Fun for Everyone

The Summer Farm Toy Show is always a good time.  Held at the National Farm Toy Museum every summer, it attracts farm toy collectors and dealers from around the U.S.  Thousands of farm machinery collectibles and memorabilia are gathered into the small town of Dyersville, Iowa for two fun-packed days.  Lovers of all things agriculture fill up the museum and the nearby high school with their toys.  The show also offers activities for the kids, specifically the classic tractor-pull races, one of which I won when my family went up there years ago.  

This year's Summer Farm Toy Show will be held on June 3 & 4.  While we won't be attending, we encourage you to go!  It's sure to be a great time!

For more info: http://www.nationalfarmtoymuseum.com/calendar.cfm

Astronaut Dreams

I wanted to be an astronaut. After learning about space in my 4th grade classroom and actually grasping some of the enormity of it all, I was sure that I wanted to go up there and explore. I began watching all of the television shows and prepared myself to captain a ship like Captain Kirk or Picard. I surmised that I had to begin speaking in sentence fragments or shave my head to be a captain of a spaceship and both of those ideas seemed like a fair trade for going up in space.

Needless to say my dreams of space travel have not come true. It turns out that just shaving your head doesn't get you into space and speaking in sentence fragments helps even less. It also didn't help that math and science were so integral in the whole process. Why can't bloggers go to space? Oh the harsh reality that is life.

Even though I'll never make it into space, I can get some pretty awesome models that make me feel like I'm on my way. Dragon has come out with some spectacular models that will transport you to outer space with their beautiful design and accurate detailing.

You have the choice of the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle, the Delta II Rocket with Launch Pad, or a NASA Space Shuttle with the Hubble Space Telescope. So whether you're a space enthusiast or, like me, you want to imagine yourself in space and remember a time when you truly thought the sky was the limit, these gorgeous models with satisfy your space fix.

DRAGON Item: 50386

Price: $44.95

Features:

- 1/72 true-to-scale precision model

- Displayable die-cast spacecraft with high collectable value

- Aesthetically pleasing color finish with delicate imprinted markings

- Elegant new stylish metal stand for easy display

DRAGON Item: 56238

Price: $29.95

Features:

- Highly detailed

- True to 1/400

- Highly collectible

- High quality diecast construction

DRAGON Item: 56259

Price: $39.95

Features:

- Highly detailed

- True to 1/400

- Highly collectible

- High quality diecast construction

They Know What They're Doing

One of the oldest die-cast companies around, Ertl was founded in 1945.  Sixty-six years later, it remains a popular favorite.  John Deere models especially have always been a focal point of their company.  They recently announced six new John Deere items, which we will be receiving within the next few weeks!  These, of course, feature the great quality and detail for which Ertl is admired, while maintaining an affordable price tag.  Don't miss out!  We are accepting pre-orders; click on any of the images or item numbers below to learn more about that item.

 

Item #45264 - 1/50 Scale - Price = $33.99

John Deere 850K Dozer

 

Item #45300 - 1/16 Scale - Price = $30.99

John Deere Late Styled BW

 

Item #45304 - 1/64 Scale - Price = $8.99

John Deere 3010 Tractor with Hay Wagon 

Item #45307 - 1/64 Scale - Price = $7.99

John Deere 720 Tractor with Barge Wagon

 

Item #45308 - 1/64 Scale - Price = $21.99

John Deere 4320/4620/7020 Tractors 40th Anniversary Set

Item #45312 - 1/16 Scale - Price = $46.99

John Deere 4020 Tractor with Cab

Stop for These Green Lights!

GreenLight's Muscle series brings back memories and creates new ones, with its collections of the greatest American performance machines, both classic and modern.  The Muscle Series 2 is now available from 3000toys; it just arrived yesterday and is ready to ship!  

This twelve-car set comes in a non-returnable factory-sealed case.

Each car is grouped with a second set of tires and wheels that can be switched out. Each car also comes along with a serialized Trading Card, the first of GreenLight's lines to include this. GreenLight is dedicated to visually maintaining the distinct characteristics and details that have made these cars so great. 

These die-cast replicas are positioned in their packaging with opened hoods so you can get a complete view of the accurately detailed engines. All materials used are authentic with real rubber tires and complete metal body and chassis. Detailed graphics, custom license plates, and official licensing by the respective automobile companies make each of these cars correct and credible replicas.

