Sgt. Bazooka (2008)
Bazooka wasn’t a popular character with me as a kid. The cartoon version was a goofball, and the figure just didn’t capture my imagination. Most of the Joes I received as a kid collector came from infrequent trips to the toy store, or special occasions such as birthdays and Christmas. The only other avenue I had for collecting was through trades with friends. If a figure didn’t really float my boat, I just wouldn’t go for it. As such, Bazooka wasn’t in my 80s collection. As an adult collector, I have come to appreciate him more, and I find a lot to like about his original toy.
While the increased articulation of the modern GI Joe construction style is a nice improvement, Hasbro’s ability to create figures of different physiques is one of my favorite new elements of the toys. Bazooka is taller and bulkier than his teammates; something that didn’t happen often in the vintage 80s and 90s line. I’d say that even if you don’t go for his odd uniform choices or cartoon personality, he’s worth picking up because of his hulking size.
Once again, detailed weapon storage is a nice modern era innovation and extra feature. The missiles plug into the launcher as well as the backpack, and there are a couple of hooks to hold the launcher. Cool stuff all around, and Bakooka is one of my modern era faves. Quite a change, considering
my childhood opinion of the guy.
I got this carded for $7 at a used video game store, of all places. My first figure of the guy too.
My first Bazooka was the Battle corps version [really nice pants on that one]. With regards to the cartoon. I’m guessing the writers needed a “dumb” guy and Bazooka fitted that bill. But if you read Bazooka’s filecard, it says he “Isnt the sharpest tool in the shed”. Just because he isnt an Oxford graduate means he is a complete moron. He’d have to posess a decent IQ if he can drive Abrams tanks.
Ditto for me as well. Never liked the vintage version and I absolutely hated his Sunbow counterpart, but this figure rocks. Due to his increased bulk, I can easily see him as being more like his file card description.
One of the best “Modern era” i.m.o.!
This is another example of why I miss out on stuff being a MOC 25th collector, I had no idea this figure was this good. I know carded collecting is goofy, but I am a fan of that card art!
I always like Bazooka back then simply because he wore a New England Patriots shirt. Then for some reason he joined Tiger Force and became a Miami Dolphins fan.
I never had his original or Tiger Force figures, but Bazooka was always a favorite of mine. My first Bazooka was the Battle Corps version. He went from dressing casually to being prepared to go fly fishing at a moments notice. That Battle Corps figure is one of the more unusual looking Joes.