It’s not often that we bring up Big Questions around here. So on the occasion of Nice Pants Week 2017, we ask one about one of the oldest GI Joe figures. Why did sailors at one time wear bell bottoms? I thought I knew the answer thanks to a relative who served, but after scouting online sources, it turns out
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The SAW Viper troop has a nasty reputation among fans of the Marvel GI Joe comic, as one of its members murdered several members of the Joe team. The original figure’s uniform was certainly unique among Cobra troop builders, in terms of design and color. With a slender build and futuristic helmet, the SAW Viper’s look belied his specialty. Looking
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It’s time again for another colossal celebration of clothing, a five-day festival of festoonery, a remarkable review of raiment—Nice Pants Week! I can’t believe that I’ve neglected to focus on this most essential article of clothing for so long yet again, but here we are. This time, I’ve really tried to break the coverage open a bit more, and in
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Ah yes, remember the training montage in Rise of Cobra? Wherein Duke not only bested Snake Eyes in hand-to-hand combat, but Brendan Fraser also cameo-ed by rolling up on a goofy three-wheeler. It was the oddest intro in GI Joe lore since Torpedo was met in the MASS Device to rousing cries of, “Hey, ‘Pedo!” Yikes. Anyways, feel free to
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By KansasBrawler Growing up, I always loved the Cobra B.A.T. and though I missed out on the original version, the 1991 version quickly became one of my most used Cobra troopers. I’m sure part of that was the cartoon’s influence, but I just thought robots were cool and the interchangeable hand weapons really spoke to my kid brain. While I
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“Hombre” Means Man! Such says the Montgomery Wards 1973 Christmas catalog. I suppose some folks had to have the word explained to them back in the day. Regardless, Hombre is a GI Joe knockoff in the vein of the Adventure Team, although he looks more akin to Mego’s Action Jackson in the face. He’s sporting some mighty fine sideburns. I
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Happy Birthday to Me! Now I’m gonna a have a big ol’ piece of chocolate cake on a Star Brigade napkin, and a cold brew in a Sky Patrol stein. Yo Joe!
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Code Name: Iowa’s yearly GI Joe con Assembly Required went down last Saturday, and the entire JAD family made the trip up to Des Moines. As usual, Code Name: Iowa and all the volunteers, exhibitors, and vendors made it a day to remember. The event is a great regional experience for collectors and kids alike, with a modest sales floor,
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By KansasBrawler While I didn’t have it growing up, ever since I got lucky and found the Wal-Mart exclusive Rise of Cobra Outpost Defender, I’ve been kind of obsessed with that little set. It’s a great little piece and the design is perfect. As a fan of the Outpost Defender, it’s pretty easy to guess what my feelings towards the
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Dealer catalogs can be a trove of fascinating images. This page from 1987 showcases the LCV and Devilfish, each in detailed diorama fashion. When placed in such an interesting environment and lit dramatically, even the goofy LCV is lent an air of greater realism. The Devilfish of course needs no such help. Image via orangeslime.com
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