Toy Review - JP MP-27 Masterpiece Ironhide

[griffin]

(Please post comments, photos or even a fully comprehensive review - these are just brief details to start you off)

Series - Masterpiece
Sub-line - none
Size/class - n/a
New/remould/redeco - new
Wave - n/a (MP-27)
Released here - released in Japan January 30th 2015
Approximate Retail Price - 10,000yen (about AU$120)
Approximate Size - 16cm
Allegiance - Autobot
Alt-mode - Nissan Box Van
Main Features/Gimmicks - Weapons sled
Main Colours - Red, grey.
Main Accessories - 17 accessories plus a weapons sled to store them on. (missile launcher, missile, 2? small hand guns, big gun, wrist scanner, 3 pairs of alternate hands/nozzles, alternate face, rocket pack, 2 rocket flames, and a chest image insert)

http://toycollectors.com.au/transformers/2016/jp16a01.jpg

[Bladestorm]

I got my Ironhide this afternoon. Here are a few iPhone photos and my initial thoughts.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1673/24587568412_3404443402.jpg

Man - I know I am probably biased since Ironhide is my 2nd all time favourite character but he is SO MUCH FUN!
He looks amazing in vehicle mode. The paint job is perfect. The wheels are plastic-y but I can live with that. I personally love the blue tint windows.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1709/24409808950_e214bf3423.jpg
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1637/24409816330_c8f31f6ef1.jpg
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1654/24077181224_254e096a99.jpg

Transformation is actually very clever however on my figure the feet were stuck together so tight I ended up reluctantly having to use a screwdriver to carefully pry them open.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1445/24705355005_b31b33120f.jpg

Despite my nervousness because of the feet being 'stuck' I really LOVE how they've put the transformation together for Ironhide because it makes full use of cavities and part manipulation to create the robot mode.
It's one of those figures where I feel truly satisfied by the transformation; aside from the hip panels everything has a neat place to move to go from van to bot. In my opinion there isn't much in the way of kibble and no backpack shell or anything like that.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1488/24409815320_1b5b04d103.jpg
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1627/24611852911_07ab36e07d.jpg

The sled it cool and there are so many little bits to configure I still haven't decided what I'm going to do for his display pose (I'm tempted to use the jetpack and have him launching off the ground). I'm still working my way through all the bits he comes with...

The coin is also very nice.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1683/24587578402_4f19e8ef28.jpg

The only thing they could do to make him even more impressive for me would be to give him Peter Cullen's Ironhide voice. ;)

[griffin]

(copied Bladestorm's posting from the News topic into here as well)

[M-bot]

Thanks for sharing the pics Bladestorm. It's one of those rare occasions where the in-hand photos make the figure look better that the stock photos. Really looking forward to getting mine now!:)

[GoktimusPrime]

Thanks for sharing the pics Bladestorm. It's one of those rare occasions where the in-hand photos make the figure look better that the stock photos. Really looking forward to getting mine now!:)
Agreed. :) The stock photos make the front and front side windows look opaque, whereas looking at Bladestorm's photos we can see that they are clearly transparent blue. :cool: A shame that the toy-accurate head is unpainted... but I'm probably one of few who'd want to see it painted. :p

[doublespy]

Very nice photos and write-up:D


It's one of those rare occasions where the in-hand photos make the figure look better that the stock photos. Really looking forward to getting mine now!:)
I feel the same. I was only mildly looking forward to Ironhide but now I can't wait for him to arrive.

[Bladestorm]

Thanks for duplicating this here Griffin.

Wait till you guys see how Ironhide transforms in hand; it really is a neat transformation with the back window sliding under the front window and the cavities in arms and legs hidden by exterior panels flipping over. I really do think you guys will enjoy transforming him as much as I am simply for the thrill of the engineering that must have gone into it.

He looks like the Ironhide I expect, transforms like I want a transformer to and has a really nice vehicular mode. I couldn't be happier and so glad I pre-ordered him.

[Bidoofdude]

He looks and fits better than what I thought, judging from these pics. We have a good Ironhide toy now too, which is good.

[drifand]

Agreed. :) The stock photos make the front and front side windows look opaque, whereas looking at Bladestorm's photos we can see that they are clearly transparent blue. :cool: A shame that the toy-accurate head is unpainted... but I'm probably one of few who'd want to see it painted. :p

Nope I am going to agree with you as I feel they leave out painted area sometimes on most crucial areas. When you look or prowl or streak they are great examples.

