Knight Models' Iron Man (KMV002)

Knight Models’ second release was that of everybody’s favorite eccentric military industrialist/playboy-cum-superhero, Iron Man, sculpted by José Miguel Caballero Delso. Rather than wade through the seemingly endless variants of published armor, KM took advantage of their license and the timing of the release, and based their rendition on the armor featured in the 2008 movie. Thus, purists might cry foul—especially if they were anticipating a series of “Shellhead”’s designer collection. . . which it looks like they might get anyway, as long as they don’t object to a cinematic provenance: the cinematic Mk. 1 was recently released by KM (KMV011) as a mixed media kit.

The height of the white metal kit (excluding the groundwork) is 70mm to the eye slits on the helmet. Were the figure standing straight, it would be closer to 75mm. As with all the 70mm figures to date, it is a limited edition of 500 issues: I received #391/500.

The figure is cast in 4 pieces, plus the groundwork. Comparing the casting quality to what is available in the marketplace, I would grade it as a C/C+ --which given the cost and the hype, I consider unacceptable. The metal is somewhat softer than the high-tin content mediums we have been exposed to of late, and there is an inordinate amount of pitting and rough texture throughout the casting. Seam lines are minimal, yes; but clean-up is awkward. Fit overall is G+. What could have been on the painting bench in less than a week’s time will now be a long-haul project that will take me back to days I would just as soon forget. . .

I am hoping that the at-best average quality of this kit is indicative of molds that should have been retired 50 or so castings prior, and/or a “youthful indiscretion” on the part of the venture. I am a Marvel fan, and I will certainly consider any “must have” offering in the future (e.g., the “Goblins” from Spiderman, Hawkeye, or Scarlet Witch), but I will be much more discriminating when it comes to reaching for the wallet.

Before closing. . . one of the reasons I am not more disappointed with this kit is that I never intended to do it as Iron Man. The whole reason behind this acquisition was to convert him into the Iron Patriot, one of Norman Osborn’s (aka the Green Goblin) alter-egos. As such, there will be some—minor—conversion work involved, which will allow me to address the casting quality issues.

More to follow. . .