Category Archives: Fandom

Rest in Peace, Madmac41…

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There are posts you never want to make.  This is one of those.  In fact it’s probably the hardest post I’ve ever had to make. 

Yesterday, I learned that Scott “Madmac41” McAllister passed away.  He was a long-time member of the Joe Community, a long-time member of JBL’s staff, and, most importantly, he was one of my oldest friends.  In many ways, the word “friend” doesn’t really cut it– he was like a brother to me.

Scott McAllister at Joe Con 2018.

The G.I. Joe community was a different place when I first met Scott just shy of 20 years ago.  Back then, the online Joe world was limited to a select few websites and their online forums.  Each of those sites became its own community and they were as unique as the individuals that comprised them.  It was at a local meet-up of the now-defunct “Chicago Coil” that I first encountered one of the best friends I’ve ever had.  Sitting in Sam Damon’s living room I found myself face-to-face with this older bearded biker with a pronounced Kentucky drawl.  I was the admin of JBL and he was a staunch advocate of a different online community.  I still remember him looking me in the eye with a lot of skepticism and saying “Who the Hell are you?”

Apparently he liked my answer because at the end of the day I left Chicago with a good friend.  Continue reading →

Save 50% off Collecting the Art of G.I. Joe at 3DJoes.com

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Talk about a Black Friday sale! From now through November 30, fans can save 50% off the complete six volume set of Collecting the Art of G.I. Joe!

50% off Black Friday sale on Collecting the Art of G.I. Joe from 3DJoes.com.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few years, then you’ve heard of 3DJoes.com.  Whether it’s for the innovative 360 spin views of the classic G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero line or the painstaking restoration of the vintage package art, this site has quickly become a go-to to resource for Joe fans everywhere. 

However, 3DJoes took things to a whole new level with the Collecting the Art of G.I. Joe 6 volume series.  These softcover volumes feature careful digital restoration of every single piece of packaging art from the 1982 – 1994 classic toy line.  The final volume in the series made its debut at the 2018 G.I. Joe Collector’s Convention where all six volumes were available in a GORGEOUS slipcase.  It was a fitting end to a series of reference books that resurrects the artwork and packaging that captured the hearts and minds of countless children decades ago. 

3DJoes Collecting the Art of G.I. Joe six volumes

As stock in this incredible series dwindles, 3DJoes is offering an incredible deal.  All six volumes with the slipcase for 50% off list price.  That’s right– every piece of ARAH-era packaging artwork collected in definitive series for $120.00.  The series was a STEAL at $225.00 but this makes it all the more affordable.

Here’s the kicker– there are LESS THAN 150 sets remaining as I type this.  (In fact, after checking in with the author, I’d say that they’re down to half that amount.)  If you want to own this series at this incredible price– go NOW.  Don’t wait until November 30th if you can.  Snag your copy ASAP and see what all the hype is about for yourself.

Continue reading →

Rank & File Vol 4 – Now Available!

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Volume 4, the latest volume in the incredible Rank & File series of G.I. Joe guide books is now available from James Kavanaugh!

Look, anyone who’s been following JBL for any length of time knows that this site LOVES the Rank & File Guide series. (Yes, each word is a link to a different post!)  They’re some of the most detailed modern G.I. Joe reference works available and have a proud place on my reference shelf next to books by Mark Bellomo, Dan Klingensmith, and 3DJoes.com. 

Volume 4 made a “special edition” debut at The Last Joe Con this year from Fun Publications with a special cover and insert pages.  However, that was just a sample– a taste of what the full-fledged volume would contain.  Now, G.I. Joe fans and toy collectors can order their own copy of this exciting volume that delves into the world of “the exclusives”…

However, don’t take our word for it… check out the press release from “Noted Author” James Kavanaugh himself!

Continue reading →

Rank & File vol 4 to debut at GI Joe Con 2018

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Rank & File vol 4, the latest in a series of amazing reference guides from “Noted Author” James Kavanaugh, will make its debut at this year’s final GIJoeCon!

Rank & File vol 4 GIJoeCon exclusive coverHere’s the latest from the author himself:

The adventure continues to evolve in Rank & File — A Guide to Third-Generation 4” G.I. Joe Action Figures!  This time with a alternate convention exclusive cover!

After a brief hiatus in 2006 that allowed G.I. Joe to flourish in other areas, G.I. Joe:  A Real American Hero went in a new stylistic direction that is still predominately used today!  Not only did fans get to revisit some of their most cherished icons within the G.I. Joe mythos, they were also introduced to new characters that are now known and loved.

The Rank & File guide volume 4 is the first in a two-part series displaying every G.I. Joe action figure produced as a convention exclusive and for the G.I. Joe Collectors’’ Club, complete with every accessory and variation produced.   Not only are the accessories shown, they were carefully cataloged in an upcoming volume that will guarantee the proper shade of accessory goes to the appropriate action figure. To top it off, every vehicle and playset released in the 4″ era is documented in the Rank & File series and every easily removable piece is shown individually photographed —ensuring collector completion.