[doublespy]

MP Ironhide is one of those figures that you have to see in person and play to appreciate.

The vehicle mode is clean with a very nice paint job of a rich shade of red, with nice chrome lights, bumper bars and even a chromed exhaust pipe. He doesn't feel much big than standard MP cars but Kobayashi utilizes his volume very well, turning him into a seeker sized robot. The two handguns can be stored underneath the van, which I like.
http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/01_zpsgcjm8uku.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/01_zpsgcjm8uku.jpg.html)

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/02_zpsovsbmmsf.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/02_zpsovsbmmsf.jpg.html)

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/03_zpsdi49e1ff.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/03_zpsdi49e1ff.jpg.html)


Transformation is ingenious. I feel like the biggest challenge designing an MP Ironhide would be turning a licensed vehicle mode with lots of curves into a show accurate Ironhide, with mostly straight lines and hard edges. The cartoon model gets away by rendering the van as pretty much a square box, that looks nothing like the Nissan Vanette.

Kobayashi's solution is basically folding the van in half from the middle and turning the it inside out, to expose all the squares and straight lines. The only visible chunk from the vehicle mode now is the chest piece, which doesn't look show accurate. But then again, you'd need a fake chest altogether for that. The whole process is fun, satisfying and surprisingly simple.


The robot mode is virtually kibble free. The hip kibble doesn't bother me at all in person. My only gripe would probably be the torso is a bit too long.
http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/04_zpskd9ev1gg.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/04_zpskd9ev1gg.jpg.html)

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/05_zpssmuciij1.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/05_zpssmuciij1.jpg.html)

Articulation is what would be expected from an MP figure. The hip panels do get in the way if you try to get him in a wide stance pose, but they pull out to give extra clearance. He comes with more accessories than I know what to do with and the little weapon stand is great. I'd like to see more of this in the future.

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/07_zpsm9xdmj8g.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/07_zpsm9xdmj8g.jpg.html)

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/06_zpssevjvqpk.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/06_zpssevjvqpk.jpg.html)

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/08_zpsgztcqcmr.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/08_zpsgztcqcmr.jpg.html)


There's still several heavy weight characters missing, but the Season One Autobot crew is looking real good.

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/09_zps6ihuqefp.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/09_zps6ihuqefp.jpg.html)

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/10_zpst2bbrcy1.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/10_zpst2bbrcy1.jpg.html)

http://i893.photobucket.com/albums/ac134/scorer24/MP%20IRONHIDE/11_zpsrwtpau34.jpg (http://s893.photobucket.com/user/scorer24/media/MP%20IRONHIDE/11_zpsrwtpau34.jpg.html)



I feel like with Tracks, which was imo mediocre with several odd design decisions, Kobayashi was still trying to fit his design into Shogo Hasui's MP 2.0 format. With Ironhide he proved to us again what he is capable of. I hope that the Masterpiece line will reach a new height in his hands.

[UltraMarginal]

Nice review and great group shots.

the vehicles look great next to each other like that!

[DELTAprime]

Got him today. I really don't like how complex Kobayashi is making the moulds again. At least Ironhide doesn't seem fragile like his most infamous moulds MP-3 and MP-9, but still super complex. I really love Transformers I can effortlessly covert and I think Hasui was doing a great job of that on the MP line.

[drifand]

Got him today. I really don't like how complex Kobayashi is making the moulds again. At least Ironhide doesn't seem fragile like his most infamous moulds MP-3 and MP-9, but still super complex. I really love Transformers I can effortlessly covert and I think Hasui was doing a great job of that on the MP line.

Great you got me worried. This is what I didn't want.

[doublespy]

Got him today. I really don't like how complex Kobayashi is making the moulds again. At least Ironhide doesn't seem fragile like his most infamous moulds MP-3 and MP-9, but still super complex. I really love Transformers I can effortlessly covert and I think Hasui was doing a great job of that on the MP line.

On the contrary, I personally don't think he's complex at all. I can probably transform him quicker than Prowl. Kobayshi has a tendency to over-engineer but I think he did good on Ironhide to keep in line with Hasui's design philosophy.

I would say though I don't like how you need to force the side panels to pass a tab on his legs. Kobayashi seems to like to utilize the flex in the plastic rather than friction alone. Tracks backpack basically relies on plastic flexing to hold together and I don't really like that.