GreenLight Item#13020-CASE - 1/64 Scale - Price = $57.99 

With each case, you'll receive two of each of these detailed models:

1965 Chevrolet Chevelle Custom
with Work Light Shop Tool

 

2010 Ford Shelby GT500
with Car Jack Shop Tool

2010 Dodge Challenger R/T
with Work Bench Shop Tool

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 with Tool Cabinet Shop Tool

1971 AMC Javelin
with Engine Hoist Shop Tool

2010 Chevrolet Camaro with Drill Press Shop Tool

They're "Plum Sublime"

There's nothing quite like a beautiful car. Each ray of light seems to perfectly reflect off of the car, every sparkle reminding you of a smooth ride down a two-lane highway on a sunny day. Well, at least that's what it makes me think of.

Highway 61's newest release of Concept Cuda models are the stuff of which those daydreams are made. The 1/18 models are realistic enough that you can picture yourself in the driver's seat, cruising down the open road. And the two color options (Plum Crazy and Sublime Green) are so intense, that you'll almost overlook the incredible detailing.

Almost.

The detailing is where these models excel and they feature:

• Opening doors and hood
• A detailed engine and interior
• Functional steering
• Functional suspension
• Rubber tires
• And, of course, an Authentic OEM paint scheme.

Make sure to check out these two new models and, while you're at it, take a look at the rest of the new arrivals from Highway 61.

Concept Cuda in Plum Crazy

Item # 50839

Price: $99.99

Concept Cuda in Sublime Green

Item # 50840

Price: $99.99

It's About the Search

Ready for another poll? Well I hope so, because here it is! 

The poll should be below, but if it isn't showing up for you, you can find it by following this link: http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/Poll/Embed/WEB22C8WM5BQRT?sms_ss=facebook&at_xt=4da8a4dd6fcca716%2C0

We always love hearing about you and your collections, so definitely feel welcome to leave a comment! 

What do you think?  Is collecting about searching for new pieces?  Is it about having and admiring the collection?  Maybe about showing it off to your friends and family?  Do you think the conveniences of the internet have made collecting an overall better experience, or has the experience been hurt by it?  Just thinking out loud here...
~Tasha

Ice Road Truckers

For most, driving in inclement weather is at best a hassle and at worst a deadly challenge. However, for the men and women who brave the 417-mile-long Dempster Highway and the Mackenzie River Ice Road, dangerous conditions are simply a reality of the workplace. The History Channel has been documenting the dangers of these icy roads and their riders through five seasons of the television series “Ice Road Truckers” and Norscot has captured the danger and exhilaration of the show in 4 beautiful murals.

We at 3000toys.com are excited to announce the newest release of four new 1/87 trucks from Norscot that will feature murals based on the television series and will of course be in line with Norscot’s commitment to quality and style. These trucks will be packaged as a 12-piece assortment and are graded for ages 8 and up and will feature:

• A 389 Tandem Axle Sleeper Tractor 53’ Utility Trailer Dry Cargo Van
• Zinc Chassis with Molded Plastic Top, Sides, and Ends

• Detachable Trailer
• Opening Rear Trailer Doors with Interior Detail
• Custom Packaging

• 4 Custom Murals on the Sides of the Trailers
• Truck Colors of Black, Dark Blue, Red, and White that will complement the corresponding mural.

Be sure to grab one or all of these models!

Item: 58612 Item: 58614

Price: $9.99 Price: $9.99

Item: 58613 Item: 58615

Price: $9.99 Price: $9.99

Have a great weekend!

-Matt

Power Lifters

Strength comes in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes a compact machine can really move some large loads. The new Grove RT540E is one of these strong machines, in a rather compact style. Its four-section, full power main boom extends to 102 feet and an 8'-6" chassis allows easy transport to job sites. This compact machine truly packs a punch.

The same could be said for its 1/50 scale replica from TWH collectibles. True to their reputation, their new 1/50 Grove RT540E models are museum quality and a gorgeous example of a top-tier replica.

The Michielsen's Grove RT540E is an especially eye-catching model, that comes with several stunning functions and features.

