Closeup side view of Pruitt’s MSV. The figures fit perfectly! (Photo: David Pruitt)

Pruitt’s utilized 3DP to create a prototype of Target’s new all-plastic shopping cart. The same CAD drawings could easily be printed at 1:6 or 1:18 scale. How about a Target store diorama? Maybe a mock-up of a new “Joe Aisle?” (Photo: Target)

More 3DP Intel from David Pruitt

We asked Pruitt to elaborate on his experiences with 3DP. No surprisingly, he uses the versatile technology in his professional life as well. Here’s what he had to say:

“I’m an engineer by trade and my big claim to fame career-wise was co-designing and developing a new all-plastic shopping cart for Target back in 2005-6. After making the parts with a 3-D printer, we glued it all together to make the frame, basket, handle, etc.

Then, we built large plexiglass boxes and hung the assembled parts inside the boxes with wire. Next, we filled the boxes with a clear liquid silicone. After the silicone had set, we took the box sides off and cut everything into two pieces.

Finally, we removed the original cart parts and put the two silicone mold halves back together so as to cast solid urethane parts. Wa-la! A full-scale shopping cart prototype. You can build just about anything you want if you can afford the materials!”

With each added detail, Pruitt’s amazing 1:18 scale MSV nears completion. (Photo: David Pruitt)

Yes, the tires roll. Yes, the bubble is clear plastic. YES, THIS TOY IS TERRIFIC! (Photo: David Pruitt)

When asked if he had any future plans for producing his own line of vehicles or products, Pruitt optimistically replied:

“I’m working on getting my own printer and thinking about building and painting and selling these. I still have a few steps to go. The coolest aspect of 3-D printing is that you can design and make anything you can think of. Watch out Hasbro! Now we can make ANY toy we want!”

This closeup of the rear section of the MSV reveals a wealth of added details including decals, maps and a retractable control panel. WOW! (Photo: David Pruitt)

David later added a rooftop storage rack, spare tires and equipment crate! (Photo: David Pruitt)

“Hey, You. No Cutting in Line!“

Potential customers for Pruitt’s amazing creations have already begun queuing up on various online forums. One such eager fan, “GIJOEY,” wrote in on the Hisstank website to say:

“I know this comment is going to sound over the top, but I just cried happy tears to see a toy that I owned in the past come to life again in the scale that I now love. Thank you, David, for making a middle-aged man get excited like he was 10 years old again. I cannot wait to see you do more pieces from this era. You are a true artist!”

Bottom Line: Clearly a leader in the use of 3-D printing by GIjOE collectors, David has proven that fans no longer have to rely on the whims and unpredictable corporate decisions of Hasbro or any other toy company. As “Cobra Blue” so eloquently summed it up over on Hisstank:

“David Pruitt is a pioneer. I predicted in another forum that this was where we were headed with technology, and that sooner or later, this was how we were going to get updated or better versions of RAH vehicles in the future. Someone on this forum said ‘it is still a VERY long way from replacing the volume injection molding.’ Well, if ‘very long way’ means four months, then I guess that prediction is true. I read an article on MakerBot that they have a desktop 3-D Printer which will SCAN an object and then print it. This is exciting!”

Pruitt’s MSV is finished and ready for its first mission. Note the last-minute addition of a bank of 4 roof-mounted flood-lights. This Adventure Team is ready for ANYTHING. Go, JOE! (Photo: David Pruitt)

TJR’s Video Pick of the Week #13: “TV’s Original Batmobile Sells at Auction for $4.2 Million!”

While collectors and fans of 1:6 scale continue to wait patiently for the arrival of Hot Toys’ new 1:6 scale ’60s Batmobile, we thought you would enjoy seeing the real thing selling at a recent auction featuring custom car guru George Barris and his one and only “Number 1 Batmobile.” As they say in the video, the sale of this iconic American custom car is “truly historic.” Watch as the excitement grows, and the bids slowly creep up to its final selling price of a WHOPPING $4.2 million dollars. 

Newly released photos of the upcoming 1:6 scale Batmobile by Hot Toys:

It was standing room only at a recent Comic Con in San Diego, as fans jostled for a glimpse of the upcoming 1:6 scale Batmobile by Hot Toys. (Photo: Bat-Blog)

A new closeup of the rear end reveals outstanding details. Check out those drag chutes! (Photo: Bat-Blog)

An interesting pic from a recent Comic Con in Hong Kong shows the Batmobile displayed behind glass with video monitors playing old episodes of the show. Has there ever been such a highly anticipated 1:6 scale vehicle? Holy, Bat-Mania! (Photo: Ivan)

Huge 1:6 Scale Aircraft Carrier Discovered in FL

Ricky Smith’s reports of a “1:6 scale aircraft carrier” in FL were quite intriguing. (Photo: Ricky Smith)

The Mystery of the 1:6 Scale USS Oriskany (CV-34)

Toy dealer and GIjOE fan, Ricky Smith, wrote in to The Joe Report recently to tell us about something exciting he had discovered in Pensacola, FL—a 1:6 scale Aircraft Carrier! No, we’re not talking about the 1980′s U.S.S. Flagg playset by Hasbro, we’re talking about a MASSIVE, 60-foot behemoth, currently “dry-docked” on an equally lengthy semi trailer. To better illustrate the ship’s size, Smith placed one of his Sailor GIjOEs onto its deck and took the following photo (see below):

Smith’s 12″ GIjOE Sailor is placed on the ship for a quick size comparison. Bring the hand railings up a tad and you’re good to go! (Photo: Ricky Smith)

Holy Hull Size, Batman! Ricky was right. This ship is huge! The mystery of its origins quickly deepened. Who built it and why? Why was it sitting out in a field in Pensacola? Perhaps it had been built by some enterprising Florida GIjOE club members to pose with their GIjOEs? Or as a display in a museum? Or…? Smith didn’t know, but he offered to help learn more, telling us…

“When I first saw it, I freaked out! I’d love to place a blue Panther Jet up on its Carrier deck and take a picture of that. When I have the time, I’ll try to find out more and send you another picture with a person standing next to it so you can get a better idea just how MASSIVE this thing really is!”