[DELTAprime]

Tracks backpack basically relies on plastic flexing to hold together and I don't really like that.

Yeah you know Tracks'/Road Rage's backpack is going to break in the future when the plastic becomes brittle.

[drifand]

Yeah you know Tracks'/Road Rage's backpack is going to break in the future when the plastic becomes brittle.

Hence why I pointed is a very poor design and I do not understand why people love it. The ratchet joint were in wrong places where the feet would suffer fatigue and stress down the road.

I honestly do not like him to continue designing future MPs as he has made them not very enjoyable at all, but that's only my opinion.

I expected to see similarities in flipping a lot of unnecessary stuff for ironhide mp

[CoRDS]

i got mine today and just finished transforming from van to bot.


this is a return to form for Takara. much better than the flimsy tracks.

feels very solid in both modes, was intuitive to to transform and quite fun to do as well.

looks like they learnt a lot of lessons making this one.
i espeically enjoy the clips that hold shoulders to the body , something i wish mp22 (and ft09) had.

very very happy with ironhide :)

[Nevac]

Just got mine today from PC and I must say he is a stunning figure. I'm not much of an Ironhide fan myself but I really do like this MP. The vehicle has ample clearance underneath so rolls quite well. Transformation is impressive how they fold up the back window and roof into the chest. I just wish I didn't have to wait so long to get Ratchet I want him now.

Only one complaint is he's the first vehicle to be missing side mirrors. The side skirts don't really bother me that much or the tire buttocks.

http://i.imgur.com/TwjVIiI.jpg http://i.imgur.com/48lTJhS.jpg http://i.imgur.com/26wiaB5.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/9W7eo6Q.jpg http://i.imgur.com/69ldIVa.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Ncotq60.jpg http://i.imgur.com/kXDp1iW.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/k6VevZX.jpg http://i.imgur.com/AdKJ5y4.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/Dabx86i.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/69Pxyz6.jpg http://i.imgur.com/68WatA5.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/saK67hJ.jpg

[TAAUBlaster]

Mine arrived today (amazing figure, and the finish is beautiful!) But has been assembled with a left knee joint on the right leg, so I can't bend his leg back. :(
I've been pretty lucky with MP QC, so I guess something was bound to get me eventually...

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/taaublaster/b260b834-d94f-4520-a72a-de67a4ff115d_zps2hvizkho.jpg (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/taaublaster/media/b260b834-d94f-4520-a72a-de67a4ff115d_zps2hvizkho.jpg.html)

[GoktimusPrime]

Mine arrived today (amazing figure, and the finish is beautiful!) But has been assembled with a left knee joint on the right leg, so I can't bend his leg back. :(
I've been pretty lucky with MP QC, so I guess something was bound to get me eventually...

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/taaublaster/th_b260b834-d94f-4520-a72a-de67a4ff115d_zps2hvizkho.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/avatars/th_meme_custserv_zps60a89afd.jpg You should be able to get an exchange as that's a pretty significant flaw.

[MayzaPrime]

The wait is killing me, I am waiting for PC to process my order... :(

Its still is unfilled... :( :( :( :( :(

[Megatran]

Mine arrived today (amazing figure, and the finish is beautiful!) But has been assembled with a left knee joint on the right leg, so I can't bend his leg back. :(
You got the rare MP Ironyhide.

[drifand]

More people sleeping on the job, first a reversed mp-11t head joint, and now this.

[TAAUBlaster]

You got the rare MP Ironyhide.

Ironic because trust Ironhide the old codger to have a bung knee :p


More people sleeping on the job, first a reversed mp-11t head joint, and now this.

I'll admit I have been lucky. This is the first major issue I've had with an MP so far. So I shouldn't complain too much I guess:o

[drifand]

Ironic because trust Ironhide the old codger to have a bung knee :p



I'll admit I have been lucky. This is the first major issue I've had with an MP so far. So I shouldn't complain too much I guess:o

I wish we see less of such things as tracks was alright , I did not hear any QC mistakes on that piece.

[Borgeman]

Got mine today. Great figure. Love his legs and the poesability.

I will say that ti would have been nice if they managed to get his hip panels to fold up into his sides. I dont mind the hip panels as they are, but I feel that with how wide his chest is due to the windscreen, he seems a little empty behind it, which would have been eliminated if those panels folded up somehow. Alas it was not to be.

