Originally Posted by kylactus (Post 612718)

I don't consider it a crime if we produce figures Hasbro will never make, right? especially if we don't profit from the figures then it's art right? and if we distributed it via a private auction on ebay, then we're purchasing a product from china on ebay, then passing them out to friends at cost. I see no ligule issue here. were commissioning art from china.

Originally Posted by Kamatayan (Post 612725)

That's a good way of putting it. And hell, if this ends up bothering Hasbro then, it could end up being a good thing. One of the worst outcomes would be that we would be banned from making bootlegs, but because of it, Hasbro would be forced to give us what we want.

Originally Posted by kylactus (Post 611035)

OK everybody, first I'd like to apologize in advance if my actions screw up anything for anyone... earlier I was looking at china bay mostly at the headless legends that seem to be worth there weight in gold, and the 6" avengers that are clearly not legends. It got me thinking if these folks can produce factory grade figures (probably illegally) why do they only make copies of existing figures? clearly they could produce a factory painted kit bash of a new character, right? hell, they could probably whip up some factory grade packaging. or more desirable paint schemes on existing figures. So I decided to try to break into this seedy underground world of international toy bootlegging. my first step, contact the only guy I have access to a china bay seller. Plan good, execution.... iffy at best. I sent him a PM on ebay saying: "hello friend, I am curious about illegal international toy bootlegging, namely how to put in a large order for a custom figure. I'd like to work with you to develop original figures biased on the molds I feel you have access to. I represent a very large consortium of American Toy collectors that are hungry for new product, Product that traditional toy companies are failing to provide. I feel if you could provide me with your production costs and methods we may be able to work something out, Thank you." I didn't realized until I had sent it, and read it back a few times did I realize I sounded like some bazar cross a cop, and a 80's movie drug dealer. I hope he doesn't close up shop. I still think my idea is sound, make a limited run of MU original figures design them ourselves packaging and all, pick up the numbering at the original line (plus a missing #23). plus what would be more collectable than limited edition pirate toys from the factory? Make them put out a quality product, explain that they can make more per unit than Hasbro. I've also done some research into "grey marketing" this is a huge loophole where by, through the right distribution methods otherwise illegal merchandise is distributable in the states (U.K., sorry buddies your country has imports buttoned up tight. you could barely bring in legit stuff).
anyway I think it's doable.

Originally Posted by kylactus (Post 611035)

clearly they could produce a factory painted kit bash of a new character, right? hell, they could probably whip up some factory grade packaging. or more desirable paint schemes on existing figures...etc.

Originally Posted by K Dubious (Post 612859)

I ask that a lot myself Nitlife, lol.

My interpretation is the sellers on Ebay that are based in China, which typically sell knockoffs and bootlegs that are factory made copies of figures for much cheaper than they retail for.