Why Care for Blister Carded Figures Differently
Blister carded action figures combine a plastic bubble with a printed card back, and that packaging is part of the collectible. For Vitruvian H.A.C.K.S. figures, the card art and the figure inside work together, so preserving both matters. This guide focuses on what the catalog confirms about these figures and how to keep them in good shape.
Start with a Stable Display Environment
Keep your figures away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperature swings. These conditions can fade the card art, warp the plastic bubble, or cause the figure to yellow over time. A stable room temperature and moderate humidity are your best allies. If you can, display them in a spot that avoids strong afternoon light.
Handling Tips for Blister Carded Figures
When you handle a blister carded figure, the goal is to avoid unnecessary stress on the card and the seal. Here are practical steps:
- Hold by the edges: Grip the card by its edges rather than pressing on the bubble. This prevents creases and keeps the seal intact.
- Support the card from behind: When moving the figure, place one hand behind the card for support. This reduces bending and keeps the card flat.
- Keep the bubble clean: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe the plastic bubble. Avoid paper towels, which can leave micro-scratches.
Special Caution for Paint Masters
Some Vitruvian H.A.C.K.S. items are paint masters, not production figures. These require extra care.
- Vitruvian H.A.C.K.S. Greek Series Eurayle Paint Master: Note Paint Masters are not production material and are very fragile. This means you should handle them even more gently than a standard figure, and display them in a protected spot.
Vitruvian H.A.C.K.S. Greek Series Eurayle Paint Master - Vitruvian H.A.C.K.S. Greek Series Green Mamba Gorgon Paint Master: Note Paint Masters are not production material and are very fragile. The same caution applies: avoid any pressure on the painted surfaces and keep them away from dust and handling.
Vitruvian H.A.C.K.S. Greek Series Green Mamba Gorgon Paint Master
Caring for Pre-Production Samples
Pre-production samples are also unique, but they come with their own considerations. The catalog shows that some were used to make packaging changes.
- Treat as one-of-a-kind: The Myrmidon Warrior pre-production sample is extremely rare and shows the figure in its packaging with the helmet on. Because it's a sample, it may not be identical to the final production version.
- Preserve the packaging: The sample revealed that the helmet didn't sit right in the packaging, so the final version was packed differently. This makes the sample a historical piece, so keep the packaging intact.
What the Catalog Confirms About Packaging
For the Myrmidon Warrior pre-production sample, the catalog states that the figure is shown in its packaging with the helmet on. This tells you that the packaging is part of the display. For paint masters like Eurayle and Green Mamba Gorgon, the catalog confirms they are sold as-is and are very fragile. This means you should not attempt to remove them from any protective housing without careful planning.
Long-Term Storage Tips
If you're not displaying your figures, proper storage helps preserve them. Here are some guidelines:
- Use acid-free backing: If you store the carded figure in a box, place a piece of acid-free cardboard behind it to prevent the card from absorbing acids from the box.
- Avoid stacking heavy items: Do not place heavy objects on top of blister carded figures. The pressure can crease the card or crack the bubble.
- Keep in a cool, dry place: A closet or drawer with stable temperature and low humidity is better than a garage or attic.
Final Thoughts on Care
Caring for your Vitruvian H.A.C.K.S. blister carded figures is mostly about gentle handling and a stable environment. For paint masters, the fragile nature means you should treat them as display pieces rather than play items. By following these tips, you can keep your collection looking its best for years.