[Starscream77]

Got it, love it

One of my fave transformations of the last few years, everything just slotted in so smoothly

[Borgeman]

I will add that my rear windshield wiper popped off, and it looks like it needs to be glued back in, as the holes are a bit too big for the studs

[GoktimusPrime]

MAGNIFICENT! :D

Vehicle Mode
The toy does a pretty good job in not having seam lines flow throughout the vehicle as it does on Universe/Henkei Ironhide. There are seam lines visible on the mid-side sections, but they do blend reasonably well. Given the nature of this toy, I'm impressed with how they've worked in most of the seam lines into the vehicle. The lack of wing mirrors is unfortunate, but the toy is decked out in all other kinds of exquisite detail, such as wipers, head/tail lights, painted door handles (incl. the rear hatch), chrome bumpers/headlights, and the windows are all transparent blue; none of them are solid painted plastic. The toy-accurate face on the "seat" is a magnificent nod to the G1 toy. I was surprised to see that the mobile deck is actually a completely separate accessory, much like Tracks' flight stand. This means that the MP Ironhide toy has a 100% self contained transformation! i.e. all of the vehicle parts are absorbed into the robot mode! :eek: And to be able to pull off a mostly cartoon-accurate looking robot mode from that without using any cheats with detachable parts makes me take my hat off the the team at TakaraTOMY. Well done.

Transformation
As one might expect, it is challenging. But it's also quite intuitive and importantly fun! As others have mentioned, the robot mode is also much more solid than some other MP cars, and this is achieved through strategic use of pegs and even a pair of snap-lock clips on the shoulders.

Accessories
It feels like Ironhide comes with accessories to represent almost all of his body gimmicks seen in the cartoon. There are even three different liquid shooters (fingers, wide nozzle and thin nozzle). The mobile deck is essentially Ironhide's personal equipment rack, which is fitting considering that this was the original purpose of this toy in Diaclone. The face is a lot easier to remove than on other MPs. The helmet crest serves as a release switch which ejects the face. Oh, and there's a storage space for the spare face on the mobile deck, so uh... we should be able to recreate G1 comic Ratchet's ultimate fate (re: ReGen One). :p

Robot mode
A really great, solid robot. I wish the shoulders would be able to swing up more, but otherwise there are no real flaws with this mould. I know that some people aren't happy with the two panels on either side of the hips but as we all know, the cartoon cheated reality, whereas TakaraTOMY cannot, because they're engineers... not wizards! This infograph shows just how much of the vehicle is seen in the robot mode in the G1 cartoon model.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/meme_magiceng_zpswmqjy1ra.jpg
MP Ironhide manages to be a fairly close facsimile without resorting to any cheating by having any parts removed.

Overall
This is one of the most impressive Transformers toys that I have come across in a while -- it's hard for me to find any serious fault in this figure. :cool: MP Ironhide has well exceeded my expectations.


http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/avatars/jaam_yum.gif Highly recommended

PHOTOS

Vehicle mode
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide02_zps8wu3bitd.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide03_zpspvrdjuhp.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide04_zpsqjkgtfk3.jpg

Robot mode - toy accurate rifle
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide05_zps40lmxm1o.jpg

Cartoon accurate pistols
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide06_zps2zq9b7e3.jpg

Liquid shooting fingers
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide07_zpskourtasd.jpg

Liquid shooting nozzles
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide08_zpsehchabvy.jpg

Scanner
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide09_zpss3lr1yft.jpg

Jets
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide11_zpsqzvltvr8.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide10_zpsssjz9vh2.jpg

Missile launcher
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide12_zpsm02diw59.jpg

Mobile deck
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide13_zpsjpkhj00x.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide15_zpssiaa2qkm.jpg

I was going to edit this on MS Paint, but it's already well past my bedtime. :p
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide01_zpsykidlrzz.jpg

Close up of the toy-accurate seat/face
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide17_zpsiiqiln7u.jpg

Toy-accurate fan mode :p
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide16_zpserabuiuk.jpg

[ZoonMaster5000]

I will add that my rear windshield wiper popped off, and it looks like it needs to be glued back in, as the holes are a bit too big for the studs

Mine too! Except mine was in the box, I dont really see it as a big deal as it can be easily fixed.

I ended up leaving it off as it looks better in bot mode.

