ReproCops - The Police State of Star Wars Toy Collecting

Support us on PATREON: www.patreon.com/retroblasting
LINK TO THE MAIN CONVERSATIONS: drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-i5rpztz1MTgGhKzKHD0wG01VfOMMyMj?usp=sharing
Star Wars toy collecting has become a virtual police state. RetroBlasting takes a stand.
#RetroBlasting #reproductions #toycollecting

[@retroblasting]

LINK TO FULL CONVERSATIONS WITH HEINZ, FAUNTLEROY, IMPOSSIBLE BURGER, and STEVE-DAVE: drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-i5rpztz1MTgGhKzKHD0wG01VfOMMyMj?usp=sharing

[@SolosCargoHold]

@@secretdestroyer33 really appreciate this comment AA. This video was pointed out to me by someone who recognised my logo and lower half of my twitter handle. I've asked for the video to be taken down on those grounds. I'm really disappointed that my private discussion with him has been made public. The video takes my comments out of context and makes false claims.

[@SolosCargoHold]

@@dennyking the fact you think I'm some part of a brigade just goes to show how far this video has mislead you.

[@rhettgenung1223]

Michael, move forward. Turn off all of your social media and do what you and your team do BEST, make incredible Vintage Toy videos. Time is short...

[@SolosCargoHold]

@@dennyking I don't want to click on the video and give him another view but I think I'm at the end. Also the bottom right script. I would like to know who he thinks I'm spying for and to what end 🤷‍♂️

[@kaijukidsam]

@@secretdestroyer33 Ha, wow, what an absolute lack of self awareness, man. "Militant pro repro stance". Using the word nazi like a 10 year old in a comment section. How absolutely childish are YOU? This is why his video was justified, the fact that this "issue" is even at this level shows how pathetic some in the toy collecting community truly are.

[@J-T-A]

ReproCop! What are your prime directives? 1. Serve my financial interests 2. Protect the price guide values 3. Keep the gate 4. (Classified)

[@creasybear31]

Brilliant! 🤣🤣👍

[@Tim85-y2q]

The first two aren't illegitimate concerns in a collectible market IMHO.

[@SFforlife]

I’d buy that for a dollar!!

[@pelicanphuucker4life]

4. (Classified) FOIA GRANTED 4. To lose virginity I am sorry ReproCop, your model is incapable of downloading necessary software needed to attempt engagement. If you were to somehow overcome your limited processor by overriding your programmed "simple nature" you're also lacking in necessary hardware to perform this action. Again, I say ReproCop do not attempt to move forward with this objective....the greater odds are you'll short circuit your memory cpu and reboot only to be permanently stuck in a state of adolescence. I repeat ABORT MISSION and DISABLE OBJECTIVE!

[@falleneldor]

@@SFforlife not if they have anything to say about it hahah.

[@davidh4548]

How many people came to see the comments as much as Michael's incredibly well collected views?

[@bluehero-96]

Yes.

[@troubledturtle2332]

I did

[@RadRat1138]

His scripts are fine but he reads them in a very monotone manner lol.

[@mattdawg83686]

I’m glad you’re putting these fools on blast and holding them accountable for their fuckery.

[@JONNYSORENSEN_AU]

At least some of the nonsense appears to be mental illness. I dont know how else to explain such bizarre behavior

[@wiibrockster]

@@JONNYSORENSEN_AU Spoiled as kids?

[@CloneShockTrooper]

Well said! :-D

[@dante001ish]

I asked my vintage Jawa if he minded having a Repro weapon, He said "No Fracks given at least I can shoot droids again"........Ootini.

[@RiFFxxx]

Lies! No Jawa would be seen dead with a Repro "Utinni"

[@dante001ish]

@@RiFFxxx I stole it...Ootini

[@scockery]

But the 40 year old plastic originals were made from MAGIC. Apparently.

[@dante001ish]

@@scockery Hokey religions & ancient weapons are no match for a.........You know the rest.....Ootini.

[@erikrungemadsen2081]

@@dante001ish no match for a cool vinyl cape

[@aegonthedragon7303]

My take: repros are a necessary evil for most of us. I can’t justify spending 70 bucks on chin guns for my AT-AT when high quality repros exist for 20 bucks, same with weapons. At the end of the day, all of this is plastic that we save because we love them for what they are. The anti-repro crowd makes no sense. Is there suddenly an intrinsic meaning to plastic? I missed Kenner by about 25 years so I have no connection at all. I just like the toys and how they look/their historical aspect and thus Ill do what I can do to fix them up. The toys themselves don’t have meaning, but rather the memories we create with them.

[@travelswithjasonf1463]

I agreed with you 💯 cent

[@jedipoodoo]

You are absolutely correct.

[@MonkeyboysToys]

Yep. What he said. 👍

[@Tim85-y2q]

It comes down to the fact that many of those repros are not readily distinguishable from the original, which in turn makes it possible for people to attempt to pass them off as the genuine article. Regardless of your stance on repros, it should at least be obvious why that's controversial when there's a significant price differential between the genuine article and the reproduction items. Personally, I think most collectors just want repros for personal collection use, but that doesn't mean there aren't legitimate issues involved that merit consideration.

[@Tim85-y2q]

@Maximillian Wylde Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying it doesn't or that Michael is necessarily wrong that some of the people involved can be problematic in various ways, just that I don't think you can discount out of hand the fact that there are legitimate and reasonable concerns when it comes to reproductions in any collectibles market. My dad used to deal in antiques and I can tell you that very similar issues come up all the time in a variety of fields besides toys.

