Why I Specifically Collect Six-Inch Action Figures

This will be a short article where I discus the various sizes of action figures and why I choose six-inch action figures as my collection goal.

The figures I collect are six-inches tall. Sometimes that is referred to as 1:12 scale. Major companies like Hasbro, Marvel, Cinematic Universe, Playmates Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and DC Direct are just some of the companies making six-inch figures.

Scale refers to the size ratio compared to a traditionally sized object. With action figure toys, we’re discussing smaller representations of the human figure. Toy companies refer to the typical ideal human (or humanoid) figure as being six feet tall. This is relevant because when we discuss heroic figures such as Superman or Darth Vader they are thought to be approximately six feet tall. (Since they are just comic book heroes we cannot actually measure their exact height!)

An action figure that is also six feet tall would have a 1:1 ratio. A three-foot-tall action figure would have a 1:2 ratio and so on.

I collect 1:12 scale figures but there are other classes of action figure. Some of the more popular scales for collectors are seven-inch (1:10) scale (Neca and Todd McFarlane make this size.) Another popular size is five and one half (5 1/2") inch — 1:15 scale (Jurassic Park and Power Rangers typically come in this size.) And there are others like 1:18 scale (3.75") all the way to life-sized replicas.

The reason I tend to like the six-inch figures is that they are often based on movies I like (Last Action Hero, Congo, Jurassic Park, Super Mario Brothers) and they are very readily available. They are probably the most popular size in the action figure marketplace which means that there are plenty of accessories like diorama sets, props, etc. that are commercially available to support the display of these figures. There is also a very wide selection of toys in this scale to choose from.

Because this size is very popular, it also means that this size of action figure will be supported, manufactured, etc. for a very long time.

Many people start with smaller scales like the 3.75 inch figures but quickly recognize that the larger 1:12 scale figures allow the model makers to include more points of articulation (joints like knees, elbows, wrists that can move or be positioned in a certain way) as well as more detail on the character’s face and costume.

CONCLUSION

For me, 1:12 is the best way to go. But you may feel differently and that is certainly up to you. The best thing about this hobby is at the end of the day, we’re talking about TOYS! There’s no wrong way or right way to do it. There’s just the way that you enjoy. And that’s all that matters.

Remember — toys are joy.