Closeup of the bow. Note all the painted windows, ports and handrails. (Photo: Ricky Smith)

By now, our curiosity had been seriously peaked. Though clearly not an accurate “museum-quality” 1:6 scale replica, the ship exudes a serious amount of “play value” and its incredible size was almost too big to be believed. Who would build such a colossus? To construct something this large required serious dedication and extensive construction experience. We set out to discover the ship’s secrets, and what we would find is amazing.

The carrier float was modeled after the USS Oriskany (CV-34), made famous in the film, “The Bridges at Toko-Ri,” based on the book by James Michener. (Photo: Bantam Books)

The Truth Revealed

Closer examination of Smith’s photos, coupled with our own research, ultimately solved the mystery. It turns out that this massive construction was originally built to be a parade float for the 1955 Armed Forces Day Parade in Philadelphia, PA. Sponsors of the float (and their families) were able to sit in, on, and around the float as it was towed down Main Street in the parade. According to Ted Sherman, author of a 2007 article recounting its origins:

“It was several months before Armed Forces Day 1955 in Philadelphia, and our Naval Reserve Air Group was asked to create and ride a float in the parade. Most of us had returned two years before from active duty deployment in the Korean War. We decided to make our float a replica of the USS Oriskany (CV34), the aircraft carrier many of us had served aboard in combat off the North Korean coast.

The Oriskany had also gained quite a bit of notoriety after returning to the States the previous year and starring as the fictional carrier in the movie, “The Bridges at Toko-Ri,” based on a novel written by James Michener and starring William Holden, Mickey Rooney and Grace Kelly.”

As recently as 2012, the venerable parade ship had been rigged with electric lights and appeared in the Mardi Gras night parade in Pensacola, FL. (Photo: divemasterking2000)

Construction of a Colossus

Mr. Sherman’s account of the ship’s construction revealed just how large an undertaking it would become, requiring a small army of helpers and specialists to make it a reality. Here is the excerpt:

“As for our float-building task, we started with a big flat-bed truck. With the help of many reservist volunteers, carpenters and painters, we built a flight deck and painted in all the usual carrier markings. We also made a fake bow with USS Oriskany CV34 painted in large letters. Carpenters built the superstructure, complete with all the compartments, weather decks, gun tubs and other realistic items. One clever worker took a child’s large motorized backyard spinner toy and strung on it several models of our aircraft at the time, F6F fighters and TBF torpedo bombers.”

Continually maintained by volunteers since its construction in 1955, the massive USS Oriskany parade float ship is still utilized in annual parades down in Pensacola, FL. Note how it dwarfs the extended-cab pickup truck struggling to tow it into position for a parade in 2012. This thing is HUGE! (Photo: farm6)

Great advice for Future Float Builders

In case you’re getting any ideas of your own for building giant 1:6 parade floats, especially floats supporting our military or honoring our veterans, Mr. Sherman concludes his article saying:

“When it was all completed, along with masts, lines and signal flags, the slowly spinning aircraft made our float look almost like the real thing in miniature. If there can be any tips we can pass on, it is that if you get an assignment to build a float for an Armed Forces Day parade, make it as realistic and respectful as you can. In planning and building it, you should always keep in mind that you’re not celebrating Disney characters nor Rose Bowl flowers, but honoring those who served in America’s wars.”

The CV-34 float in a recent daytime parade in Pensacola, FL, honoring USN personnel and their families. (Photo: Meyer Muse)

Bottom Line: Our sincerest thanks to Ricky Smith for bringing this amazing story to our attention and to Ted Sherman for his detailed history of the ship. Its continued maintenance is an ongoing testament to the love and support Americans share for the men and women of our beloved United States Navy. If you’d like to learn more about the “Big O” (the USS Oriskany), click HERE. For a great clip of the opening scenes of The Bridges at Toko-Ri, featuring REAL Korean War-era USN Panther Jets taking off from the deck of the USS Oriskany, click on the link below. And…GO NAVY!

Customizer Extraordinaire, Ron “Inks” Stymus, Has To Wait To Be Laid-Off Before He Can Create His 1:6 Scale Custom Vehicles, Props & Figures

Three of Ron Stymus’ custom figures (his ‘Mini Me’ is the one on the right) prepare to go cruising in three of his brightly painted 1:6 scale customized “hot rods,” (Photo: Ron Stymus)

“The best things are always one-of-a-kind, scratch-built, and custom.”

Ronald “Inks” Stymus (NY), poses with his 1:6 scale custom “Mini Me” GIjOE. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

As GIjOE collectors and customizers go, Ronald “Inks” Stymus is a clearly a standout. His 1:6 scale recreations of blue-collar bikers, high-powered hot rods, erotically attired femme fatales, dioramas of game rooms, rock-n-roll bars and gritty street scenes are among the most original we’ve ever seen.

What makes his work so special? Besides an obviously keen eye for detail and expert craftsmanship skills, Ron has an uncanny ability for depicting real, everyday people. They’re not superheroes, WW2 stormtroopers or adventurers. Rather, his customs are based upon actual, gritty places he’s seen, or people he has encountered. His final scratch-built, one-of-a-kind creations illustrate 1:6 scale customizing—at its FINEST.