[@roguetrooper5288]

Doctor: "Mr Baby Huey, your heart has failed and we don't have any donors, the only other option is an artificial heart." Baby Huey: "NO REPRO!!!"

[@johncaulfield8935]

Narrator: “Baby Huey then died a few days later.”

[@roguetrooper5288]

@@johncaulfield8935 "And everybody with their repro hearts lived happily ever after..."

[@BubblesTheBard]

Pffft. Nice.

[@brycevo]

Replicas and reproductions are needed in any and all fandoms. Things break, get lost, and some things are never sold to the fans. So we could really use any and all means of getting our hands the products of our focus

[@RoseWaltz]

it also helps the crafting community! i made earrings for a friend from reproduction She-Ra swords - no way was i going to use the real thing

[@mr.handsomeb.wonderful8586]

Well said!

[@joesanroman249]

If ‘Baby Huey’ is who I think it is, then I spent money at his establishment. I’ve even considered getting in touch with him about getting a Star Destroyer or a Death Star. I won’t be going through him. You didn’t explicitly share his identity, so I will respect that and just be careful who I deal with. Great video as always. And I fully agree. I feel that hoarding figures is more damaging than repro ever could be. Army building troops, officers and other generic characters is one thing, but who needs 30 Yak Faces? The prices are ridiculous for any weapon and people think they have gold when they find out something they are trying to sell happens to be Star Wars. The hoarders and uneducated hurt the hobby more than anything else.

[@NewbombTurk.]

Being close to 50 yrs old, myself and friends had a lot of the Star Wars line of toys as kids. I don't currently collect them, because I moved on to full size collecting (classic cars). When you stated that these individuals stated they were against repro parts for classic cars, I about lost my sh*t. If the automotive community felt the same way, there would be far fewer cars to be able to enjoy. Hell, SEMA wouldn't exit in the capacity it does today, and hundreds of thousands of jobs would be non-existent. I might as well crush my '66 Mustang project since it wouldn't be the same with repro parts....(obvious sarcasm). To me, they aren't even collectors, they're just businessmen chasing a buck.

[@KahlessTheUnforgettable]

I used to spend quite a bit on classic cars myself; but I got the 8 I wanted, just how I wanted and moved on to true ‘BD Energy’ collecting: WWII fighter planes.

[@turtleanton6539]

Awesome

[@ascensionindustries9631]

It's easy to tell people their Stormtroopers shouldn't get blasters when you're the one hoarding all the originals.

[@BanazirGalpsi1968]

Mego was raised from the dead by A REPORDUCTION TOY MAKER. The repos were so good that the original maker was convinced to hire him as a partner in bringing his company back to life

[@BubblesTheBard]

Whoa, for real? That's awesome!

[@kevinthomas4239]

If I needed someone to back me in verbal fight I'd pick Michael. Physical fight, Tony from Analog Toys.

[@AnalogToys]

(cracks knuckles) just say the word!

[@patrickwaldron4091]

Most definitely,Tony looks like he'd eat your liver and Michael would be able to make you apologise

[@NeverEnuffAmmo]

Ya know, I gotta be honest, I have never had any issues with anti-repro types bothering me or anyone I know about anything, but this was a well needed video because anyone who is trying to shit on other collectors needs to be called out ......... They are intentionally trying to ruin the enjoyment of others simply for personal gain ...... this to me signifies that they are not collectors, but parasites trying to feed on real collectors ....... but because they don't have the talent to provide a valuable service (like being able to create products that have been lost over time that collectors now want reproductions of to make their collecting experience complete), they have to attack others who are adding to many collectors enjoyment of the hobby ...... they are simply human garbage

[@JONNYSORENSEN_AU]

Dont forget that the sellers of the One true toy to rule them all artificially drive up the prices of their own inventories through these underhanded tactics, on top of the abuse to people and their bizarre bullish bullshit behavior

[@RocketPunchHero1]

Thank you. Finally... A fan who gets it.

[@ccarlton6790]

If you care more about the monetary value of your toys, you are a "speculator," not a collector. I don't buy figures with the thought that they will be worth more in the future.

[@jthom0027]

I believe that you can be both a speculator and a collector. The issue with the assholes discussed in this video is they are simply speculators. They have no actual love for the items or they would be willing to share the love with everyone...including people that need repro parts to "complete" a figure. They are simply gatekeepers making sure that their investments stay strong.

[@bikerscout7467]

Alarm bells started to ring for me after joining one such group earlier this year, I made the 'unforgiveable sin' of posting a custom of a vintage star wars figure on their FB forum! LOL Now remember, as you said, these figures were produced in their millions. The figures I customised were beaten up, yellowed and missing fingers: ROTJ Skiff Guards not a Yak face or Blue Snaggletooth. The abusive memes and comments that followed in the minutes of the post going up were unbeliveable! Now fair enough, I had failed to read the small print in their rules, but instead of reigning in the abuse, the moderator piled on with a comment of: 'we do not permit the uploading of images of customised figures on this group'. Apparently, encouraging vintage customs is a big no no, yet abusing and harrasing people for doing so is just fine and can go on without any problem from the moderators!!!! A very warped mindset to say the least!

[@justinthomas7222]

Well, "community standards," you know... Can definitely tell what people value.

[@scockery]

Nerds with moderator power. People who never had power in their lives when given it, even (or especially) over "their own", turn into dicks.

