Cracktastic Plastic

Slice into something sharp as we take a swing at one of the most brutal—and somehow most toyetic weapon choices out there: axes. From double-bladed beauties to chunky, chrome-plated choppers, we’re hacking through heaps of plastic to spotlight the most iconic, impractical, and just plain insane axes ever packed in a blister card. Along the way, expect some questionable design choices, a few safety...

Strap in—this episode is all about the gear that takes action figures to the next level. From ammo-loaded bandoliers to utility-packed belts, we’re highlighting the figures in our collections that came ready for anything. Whether it’s over-the-top firepower or just impeccably designed accessories, these are the looks that made us stop and say, “Yeah…that’s cool.” Join us as we dig into some of our...

Sometimes bigger really is better. This episode of Cracktastic Plastic is all about the absolute units in our collections—the shelf hogs, space invaders, and gloriously oversized toys that make standard action figures look like accessories. These guys dig into the biggest pieces they own, from towering action figures to massive playsets and jumbo collectibles, sharing the stories behind these larg...

In this episode of Cracktastic Plastic, we’re going full beast mode as we dive into the wild world of animal sidekick toys! From loyal companions to scene-stealing critters, Jason, Elgn, and Mike dig into their collections to showcase some of their favorite furry, scaly, and robotic partners in plastic. Whether they’re helping heroes save the day or just looking cool on the shelf, these sidekicks...

In the world of toy collecting, we talk a lot about sculpt, paint, and articulation—but today, we’re getting a little more hands-on. Literally. This episode, “Hands Matter,” is all about one of the most overlooked (and sometimes most frustrating) details in action figures: the hands. Open palms, clenched fists, awkward grips—these tiny pieces of plastic can make or break a figure. Whether it’s a p...

In this episode of Cracktastic Plastic, we’re zeroing in on one of the most iconic accessories in action figure history: guns. From tiny pistols that disappear into couch cushions to oversized sci-fi blasters that somehow defy all physics, we’re showcasing our favorite firearm accessories from across our collections. Expect a mix of nostalgia, absurdity, and maybe a few questionable design choices...

It’s March Madness on Cracktastic Plastic—but we’re not talking brackets and basketball. We’re diving headfirst into the toy chest to spotlight the wildest, weirdest, and most unhinged characters in our collections. From cackling villains and deranged monsters to heroes who might be just a little… off, Jason, Elgn, and Mike showcase figures that prove insanity is sometimes the best accessory a cha...

This week on Cracktastic Plastic, Elgn and I fire up the engines and hit the open road as we dive into motorcycle action figures—the toys that proved two wheels were always cooler than four. From leather-clad loners to fully geared-up heroes and villains, we’re pulling bikes and riders straight from our collections and talking about what makes a great motorcycle toy actually ride. We may or may no...

In this episode of Cracktastic Plastic, Elgn and I suit up for Cape Crusaders, shining a spotlight on one of the most dramatic toy accessories of all time: the cape. From flowing fabric to molded plastic, capes can elevate a figure from good to legendary. We’ll be pulling examples straight from our own collections, showing off favorites, talking about what works (and what doesn’t), and why a great...

In Unpopular Opinions, the Cracktastic Plastic crew leans into those toy takes that don’t always line up with the majority—whether that means calling out beloved lines that never clicked with us or defending figures and brands we think deserve way more love. From hot-button collecting debates to surprising personal favorites, this episode is all about honest opinions, friendly disagreement, and ce...

With Presidents Day here, Cracktastic Plastic is spotlighting Leaders in Plastic—the figures who command armies, rule galaxies, run nations, or strike fear into their followers. From heroic commanders to ruthless villains, we’re digging into the action figures and collectibles that represent power, influence, and authority across pop culture. Along the way, we talk about what makes a great “leader...

From pixelated heroes to plastic powerhouses, this episode of Cracktastic Plastic dives into toys born from video games. We’re talking action figures, collectibles, and oddball tie-ins inspired by classic and modern games alike—how they captured the look and spirit of their digital worlds, which ones actually nailed the transition from screen to shelf, and why video game toys hold such a unique pl...

For this episode of Cracktastic Plastic, we’re looking beyond the action figures and playsets and diving into the wide world of toy-related merchandise. From bed sheets, board games, and cereal prizes to clothing, school supplies, and in-store promotions, we explore all the ways our favorite toy lines spilled out of the toy aisle and into everyday life. We’ll share personal memories, surprising fi...