Surprisingly, the only substantial time Ron can find to work on his miniature artistic creations is when he’s LAID OFF from his job as a truck driver in the Finger Lakes region of New York. According to Stymus:

“I work in construction. I drive a 35-ton Volvo dump truck, 14 hours a day, 6 days a week. In the Wintertime I get laid off. That’s when I do most of my 1:6 customizing. I’ve also done tattoos (as another hobby) for over 35 years now, and I’ve done over 20,000; all custom, and all free-hand.

Most of my custom stuff is based on my life in general and people or groups that I’ve known. My 1:6 scale gameroom and other dioramas are based on my after-work R&R.

I started collecting 1:6 scale a long time ago. Now, I have about 550 GIjOEs and other figures, plus almost 300 Barbies and other female figures. I collect other things too, but that’s another story!”

“If you see it in 1:1 scale, you can make it in 1:6 scale.”

Ron’s mantra may ring true, but not everyone possesses his innate creativity or superior artistic ability. As another old saying goes, “If it was easy, then EVERYONE would be doing it.” To get a better idea of just how far-reaching Ron’s talents really are, let’s take a look at some recent work:

Holy, Hells Angels! Stymus’ “bad-to-the-bone” custom Bikers look like they’re ready for anything. Notice all the handmade leatherwork, cloth vests, patches and painted tattoos; such realistic details make this group of unique figures truly outstanding. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s “mini-me” poses next to a stunning assortment of scratch-built 1:6 scale crates and wooden pallets. Such realistic-looking props help make Stymus’ dioramas all the more believable to the eye. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s 1:6 scale gameroom diorama features a scratch-built bar, pool table, skee-ball alley and a wide variety of realistic looking props and characters. Outstanding work! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s yellow custom hot rod was lowered, painted with custom flames and intricately detailed inside and out. Congratulations! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

The yellow car’s interior received special attention with the addition of new door panels, carpeting, fuzzy dice and other custom details. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s second 1:6 scale custom was this outstanding blue hot rod, detailed and appointed to resemble a 1:1 scale high-performance street machine. VRROOM! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

“This blue car is the second one that I built. Its tires and rims came off a 1:6 scale PT Cruiser. I custom-made its wheelie bars, put N2O in the trunk, added a custom muffler made from a coffee can (with hand-painted Thrush logo), a Revell 350 Chevy motor, a blower from a 1:18 scale ‘Muscle Machine,’ bucket seats, carpeting, door panels, headliner, sun visors, fuzzy dice, gauges. and even a radar detector!”

This closeup of the engine bay reveals all of the stunning detail Stymus added to his custom 1:6 scale (blue) hot rod. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s custom Adventure Team rock band is truly unique. The more you look, the more you realize is scratch-built. You can almost hear the screaming metal music! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s scratch-built dog sled and supply crates might need a little more “dogpower” to get underway. But look at the superb craftsmanship and attention to detail. MUSHHH! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

On his third custom car, Ron decided to go all out. His “Mini Me” lifts the car (with one hand) to reveal Ron’s scratch-built frame and gas tank on the underside. Outstanding! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

“This is the third 1:6 scale car I’ve built. It features a custom-built frame, a Revell 350 Chevy stock motor, custom firewall, gas tank made from a coffee can, brake lines, tranny lines, carpet, and some mounted guns in the trunk.”

This engine bay closeup reveals a stock 350 Chevy. But Ron’s custom firewall, hosing and other detailing really amps up the realism. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s red hot rod is quite eye-grabbing with its stunning paint job, bright chromework and myriad details. Even the service ramps are scratch-built! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s custom-built 1:6 scale auto transport trailer. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

“My scratch-built 1:6 scale auto transport trailer includes bungee cords for the tarp, tie-down chains with axle hooks, ramps that stow under the trailer and chain binders.”

Closeup of Ron’s custom trailer with ramps connected. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

True 1:6 scalers love detail, and with Ron’s custom trailer, you can even stow the loading ramps into racks in the back. Plus, notice the real wood planking, rusting detail on the racks, the figure’s custom leather welding apron, shop patch, spark visor and more. Truly superior customization! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s red hot rod looks STUNNING loaded onto his 1:6 scale scratch-built trailer, all ready to roll out to the nearest drag strip or 1:6 scale car show. Amazing! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Land Adventurer asks Ron’s “Mini Me” for a lift back to the Adventure Team Headquarters in his new, high-ridin’ RC “Monster Jeep.” (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s “Mini Me” unloads cords of wood from his new scratch-built 1:6 scale wheelbarrow to fire up his new scratch-built custom stove. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

“The tub on the wheelbarrow was made from sections of a coffee can. It has real wooden handles, and the wheel is from a 1:18 scale jeep, that was broken. The little wood cords are actually sawed-up real twigs. The stove is all soldered together, the door works and the stovepipe is plastic pipe.”

In this early production shot of Ron’s scratch-built stove (taken prior to painting), you can see the various materials used in its construction. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Another view of Ron’s scratch-built custom “gameroom” diorama reveals a detailed bar, beer keg, furniture, games and other props, plus assorted characters all having a good time. It’s time to “Par-TAY!”(Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s “Mini Me” prepares to take a ride on his 1:6 scale customized chopper. Note Stymus’ hand-made background items as well, including a 1:6 scale ice freezer with working doors and hand-painted graphics. Outstanding! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron needed a case for his 1:6 scale guitar. No problem! First, he drew a pattern onto stiff cardstock for the top and bottom halves. Photo: Ron Stymus)

Then, he trimmed it all out, curving and gluing long strips to the patterns to create the sides. (Photo: Ron Stymus)

It’s hard to tell from this photo, but the final steps involved either spray painting the case black or covering it with material before attaching final details such as handles, hinges and straps. Outstanding! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s 1:6 guitarist is quite satisfied with the results. “Let’s get to the gig, dude!” (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Ron’s artistic skills including creating superb hand-painted tattoos! (Photo: Ron Stymus)

Bottom Line: Ron’s work is simply amazing. Clearly, he has an excellent eye for miniaturization, material choice and fabrication. His recreation of real-life objects at 1:6 scale is already at an undisputedly professional level. He’s an inspiration to all in the 1:6 scale community and especially to its growing “Corps of Customizers.” Far more than a truck driver, Ron has become a true ARTIST; one that must wait to be laid off—before he can create again. Go, “Inks!”