This full color, fifty-two page resource manual beautifully illustrates supplemental avenues’ 166 action figures, twenty-eight vehicles, and every accessory, including all known variations. Not only is every accessory present and accounted for, they have each been assigned a unique number and identified throughout the resource guide.  Each action figure was carefully examined between its initial run and any further re-releases to ensure accurate samples are clearly and concisely presented, perfect for the collector who is identifying individual action figures or sorting through unorganized lots.

Whether you are a seasoned or rejuvenated collector, enthusiast, or toy vendor, the Rank & File series is the decisive compilation for G.I. Joe action figures, vehicles, and playsets produced from 2007 to today.    Let the Rank & File guides serve as a reference for completion or a scrapbook to the next big turning point of G.I. Joe:  A Real American Hero.

***Bonus***

Rank & File’s volume 4 will debut at 2018 International G.I. Joe Collectors’ Convention in an exclusive format!  This resource guide will include an exclusive convention-themed G.I. Joe YEARBOOK cover, three pages sharing memories of past conventions, three blank pages for attendees write parting goodbyes with their exclusive Rank & File custom sharpie.  These exclusive features will be a limited format and not included in the standard forty-eight page volume 4 release.  Don’t miss out!!  See you at Joe Con!!!

Basic Information

The MSRP for The Rank & File guide Volume 4 convention exclusive is $30 and available at the 2018 International G.I. Joe Collectors’ Convention.  Any remaining stock will be available on the website, www.rahcguide.com, and buyer will pay all additional shipping and handling costs.  If you have purchased the R.A.H.C. guides before, the process will be very similar.   This guide was self-published and produced in quantities reflecting previous sales so do not hesitate in ordering if owning a guide is a priority.  The standard release will be made available in the summer 2018.  Keep checking the website for updates!

You may join the mailing list at: rahc.guide@gmail.com and like on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/RAHCGuide to get the latest updates between press releases.

I can’t say it enough — I LOVE these books!  Seriously- mad, crazy, obsessive love for each and every volume in this series.  The reason is simple: James does such an incredible job of detailing each and every figure right down to the baton, microphone, or single bullet accessory!  I was already down for vol 4 when he first discussed it on an episode of Just Another G.I. Joe Show but the reveal of this exclusive “yearbook” version just pushed my need to own it right over the top.

The homage to G.I. Joe : A Real American Hero, vol 1 #26 is inspired and the inclusion of yearbook-style signature pages for attendees at this year’s final GIJoeCon makes it all the more essential. It’s not just a reference guide– it’s a love letter to an event that has brought so many fans together over the past 21 years.

Run, don’t walk to the RAHC Guide table at GIJoeCon this year and snag a copy of Rank & File vol 4 in person.  Or, if you’re not attending, keep your eyes peeled to the social media channels and website mentioned above to snag your own copy when they go up for order.

Bravo, James!  Bravo!

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Introducing G.I. Joe Basic Training – a new series on YouTube

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Looking to catch up on some G.I. Joe knowledge?  Check out G.I. Joe Basic Training!

g.i. joe basic trainingLet’s be honest– the G.I. Joe brand isn’t exactly a simple property for new fans to dive into.  In terms of A Real American Hero continuity you’ve got the original Marvel Comics series, followed by Devil’s Due Publishing (which was retconned away), and then IDW’s current titles.  In terms of animation there’s the classic Sunbow series, the DiC follow-up, Sgt. Savage, G.I. Joe: Extreme, Sigma 6, Resolute, and Renegades.  Let’s not forget the films in which Paramount pictures concocted a stew based on ingredients from many of the previous properties blended together with a healthy dose of creative license. All of this is just scratching the surface!

To new eyes, it can be a confusing mess of alternate versions of Ripcord and Snake Eyes, Baroness/Duke/Destro love triangles (thanks for that Rise of Cobra), and conflicting origins.  What’s a fan to do?

Enter “MacDowin”.  Long-time G.I. Joe fan and former YoJoe.com staffer, he’s taken on the task of producing short topical videos that shed some light on our favorite brand of “Real American Heroes.”  Focusing initially on the ARAH-side of things, the “G.I. Joe: Basic Training” series tackles a single aspect of the brand in a weekly video.

You can check out Episode 1: Continuity below!

I won’t lie– when MacDowin and I talked about this we discussed what a herculean undertaking this would be.  Where do you start?  Where do you end?  Does Ice Cream Soldier eventually get his own episode?

Thankfully, MacDowin was up to the task!  In fact, he’s current THREE episodes in with a fourth dropping soon. So, if you’re looking to catch up on your G.I. Joe facts or just want some Joe-related content in your YouTube feed, check out G.I. Joe: Basic Training!  If you like the episodes, hit the “subscribe” button so that you’ll never miss out on an single installment!

And now you know…

Rank & File volume 2 & 3 Reprint Kickstarter almost funded!

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With EIGHT days to go, the Rank & File volume 2 & 3 reprint Kickstarter has nearly reached its goal!