This week on Cracktastic Plastic, Elgn and Jason crank up the nostalgia and dive headfirst into the world of cartoon theme songs. We’re each counting down our personal Top 5 favorites—the themes that instantly transport us back to Saturday mornings, after-school TV, and living rooms filled with toys on the floor. From catchy earworms to full-blown mini anthems, we play each theme on the show and t...

This week on Cracktastic Plastic, Jason and Elgn spotlight African American action figures from their personal collections in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We talk about the figures themselves, how representation in toys has changed over time, and why these pieces matter on the shelf and in the hobby. A collector-driven conversation about history, progress, and the power of seeing yourself...

This week on Cracktastic Plastic, we’re shining the Bat-Signal and diving headfirst into the world of Batman toys. From classic Kenner figures and animated-era favorites to modern takes on the Dark Knight, Batman has been a cornerstone of toy collecting for generations—and for us, he’s always been a must-have on the shelf. This episode is inspired by our very special guest and CORPS member, Mike W...

This week on Cracktastic Plastic, Jason and Elgn are getting cozy as they dive into the wonderfully soft world of plushies. From classic characters to weird, wild, and nostalgic favorites, we’re pulling plush from our personal collections and sharing what makes each one special. We’ll talk about why plushies hit differently than hard plastic, how they fit into our overall collecting habits, and wh...

In this episode of Cracktastic Plastic, we’re looking ahead to 2026 and laying out our toy-collecting resolutions for the year. From tightening our focus and setting smarter buying rules to hunting long-lost grails, improving displays, and breaking a few bad collecting habits, we’re putting our intentions on the table. Will we actually stick to them? That’s another story—but it all starts here. Th...

It’s that time again! In our annual Top 5 Toys of 2025 episode, Jason and Elgn each break down the five standout releases that ruled their shelves this year. From instant classics to surprise hits, we’re talking design, nostalgia, playability, and why these pieces rose above the rest in an absolutely stacked year for toy collectors. Agree with our picks or not, this one always sparks debate—let’s...

This week on Cracktastic Plastic, we’re going see-through! Jason and Elgn crack open their collections to show off some of the coolest translucent toys ever made — from crystal-clear figures to neon-glowing oddities and everything in between. We’ll talk about why translucent plastic is so dang appealing, which lines did it best, and share the stories behind our favorite transparent treasures. If y...

We’ve hit the big 1-5-0! To celebrate 150 episodes of toy talk, collecting chaos, and questionable decisions in plastic, we’re handing the reins over to YOU for a special listener questions episode. From your burning toy-collecting curiosities to deep-cut nostalgia, display dilemmas, grail chases, plastic regrets, and the inevitable off-the-wall questions that have nothing to do with toys at all—i...

Bundle up, folks — it’s a Snow Day on Cracktastic Plastic! This week, we’re digging into our collections to show off toys that shine in the palest shades of winter. From frosty figures to icy vehicles and everything in between, we’re celebrating the cool, clean look of toys that embrace the lighter side of the color spectrum. Grab your hot cocoa, crank up the nostalgia, and join us for a chilly go...

As Thanksgiving approaches, the Cracktastic Plastic crew is feeling a little bird-brained—in the best way possible! This week, we’re digging into our collections to showcase all the awesome avian figures perched on our shelves. From fierce feathered fighters to cute cartoon critters, we’re talking toy birds of every shape, size, and species. So whether you’re traveling, cooking, or just hiding fro...

Scrubs on, gloves snapped, and toys at the ready—the Cracktastic Plastic crew is heading into the operating room! This week, Jason, Elgn, and the gang dig into their collections to spotlight all things medical: doctors, nurses, medbots, field medics, sci-fi surgeons, first-aid specialists, and any figure who’s ever patched up a hero (or brought a villain back from the brink). We’ll examine who’s k...

Attention, collectors! The Cracktastic Plastic crew is reporting for duty with a special Veterans’ Day–eve live episode. This time, we’re diving deep into the barracks of our collections to show off some of the toughest, tank-driving, camouflage-wearing figures ever made! From classic G.I. Joe heroes to forgotten toy line soldiers of the past, we’re celebrating all things military in the world of...