Raising the bar in 8inch action figure collectibles: Zica Toys’ Buck Rogers Action Figure

Introduction:

Unbelievable. That was the first word that sprang into my mind when I first saw this figure up close and personal. The level of detail that was poured into this figure is simply amazing. Zica has definitely raised the bar for 8 inch action figures. And to that I say to them, Thank You!

Let me warn you now dear reader this will be the most extensive review I have conducted to date. It’s honestly the least I can do considering the level of detail and quality that was lovingly poured into this toy. I only hope that my words and pictures will do it proper justice. In the end though I hope my efforts will encourage you to run (metaphorically of course) to Zica’s website and buy one of these immediately. For the record I don’t easily recommend a purchase so to see an endorsement from me is the highest compliment I can pay outside of buying more myself, which I intend to do. Also to note I’ve posted a large collection of montage pictures at the bottom of this review so you can see as many images of this amazing toy as possible while you wait for yours to arrive. I’m giving like that.

Packaging:

The packaging is perhaps the best new retro looking packaging. So much so in fact you would

think that this figure was produced in the late 70’s early 80’s.

Another thing that I found refreshing is that the anti theft tie downs used can’t be seen when the figure is in the package.

The back of the box is the ultimate tease. So far only two of the five figures listed have been released. Being that Hawk is my favorite character from the show I will be patiently waiting for this guy. Considering all of the detail that each figure has I can understand why each phase of production takes time.

Head Sculpt

The face looks a little long but there is no mistaking that this is Little Rock, Arkansas native Gil Gerard.

The paint applications on the eyes and hair are so precise. The eyes truly have a life to them. The hair is sculpted and painted with a wonderful realism.

Body:

There truly is none better. This body is simply the best 8 inch action figure out there, hands down. The Zica crew has done something truly amazing with this body. It does not have the traditional rubber bands holding it together. While purists may frown I say turn it upside down because the final product has such a high degree of poseablity that it is staggering. Unlike the rubber banded figures this guy when posed will stay that way. Plus with the absence of the connector hooks the motion of the joints is much more fluid and adds to the realism that can be portrayed.

Costume:

Again detail is simply amazing. From the tip of his helmet to the soles of his shoes Zica’s Buck Rogers is not short on details. For me the most impressive aspect is the striping that runs down the pants.  Plus who knew a guy could look so cool in all white? Even without his accessories he looks great!

Accessories:

Never before have I seen so many accessories that flow so seamlessly with the overall figure that you might overlook one.

Helmet: It’s even padded to ensure a proper more realistic  fit!

Arm Bands: Velcro fasteners help streamline the look . Plus the fit is perfect.

Belt: The buckle shines like metal because IT IS metal, the added little gadget adds even more to the look Add to that the pouch like accessory is riveted.

Gun Holster: Dead on screen accurate

Gun: By far the best hand held weapon I’ve ever seen in an 8 inch toy as far as fit and design.

Shoes: Funny looking but then again so were Buck’s. the details added for the soles is also a nice extra touch that really made me smile.

Hands: Three sets including the one’s that come on the figure. Wow!

The Price:

Available for $29.95 plus shipping via Zica’s website ( http://zicatoys.com/ ) and through their ebay store http://cgi.ebay.com/ZICA-Toys-Buck-Rogers-Retro-Action-Figure-MISB-/120715375176?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c1b327248 

Absolutely worth EVERY penny. It’s almost too inexpensive. The price tag does not accurately reflect the quality of this figure. While I wouldn’t ever want to drop a $50 dollar bill on any action figure personally I can say this figure is certainly worth that kind of money.

Why you should get one:

Quality alone is a big deal maker. And I must point out that what Zica has created here is perfect for a wide range of potential gift receivers. Toy collectors, that’s a given. Science Fiction fans, you better believe it. Gil Gerard fans, absolutely. High end doll collectors, oh yeah, they will truly appreciate the details.

Why you shouldn’t get one:

The only thing that I can point to is the package warning. It says (even though I don’t personally agree) that this toy is not recommended for children under the age of 15. I say BAH! This toy is extremely well built and I would trust it in the hands of a much younger child, even as young as 5 or 6 years old so long as they are not complete destroyers of toys. But there are small parts and one must be cautious. Still I think a young 8 inch action figure fan would truly enjoy the playtime that could be had with this toy. But then again considering the costume is all white, I’d probably keep this one as an inside toy.

In Conclusion:

This figure truly is at the top of the class of the Re-Mego movement. And again I must point out that when I say that it’s not to slight other product out there from EMCE, Bif Bang Pow, or Castaway, it’s just simply the cream of the crop. Coming very soon I will be sharing with you an interview with the creator of this figure and the mastermind behind Zica Toys, Craig Owen very soon. Again for the record I completed this review prior too said interview and in no way have I been compensated by Zica Toys. For me I am now completely hooked on the Zica product so much so that I will be adding a Tiger Man to my collection very soon. I truly want to Collect ‘Em All!”

Jim Bumgardner is a 20 year veteran of the broadcast industry and currently serves as the news and production director for television station TKO 8 in Harrison, Arkansas. Jim is the father of two the husband of one and firm believer in the power of toys for both the mind, body and soul. You can contact Jim via email at jimstoybox@gmail.com or visit his website at www.jimsmegos.com

 

All images and products are the sole copyrighted property of it’s respective owners. Specialty photographs and graphic work used for this article were done by Jim at the TKO 8 Studios located at 500 N. Main St in Harrison, Arkansas. “Little Jim” was created by Dawn O’Connell of Little Buddies Action Figures. Learn more about getting your own Little Buddy at www.littlebuddiesactionfigures.com