[@LondHo]

When someone says “it’s not about the money,” yeah, no it’s totally all about the money.

[@brianartillery]

It's a similar kind of mentality as that bloke in the pub who starts a bigoted rant off with: "I'm not a racist, but..."

[@yellowpete79]

haha my workplace said that before firing people and cutting our hours.

[@burntvirtue]

It's about the money when sellers lie about accessories being original when they post something for profit.

[@kongokevful]

I lost a majority of my Star Wars weapons playing with my figures so if I need weapons, I'll order a repo. If selling vintage kenner Star Wars, I think the buyer should be told. I have no intent of selling my vintage Kenner. That's my childhood. I'm currently collecting The Vintage Collection because of my childhood. Repo weapons? Absolutely. My vintage figures need them to "feel" complete.

[@hommedammn7132]

Lots of Repro in my collection. I leave my collection out to be touched, talked about, and played with. When I die my stuff will likely get sold; I doubt my family or whoever sells it will go through the lengths to even know what’s Repro and what’s not. If the future market for vintage Star Wars toys ends up being cheaper for everyone who wants it because of Repro, then that sounds awesome to me. Awesome toys for awesome kids is a better legacy than some old fart’s “investment collection.”

[@namelessjedi2242]

Yep. It’s not my fault some people chose action figures as their financial investment. I just want to have fun with toys.

[@kongokevful]

@@namelessjedi2242 I definitely had fun with mine. Being an Adult, I'd like to have them complete. If i have to buy a repo weapon just so Han can have his blaster or Luke's lightsaber so be it. It doesn't have to be certified vintage for me.

[@crushingalldeceivers]

This is why I belong to zero and post in zero toy groups, i'm just a private collector that watches retroblasting, analog toys, formbx257 and toy polloi.

[@a.rheser8181]

Same here.

[@rockcatinc.4814]

Same. We should start our own fraternity! Lol

[@crushingalldeceivers]

@@rockcatinc.4814 Absolutely, we can go old school and do a forum.

[@rockcatinc.4814]

@@crushingalldeceivers haha. Yeah we will show them!

[@TheDarthranc0r]

Same

[@AnalogToys]

Here comes the Boom!!!

[@georgeaitken2719]

It’s about time someone said something

[@AnalogToys]

@@nickk5263 and here you are bitching about Michael. don't you have something better to do?

[@wolfydoes]

Buy million token!

[@AniW2x4]

Did somebody say BOOM?!

[@Ascension-Angel]

KABOOOOOOOM!!!!!!!!!

[@impossiblepie]

I'll make this clear, I'm not related to impossible burger. Great video Michael.

[@AnalogToys]

Hahaha

[@impossiblepie]

@@AnalogToys 😉

[@OpenMawProductions]

I'm 40 minutes into this... You know? With all due respect to everyone... Fuck these people. From now on, I'll buy nothing but Repro and be absolutely happy. People can collect how they want. Seriously, the bullying, the harassment, the threats of litigation. That is absolute bullshit. Here's the thing, somewhere back in the big bang that triggered these groups to exist was a nugget of truth. The concern over repros and legitimate vintage parts being indistinguishable. I can get behind that. I can totally understand it. (Though, if you're someone like me and you don't care if it's actually 1:1 accurate, and just a good display piece, then it doesn't actually matter at all.) If they want to blame anyone they need to blame themselves. A Star Wars action figure from the 1970s is not worth hundreds of dollars. It's just not. Unless it was my personal original Luke or Han from when I was a kid, it is worth no more than retail price. In my view. Price gouging has made repros necessary. The sheer volume of lost parts has made repros necessary. Michael, I've followed your content for many years now. You've always been entertaining, detailed, articulate, open, honest, and always shown us the books. I can find no fault in your points, and what you've presented here today from these people is, truly, sickening. You, Stan Solo, and all the rest, do not deserve these attacks on your character, the threats, and most importantly, the wasted time. Here's to a Happy New Year.

[@mikesmith2718]

This is what's mind blowing to me. I hate repro but it doesnt bother me that you want to buy it . That's just fine collect how you want and what makes you feel good . I dont know why people cant just chill.

[@spacedinosaur8733]

I agree, I'd seriously consider giving my right arm if I could get my original collection back (I gave it to some 2ndcousin or some such in HS because I was too "grown up"...and he probably didn't even respect them anyway)

[@bikerscout7467]

Agreed! What the minions of these groups don't seem to understand is that they themselves are responsible for the repro market going from strenghth to strength! They buy and sell Star Wars Toys for ridiculous money which prices most other collectors out of the market. No wonder there is a demand for repro! At the end of the day it is up to the individual how and what to collect regardless of your view on repro. Dictating, bullying and harassing people who don't collect what you would like them to collect is completely unacceptable!

[@anthonydeleon7614]

FUCKING THIS

[@jean-paulaudette9246]

I dunno, pal... "From now on, I'll buy nothing but repro" kind of sounds like you're modifying your inclination, in response to them. Don't give them the power to influence you in any way, is my reaction. Collect how you would, regardless of them.

[@bobahicks]

On the first day of Repro-Cop training they take you and the other recruits into a big room and pass around repro items for you to smell and taste so you know what to look for when you start walking the beat. I love Repros, customs, reissues etc. Long live Stan Solo. Long live the Black Major!

