Demystifying the Dojo: An Action Figure Glossary for Rookies and Ronins

Welcome fellow figure fanatics! No matter you're a seasoned collector with a shelf full of heroes or a curious newcomer just entering the action figure arena, When you navigate the terminology, you will feel like deciphering an ancient scroll. Don't worry, This blog serves as your glossary guru. It can help you to untangle the most frequently used acronyms and terms in the action figure world.

The Basics:

• Action Figure: A poseable doll, typically depicting a character from a movie, video game, comic book, or other media.
• Articulation: The points at which an action figure can bend and move. More articulation generally allows for more dynamic posing options.
• Scale: The size of the action figure relative to a real person. Common scales include 1:12 (around 6 inches tall), 1:6 (around 12 inches tall), and 3.75 inches (considered "pocket-sized").
• Accessories: Extra items included with the figure, such as weapons, gadgets, or alternate hands for different poses.

Acronyms Abound:

• AF (Action Figure): The most basic term!
• Articulation: Points where limbs bend (e.g., ball-joint, hinge).
• BIF (Build-A-Figure): A figure assembled by collecting pieces from multiple figures.
• BPA (Bisphenol A): A chemical sometimes found in plastics; figure companies strive for BPA-free figures for safety.
• Custom: An action figure that has been modified or repainted by a collector.
• Exclusive: A figure only available from a specific retailer or at a particular event.
• Figure Stand: A base that helps the figure stand upright in a specific pose.
• Grail: A highly sought-after figure that collectors dream of owning.
• In-Stock: Figures readily available for purchase.
• Mint in Box (MIB): A figure that is unopened and in perfect condition.
• Mint on Card (MOC): Similar to MIB, but specifically refers to figures packaged on a blister card.
• NRFB (Never Removed From Box): Like MIB/MOC, but emphasizes the figure has never been taken out of the packaging.
• OOP (Out of Print): A figure that is no longer being produced by the manufacturer.
• Paint App: The quality and detail of the paint job on a figure.
• Pegwarmer: A figure that sits unsold on store shelves for a long time.
• Pre-Order: Reserving a figure for purchase before it is officially released.
• Prototype: A pre-production sample of a figure.
• Repaint: A figure that is essentially the same sculpt as another figure but with a different paint scheme.
• Retool: A figure that uses some parts from a previous figure but has significant modifications.
• Scale: The size of the figure relative to a real person (e.g., 1:12, 3.75 inches).
• Sculpt: The physical form of the figure, including the body and head.
• Variant: A figure with a different costume or appearance than the standard release.

Beyond the Basics:

• Bootleg: An unauthorized, often lower-quality copy of an official figure.
• Diecast: A type of metal used for some figure parts, known for its durability and weight.
• Kitty Pose: A basic standing pose with the figure's feet shoulder-width apart and arms at its sides.
• Loose: A figure that is not in its original packaging.
• Mint: A figure in perfect condition, with no damage or wear.
• Near Mint (NM): A figure in excellent condition with very minor imperfections.
• Packing Slip: A document included with a figure shipment that details the contents.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): The most common plastic material used for action figures.
• Tampon Printing: A printing technique used to apply logos and details to figures.
• Weathering: Painting techniques used to create a realistic, aged look on a figure.

This is just a taste of the action figure lexicon! As you delve deeper into the hobby, you'll encounter even more specialized terms. But with this foundation, you'll be well on your way to navigating the exciting world of action figures and confidently discussing your collection with fellow enthusiasts. Please remember, collecting is a journey, so have fun, explore different lines, and don't be afraid to ask questions! Now get out there and add some heroes (or villains) to your shelf from One Man's Hobby!