Fantastic Model FM-03 Warhorse is a bold and striking interpretation of a character instantly recognizable to Transformers fans, a clear homage to the Autobot Security Officer Ironhide.
Packaging
The box art is vivid, featuring a retro grid backdrop and dynamic embossed artwork of the character in both robot and van modes. The illustration evokes that classic 80s style, blending nostalgia with modern collector appeal. The clean typography and glossy finish give it a sophisticated, high-end look that would sit proudly on any collector’s shelf.
Inside the box, Warhorse comes with an impressive array of accessories. The spread includes multiple weapons, blast effects, rocket pack, an alternate head and four different face sculpts.
The inclusion of these options shows that Fantastic Model pay close attention to display and customization choices. The clear orange blast effects add dynamic posing opportunities, while the assortment of metallic silver weapons highlights the manufacturer’s focus on play-ability and display.
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In robot mode, Warhorse presents a sturdy and visually appealing figure. The proportions are good, the broad shoulders and clean lines form a solid stance. The sculpting is crisp, with well-defined panel lines that convey a mechanical realism. The paintwork, primarily a rich red with silver and black accents, matches the character’s iconic colour palette, and is not out of place against the red plastic. Articulation is another strong point: the figure features an impressive array of joints, allowing for dynamic and expressive poses. Die-cast elements in the construction enhance balance and give the figure a reassuring weight.
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Transformation to vehicle mode is taxing, or at least I felt it was, more akin to the offerings from X-Transbots rather than the standard from Fans Toys. Once converted, Warhorse forms a compact and convincing vanette. The vehicle mode captures the boxy charm of its source material with good panel alignment but very noticeable seams. The plastic finish blends seamlessly with the painted die-cast sections, though again, minor blemishes in the paint can be seen upon close inspection. Rolling functionality is smooth, and the vehicle feels cohesive and solid in hand.
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In terms of quality and build, Fantastic Model’s effort here sits comfortably between the sturdiness of Fans Toys and the sometimes over-engineered intricacy of X-Transbots. The materials feel durable, and as much the level of quality as a main Fans Toys release. The joints are tight, the tolerances are good, and the overall presentation feels collector-grade. However, certain paint application issues could distract from the overall appreciation of this piece, but nothing that can not be rectified by the application of replacement parts. Not that this should be the norm but I have faith in Fans Toys that with any subsequent second run, these minor issue will be resolved.
Also of note is the included pseudo 'G1-Mode', which is a fun addition if not wholly accurate. The ability to remove the 'back-pack which then folds out into the weapons deck is another example of this hybrid style of mixing Fans Toys & X-Transbots engineering.
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