"DC Comics' silver age World War ll hero "Blackhawk" comes to life by the creators of G.I. Joe. This special limited edition 12 inch action figure features a unique hand painted resin head never seen before with the famous 21 movable part timeless body of the 1964 classic G.I. Joe action figure. Each figure is numbered (on the back of the neck), and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. From The people who brought you the G.I. Joe featuring DC Comics' Sgt. Rock Gift Set. Features: highly detailed equipment, working parachute, custom designed uniforms and 1964 style packaging. Equipment list: hooded thermal parka, thermal pants, thermal gloves, goggles, boots and radio with headset."
The above is the typical advertising copy on countless websites selling Dreams & Visions' 12 inch action figure "Blackhawk" gift set. The set is licensed both by Hasbro as a G.I. Joe figure and by DC.
(Click on thumbnail picture for large picture)
As it happens, I was actually involved in the production of this item. I was contacted by DC's Art Director and asked to provide some references and suggestions for the design of the Blackhawk figure. I was pleased to do so and was happy to see some of my suggestions, such as the use of the red/green uniform from the '60s (introduced in Issue No 197), incorporated into the final set. They also used my graphics for the emblems. Apparently, the layout of the standard gift set box requires three uniforms. I suggested the blue and red suit from the 1976 revival for the third uniform, but they decided not to use that. Instead, they included a light blue arctic outfit. I have not found a specific reference in the comics for that outfit, but it does seem logical that the Blackhawks would have cold weather gear and it might very well look like that in the set.
Since I helped design the set, I'm not an unbiased reviewer. I am still very impressed with the final result. I've never been interested in GI Joe figures so I can't say how it measures up in that category. As a Blackhawk fan, I'd say it is excellent. The accuracy of the uniforms and equipment is outstanding, down to the tiny brass buttons on the classic blue uniform. The emblems look good and are accurately placed. The sculpting of Blackhawk's head is nicely done and looks a bit like a combination of Reed Crandall and Dick Dillin. One might quibble about some details (the Blackhawks never wore flight helmets with either of the uniforms included in the set) but there is nothing significantly wrong with the set and very much that is right. Even the artwork (by artist Don Stivers), especially the box top, is top notch. If you are a Blackhawk fan and can afford it, I highly recommend this set. After all, what other Blackhawk collectibles are there other than the comics themselves?
CLICK HERE to see Martin Greim's photos of his nicely displayed Blackhawk GI Joe figure.
More pictures of the set can be seen at Wishbook Toys (who also have the best price I found online).
Back to Blackhawk Media Page
All characters, pictures, and related indicia on these pages are the property of DC Comics. All text is ©2003 Dan Thompson, except where otherwise noted. This homepage is not intended to infringe on the copyright of DC Comics to its characters, but was created out of gratitude to all the wonderful writers, artists, and editors who created the Blackhawks.