Robert Hall, in New “G.I. Joe Collections” Profile, Remembers Hasbro-Canada’s Final Sell-Off of NOS Crash Crew Fire Trucks As it Occurred in 1972

Canadian GIjOE fan and collector, Robert Hall, holds his favorite figure for a recent photo shoot profiling him over on the internationally acclaimed, “GIjOE Collections” website. Hall is the fourth Canadian to be included on the site. (Photo: Robert Hall)

When Canadian Robert Hall wrote in to us recently to describe his extensive GIjOE collection, one part of his story in particular caught our attention. According to Hall, for a birthday present one year he had received a brand-new, never-before-opened, NOS (new old stock), GIjOE Crash Crew Fire Truck (CCFT).

That’s cool and all, but not too unusual. However, when Robert said he didn’t receive his new, unopened CCFT until 1972…then some alarm bells started to go off. 1972 is FIVE YEARS after the truck’s introduction in 1967! As far we’ve been able to determine, the CCFT was only offered that one year (1967). So how was such an unlikely purchase made possible?

Well, it turns out that Hasbro-Canada (in 1972) was attempting to clear out warehouses full of older, unsold GIjOE merchandise. Advertisements must’ve been created, Robert’s parents found out about the sale, and ordered their son one of the never-unboxed, minty-fresh Firetrucks—direct from Hasbro-Canada.

Many fans will recall that the Crash Crew Fire Truck was also reproduced in bright RED and sold for a second time in Europe and the UK as an “Emergency Fire Tender” under the Palitoy/Action Man brand. But that didn’t occur until MUCH later, in 1977.

5 years after the GIjOE Crash Crew Fire Truck had been sold in the U.S., a cache of unopened NOS (new old stock) firetrucks in Canada was sold directly to customers by Hasbro-Canada. (Photo: mccaig)

Bottom Line: Tales of unopened, 1960s GIjOE treasures, still unsold after so many years, are the stuff of Joehead dreams and legends. Congratulations to all the lucky Canadians who were able to take advantage of Hasbro-Canada’s unusual “Fire Truck Fire Sale.” To read Robert’s complete story and view closeup photos of his outstanding collection, jump over to his profile page on the international GIjOE Collections website found HERE.

Pro or Con? Using Modern RC Technology to Add Authentic Sounds, Weapon Effects and Lifelike Realism to 1:6 Scale Action Figures and Vehicles

This portion of an old Hasbro ad reveals how GIjOE fans once played with 1965′s “state-of-the-art” 5-star Jeep: They got down in the dirt! Recent advancements in RC technology have begun to change how fans play with such toys in backyards around the world. (Ad scan provided by: Mark Wright)

Consider this supposition:

Cost factors aside…What if, as a kid, your original GIjOE 5-Star Jeep had been a fully RC product, complete with motion and sound effects, a remotely rotating and elevating gun with remotely fired rocket shells and an animatronic driver and gunner that actually moved, looked around, etc. Would such high-tech, “hands-off” enhancements have made it a better toy?

Your gut reaction might be to say, “Heck yeah!” But let’s think it about it for moment. Would such a radically enhanced Jeep have been as much fun to play with? OR…would such a “superior” product have lessened the need for Andy and George’s mutual “imaginative interaction,” thereby making them mere operators of a toy with a predictable series of mechanized movements? Hmm…

Make Room for Daddy! “Backyard Battles” aren’t just for kids anymore.

Ramon Mendoza (above left), prepares to demonstrate his fully remote-operated 1:6 scale RC Tiger 1 Tank from Armortek ($8,500) to attendees of the 2012 GIjOE and Action Figure Show in Algonquin, IL Mendoza admits owning and operating such massive, high-tech toys is hardly “child’s play” as his all-metal Tiger weighs in at over 300 lbs and has numerous sharp, pointed edges, making it too dangerous for children.
(Photo: Mark Otnes) Click to enlarge.

Is it time for aging GIjOE fans to finally get up off their knees and stop playing down in the dirt? For some, the answer would be a resounding, “YES.” To such fans, recent advancements in RC technologies have opened up a whole new world of 1:6 scale collecting, customization and “play” possibilities.

By contrast, many “old-school” Joeheads continue to assert their belief that the more things a toy can do by itself, the less “hands-on” it becomes, and the lower actual play-value it possesses. According to this perspective, “Simpler…is Better!”

But regardless of your collecting preferences, it’s undeniable that 1:6 scale action figures and their vehicles have come a LONG way since the time when Hasbro’s 5-Star Jeep and its working spotlight, firing rocket shells, and (delightfully annoying) “Moto Rev” sound made it a “state-of-the-art” toy.

Playing with GIjOEs and 1:6 scale vehicles in the dirt (inside or outside) used to be commonplace and second nature to most fans, as this ’60s Hasbro ad clearly demonstrates. Are today’s tech-savvy adult fans moving 1:6-scale play too far from the past’s “hands-on,” imagination-based methods—or merely expanding upon them? (Photo: Hasbro)

Hasbro’s 1967 ad for its “Capture Hill 79″ GIjOE promotion clearly reflects the company’s awareness of how boys were playing with toys at that time; down on the ground, hands-on, and engaged. Are these innocent, imagination-fueled days gone forever? (Ad scan: Mark Wright) Click to enlarge.