[@rebelscum5590]

C3p0

[@cult_of_odin]

I bet those weirdos shove original figure lights sabers up their urethra as a form of worship to the gods of non-repro

[@kennylong653]

Right on Michael! Another repro that a lot of fans need to fix their own personal collections like mine are stickers. Those are IMPOSSIBLE to find without repro makers. Thank the Lord for repro makers because I have a chance of fixing up my collection. There is no way I can afford original stuff at those prices they are asking. Anti-Repro people GET A FREAKING LIFE! Great job Michael and Retroblasting :-)

[@spacedinosaur8733]

Oh god...the stickers....I loved/hated the stickers

[@darth-loser]

It's funny how toy collecting is becoming The Tiger King.

[@grahamclews1571]

Ha ha! So true

[@seanpaullowery]

Right?! Come for the fun toy talk. Leave for the crushing narcissism.

[@V2011F]

Baby huey worked with Carol Baskins

[@TeddXplosion]

I'm not a Star Wars collector but a toy collector nonetheless. I got out the game years ago because of lame elitist garbage like this. The cosplay community deals with the same trash.

[@wiictvchannel1112]

I think it's been like that for awhile now especially if you're part of facebook groups or forums.

[@skookumtrooper8086]

I have no problem with reproduction as long as a seller or owner is honest about it.

[@ShryStar]

“The pro-repro side is a pathway to many products some consider to be...unoriginal.”

[@V2011F]

Is it possible to buy these things?

[@johncaulfield8935]

@@V2011F Not from an anti-repro group

[@Ponce2170]

Not all heroes wear capes. But I bet Michael does!

[@TenkoVA]

He has a Cape for his Cape

[@KnickKnacksPlasticPlanet]

...and its repro vinyl one! 😁

[@kibagami74]

He in fact has a very nice Superman cape and has been known to wear it.

[@Sano1970]

Michael, we’ve discussed this subject. Repro Star Wars toys are a frustration in the community, there’s no doubt about that. Another frustration is elitist mentality and the inflated ego some possess. Your video is an eye opener to the players in these circles. Some I considered up and up people. The constant jockeying for position of top Star Wars virtue signaler to the cause is laughable. I’ve seen and read the intimidation first hand. If you’re not in, you’re out. Gate keepers, the lot of them. What a dumb hill to die on.

[@AnalogToys]

hear! hear!

[@alexandremilliard4726]

When you bought a vintage figure you don t want it to decrease in value because other options are available.... personnaly i prefer modern stuff it looks better most of the time... as long as you know what you bought it s ok for me

[@BeltMarkBill]

Amen Michael... Well said. I took myself out of several "Live and let live" groups. When I was actually told who to associate with...I was done. That is not community...it is control. I have no enemies list....nor do I ever want one. I just collect.

[@ashleytaylor383]

Well done on calling these groups out on their elitist nonsense. A big thumbs up from me to yourself, Chris Smith and Toy Polloi. You have all helped to make a very challenging year a little brighter. Happy New Year to all!

[@BryantheArchivist]

Oh gosh you should see the neca groups after the last vid. Criticism doesnt exist in a hive mind.

[@georgesleeth1157]

I mean when i was a kid I'd use weapons from everything for my toys a toy store near my house used to give you a weapon with all the loose figures there so i had power rangers with MOTU swords and 90s and 70s star wars figures sharing weapons it was great and i didn't care it was fun didn't matter if they didn't match

[@80sfreak42]

You're 80s...love it

[@mandofoe7447]

Everyday I’m reminded how great it is to have no presence on social media. We’ve invented a whole new way to torture each other on a daily basis. I’m a toy collector too but I’ve never heard of or belong to any of these groups...sounds like it’s a good thing. I go on eBay or to my local vintage toy shops or toy shows and buy the toys I want. I watch toy polloi or your channel to learn how to fix them and that’s pretty much it. It’s sad that like Jacob Marley you’re chained to the internet for your career. So I want to say thanks Michael for all the great content. I wish you guys the best in 2021.

[@lofiwire7917]

I was kicked out of a Facebook Star Wars Group for suggesting some one buy a repro Leia blaster instead of paying $90 for an original. Some one in the group also demanded to see pictures of my collection.

[@reccesam7799]

I hope you told them to get bent.

[@JONNYSORENSEN_AU]

I sure hope you gave idiotic strangers photos of your toys after they treated you poorly. I mean why would you not! 😛

[@lofiwire7917]

@@JONNYSORENSEN_AU I'm only guessing they wanted to belittle my collection and rate my true fandomness ... but yeah screw em. Didnt give em shit.

[@jasontran6265]

The positive about this is they have a miserable life fighting all the time about a piece of plastic. I love toys but I enjoy a peaceful surrounding more.

[@evertonporter7887]

Toys are for kids, not grown ups.

[@FP194]

@@evertonporter7887 That’s the way it used to be until people started selling these toys for big money to people dumb enough to pay for them

[@eliasripley2357]

Life's too short, isn't it? These people are apparently "grown-ups"... At least Mike's well-spoken and reasonable throughout these shenanigans. Likely the only one with an actual wife. So pointless. Toys. TOYS...

[@rockcatinc.4814]

Jeez man. We are grown ass men that collect toys for FUN!!!!! We buy plastic time capsules that remind us of fun times and make us smile. Some people are taking this way too far. Thanks Michael for the video. Always enjoy your content.

[@kenking3587]

I'm not a toy collector. Just a Retroblasting fan. I had no idea this kind of thing even existed. I am shocked and sad.

