EDIT: Confirmed a KO. For sale here.

Almost a week ago, I bought a G1 Sideswipe off eBay, and I can't match it to any reissue or knock-off I can find, and I'd appreciate any help on identifying it.

Here's the auction's picture:



The seller says this:

I assumed this was the e-Hobby reissue, but I'm not sure anymore. I opened it up and took some pictures.

Things to note:

-Rubsign on chest.
-Full copyright stamp(1980,1982).
-Screws on torso are silver, while leg screws are black.
-License plate is blank, like e-Hobby version.
-Factory stickers are, in fact, stickers.
-Missile launcher fires.
-No headlight stickers.

And pics:








So what do you guys think? Reissue or knock-off?

 

Not 100% but it looks like the KO

 

I'm pretty sure that's a KO. The Rubsign was not on the chest in any official release that I'm aware of and the lack of factory stickers just screams KO to me.

 

After taking another look at it, I'm starting think you guys are right. The paint is really thin and one of the back wheel hubs has mold-flash on it. Luckily, I only paid $15+shipping for it.

I still have one thing bothering me, though: Have there been any other SS KOs found with the rubsign in that particular spot?

 

Sorry mate but e-Hobby release comes in plastic trays/inserts. Certainly doesn't come bubbled as what your picture suggest.  

 

Yes, pretty much the ko one, but these things can fool anyone.....I got the KO scourge the last decemeber and believe me, once I applied all the stickers, even the rubsign (which doesnt comes pplied on these reissues, dont know why yours did anyways) and despite the pink symbol of the front, the thing looks like an original.

 

Did the seller advertised it as G1 original?

 

He showed the seller's assessment in the first post - he didn't know what version it was, and picked it up at a yard sale.

 

Thanks for the help, everyone! I've put it up for sale if anyone wants it: KO Replica Sideswipe for sale

 

not bad if that is a KO indeed.

 

To further add:

Let's all use abit of common sense here because I think it will help you in your analysis:

We're talking about an authentic G1 release that's sealed & only cost USD $15 + shipping?

In these days???

Well, either I'm   for reading it all wrong or you must be living right.