Hi from Snazzbot 101

[GoktimusPrime]

Hehe... our gun laws are hysterical.

American's have the right to bare arms or whatever... but get all precious with their toy guns.

I think you're confusing American and Australian gun laws. I agree that American laws seem kinda strange considering that they're so strict on toy guns yet it's ridiculously easy to get real guns. Our laws aren't quite so hypocritical and IMO it's because there are two things that the US has that we don't...
#1: The Second Amendment
#2: The NRA

I just think it's sad that these matters have to effect such an iconic toy. I have shot a handgun and a shotgun and at one time was even licensed to carry one... in a security capacity... to say that I'm not allowed a toy that forms the shape of a gun... which is in no way a working or possible working weapon... strange days indeed.

An excellent point - and that was the legal argument that was presented to the NSW Police Ministry which paved the way for legal Megatron ownership in this state. Unfortunately this has yet to occur in Victoria.

But it does make me wonder. What about my Collection and MP Convoys with their mighty smokestacks standing proud and TALL?

I know, I know, we buy them as collectables not toys (right) but they are still toys and they would surely have to conform to Australian Standards as such.

Actually, I also buy them as toys.

As for MP Convoy, in Japan MPs aren't marketed at children - they are marketed as "Ages 15 and Up." I think that MP Convoy's smoke stacks are okay under Australian toy safety laws though because we've had two versions of that mould sold locally here (MP Magnus and MP Convoy w/ trailer - both Target exclusives). Afaik Hasbro Australia didn't market them as "Ages 15 and Up" but I'm not entirely sure as I don't have either of those figures.

Either way, the smokestack issue isn't one that falls under replica weapon - it's a matter of child safety.

but only your classics megatron... don't want to advocate breaking the law.

Actually, ownership of replica gun toys like Megatron is perfectly legal in WA, so roller's all good.