[@mathieu4204]

Death treats about repro accessories? The world is messed up indeed. Will they try to go after Hasbro since they entered the repro business or will they simply bully the small toy makers and fans? I think that repro can be a fun/cheaper way to complete a figure for the casual collector. As long as there's no deception, I'm all for it. Of course, for some, toy collecting is their retirement fund/life investment so I can see why they would go nuts about repros even though it doesn't justify attacking other collectors. Toy collecting should be fun. IT'S TOY COLLECTING! Little plastic dudes to create stories or remind you of the time when you used to set them up to create stories.

[@Clay3613]

Probably the same people who send death threats over not liking a movie because the old hero they grew up with didn't turn out how "they" wanted.

[@MikeTaylorLives]

@@Clay3613 Ya gotta wonder at the overlap between the two groups, don't you?

[@scockery]

Oh, back in like 1996-97 some people had shit fits when Hasbro made a 4 pack of vintage style Star Wars figures. Anyone hoping to retire on vintage toys is a fool if not an IDIOT. They should sell them off and invest in stock and things. I can tell you I've been to a few garage sales where there's NASCAR stuff that some guy bought as an investment and now they cannot give it away for less than original retail. Oh, of course, BEANIE BABIES is another big example. It also reminds me of model train stuff. Those train people are dying off, and so where you used to be able to unload used model train stuff now there's a lot less buyers. Action figures will probably go the same way. Modern kids grow out of traditional toys at age 6. They are unlikely to grow up and be shelling out $80 for a teeny piece of plastic that was made 35 years before they were born.

[@MikeTaylorLives]

@@scockery And that's despite the figures having noticeable differences from the originals.

[@Tinytraveler]

I can barely sit through 50 minutes of modern day films, this was a rollercoaster. Great video, really liked it! I'm sorry this kinda crap exists, fight the good fight mate!

[@eaksgeeks8674]

Death threats because of Star Wars toys how is this fucking possible 😂 Michael I need your DeLorean so I can go back to 1996.

[@noneed4me2n7]

Man 96 was a good year. I think the nineties set up false hope of a great future sadly.

[@TheMattwolf]

Or go back to 1979 and clean out the shelves for 40 bucks!

[@dougknoth9996]

They use repro bullets in their repro guns, so death threats are a moot point.

[@georgeaitken2719]

I’d go back to 84 myself and take a ton of roboskulls

[@davidmarsh6656]

@@noneed4me2n7 plus the end of history.

[@Sidottu]

If I want to buy a repro, so what? That’s my business. Don’t tread on my repros.

[@stinkyfartguyofficial]

This. Repros are great for a lot of display collectors, I really don't understand why people are against things that help the hobby.

[@skabcat242]

I didn't think there would be one last video for 2020. This was good.

[@splodge71]

I've been a toy collector all my life,I'm 50 next year,i still have all the original toys i bought and were bought for me from the 70s and 80s,including to my knowledge all their accessories,it was only a couple of months ago i learned of the value of said accessories and the potential"goldmine"i have in my attic,i also found out about the whole repro/anti-repro thing,it occurs to me its a case of people who love toys and people who love power,and anyone who covets power generally isn't a nice person

[@80sfreak42]

You're 80s bro..🤘🤘🤘

[@erickavery1]

Im a long time transformer collector and I just...I can't believe people would act like this. Why would you not want more people to love what you love? If you're not fraudulently claiming the repros are original and selling them for exorbitant prices what does it matter?

[@BubblesTheBard]

I'm in the same boat, chief. I'm on the hunt for a new blaster and stickers for my G1 Astrotrain and an arm for my Brawn, and everyone I've asked has been super helpful.

[@NeonSonOfXenon]

Meanwhile I've got a shelf of Touhou figures purchased off of Ali Express because the originals are long out of stock and buying secondhand can be prohibitively expensive. Doesn't mean I like them any less, and they're generally pretty well made. Sure, maybe I have to make a modification here or glue on a broken bit there, but for me, that just makes the figure all the more special. Don't let elitists get you down folks. Collections are supposed to be enjoyed above all, and if you are someone who only collects for money, well, let's just say I hope your collection goes the way of the nft.

[@MidnightsEdgeAfterDark]

Gonna need some popcorn for this one

[@TroyPacelli]

22:29 - "Im not lacking in self-awareness. I'm a difficult person to get along with if you're like most of these individuals. I fight my battles out in the open and not in cloisters or private Facebook groups. I don't make backroom deals. I form my opinions though following cause and effect to facts and I'm very self-aware of my combative nature when I encounter dishonesty and stupidity. I will not hide from or deny anything I've said to the people I've battled and it's all right there for anyone to see posted in comment sections on the internet. Anything I've related in a message I've aady said to the person's face..." Spoken like a true hero! I say that unironically and unsarcastically; I genuinely meant that!! We live in a world that has either forgotten, or actively works to subvert (read as "pervert"), what it means to be an honest, heroic figure. Heck, a group that actively teaches its members how to dishonestly create false IDs to harass others has summarily ceded the high ground. Another great video, Michael. Thank you, ever so!

[@bravo1IsixI]

I’m not a collector. I have maybe 12-15 of my original figures left from childhood. None of them have their weapons. I think I’m going to specifically buy repro weapons for all of them now. Just because I know how angry it makes some people.

[@50shadesofbeige88]

I'm glad I stumbled upon this. We're dealing with a similar issue in the tech tuber community.

[@zartan7779]

I bought a large lot of repro for my original star wars figures . I just want them to look nice on my shelf .