Michielsen's - Grove RT540E

Item: 079-01266

Price: $189.95

Steerable front and rear axles

Swinging boom and lattice sections

Detailed engine compartment

Opening operator cab door

Extendable 4-section boom and telescopic jib

Rotating carbody

Functional load block and load block winch

Removable valve bank cover

Opening engine access door

Replicated diamond plate decking

Detailed operator cab

Second hook block

Auxiliary winch

Check out three other variations of this model:

Saraiva - Grove RT540E Ayala - Grove RT540E

Item: 079-01259 Item: 079-01323

Price: $189.95 Price: $189.95

Altead - Grove RT540E

Item: 079-01324

Price: $189.95

Make sure to grab at least one of these great models!

--Matt

An Artist's Touch

TWH Collectibles approach their models as an artist approaches his canvas--with enthusiasm, creativity, and tremendous skill. The result is a museum quality model that is as detailed as it is beautiful. The detail in their latest 1/50 scale masterpiece, the PIERCE® QUANTUM® PUMPER FIRE PROGRAMS ENGINE 10, is truly something to behold. This is a beautiful model that would be a valuable addition to any collection. We've only received a limited quantity though, so hurry to 3oootoys.com and purchase yours today!

Item: 081B-01310 Price: $209.95

FUNCTIONS:

Pivoting, opening cab

Pivoting ladder rack

Opening hose crosslay doors

Steerable front wheels

Opening top hose crosslay doors

Rotating wheels

Rotating hose reels

Rotating radiator fan

Functioning suspension

FEATURES:

Frame mounted fuel tank mounted on

undercarriage

Detailed inner cab

Replicated work and safety lighting

Multi-material door mirrors

Frame mounted battery boxes under cab

Chrome grill, muffler stack, front bumper,

and wheels

Rubber mud flaps and tires

Realistic Air, hydraulic and electrical hose

and wire placement

Accurate decal package

Cab roof mounted air conditioning unit

Grab handles located throughout machine

Under-frame mounted lighting

Replicated diamond plate decking

Front and rear tow hooks

Accurate front bumper configuration

Accurate gauge panel with fills and

discharges

Replicated hose fairleads

Photoetch grill

Top 10 Hottest Items

I can’t believe we're already a quarter of the way into 2011, but since we are, I want to show you this year's top picks so far! 

It's no surprise that Norscot is seen up and down this list!  #10 in our list of top 10 items so far this year is Norscot's Caterpillar CT660 Dump Truck, featured on our blog last week.  This is item #55502, 1/50 scale, and it sells for $61.95.  Due to arrive in June, we haven't even received this model yet and it's already on the top 10 list!

 #9 is the Wings of Texaco #18, which came out late last year.  Manufactured by Round 2, this highly detailed 1/43 scale Lockheed Sirius 8A airplane comes in full-color decoration and includes a Certificate of Authenticity and a display stand.  It's item #5907-01.  The price is $39.95.

Also by Norscot, #8 is the Caterpillar 587T Pipelayer.  Cat pipelayers have been the standard of the worldwide pipelining industry for decades.  The 587T is the flagship of the line, having a 202,000-pound lift capacity.  The 1/50 scale model features realistic metal tracks; authentic detailing on exterior, engine, and machine controls; moveable boom and counterweight; and interior cab detail.  This model, item #55272, is $74.95.  You can read more about this item in the blog piece I wrote in February.

#7 is the Caterpillar 374D Hydraulic Excavator by Norscot in 1/50 scale.  This great model features metal tracks; moveable boom, stick, and bucket; 360 degree rotation on chassis; realistic hoses and grab rails; and clear windows with interior detail.  We should be receiving this in July or August.  It's item #55274, which goes for $107.95.

Norscot is also the manufactuer of #6 in our countdown.  This 1/50 scale beauty is the Kenworth W900 Daycab with a Trail-King Tri-Axle Lowboy Trailer.  Item #62102 costs just $39.95!

Spec-Cast takes #5 with their International TD-24 Forestry Crawler/Dozer, which comes with Karry Arch, ROPS, and Blade.  It's item ZJD-1532, selling for $119.90.

The Caterpillar 320D L Hydraulic Excavator, one of the most popular Cat excavators ever produced, comes in at #4 in our list.  This is also a child of the ever-popular Norscot.  This model stands out with its moveable boom, rotating chassis, and authentic track design and interior detail.  This model is also 1/87 scale, item #55262.  Get yours for just $23.95!  We're restocking this month!