[prjkt]

Ok the strength of these reviews has convinced me to pick him up

[doublespy]

MAGNIFICENT! :D


http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/meme_magiceng_zpswmqjy1ra.jpg


Great review and pics!

Putting the figure next to the cartoon model just shows how good the engineering really is. But now I wish his head was a little bit bigger:D

[GoktimusPrime]

Great review and pics!
Thank you. :)

Putting the figure next to the cartoon model just shows how good the engineering really is. But now I wish his head was a little bit bigger:D
As discussed here (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=18123), there are two main helmet types for Ironhide and Ratchet in the cartoon. I personally would've preferred the thicker one for Ironhide and thinner one for Ratchet, but they've evidently chosen to go for the thinner style for both Ironhide and Ratchet (http://tf.takaratomy.co.jp/toy/search/masterpiece/mp30/index.html).

[GoktimusPrime]

I took a set of photos showing how Ironhide transforms. Rather than flooding this thread with 38 images, I'll just post this link (https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1190091677686538&id=129480307081019). ;)

[Shirokaze]

Finally shipped my POL from HLJ and received this fellow last Friday.

In short, Ironhide is just brilliant. I'm blown away be the creative transformation and articulation. Joints are pleasing to maneuver and everything comes together solidly making him a joy to pose. 10/10 TakaraTomy, a job well done. :)

[GoktimusPrime]

In short, Ironhide is just brilliant. I'm blown away be the creative transformation and articulation. Joints are pleasing to maneuver and everything comes together solidly making him a joy to pose. 10/10 TakaraTomy, a job well done. :)
Totally agree :) I've made this thread (http://otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=511089#post511089) dedicated to the discussion of the transformation of MP Ironhide (and Ratchet in future ;)). I thought it'd be better than just 'flooding' this thread with loads of pics, and it also allows other people to read reviews without exposing themselves to transformation spoilers. :cool:

[willocrew]

My toy is still at HLJ warehouse.. Looking forward to getting his guy.

[doublespy]

Watched Vangelus' review again on the 3rd party MP Ironhide mould (https://youtu.be/46HDaSM_3iw) by Voodoo toys (the best 3rd party Ironhide out there), mostly to have another look at the engineering. I'm really surprised by how simple the engineering is on MP27 in comparison, yet achieving a better look. I think the limitations of designing an official product really get the best out of a designer.

Although Vangelus made an interesting point that the official Ironhide should've removed the front bumper from the chest in robot mode. This probably would make it look even better.

[neongas]

or we could call this ironhide gerwalk mode.



Toy-accurate fan mode :p
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/goktimusprime/Transformers/Masterpiece%20Ironhide/mp_ironhide16_zpserabuiuk.jpg

i received my Ironhide as well and all uncertainty flew out the window after transforming and playing around with him. He does seem a little tubby from certain angles due to having pretty much an actual van torso.

I think the engineering is pretty solid and becomes a pretty good looking robot from what is essentially a brick on wheels. Value is decent too with the included accessories.

Only qc issue with mine is a bit of a loose face plate, or rather the 2 side head pieces have a bit less tolerance and the face plate can almost be gently flicked off from the back "mohawk", and slight gaps can be seen.

otherwise, great toy.

[Trent]

Warning: I'm going to gush a bit.

Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow.

After Tracks I had lowered my expectations and avoided all the online hype/bitching so that I could make up my own mind. I'm impressed. He is an engineering wonder. And the colours work really well on him. He pops. The hips flaps are worth mentioning as an area that could/should have been improved upon but overall they do not detract much from this guy.

Super keen for Ratchet now because I think he'll look even better :cool:

[Handsprime]

Now I want an Ironhide and Ratchet

[drifand]

Warning: I'm going to gush a bit.

Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow.

After Tracks I had lowered my expectations and avoided all the online hype/bitching so that I could make up my own mind. I'm impressed. He is an engineering wonder. And the colours work really well on him. He pops. The hips flaps are worth mentioning as an area that could/should have been improved upon but overall they do not detract much from this guy.

Super keen for Ratchet now because I think he'll look even better :cool:

Yay I can trust this review. As you know I hated tracks paint work.

[5FDP]

Yay I can trust this review. As you know I hated tracks paint work.

You hide it well.

[philby]

mine arrived today, i've only just taken it out of the box and held but initial impressions are great!
- i love the size and heft
- the colour and paint looks fantastic
- even though i never had the old G1 toy i love the nod to it with the head looking thing in the windshield!
- i love that it's a van and has plenty of clearance to actually roll on it's wheels!