Cue “Old Codger” voice here…

“Back in MY day…Before we had all these new high-tech ‘gizmos,’ kids had to use their IMAGINATIONS —and Saturday morning cartoons— to fill the hours. We played OUTSIDE, right down on the ground, like a bunch’a little monkeys! In the rain, snow, water or MUD. We didn’t care. We knew how to have FUN with our toys; ESPECIALLY with our GIjOEs!

We thought nuthin’ of pushing our Jeeps and MSVs around on our hands and knees for HOURS. Heck, half the fun was making our own sound effects like “Vrroom! Bang!” and “POW!” We used rulers, rubber bands and rocks to make catapults, and if we had any, lit REAL smoke bombs and firecrackers! We didn’t need no fancy ‘RC toys’ to have fun. We just made it up. And we LIKED it!”

This “screen grab” from a video shows two nude animatronic figures with Dragon headsculpts and how wiring connects to the electronic “guts” housed inside their chest and pelvis regions. (Photo: Ylms)

Our “Old Codger’s” dialogue is, of course, all made up. But his viewpoint is actually shared by many. Regardless, times and toys are always changing, and as the children of the past turn into today’s adults, a growing number of them now seek to improve and enhance the detail level of toys they previously believed to be perfect. They’re known of course, as “customizers.”

We’ve profiled many of these talented individuals in previous articles, and at the top of this fortunate group are the ones who are technologically (and financially) able to upscale their 1:6 scale products with advanced RC capabilities. With built-in digital sound effects, cameras, movable, recoiling and sometimes firing(!) weaponry, smoke-makers, powerful motors and drive-trains, their creations are QUITE amazing. A quick search of YouTube revealed hundreds of 1:6 scale RC, but these three videos demonstrate the advancements we’re discussing:

Video #1: Animatronic 1:6 Scale Action Figures w/RC Tank

In this first video by Wolfinger13, a German animatronic tank crew scans their surroundings for targets before firing off a shot into the woods. Absolutely real-looking and convincing. The crew moves, the turret rotates, the gun fires (with smoke and sound effect!), and the tank RUMBLES away at the end. Watch after the cannon-shot is fired. It seems as if the two crewman exchange a few words before driving away. So cool!

Video #2: Animatronic Figures w/RC Motorcycle & Sidecar

In this second video, Wolfinger13′s has built an outstanding, fully RC, 1:6 scale Zundapp KS50 WW2 Motorcycle with a scratch-built wooden sidecar and 2(!) animatronic Dragon figures. We’ve seen other WW2 RC motorcycles, but none with animatronic figures and sound effects added. With the camera mounted on a tripod, and no human hands visible, the officer and his driver take a few laps around the patio, interact with each other, and just seem so REAL. Superb work!

What happens when you combine a GIjOE, customized Mercury Space Capsule and a giant 1:6 scale Redstone rocket? The answer can only be: FUN! (Photo: mercuryjoe.com)

Video #3: The “Mercury Joe” Flights

Let’s not forget GIjOE pilots, astronauts and their assorted air and spacecraft. When I was but a wee lad of 7 years, I received a brand-new, bright blue, IRWIN Panther Jet for Christmas. I remember pushing that big blue bird across my living room floor, its built-in noise-maker going “click-click-click.” For a 7-year old, that was pretty high-tech. And the next Christmas, I received my first GijOE Space Capsule. Come on! What could be cooler than that? Such great toys!

But now, over 40 years later, my viewpoint is altered somewhat by adulthood, and in this third video, we’ll discover what happens when an RC model-rocketry experts mounts a heavily customized GIjOE Space Capsule onto to the top of 1:6 scale Mercury Redstone rocket. His resulting “Mercury Joe” missions have become legend with fans, and all been captured on video. Here’s one of the best…

What does the future hold for the way fans play with GIjOEs?

We don’t have a crystal ball, but clearly, the evolving interests of many adult GIjOE collectors, combined with an increasing consumption of sophisticated RC technology, seems to indicate that many future 1:6 scale “Backyard Battles” will be waged from the comfort of Dad’s lawn or easy chair. It may be time for some Joeheads to get up off their hands and knees, after all!

Bottom Line: How you chose to play with GIjOEs is up to you. But we wonder: How far can technology take our 12″ heroes? You have only to look at real-world developments in RC drone technology and miniaturization to conceive of a possible future scenario like the one depicted in the fantasy film, “Small Soldiers” (see trailer below). But it couldn’t REALLY happen. Right? Hmm…

Toy History on the Auction Block: Owners of Bankrupt 21st Century Toys Begin Long Process of Selling Off Prototypes and “One-of-a-Kinds”

This weird, WILD, super-creative 1:6 scale prototype of 21st Century Toys “Battle Suite” was built by renowned custom vehicle maker, Neville Page. Unfortunately, it was shown only at the Toy Fair in NYC and never reached final production status. This amazing one-of-a-kind vehicle is now up for auction over on ebay with an opening bid of $500. (Photo: usarules)

This closeup of a resin headsculpt prototype reveals superb sculpting and details. What a SHAME it never made it to final production! (Photo: usarules)

Piece by piece, item by item…

Heads up, 1:6 scale fans! The past, present, and vast, unfulfilled future potential of 1990′s popular toy manufacturer, 21st Century Toys (21stC), is currently being auctioned off on ebay to the highest bidders. Years after the company’s untimely and unfortunate bankruptcy, its owners are attempting to recoup some of their losses—one auction lot at a time.