[@rockcatinc.4814]

Haha!!! Exactly. What the hell is wrong with that! I am into vintage as well. Graded too. But.... I would be the first to support reproduction.

[@80sfreak42]

50 bucks for 1 vader or luke saber..I can get like 14 repros for that much...

[@larrychilders6599]

I am joining these groups, just to sit back, eat some popcorn, and watch the trainwreck

[@ericlewis217]

I've never understood the big deal with repros. They are for me, I buy them for me and no on else. Why do some fanboys care so much. Good job here Michael.

[@Binny2014]

As someone who completed a full vintage run of Kenner figures with original accessories I have made purchases where "original" weapons were not original which was a hassle however I am in favor of repro accessories as that is the only option if you have a figure without accessories. The problem is the people against repro are the ones inflating the value of original accessories by not accepting reproductions. The problem will go away if we stop valuing these tiny pieces of plastic as being worth more than the figures themselves.

[@lordofmodbury]

I left echo base this year - not a friendly community environment at all. Wise words Michael and Happy 2021 to you all.

[@jasonknight8581]

My stance on repros: There is no flipping way I would ever spend $20 or more on a half inch, plain black, plastic pistol. That is ludicrous and an insult to anyone with any concept of money. Furthermore, to paraphrase Woody from Toy Story, "THEY - ARE - A - TOY!!!". Yes, I collect, but no, I don't place them on any pedestal of worship. In fact, I lost count on how much stuff I gave to away to friends who had kids because I believe ultimately, that is the whole point to a toy: to entertain children. But then again, after seeing the reactions of some of these anti-repro people, perhaps they still are entertaining children.

[@GundamWarrior1]

And that was another episode of "And You Thought Your Fandom is Weird....."

[@Truenofan86]

BIONICLE and Gundam fandoms also act like tiny children

[@spacedinosaur8733]

@@Truenofan86 There is a BIONICLE fandom??

[@Truenofan86]

@@spacedinosaur8733 You lived under a rock for the last 10 years ? of course ! i am in the CCBS tolerant group and on neverending mission to defend myself from purists

[@spacedinosaur8733]

@@Truenofan86 Not under a rock per say...just not active in Lego groups. Though I did make a pretty neat mini-fig diorama about oh...10 years ago. (Kirk, Spock & McCoy as the three kings crossing the dessert and their Red Shirt companion....and the pack of wolves following them)

[@cptmorgan2523]

@@Truenofan86 That's still going on? They still don't call em "Hero factory" pieces do they?

[@treyjohnson82]

if hasbro saw a market in recast accessories,they would dust off the molds if they even still exist

[@bwtrader]

Lol they now Recast vintage figures... lol

[@treyjohnson82]

@@bwtrader ghostbusters and transformers yes licensed by Hasbro.ive seen recasts by customizers by

[@charlesvanbrusselen4103]

There is literally a whole retro line of star wars figures.

[@ColeWalker]

None of the figure or accessory molds still exist. Only the vehicle molds were stored in the US which is why they were remade several times since the 90’s POTF2 days. It’s been rumored most of the figure molds were dumped in a river in Asia in the early 90’s.

[@KnickKnacksPlasticPlanet]

This crusade against repro parts is the greatest example of truly first world problems I've ever seen. 🤣😅😂

[@ericsonofjames4573]

There’s a shag carpet in a dump in Western New York that has probably fifty original Star Wars guns in it.

[@danielcartwright9623]

What a refreshing video! I have only just rediscovered my SW Action Figure hobby after many years, (and am kicking myself for having missed all of the Stan Solo figures)… One of my happiest days was finding repro weapons on eBay for my original 12 figures (that were in played with condition). Ben was finally back in a vinyl cape (and could lose the brown paper one I had made for him), and he had a proper sabre (instead of a blue cocktail stick)! My lad who was young at the time posted a picture on FB and received obnoxious messages from Echo Base. They are an obnoxious bunch and I am glad you have called them out. I am thoroughly enjoying your videos. Thank you for a great channel!

[@treyjohnson82]

i dont even mind recasts,just the scalpers

[@MikeTaylorLives]

@I am Petitgguy Retail guy here. We absolutely HATE the scalpers and resellers. They make our lives miserable. Say we get in 20 of a really hot toy. Some dude comes in right as the store opens and snags them all. I now have 19 pissed off customers, some are collectors and some are parents buying for their kids. I'd rather sell 20 toys to 20 different customers than all 20 to the scalper. One of the other reasons is that if the scalper can't make a fast buck, we can potentially get hit with a huge return. That royally screws with your sales numbers. I used to see this all the time when I worked for an upscale toy shop that used to be on Michigan Ave in Chicago. We had 12" G.I. Joes that you couldn't get anywhere else. Every time we had a new release, they'd show up and then a few weeks later we'd take the hit.

[@MikeTaylorLives]

@I am Petitgguy Oh, there's no argument that there's bungling in the distribution system for toys. My current employer is a major consumer electronics chain and we have measures in place to dissuade folks from being hoggy. They're not always successful (witness the bots in online ordering), but they're doing much better than in the past. On the line level, I also have the power to say "No!" and my bosses will back me up. We know what's there on our shelves. In fact, a lot of our policies for dealing with resellers were originally put in place because of another notorious blight on the retail landscape, the infamous "renters" (which also exist in the toy community, btw).

[@SLRok]

Imagine being so into toys that you send death threats.

[@christopherwieber783]

Ya that's just flipping crazy!

