Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Tommy Gunn Vs Action Man


In reaction to the success of the US GI JOE (the original, taller, military one), England came out with TOMMY GUNN, a homegrown version of same.

Not stopping there, however, the UK also came out that same year with ACTION MAN which actually WAS a version of GI JOE.

Both franchises had a long and successful career with both now commanding nostalgia and high prices amongst UK boomers.

2 comments:

  1. Actually, the UK is BRITAIN, not just England. And Tommy Gunn's 'career' was relatively short-lived, from 1966 to 1968. His body was then utilised for a Captain Scarlet action figure, which sold well for a short time. Originally a Pedigree toy, a company called Zodiac later bought the moulds (in 1978) and brought out a cheaper-made version of ol' Tommy until about 1985.

    Incidentally, in your picture, Tommy is wearing a pair of Action Man's boots. Tommy's boots were actually smaller and closer-fitting, and had laces.

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    Replies
    1. Tommy Gunn was way better - He stood up unaided for one thing!

      The detailing on all the TG accessories was better and he was more finely articulated - what's more - when you collected up the Medals cards (21) and got the free action figure back - it was perfect - unlike the stars collection system for A Man that returned you a 'seconds' or partially inoperative model - mine always had stiff/immobile joints and two right hands!

      Luckily I still have my TGunns boxed - a pair...! (and Three Ams but unboxed.

      I was sooo excited when they introduced AM into Uk - TV ads and then finally one showed in the toy shop but - a sailor?? Why did the 'sailor version' come first??

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