Rank & File vol 3 reprintA good reference book is an invaluable resource when managing a collection. In fact, you might even say that it’s ESSENTIAL, especially when the collection involves multiple variations of characters and a seemingly endless supply of tiny accessories.  The internet and hobby dedicated websites are an invaluable resource but nothing beats a good tangible book filled with high quality photos showcasing every knife, pistol, helmet, and accessory.  Plus, a good book is always there whether or not you have a WiFi connection available.

Enter the Rank & File book series from “noted author” (and long-time friend of JBL) James Kavanaugh!

We’ve talked about these books before.  Rank & File volumes 1, 2, and 3 have proven to be so popular with fans that the original print runs of all three have sold out, with volume 1 receiving a second printing!  Now, supplies of volumes 2 & 3 are almost gone and newly-revised and updated second printings are seeking funding on Kickstarter!  With just eight days remaining, this project could use your support to reach its goal and see this books available once more!

The current campaign ends Saturday March 17, 2018 at 7:10pm CST.

Continue reading →

Support the Girls of the Finest 2018 Calendar

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The Girls of the Finest return with a brand new 2018 calendar project!

Girls of the Finest

It’s that time of year– when the talented costumers of the Girls of the Finest put their needles, thread, time, and talent toward a project that aims to give back to our men and women in uniform!   Since 2015, these cosplay artists have produced an amazing G.I. Joe-themed calendar showcasing your favorite ARAH-era femme fatales.  From Scarlett, to Zarana, the Baroness to the Cobra PR Officer– supporters have been treated to 12 months of images that inspire the imagination!  However, there’s more to this annual calendar drive than just some terrific wall art.  This is a calendar project that aims to give back to those who need our support.

K9s for WarriorsOnce again, the lovely ladies of Finest are raising funds for K9’s for Warriors, an organization dedicated to providing service dogs for veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and/or military sexual trauma as a result of service post 9/11.  The organization recognizes the healing power of animal therapy and how the emotional bond formed between a veteran and a therapy dog can help these brave warriors overcome the trauma they incurred while in the line of duty.

Seriously– I can’t encourage people enough to support this project.  These talented ladies give up their time and talent to support a project that not only helps the men and women of our armed forces but also helps provide homes for animals in need.  It’s a no-brainer– a one-two punch that truly brings some comfort to those who put themselves on the line for us each and every day.

As of now, the project has 23 days remaining and is 58% funded!  This is an all-or-nothing project which means that calendars won’t go into production and no funds will be send to K9’s for Warriors unless it reaches its goal of $8,500.00.  A simple pledge of $25.00 will secure a copy of the printed calendar, a set of trading cards, and a postcard!  It’s a STEAL of a deal that helps support a great cause!

Support the Girls of the Finest 2018 Calendar Project today!  Plus follow these costumers and track all of their appearances over on the Girls of the Finest Facebook page!

Rank & File vol 3 is coming soon from James Kavanaugh!

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Rank & File vol 3, the next installment in the ultimate modern G.I. Joe reference series, is coming soon!

G.I. Joe Rank & File vol 3At JBL we’re very exciting to report that noted author James Kavanaugh’s next exciting reference volume is coming very soon!  Volume 1 and Volume 2 proved to be amazing and this next installment looks to be James’ best work yet!  (That’s saying something as RAHC Guide was pretty AMAZING.)

Check out the official release: Continue reading →

Support 3.75 Inch Joe Vol 4 on Kickstarter!

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If you haven’t already, it’s time to support 3.75 Inch Joe Vol 4 on Kickstarter!

3.75" Joe Tunnel Rat

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of Dan Klingensmith’s incredible 3.75″ Joe series of books.  (Also known as 3.75 Inch Joe: Creating G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero) These meticulously researched volumes collect rare pieces of production artwork and pair them with insightful commentary from the classic line’s original designers.  The end result is nothing short of amazing– a brilliantly laid-out piece that long-time Joe fans will pore over for hours.

3.75" joe beach head preview

Author Dan Klingensmith is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter for 3.75 Inch Joe Vol 4.  As such, he’s revealed some of what will be included in this next amazing volume: Continue reading →

Cobra Sentinel Automaton project coming to Kickstarter

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Coming soon to Kickstarter: the Cobra Sentinel Automaton project!

G.I. Joe Cobra Sentinel from the Palace of Doom

Let’s face it– for many fans the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero animated series is THE version of Joe.  Debuting as a pair of syndicated mini-series, these cartoon adventures greeted countless school children as they rushed home from school each day to catch the next installment in the serial.  The cartoons showcased the vehicles and characters that were soon to dominate store shelves and children’s imaginations in the coming months.  However, as diverse as the roster of figures and vehicles was there some were moments in the story where the writers and animators introduced their own concepts.  One such moment occurred in the third episode of the “Revenge of Cobra” mini-series in episode cheekily-named “The Palace of Doom“:

Remember the Cobra Sentinel?  The giant snake-themed robot that went mano-et-mano with the giant temple guardian?  The mechanized monster just blew me away.  As a kid, I had to have one but sadly it was not meant to be.  The automaton that towered over Major Bludd existed only in the cartoon and was never produced in action figure form.  However, that is about to change. Continue reading →