Everything from 21stC’s original clay-sculpted prototypes of its never-produced “Grimsphere” line, to resin castings of new headsculpts and equipment, even full-size mock-ups of never-produced vehicles—it’s all up for sale RIGHT NOW. Let’s take a look at some of the auctions currently running…

The Weird World of “Grimsphere”

The first auction to catch our eyes includes a MASSIVE 150-bag lot of original prototypes from the pre-production phase of 21stC’s unreleased “Grimsphere” line. While it is difficult to determine EXACTLY what’s in all those little bags, according to the auction’s description by seller, usarules:

“These are from the un-released Grimsphere line that was introduced at the New York Toy Fair. These are hand-made prototypes, NOT production toys. Very very RARE! This auction is for a HUGE lot of parts. Over 150 bags. Misc parts, hats, boot, weapons, bones, heads, hands, tombstones, etc. Both wax and resin parts in various conditions! Please see the photos. These things look AWESOME!”

Closeup of the 150-bag lot of unproduced “Grimsphere” prototypes currently being auctioned ovcr on ebay. (Photo: usarules) Click to enlarge.

Fans, collectors and entrepreneurs alike realize the tremendous potential at stake with this particular auction. The 21stC Grimsphere line was sort of a futuristic, “goth-vampire killer” sci-fi line of 1:6 scale figures. Writing on the bags reveals intriguing clues about the unproduced line, with descriptions such as, “Chainsaw for the Jesse character,” “Vampire,” and “Specimen Jar.” Cool!

Now, over 10 years later, this massive, historical trove of original 21stC prototypes, if still in viable, usable condition, could provide a tremendous boost for any enterprising individual (or existing company) wishing to produce new products of their own. Just think of it! All the hard, artistic work is already done. All that remains is to find a company with the requisite infrastructure and equipment to begin mass-producing copies. (Hello, Cotswold? Hobbycrash?)

This auction lot contains FOUR resin copies of a never-produced “Detective” headsculpt, complete with molded-on wrap-around sunglasses. Superb! What a shame it didn’t get manufactured. (Photo: usarules)

It’s unclear from these prototype photos, but it’s possible the legs of the “Battle Suite” walker may have been intended to fold up, or “transform.” Shown with included figure (in shrink-wrap). (Photo: usarules) Click to enlarge.

WW2 Meets “War of the Worlds”

This second auction is a real MIND-BLOWER. It’s for a one-of-a-kind, 1:6 scale prototype vehicle of something known only as the “Battle Suite.” Created by famed vehicle designer, Neville Page, this wild contraption gives you an idea of the highly creative, “outside the box” approach 21stC was shooting for, and the type of products it was planning to build before it collapsed financially.

Visually, it’s a cross between a Star Wars “Scout Walker” and the turret of a double-barreled Sherman Tank. This thing has “bad-ass” written all over it! Standing at over 2 feet tall, it was also wired for lights and sound effects and was apparently going to include one fully outfitted figure or “driver” with each vehicle (see shrink-wrapped figure in adjacent photo on the right). According to the description…

“Ultimate Soldier Fans, here is a chance to own some real 21stC history. This is a PROTOTYPE, Sci-Fi WWII U.S. Army ‘Battle Suite.’ Designed for the 1/6th scale figures. Hatches open and close. This thing is HUGE, over 25″ Tall and 12″ Wide. It was built by Neville Page at Neville Page’s Studio. (Neville is now on the TV Show “Face Off” as one of the judges.) This is one of the most expensive prototypes 21stC EVER had built.

It had working lights & the two guns moved. These are hand-made, NOT production toys. Considering its age and how many times it was moved, it is in good shape. It will require the buyer to have model building and model painting skills to bring it back to life, as you can see in the photos. This thing is VERY Cool.”

Another intriguing unproduced headsculpt currently for auction over on ebay. This handsome character comes with a pony tail that was molded separately. Perhaps he was intended to be some sort of heroic “Vampire Slayer” character? Unfortunately, we’ll probably never know. (Photo: usarules)

Very cool, indeed! Imagine all the wild sci-fi diorama possibilities this thing could create. It’s easy to picture some cigar-chompin’ “Sarge” poking out of the hatch, scanning the wastelands with his binoculars and blasting away at a bunch of post-apocalyptic “Grimsphere” zombie-vampires walking around. “There they are, men! Blast ‘em!” Ka-CHOOMMM!

If this unique sell-off of historic, 21st Century Toys paraphernalia continues, it would bode collectors well to keep VERY close eyes on ebay during the next few months. Fans on the One-Sixth Warriors forum are already doing just that. They’re plotting to pool their respective resources, then go in together on the bidding and “divide up the spoils” if they should ultimately emerge victorious.

Bottom Line: We’d like to wish usarules all the best with their auctions. 21st Century Toys brought a lot of happiness to a lot of people and the chance to own an authentic piece of the company’s history is a rare and delightful opportunity. Whether these prototypes end up in the hands of individual collectors or enterprising companies, it will be VERY interesting for fans to see what, if anything, is ever done with it all. To get in on all the exciting “auction action,” jump over to usarules’ ebay page HERE. Best of luck and Happy Bidding!

Custom G.I. Joe “Super Sea Sled” Converted From (Hasbro Rival) Mattel’s R/C “Terrain Twister”

Toy companies are missing a big opportunity to take advantage of Hasbro’s extended lull in offering 1:6 scale products for its flagship brand, GIjOE. Fans and collectors have increasingly turned to “cannibalizing” or customizing items from other manufacturers to satisfy their appetite for new products, creating such innovative concepts as this “Super Sea Sled” custom based on a Mattel RC “Terrain Twister.” (Photo and fantasy advertisement: Mark Otnes)

Welcome to the first of our new, “What If?” series of articles, where we’ll ask the simple question, “What if…?” followed by whatever supposition strikes our fancy. In this first entry, we’ll take a look at the intriguing question… What if Mattel made products for use with GIjOE? 

