Hoth Stormtrooper Unpainted Hardcopy from Die Cast TIE Bomber
As a character collector, finding an unpainted hardcopy for one's character of choice, whether it be Micro Collection, action figure, etc., is a rewarding and challenging endeavor. The Hoth Stormtrooper unpainted hardcopy seen here is associated with the Empire Strikes Back die-cast vehicle line's TIE Bomber.

Above the unpainted hardcopy is shown from a rear angle. The rear side is entirely devoid of sculpted detail.

  

The next two photos provide side angle viewing from both the left and right. Notice the sizable protrusion, situated in the middle of the hardcopy, called a pour stem. The pour stem area corresponds to an open section, called a gate, in the original silicone mold, where liquified urethane was poured into the mold cavity to create the hardcopy. The liquid urethane commonly fills the gate area causing a pour stem which must later be removed and sanded cleanly.

The hardcopy bottom is flat and rectangular, a design to facilitate a seated position inside the die cast TIE Bomber vehicle.

The final image provides a comparison between the hardcopy and the 3 3/4" Hoth Stormtrooper action figure. It's extremely rewarding to have this hardcopy as part of my vintage Hoth Stormtrooper collection, so I'm pleased to debut the photos of this prototype here on the Archive.

Description by: Michael G. Mensinger
Photo: Michael G. Mensinger
From the collection of: Michael G. Mensinger
Country:United States
Film:Empire Strikes Back
Licensee:Kenner
Year:1980
Category:Prototypes / Miscellaneous Toys


  


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