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| Liftor |
I'm taking a jump back to the '70s with this post that is about a line of die-cast robot toys called Microbots. Kenner released eight of the robots in 1971, all named after the function they perform with the suffix -or added to each one. Bullzor can bulldoze, Liftor can lift objects with two arms, Kranktor can use a winch to reel in items, Fliptor has spring-loaded arms that can flip an item over its head, Hooktor can lift things with its hook, Griptor can clap its hands together to grip something, Krushor can smash the ground, and Klawbor has three arms, one a "lever arm" that can clamp down on something.
There is also a multi-platform Microbots playset that is built with accessories that could be purchased with each robot. Gold Key even released a single issue comic book about the toys with the cover description indicating the Microbots were created by Dr. Micron and the story is set in a grim future. The comic book shows that the Microbots can shoot lasers from their faces as well.
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| The Microbots can all be linked together to form a train. |
I have 6 myself. While I was in Las Vegas a few years back I went to a toy store downtown (the one they use as an expert on Pawnstars). I asked if they had any vintage robot toys. The owner went into the back and brought out an old, torn plastic bag that contained these toys. Sold them to me for $30 (in well used condition). I've seen a few for sale over the years, but they are incredibly rare. I just like their vibe and have them on display in my living room
ReplyDeleteNice find! They do look cool despite being simplistic. I wasn't too sure what they were until I researched them for this post. It did seem like they might be rare as aside from the comic book, I didn't find too many posts about them.
DeleteMessed up my original comment. Long story short: I have a few of these myself, just found out what they're called, and wound up here (and at Plaid Stallions). Not a lot of information out there, but nice to see I'm not imagining the whole thing.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I'm surprised when I find something that isn't already all over the Internet. It took me a while to identify another toy (an Outer Space Men action figure from Colorforms) I've got but haven't featured on here. I guess my uncle had some toys that weren't popular enough to stick around long. Thanks for the comment!
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