Think about it… What would happen if Hasbro’s main competitor exercised its manufacturing muscle and created new, original products for use with GIjOE (not using the name, of course). The answer? They would usurp an entire market segment of toy buyers and collectors (i.e. YOU) that Hasbro is currently allowing to sit idly on the sidelines.

For this initial “What If?” case study, let’s use a custom vehicle (recently created by yours truly) as our example. I based this concept on one of those wild, RC “Terrain Twister” vehicles from Mattel. Their shape is very similar to (and was likely inspired by) the classic 1960s Hasbro Sea Sled. The resemblence got me to thinking…a dash of paint here, a windshield, sonar bubble and gauge decal set from PoP there—and voila! I have an exciting, all-new “Super Sea Sled” for my scuba GIjOEs!

This closeup reveals the addition of a windshield, decal set and gauge bubbles from Patches of Pride. Cool! (Photo: Mark Otnes)

Clearly, if an individual such as I can “dual-design” a new use for an existing, off-the-shelf product, so can the big toy companies. It just takes a little creative thought! And with Hasbro squatting on their big behind, Mattel (or anyone else) has an opportunity to steal their thunder. All they have to do is mark it “1:6 scale-ready” and we’ll know what it’s for.

Bottom line: The answer to our first ever “What If? question is…“It’d be COOL!” Sure, these are just the ramblings of a 50-something Joehead who spends WAY TOO MUCH time thinking about such silly things, but if you’ve read this far, you’re probably thinking about such silly things too. HA. And yes, the Terrain Twister was also made in YELLOW for your Adventure Team. To watch a video review of the “Terrain Twister” on YouTube, go HERE.

2 More WW2 U.S. Fighter Planes Discovered; F6F Grumman Hellcat and P-38 Lockheed Lightning

The P-38 Lockheed Lightning recently discovered emerging from a Wales beach in the UK, was one of the most formidable fighters of WW2. (File photo: USAAC)

The pilot (or Naval Aviator) of a recently discovered (and unidentified) WW2 Hellcat fighter would have witnessed a scene very similar to this one prior to his (final?) takeoff from the deck of a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. (Photo: US Navy)

The ocean depths continue to give up their ghosts of war-times past… 

Over the six decades since the end of World War II, the discoveries of downed, sunken, buried, or otherwise “lost” warships and military aircraft have been considered some of the rarest of rare occasions. But for some reason during 2012, such findings have been occurring on an almost monthly basis. For example:

April, 2012:

20 “lost” British Spitfires are found buried inside their original packing crates in Burma. Since that time, the number has risen to possibly as high as 100, with excavation of the first of the rare “Spits” set to begin in early 2013. More HERE.

July, 2012:

The amazingly well-preserved wreckage of a downed RAF P-40 Kittyhawk is stumbled upon in a desolate, uninhabited part of the Saharan desert. The pilot’s remains are located a few miles away, indicating he survived and tried to walk out of the desert to the nearest town—over 200 miles away!

At almost the same time, the wreckage of a crashed, Korean War-era USAF Douglas C-124A Globemaster II was discovered high up in the rugged mountains of Alaska. For the first time in over 60 years, authorities are able to confirm that all 52 passengers aboard had perished. More HERE.

August, 2012:

In August, we reported on the stunning discovery of a sunken WW2 German submarine, the U-550, located just off the coast of Massachusetts. The U-Boat was sunk after a fierce battle with the U.S. Navy. Quite the story! More HERE.

September, 2012:

And just when we thought we’d seen it all, an ultra-rare Messerschmitt 323 “Gigant” is discovered resting underwater off the coast of Sardinia, Italy. The largest of the Luftwaffe’s experimental “X-planes,” the six-engined monster was quickly nicknamed by the RAF as the “Leviathan of the Skies.” Full story HERE.

Eroding sands on a beach in Wales have revealed an astonishing sight: a “lost” P-38 Lockheed Lightning which crashed during WW2. (Photo: UK Daily Mail)

November, 2012:

Now, most recently, in the span of just one week in November, 2012, two more missing WW2 American fighter planes have been discovered. The first, a U.S. Army Air Corps P-38 Lockheed Lightning, was found half-buried and slowly emerging from beneath the sands of a beach off of Wales in the UK. The second, a U.S. Navy F6F Grumman Hellcat, was found sitting upside-down, 240 feet below the surface, off of the coast of Miami Beach, Florida.

The Hellcat recently discovered near Miami Beach, FL, rests 240 feet deep, upside-down, with its landing gear retracted and wing flaps extended. (Photo: thebrigade)

The nearly simultaneous discovery of these two extremely rare WW2 warbirds is a thrilling coincidence for all military and history buffs. How were these planes found? As for the P-38 Lightning, according to an article in the UK Daily Mail…

“It has been hidden under the sands and waves since it crashed off the coast of Wales in 1942. But now this wreckage of a rare World War fighter plane may soon be back on dry land.

Described as ‘one of the most important WWII finds in recent history’, the location of the Lockheed P38 Lightning has been kept a secret to keep the amazing find safe.

Known as the Maid of Harlech, the United States Army Air Force (USAAF) fighter crashed on the Gwynedd coast when it was taking part in training exercises and its engines cut out.

Amazingly, pilot Lt Robert Elliott walked away from the incident without a scratch but tragically went missing in action just three months later serving in the American’s Tunisia campaign in North Africa.

A charity has announced plans to next year retrieve the wreckage. The International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery are looking for support and a British museum who will accept the fascinating American machine as a gift to display at their venue.”

