Ion Blaster Commander - An Unofficial Masterpiece Of A Completely Different Scale

Newcomer M-Deck is making a strong first appearance in the unofficial Transformers-derived merchandise scene with Ion Blaster Commander, a human-scale replica of Optimus Prime's iconic rifle. Coming in at 39 inches long (or about 1 meter), M-Deck presents this rifle replica as being approximately 1/10 scale. The final product is planned to have numerous lighting elements and sounds, and the images of the current prototype look promising. You can find those photos plus more info below!


The planned overall dimensions are listed as a length of 39 inches, a width of 5 inches, and height (overall from base of grip to top of the stock) of 13 inches. What's not known are two fairly important factors: the final weight of the production piece, which is likely to be a matter of some concern given the overall size and extensive electronics. And the price is not yet decided, which is likely to be a matter of some concern given the overall size and extensive electronics. The production run size is not yet determined, and the M-Deck website refers to using the preorder phase to help decide the final numbers. But, they do assure that there will only be one production of this rifle, setting it up as something of a collector item.

Besides these basic concerns, another important one might present itself: import regulations. While Optimus Prime's rifle is not at all the most realistic depiction of a firearm, it may still be illegal to bring this item in the US and sell it without an orange barrel cap. While such could be added to the finished rifles, it does present an extra level of complication in what is likely to already be a complex item to get launched.

However, if all of the hurdles can be overcome, this is certainly an interesting and different direction to see a third party take, breaking away from the popular genres of unofficial product. Hopefully it's an example that will begin to catch on!