Tuesday, 28 January 2025

Ed's Deluxe Reading Rocket Base U.S.A.





Woodsy,

A couple of years ago I got this boxed Deluxe Reading Rocket Base U.S.A. set to go with my Operation X-500 (which still hasn't been photographed!).

My set has issues - lots of them - however, all the major components are there (minus one missile launcher): the beautiful colors on the box are gone, faded to nothingness; a previous owner put decals on the truck that are more appropriate for the service pit at a Formula 1 race; there are no figures; two of the missiles are missing and railings are broke.

Yet, in spite of all that, when this is assembled it still looks like a formidable toy.

Has anyone else got one?


I have yet to find an item number or set number as none is listed on the box or any instruction sheet I've seen on the Internet.


From Vegas Base


ED

8 comments:

  1. Even as it stands, that is a magnificent toy set that would have given any boy the shivers when he opened the box. Wow! SFZ

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    1. For sure! It was such a cool set. The surprising thing is, you could only buy these in supermarkets, not toy stores or five-&-dimes.

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  2. Hmmm, "issues" . I think the racing sponsor decals on the missile transporter may have been inspired by the mag wheeled tyre, used to replace the original front wheel!
    As it's a simple press moulding, I suppose you could make a replacement, using the rear tyre as a pattern.
    "Poor Man's Silicone" - press moulding an original piece into softened plasticine, dusted with a talc release could provide a passable duplicate as long as you weren't too concerned about the detail on the reverse side!

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    1. I'm okay with the front wheels - they add a little flair. But eventually I will get rid of those decals.

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  3. Paul Adams from New Zealand1/29/2025 4:14 am

    That set may have issues, but it is still stunning. I am sure someone had hours of fun with that.

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    1. Yeah Paul, this definitely looks like a well played with set. I wonder how many dents ended up in the ceiling of that kids bedroom!? LOL

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  4. This is one of my favourite toys from childhood. Ive since managed to replace most of it, apart from the box. I have fond memories of blasting a Jupiter rocket into the air and crashing it into the xmas tree, fusing all the lights!
    https://projectswordtoys.blogspot.com/2017/06/base-instinct-iii.html?m=1

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    1. While I didn't have this set, I did have the Deluxe Reading Operation X-500. Both are terrific toys! I'll be looking out for replacement pieces this year, but unfortunately $$$ will be tight this year and I may not get what I need when parts become available.

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