The recently discovered Hellcat would have looked similar to this one during WW2. (Photo: thebrigade)

The Hellcat was found closer to home and likely suffered from engine failure as well. As of the date of this article, it remains unidentified and so the fate of its pilot too, is unknown. According to an article in the Miami Herald…

“The crew of a research submarine studying artificial reefs off Miami-Dade County has discovered the mostly intact wreck of a U.S. Navy World War II fighter plane lying upside down 240 feet deep off Miami Beach.

Researchers aboard the Antipodes were using three-dimensional sonar gear to investigate a blip on the sea floor last June when they found the 28-foot-long Grumman F6F Hellcat — encrusted with marine growth and dotted with exotic lionfish.

 According to the Naval History and Heritage Command, 79 Hellcats were lost off Florida’s east coast between 1943 and 1952. But many of the crews survived by bailing out or ditching. They were not part of the mysterious Flight 19 “Lost Patrol” that vanished on a routine training mission off Fort Lauderdale in 1945. The “Lost Patrol” consisted of five TBM Avengers and the PBM Mariner that was sent to look for them.

 According to Bob Rasmussen, director of the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, more than 12,000 Hellcats were delivered to the Navy, but only a handful are still around today. ‘The discovery of one more — even under 240 feet of Atlantic Ocean — is important to naval aviation history,’ Rasmussen said.”

Bottom Line: Even with today’s advanced sonar and satellite-based imaging systems, searching the vast ocean floor for objects such as crashed fighter planes and sunken ships is often a proverbial “needle in a haystack” scenario. Maybe if they used a Sea Wolf submarine…hmm…

Spanish “Maestros of Metal” Creating Steel and Aluminum Masterpieces in Exact 1:6 Scale

Javier and Esteban pose next to their latest 1:6 scale masterwork, a Messerschmitt 262. (Photo: javi)

Just when you thought you’d seen it all, along comes another amazing customizer. Or, as in this case, a group of THREE amazing customizers, Javier Rodriguez, CesarRodriguez and Esteban Goyanes. The talented trio hails from northern Spain and are all master craftsmen. In a very short time they’ve built a solid reputation among collectors for their realistically detailed 1:6 scale steel and aluminum replicas of military weapons, vehicles, rockets and aircraft.

Even the interior of this stunning, all-metal ME262 shows a great amount of detail. (Photo: javi)

Once assembled, this 1:6 scale V2 rocket barely fits inside the workshop. (Photo: javi)

We asked these “maestros of metal” to tell us more about themselves, their business plans and the masterpieces they produce. Here, in an exclusive interview with The Joe Report, is what they had to say…

“We are a small workshop located in the north of Spain, composed of three friends with high skills in machinery, welding and design. We specialize in building one-of-a-kind custom projects and are very proud of our craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Every model we build is handcrafted from real materials, mainly carbon steel for the tanks and aluminum for the planes. We can work on any scale from 1:6 to 1:16, and over the last few years, we’ve been involved in some exciting and unique projects for selected collectors and museums including V1 and V2 Flying Bombs, Me 262 jet fighter, King Tiger Tank Porsches turret, Normandy Bunker (made from real concrete), and rare FH18 and PAK 43 German howitzers.

Right now, it’s all still a sideline business that we’re working at part-time. We don’t even advertise. But during the last few years, we’ve managed to gather a list of loyal customers who are willing to deal with our turnaround times. We don’t have a business name either, but next year we’re planning to introduce ourselves with a new website and start working on projects full-time.”

This closeup of the V2 reveals superb attention to detail. Look at all those tiny rivets! (Photo: javi)

Clearly, even without an official business name or website, these guys are going to be very successful. Regardless of their lack of self-promotion, they’ve been able to convince a growing clientele to plunk down serious money and wait for indeterminate periods for their orders to be created. Obviously, the word has gotten out that they’re talented AND dependable.

Another masterpiece from the “maestros of metal,” a 1:6 scale V1 flying bomb. Superb! (Photo: javi)

Of course, you can’t create a business in a vacuum. We asked them what they’re doing to contact and stay in touch with past and future customers…

“We used to visit the main military trade show in Spain (twice a year) and we participate actively on the biggest Spanish language 1:6 scale forum, www.agrupacion1seis.com. Lately, we’ve been working for several military museums in Spain also.”

Front view of the V1. (Photo: javi)

What are you working on now? Any other plans for the near future?

“We are now finishing up a unique 1/6th scale Jadgpanzer IV L70 made from real steel and next year we are planning to introduce a unique German T34.”

These intricate field artillery pieces are of museum-quality. (Photo: javi)

What’s the best way for future customers to get in touch with you?

“We currently accept orders from EU and USA and can be reached by email at javinatalia@yahoo.es and caesargarcia2000@yahoo.es  Please feel free to reach us for any question. All the best from Spain! —Javi”

Imagine all the cool German aerodrome dioramas the owner of this 262 will be able to create. Gott im Himmel! (Photo: javi)

Editor’s note: Thanks for all the information, Javi. We wish you and your friends the best of luck and good fortune with all your future endeavours!

Here some more “behind-the-scenes” photos of various works in progress…

The raw steel of this tank turret GLEAMS prior to painting and other details. (Photo: javi)

Here’s a great shot of their crowded workshop and all its tools, etc. (Photo: javi)

Weld by weld, the flying V1 bomb comes together in perfect 1:6 scale. There’s nothing mass-produced here. It’s all done by hand. One masterwork at a time. (Photo: javi)

Each piece is fully finished with accurate period paint schemes and camo patterns. (Photo: javi)

Some of the paint schemes can be elaborate and challenging to replicate, such as the one on this V1. (Photo: javi)

Side details of the ME262. (Photo: javi)

Front view of the ME 262. (Photo: javi)

3/4 view of the ME 262. (Photo: javi)

Fuselage closeup of the ME 262 with paint and markings. Smooth, accurate, PERFECT! (Photo: javi)