Some photos of the newly released Corgi die-cast Stingray toy.
The toy has certainly proved to be quite divisive, and a talking point with many Anderson model collectors.
The main bone of contention is the shape of the sting-missile launchers, which appear to be designed simply to facilitate the spring-loaded ‘sting-missiles’. This toy aspect is something else that divides collectors, with most not wanting the feature.
The rounded shape of the front also comes in for criticism, along with several other design imperfections.
However, in spite of the critics, the toy seems to be fairly popular with others, including the online Anderson Store who through Corgi produced a limited number of models using exclusive Anderson Entertainment packaging. A pity they didn’t have a hand in the model’s design!
Personally, I think the standard packaging looks reasonable enough, and follows Corgi’s packaging design for the recent Captain Scarlet re-releases.
At a tad under forty quid, the model is quite expensive compared to thirty quid for the Corgi Captain Scarlet SPV or the Angel Interceptor.
Here’s a couple of photos comparing the Corgi Stingray to the larger Product Enterprise die-cast, and the much smaller Matchbox example. It’s middle ground size fit’s in nicely, but those cut back torpedo tubes really do ruin the look!
Putting aside it’s obvious flaws, it’s a good looking toy, and for the Stingray fan, and probably most Anderson model collectors it’s bound to be a must have. A warning though; It does come with a small plastic display stand, which as the model is die-cast doesn’t strike me as hardly sturdy enough.
Overall, a missed opportunity. It appears to me that more research should have gone into the design and shape of this model, and at least some initial feedback from fans before the prototype had already been produced.
