By Michael Sullenger
Photography: Michael Sullenger

(SAN DIEGO, CA, July 25, 2004) Master Replicas continues to expand their offerings for 2004, adding more film franchises to their ever growing line of prop collectibles. Their Comic-Con footprint was noticeably bigger than last year's, with a booth flanked by attractive display cabinets showcasing their various collections. Being offered as a show exclusive is their limited edition Obi-Wan Kenobi .45 scaled "As First Built" Lightsaber, a 5 inch mini replica of the original.

This year's focus for Star Wars prop collectibles sees a noticeable shift from lightsabers to blasters, as the Princess Leia Blaster and the fast selling Stormtrooper Blaster were prominently shown for display. To show their appreciation for their Star Wars costumer base, Master Replicas tells us that a limited edition Stormtrooper Blaster for the 501st fan community is currently in the works.

For many fans who are priced out of their deluxe prop collectibles line or  want to collect their replicas in smaller scale, the .45 editions are the sweet spot. With a retail price of only $35, you get a scaled replica with all the craftmanship and detail intact. The Jedi Collection with Luke Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Mace Windu are currently shipping, with a Sith Collection of Darth Vader, Count Dooku, and Darth Maul due next.

A new entry for the Star Wars line are their limited edition prop models based on the ILM originals. Shipping in October is the impressive AT-AT Walker which retails around $1200 and limited to 1000 pieces worldwide. Coming up next is a Rebel Snowspeeder expected to retail a little under $1000.

Master Replicas scores big with film franchises as their non-Star Wars offerings range from Shrek 2 busts to Pirates of the Caribbean and the highly anticipated Alien vs. Predator. Highlights include the infamous medallion from Pirates and the Predator spear.

The big drawing in their booth is for a set of 18k gold plated .45 Jedi Lightsabers with the lucky winner being announced in the last day of the show.