[@xemnufromthemagicplanet1678]

It's stuff like this that scares me away from the hobby every time it starts to look cool

[@rayshonmeeks5444]

That needs to go on a shirt

[@maddwoba]

Being one of your first subscribers many years ago I have always enjoyed your content. I rarely comment on KZbin videos anymore but I feel compelled to now. You are spot on with these wackos and they are wackos. I went through all the same crap a few years ago with everyone you mentioned. It actually turned me off from collecting Star Wars for awhile. I have a shogun warriors group on Facebook and we embrace making parts and now with 3D printing going as far as printing complete jumbo bots. Life is too short my friend to be trying to talk to someone who will not listen. As always thanks for sharing

[@jedi69outcast]

Personally, Im feel very blessed and very happy of the birth of 3D printers and the customizers that are creating 3D parts to give new custom parts for GI JOE Figures and vehicles and bring new life to them . Hopefully this will help a new generation fall in love with these toys as I have

[@therealthirst8099]

I love these longer expose type videos you're making recently. Happy new year to you Michael, and I hope you keep up the good work!

[@tunnelrat316]

Wow... just wow... I never realised it was that crazy in Star Wars collection groups. I’m so used to repro’s and 3rd party stuff enhancing a collection it never even crossed my mind. Specially toypollloi (sorry if I spelt it wrong), I watch his repair videos all the time to help in maintaining my collection

[@jasontompkins8180]

My second comment is that there was a similar thread earlier this year in a GI Joe FB group calling on Hasbro to shut down Black Major. The individual even posted Black Majors real name as though they were the “Repro Cops”. The comments were a mix of people who support Black Major or people who had a bad experience with someone else. No one could accuse Black Major of defrauding them. They just want him shut down for ideological reasons.

[@scockery]

He pissed off the folks hoarding Stardusters and Steel Brigade figures with his repros. That was part of it.

[@jartladder15]

I recently did a video where I ran into trolls. Brutal. You can't even be sure they actually watched your video. The just react to imaginary enemies in their heads.

[@anthonywhitehead5576]

This is possibly the greatest on-line bitch slap ever... I am with you Michael, I am tired of so called Fans telling me what i can buy. And it sickens me. You are the man and thank you for standing up for what is right. And the Baby Huey nickname is spot on, pure genius Michael French.. pure genius.

[@toddpersenico8333]

I wonder if Baby Huey will now remove you from his cult?

[@anthonywhitehead5576]

@@toddpersenico8333 trust me I am already out of that group

[@toddpersenico8333]

@@anthonywhitehead5576 Good call. I only lasted a few days after they found out who I was. :)

[@anthonywhitehead5576]

@@toddpersenico8333 haha.. heck yeah. I dont like being told what I can buy or not buy...

[@mikeywood1516]

Man, I really appreciate this video. Repro sellers have allowed me to rebuild my collection without breaking my meager-to-begin-with bank. They help bring me joy. These guys...the ones you're discussing? They're all mentally ill. Honestly. They're insane. Now I'm off to but a belt and skirt for my Squidhead.

[@mikeywood1516]

@I am Petitgguy I mean...Like...Let's be honest, here. Mike's REALLY cranky. : )

[@MrMoorkey]

See, I am thankful for videos like this. When I started out collecting, the whole 'no repro' thing was so up front and drilled I was actually afraid of finding repro. Literally, like coming across a bag of counterfeit money or something. Now, my attitudes have relaxed. My boys play with toys using repro parts. My display has repro in it, I am just punctilluous to mark it as such so I don't accidentally sell it as 'presumed genuine', lest I get my legs ripped off by a sand shark or something. Thanks again (and good job getting Memphis Belle references in!)

[@standepain]

HOLY SHIT!!!! 50 MINUTES!!! This is going to be so good.

[@SignalRidge]

I’ve been watching for 26 mins so far and didn’t even notice the passage of time. This stuff is crazy lol

[@80sretrotoys31]

I used to be in some of these star wars groups years ago and it turned me off collecting the toyline. Luckily there are 100s of other 80s toylines to collect and they have more laid back communities.

[@spacedinosaur8733]

@I am Petitgguy Science is only a region if you put on your Lab coat with blessed pocket protector, before boing to the Laboratory Friday night, burning incense on the holy bunsen burner, while praying to luminaries Asimov, Einstein, & Hawking.

[@georgeaitken2719]

Try action force or gi joe

[@lostmyfishy]

i am gonna buy an entire collection of only repros solely to piss these sort of people off.

[@lardboy7431]

without repro weapons and parts i wouldn't have a chance of collecting toys from my youth

[@magicschoolbus3948]

This is the exact reason I don't have social media.

[@thenerddirector]

I love how Michael can take this situation and put pop culture in it, it really makes this more interesting

[@Miakel]

Michael, you do an awesome job of picking movie clips for your channel, everything from Happy Gilmore to Lord of the Rings, cracks me up.

[@aFoxyFox.]

Me too! I'm so impressed by the hilarious collection of clips and great choices, they make me laugh a lot.

[@chrisnelmes3786]

Yeah,when I was a serious collector,I had a few encounters with folks who were fanatically against repros .I had a few of them and I see them as a necessary element. A lot of the original guns are GONE . I bought a few figures with repros included and it never really bothered me .As long as it was a reasonable same type , I was content . When I sold my collection,I sold them "AS-IS" . If it was a repro gun that I sold it with, it was up to the buyer to deal with it. Most of the buyers had no problems with that. The only problem I had was with a collector I will call ADRIAN. He was very much against repros and was demanding that I cut the prices in half for figures with repro guns . I told him no. He started demanding I sell the few pieces I was not selling ,even trying to steal a Han Solo with a small head and original gun . Adrian and folks like him made leaving the hobby easy. These enthusiasts,combined with Hasbro and Mattels severe distribution network problems have ruined it for me.