[Smint]

Just got mine from PC a bit slow but he arrived in mint condition.

My god he is glorious. The pics just dont do him justice. It's funny that Transformers can be photogenic as evidenced by Tracks which turned out to be less than stellar. Iron Hide is the complete opposite, he just looks awesome in hand.

The alt mode is brilliant. No odd looking transformation lines, super solid and awesome detail like on the rear lights.

Articulation is excellent and i like that TT has given him lots of accessories to play with. Wasted potential having great articulation and no accessories and TT did well here.

Hip kibble isnt too bad, again in person it isnt as much of an eye sore.

I give it 9.5/10-

[philby]

on closer look the front bumper and lights look a bit scruffy and seem to have 'chrome wear' or something a bit :(

[griffin]

Very nice... it's like the toy has just jumped out of the TV.

This must have been a nightmare to design, as the whole chest area is a complex mass of joints and overlapping panels. It made it interesting to figure out the transformation, and when it comes together (especially the legs), it is very rewarding.

And then they throw in about 20 accessories... the toy alone was enough to rate this one above most other Masterpiece toys.


One complaint though is the face keeps falling out of the head of mine. I'm not sure if it is a common problem, but since I'm not a fan of multiple faces, this spoils it more for me.

[MayzaPrime]

One complaint though is the face keeps falling out of the head of mine. I'm not sure if it is a common problem, but since I'm not a fan of multiple faces, this spoils it more for me.

Mine also has a similar issue... but for me its a minor issue.

[Blastwave]

Got mine yesterday and opened it up last night.

I love it!

Ironhide is a very solid figure and looks great in both modes.

Alt mode is nice (for a van :p) the individual parts sit together firmly with minimal gaps and the red helps to blend them in too.

The transformation is remarkable, really very intuitive (I did it first time without instructions) and surprisingly easy for such complex engineering.

The resulting bot mode looks far better in hand than in photos. Aside from the hip flaps and the windows on the back of the forearms it is free of kibble and these two items really don't detract anything from the bot mode. The articulation is fantastic and again draws attention to how well engineered it is.
The only thing I don't like are the exposed screw heads on the top of the torso.

There are a lot of accessories and I haven't had a chance to look at all the options. However, the way that the head crest slides forward to aid swapping the faces is a very simple but much appreciated touch which means you don't have to pry out the faceplate and risk damaging the head or face.

Overall, this is the Ironhide figure I've been waiting to get for the past 30 years and I'm overjoyed with it. I can't remember the last time I was this happy with a masterpiece figure.

[drifand]

Yes this is what I expect for a masterpiece.

My only disappointment is the van doors are going to wear the red paint. But I will leave it in robot mode .

Colours are way more obvious and this is what I want.

Slight poor finishing on silver paint for my piece for its legs but acceptable.

The hip panels do block movement so it could be better placed.

8/10 for this one.

[Ralph Wiggum]

Just got mine as well, I do like most of the articulation and he seems quite poseable. My only disappointment is that he can't quite pull off the Ironhide facepalm pose :D

Hip panels aren't too bad. I managed most of the transformation on my own but the final 2-3 steps of forming the chest/body were beyond my willingness to pull things apart, and I had to resort to the manual.

[drifand]

Just got mine as well, I do like most of the articulation and he seems quite poseable. My only disappointment is that he can't quite pull off the Ironhide facepalm pose :D

Hip panels aren't too bad. I managed most of the transformation on my own but the final 2-3 steps of forming the chest/body were beyond my willingness to pull things apart, and I had to resort to the manual.

I don't trust the quality enough nowadays to just pull things. I seen goki instructions or YouTube and some manual reference.

This is s big jump from tracks..

[DaptoDog]

I opened my duplicate copy on Friday night along with Hot Rod. Such an amazing transformation, I love the final part where the chest, back and shoulders all clicked. Far more climactic than the Tracks transformation. And the hip kibble really doesn't stand out when on the shelf with other figures.

[millhouse]

I opened my duplicate copy on Friday night along with Hot Rod. Such an amazing transformation, I love the final part where the chest, back and shoulders all clicked. Far more climactic than the Tracks transformation. And the hip kibble really doesn't stand out when on the shelf with other figures.

I completely agree. Being a massive fan of TFTM1986, I was so hyped for Hot Rod that I opened him immediately after collecting him, transformed him, and left Ironhide in the boot.