 

Also by Norscot, #3 in this list is the Caterpillar 772 Off-Highway Truck.  The real thing is the fastest Cat off-highway truck, with a top loaded speed of 49.5 mph!  Features of the 1/87 scale model include front wheel steering, a truck bed that raises and lowers, authentic tire tread design, and interior cab detail.  This is item #55261; sells for $29.95.

#2 is Norscot's UPS P80 Delivery Truck in 1/87 scale.  Features on this beauty include authentic UPS color and decoration; rolling, steerable wheels with actual tire tread design; realistic roll-up back door; interior shelf detail in the rear of the truck; and clear windows that reveal detail on the cabin interior.  While this is currently out of stock, we are expecting more to arrive later this month.  It's item #58008 and goes for $19.95.

 And finally, coming in at #1 we have the John Deere 4WD Tractor Keychain by Ertl.  Just 3 inches long, this little guy can go with you anywhere that you go.  It's item #15950 and sells for just $2.99.



And there you have it!  The top 10 most popular item of 2011 (so far!).  What do you think?  Totally Agree?  Disappointed?  Do you have your own top 10 that you want to share?  (Or top 5, top 2, whatever!)  We'd love to hear from you!

~Tasha

New Arrival from Down Under!

We have some terrific news for fans of Drake trailers: we have received the McAleese Transport version and it is ready to ship! For those unfamiliar with the McAleese Transport - Kenworth T908 Prime Mover with Drake Trailer 2x8 Dolly and 4x8 Swingwing, here's a little information to whet your palate:

The Kenworth T908 has become part of Australia's landscape, renowned for its long-bonneted, traditional, tough good looks and its even tougher performance. The T908 excels in many applications ranging from general freight right through to logging, livestock, and mining. Whether in single trailer or multi-trailer road train configuration, on highway or the roughest outback track, the T908 has been designed and built in Australia to deliver unmatched performance in the harshest possible conditions.

When you factor in the tough good looks and rugged performance of the actual cab and trailer, it's no surprise that the model is a sight to behold. The McAleese Drake is 1/50 scale and features several impressive functions:

• Opening driver and passengers doors
• Air ride seats
• Functioning suspension
• Pivoting pull bar
• Pivoting hood
• Locking fifth wheel
• Sliding fifth wheel

Combine all of those features with breathtaking overall detail and the fantastic detailing in the engine, suspension, and interior and you'll be proud to call this model your own.

-Matt

What's YOUR Favorite?

Welcome to Monday. Hopefully this can be a fun start for your work week! Enjoy our new poll!

If you selected "Other," leave a comment telling us what it is that you collect. We'd also love to hear about how you got into collecting!
~Tasha

Spring Photo Contest!

Spring is finally getting underway, and we are dying to give away some free stuff!  To do this, we at 3000toys have decided to launch a photo contest!  Photo topic is open to any die-cast you collect in whatever way you want to present it.  Whether it's your full collection, action shots, or your favorite piece, be creative!!  The top two contestants will be awarded their choice of either a Norscot CAT 963D Track Loader or a Maisto Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster!

Here's how you do it!  Email your picture to photos@3000toys.com with "Spring Photo Contest" as the subject.  The deadline is May 5, 2011; the next day, we will post all entries to our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/3000toys.  From May 6-15, 2011, voting will be open to all our Facebook fans.  People can go to the album on our Facebook page and click the "Like" button under the picture(s) they like the best.  The two people with the most "Likes" on their pictures after May 15 will win the contest!  

Rules and regulations are as follows: entries must be submitted to photos@3000toys.com by 11:59PM CST on May 5, 2011.  File name must be in a "last name, first name" format.  File format must be JPEG and must not exceed 1MB in size.  You may include your own comments on your picture in the body of your email if you choose.  Limit 1 entry per person.  Open only to the continental United States.  Any pictures deemed inappropriate by 3000toys staff will be disqualified.  Voting will be held on Facebook (www.facebook.com/3000toys), and any person who becomes a fan of our page has the right to click "Like" on any and all contestants' photos.  Each person can only click "Like" once for each photo.  The two contestants whose photos have the most "Likes" by 11:59PM CST on May 15, 2011, will be the winners.  Employees of Stratton Systems, Inc. and their immediate family members are prohibited from participating in the contest.  Stratton Systems, Inc. reserves the right to alter and change any rules at its discretion.