[@jasonjohnson416]

I had a friend in elementary school who was spoiled by his absent parents. He had every Star Wars, Gi joe, Transformer, He-Man, etc. I was poor had like 5 Joes and a handful of Transformers. He flew into a rage at me because after he broke the Gi joe Jinx's thumb he demanded I give him mine. He threatened to never be friends again and that I was selfish. That is exactly how these manbabies behave. They can't stand everyone having access to the hobby. MH from the IC even attacked on KZbin because I called pro-repro "Collectors". This is all about money to them, class, and the have and have nots.

[@curseoffenrir]

I’m so glad that I don’t care about this stuff or partake in these groups, I’ll just enjoy my toys my way. But I am very glad Micheal has it in him to bring people like this into the light. People like this are in every medium.

[@Miakel]

I just think everyone can have their own opinion on collecting, but no one should be able to tell you how to collect your collection. Oh happy New Year from Australia , it's 2021 here.

[@TheMattwolf]

How's it looking so far? I request spoilers.

[@roberterwine7650]

Blue snagman is a legend ! as a collector I don't care as long as the repro isn't being passed off as an original.

[@jmatseas]

Agreed

[@tubernery]

Retroblasting, Critical Drinker, Ethan Van Sciver..it's an enjoyable listening end to 2020! Later, off to Netflix for some Transformers War Cybertron and Season 3 Cobra Kai 🤙😍

[@CaptWesStarwind]

You basically made an hour long movie about why I left every collecting group I was in 5 years ago. Thank you for all you've done. Your work and dedication to what should just be a fun hobby got me back in to collecting again and even showed me some other great channels.

[@KnickKnacksPlasticPlanet]

I am a proud owner of many repro enhanced vintage figures. I've been told despite the fact I have no plans on selling them, I shouldn't own them because one day I'll die and my family will sell them. Ok. 😅

[@garethjones2746]

How can you kick the toypolloi guy out, everyone loves him

[@retroblasting]

These guys are horrible. I heard firsthand they called security on two paying attendees to their recent Imperial Commissary toy show because one of the attendees asked a vendor if something was reproduction. The vendor raised a ruckus, saying ANY talk of repro and even implying there might be a repro in his inventory was not allowed. Despite one of the two attendees being a literal police officer in real life, the organizers of the show (ReproCops) got hotel security to remove them from the toy show like criminals. I don't even know if they received a refund for their entrance tickets. All because one person asked, "Is this a reproduction?"

[@richadams8080]

Yes! This was the video you mentioned the other day! Thank you! Time for a brew and view!

[@retroblasting]

Hope you enjoy!

[@boblowes]

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Fundamentalists are never fun, and always mental.

[@aFoxyFox.]

Yeah, but the thing is, like a lot of "fundamentalists" these ones are also huge hypocrites and always have huge double standards and are basically just unethical thugs basically, they do what they spend so much time pretending to be against so vehemently, so that just proves they don't care and are just doing it for other reasons.

[@stevenbrickafol3928]

Unbelievable... . Well , if anything , this video helps me to keep away from certain groups on FB , if i ever should decide to get involved with vintage SW collecting. After seeing this though , i am VERY happy to keep on collecting Masters of the Universe and Lego. Thanks for sharing Michael.

[@COMBOY]

Repros can't be stopped, and 3D printing is an actual proof about that. There are weapons, accessories, and even full SW figures to print online, I wouldn't mind to have a full collection made of my own printed figures, as long as I have fun with them.

[@BenTenpenny]

"I paid lots of money for a piece of plastic. You getting a cheaper repro is against the rules!" I think that's a huge part of the issue. Justifying the effort and money to get original pieces is harder to justify when others can get it cheaper, easier and maybe even in better quality. Depending on your outlook on the entire issue -and your mental age- you might feel like a fool (ofc you aren't for buying original parts) and who likes that?

[@marshalberger4250]

We need to stop toy gun violence! Also know your toy gun rights!

[@pollutance]

The only problem I have with repros is when someone “intentionally” sells them as vintage.

[@jflesh8673]

Blown away, what an incredible insight into the seedy underbelly of something so seemingly benign as toy collecting, great edits and very entertaining..

[@kennethmayner]

Calling it like it is. That’s why I enjoy your content. Thanks Michael and Happy New Year!

[@cappeca]

I feel really bad for you having to expose all conversations like that, but I totally understand it. These assholes count on us not getting our hands dirty, not to give in to internet drama, that's why they're relentlessly harassing everyone. Sometimes you have to get dirty, sometimes you have to go down to their level and just throw shit around. That was the best ending to a RB video ever!

[@ethanchapman6853]

Truly sad that these people are so upset over reproduction when they are the ones selling original ones for tones of money

[@NeonSonOfXenon]

Also, here from Queen Serafina's video. This was a great watch dude!

[@sharkMac]

I want to complete my figures. And willing to get repro one in different color that says/states it’s reproduction. But there always be haters to scammers. Hate them myself. Great information. Someone had to say something. Especially when you had more information then I expected. Keep up the great work and beyond!!