Later last night I opened Ironhide and was incredibly impressed. As you noted, that transformation of the torso is incredibly satisfying and, despite some issues with the end result in terms of design (hi hip kibble!) I love this figure. Incredible play value, impressive engineering and some lovely G1/Diaclone toy nods.

Now to wait for Ratchet!

[griffin]

Ironhide is so impressive that I am just as excited for Ratchet, despite being (mostly) just a redeco.

[drifand]

I don't think it be long that the diclone black will be released.

[MayzaPrime]

I don't think it be long that the diclone black will be released.

Or Green Ratchet :p

[canofwhoopass_87]

Absolutely smashing - he was a challenge to transform, but thoroughly enjoyable. Fun to pose, loving the massive accessory load out.

Based on current results this guy should have a 100% Yes to the poll rating. "Not even interested" isn't a fair assessment/review of a toy for people who aren't even going to buy it...

[prjkt]

Really impressed with Ironhide

I love how the panels for the vehicle mode fold up and fit perfectly into his forearms and legs, making them almost seam-less, and the way the whole top half of the vehicle folds up into his chest is definitely and unexpectedly awesome.

Did not disappoint, looking forward to Ratchet now

[Robzy]

Ironhide is amazing. Almost passed on this guy, but so glad I didn't.

[MEEEGGGAAATTTRRROOONNN!!!]

Ironhide is amazing. Almost passed on this guy, but so glad I didn't.

I passed on him and have been regretting every moment! :(

On the plus side, I did preorder Ratchet -- and no doubt Takara will release MP-27+ at some point... :p

[BigTransformerTrev]

While all of you are enjoying your MP Shockwaves I finally got MP Ironhide and Hot Rodimus :rolleyes: :p


Not much I can say at this point that hasn't been said already. I was immediately impressed with his van mode when I took it out of the box - I thought the shape, paintjob etc were all just fantastic, I was so impressed. Likewise when I turned him into a robot I realised that this is by far the best G1 inspired Ironhide we've ever had - it really does look like it warrants the name Masterpiece. He is a really good size too, a lot bulkier than the other Autobot cars. And ll the accesories are just plain fun! :D

Thumbs up from Big Impressed Trev :)

[willocrew]

Just received iron hide today and did a quick transform.

Absolutely solid solid masterpiece figure. It has that premium feel.

Not every masterpiece these days has that premium feel...and it's not the size either. Ultra Magnus is much bigger but doesn't quite feel as high quality.

The only thing I don't like is the hip panels and it could so easily have been rectified. Big disappointment. Also the calves have two bits sticking out on the inner calves. Wish they could have hidden it.

Great toy. But a bit of a missed opportunity here.

But enjoying it anyway.

[philby]

Just received iron hide today and did a quick transform.

Absolutely solid solid masterpiece figure. It has that premium feel.

Not every masterpiece these days has that premium feel...and it's not the size either. Ultra Magnus is much bigger but doesn't quite feel as high quality.

The only thing I don't like is the hip panels and it could so easily have been rectified. Big disappointment. Also the calves have two bits sticking out on the inner calves. Wish they could have hidden it.

Great toy. But a bit of a missed opportunity here.

But enjoying it anyway.

I think I get what you mean re: feel. Do you think it's the gloss and smooth plastic?

[willocrew]

I think I get what you mean re: feel. Do you think it's the gloss and smooth plastic?

The Gloss smooth plastic.

Also the weight of the figure. The size. The transformation process.

The way the leg flaps fold to create seamless looking legs.

The way the chest flaps click together so satisfyingly.

This is a nice toy.

[GoktimusPrime]

I recently moved house which means that my Transformers were packed away in storage for about a month, however I lent my MP Autobots to a mate who then transformed most of them into vehicle mode for safer repackaging. But of course, I display most of my TFs in robot mode (as it takes up less shelf space), and a few days ago I started transforming my MPs back to robot mode. I wasn't sure how I'd go with Ironhide, but I found that it was relatively easy because it's such a fun and intuitive transformation. :D

Even months after getting Ironhide, I'm still amazed at just how brilliant the transformation is. Despite the sheer technical difficulty of converting from vehicle to a show-accurate robot mode, the transformation still manages to be quite doable through being instinctive and just down-right fun. :) I cannot wait to get MP Ratchet. :cool: