SH Figuarts Android 17 A Detailed Look at the Cell Saga Fighter

Prepare to be captivated as we journey into the world of action figures, specifically focusing on the remarkable SH Figuarts Dragon Ball Z Android 17. This isn’t just a collectible; it’s a portal back to the intense battles of the Cell Saga, where Android 17, a rebellious force of nature, clashed with the Z Fighters. The SH Figuarts line, renowned for its meticulous detail and articulation, brings this iconic character to life.

Imagine holding a miniature piece of Dragon Ball Z history, ready to be posed in countless dynamic stances. We’ll delve into every aspect, from the figure’s design and construction to its display possibilities and its place among other collectibles.

Android 17, a character born from Dr. Gero’s sinister machinations, possesses a unique blend of arrogance and power. The SH Figuarts figure perfectly captures this essence. From the meticulously sculpted hair to the defiant expression on his face, every detail is designed to resonate with fans. The figure comes equipped with various accessories, including interchangeable hands and energy effects, allowing you to recreate your favorite scenes from the anime.

This exploration will cover the figure’s dimensions, materials, build quality, and provide a comprehensive comparison with other Android 17 figures available. You’ll learn how to pose and display the figure to its best advantage, along with tips on maintaining its condition and even customizing it to your liking. Get ready to embark on a journey that will transform you from a mere observer to a collector who truly appreciates the art and craftsmanship behind the SH Figuarts Android 17.

Table of Contents

Introduction to SH Figuarts Android 17

The SH Figuarts line from Bandai is renowned for its highly detailed and articulated action figures, and it has become a cornerstone for Dragon Ball Z collectors worldwide. These figures are celebrated for their ability to accurately capture the characters’ designs and dynamic poses, reflecting the intense action sequences from the anime series. The focus on posability allows for recreating iconic scenes and showcasing the character’s unique fighting styles.Within the vibrant universe of Dragon Ball Z, Android 17 emerges as a complex character, originally conceived as a ruthless antagonist.

Created by Dr. Gero, he possesses seemingly limitless energy and a cold, calculating demeanor. Despite his initial role as a threat, Android 17 undergoes a transformation throughout the series, evolving from a destructive force into a character with a surprising sense of responsibility and a desire for a peaceful life.

The Significance of Android 17 in the Cell Saga

Android 17’s role within the Cell Saga is pivotal, serving as a catalyst for much of the conflict. His presence, alongside Android 18, poses a significant challenge to the Z Fighters. The Cell Saga is a major turning point in the Dragon Ball Z storyline.The Androids’ arrival sets off a chain of events.

Android 17 and Android 18’s initial rampage across various cities causes widespread destruction and loss of life, demonstrating their power and ruthlessness. Their attacks push the Z Fighters to their limits.
Cell’s primary objective is to absorb Android 17 and Android 18 to achieve his perfect form. This creates a constant threat and a race against time for the Z Fighters to stop Cell before he reaches his ultimate potential.
Goku’s attempts to stop Android 17 and Android 18 often lead to strategic battles. The Z Fighters must constantly adapt their strategies and training methods to overcome the androids’ overwhelming power and endurance.

The clash between the Z Fighters and the Androids results in numerous iconic battles and memorable moments, showcasing the Z Fighters’ growth and resilience. The outcome of these battles influences the fate of the Earth.

“Android 17, with his seemingly endless stamina and raw power, provides a formidable challenge for the Z Fighters, forcing them to push beyond their limits.”

The Cell Saga, with Android 17’s involvement, tests the Z Fighters’ abilities. The saga highlights the android’s evolving character arc.

Figure Specifications and Design

Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of this Android 17 figure! We’ll explore its physical attributes, the included goodies, and how well it captures the essence of the character from Dragon Ball Z. Get ready to have your inner Saiyan satisfied!

Articulation and Range of Motion

The true measure of any action figure is its ability tomove*. This Android 17 SH Figuarts figure doesn’t disappoint, offering a generous range of motion designed for dynamic posing.The articulation points are strategically placed to maximize poseability:

The head features a ball joint, allowing for a wide range of head tilts and rotations, capturing everything from a casual glance to a battle-ready stare.
Shoulders utilize a combination of ball joints and swivels, enabling natural arm movement for both defensive and offensive stances.
Elbows and wrists benefit from double-jointed articulation, providing a remarkable degree of bend and rotation, essential for recreating signature energy blasts.
The torso incorporates a chest joint and waist swivel, allowing for realistic torso twists and bends.
The hips feature ball joints and swivels, contributing to a wide range of leg movement, critical for dynamic action poses.
Knees and ankles offer double-jointed articulation, enabling deep bends and allowing the figure to maintain balance in various stances.

This allows collectors to recreate iconic moments from the anime, from his nonchalant attitude to his devastating attacks.

Included Accessories

A good action figure is only as good as its accessories. Thankfully, this Android 17 comes packed with everything you need to bring the character to life.Here’s what you can expect:

Interchangeable Hands: Several sets of hands are included, allowing for various poses, from relaxed open hands to gripping hands for holding energy effects or other accessories.
Interchangeable Faces: Multiple faceplates are provided, depicting a range of expressions, from his usual stoic demeanor to a more intense battle-ready face.
Energy Effects: These are crucial for recreating Android 17’s powerful Ki blasts. Expect energy effects designed to attach to his hands, simulating the force of his attacks.

These accessories enhance the figure’s playability and display options, allowing for a diverse range of scenes and scenarios.

Paint Application and Aesthetic Accuracy

The paint application is crucial in bringing a figure to life, and the SH Figuarts Android 17 excels in this area. The figure’s colors and detailing are meticulously applied to match the character’s appearance in the anime. The shading and highlights are carefully considered to enhance the figure’s sculpt and add depth.The overall aesthetic accuracy is remarkable:

The figure accurately captures Android 17’s distinctive hairstyle, with the sculpt and paint job perfectly representing his short, spiky hair.
His attire, consisting of his signature orange and black outfit, is faithfully replicated with precise color matching and detailing.
The paint application highlights the textures of the clothing and body, adding realism to the figure.

The figure’s design aims to be a miniature, highly detailed replica of Android 17 as seen in the Dragon Ball Z series.

Figure Dimensions Comparison Table

Here’s a comparison table illustrating the dimensions of the Android 17 SH Figuarts figure against other relevant figures, such as Android 18, Cell (Perfect Form), and Goku, providing a sense of scale. The dimensions are approximate and may vary slightly.

Figure	Height (cm)	Width (cm)	Approximate Scale	Notes
Android 17	14.5	6	1/12	Standard SH Figuarts height for the character.
Android 18	13.5	5.5	1/12	Slightly shorter due to the character’s build.
Cell (Perfect Form)	18	8	1/12	Taller due to Cell’s physique.
Goku	14.5	6	1/12	Similar height to Android 17, reflecting their comparable character sizes.

This table provides a visual reference to the relative size of the Android 17 figure in relation to other figures in the SH Figuarts DBZ line, ensuring collectors can effectively arrange their displays.

Materials and Build Quality

Let’s delve into the tangible aspects of the SH Figuarts Android 17 figure. We’ll examine the materials that bring this iconic character to life, scrutinize the construction’s resilience, and see how the design cleverly utilizes these materials for dynamic posing. This section provides a behind-the-scenes look at what makes this figure a collectible.The construction of the figure employs a strategic blend of materials to achieve both aesthetic accuracy and poseability.

These materials work in concert to create a figure that’s not only visually appealing but also capable of withstanding the rigors of posing and display.

Material Composition

The SH Figuarts Android 17 figure is primarily crafted from two main materials, each contributing unique properties to the final product. These materials are chosen for their balance of detail, durability, and flexibility.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC is extensively used for the figure’s body, including the torso, limbs, and head. This material allows for intricate sculpting and detailed surface textures, enabling the figure to accurately represent Android 17’s appearance, including the nuances of his clothing and facial features. PVC is also relatively cost-effective, which helps keep the figure accessible.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): ABS plastic is utilized for the figure’s joints and structural components. ABS offers superior strength and rigidity compared to PVC, making it ideal for the areas that experience the most stress during articulation. This ensures the figure can withstand repeated posing without damage. ABS also provides a smoother surface finish, which can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the figure.

Durability and Build Assessment

The durability of the SH Figuarts Android 17 figure is a key factor in its appeal as a collectible. The careful selection and combination of materials contribute to a robust build.The joints are engineered to provide a secure hold while allowing for a wide range of motion. The figure is designed to withstand normal handling and posing. However, it’s important to remember that these are collectible figures and should be treated with care.Here are some points to consider regarding the figure’s durability:

Joint Integrity: The use of ABS plastic in the joints ensures a solid connection, reducing the risk of wear and tear over time. Proper care and handling are still recommended to maintain the joint’s integrity.
Paint Application: The paint application is typically of high quality, designed to resist chipping and fading under normal display conditions. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to preserve the paint’s vibrancy.
Material Properties: Both PVC and ABS are generally resistant to common environmental factors. The figure can withstand moderate exposure to humidity and temperature variations, but prolonged exposure to extreme conditions should be avoided.

Design and Material Integration for Articulation

The design of the SH Figuarts Android 17 figure strategically integrates the chosen materials to maximize articulation and posing possibilities. This integration is crucial for capturing dynamic action poses.The figure’s articulation points are thoughtfully placed to mimic the natural movement of the human body. The materials are selected to support this articulation without compromising the figure’s structural integrity or aesthetic appeal.Here’s how the materials contribute to the figure’s poseability:

Joint Design: The ball-and-socket joints, commonly used in SH Figuarts figures, are constructed from ABS for strength. The design allows for a wide range of motion in the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees.
Material Flexibility: PVC’s flexibility allows for natural movement in the limbs and torso, while ABS provides the structural support needed for the joints.
Range of Motion: The figure is engineered to achieve a wide range of poses, from subtle gestures to dynamic action stances. The careful placement of articulation points, combined with the material properties, enables this versatility.
Example: The design allows the figure to replicate iconic poses from the anime, such as Android 17’s signature stance with arms crossed or a fighting pose with outstretched arms, showcasing the seamless integration of materials and design.

Posing and Display Options

Android 17, with his cool demeanor and formidable power, lends himself to a multitude of dynamic poses that can truly bring your SH Figuarts figure to life. Capturing his essence requires understanding his fighting style and personality. Let’s explore how to make the most of this incredible figure through pose selection and display techniques.

Dynamic Pose Suggestions

Android 17’s fighting style is a blend of speed, agility, and raw power. The SH Figuarts figure allows you to replicate these aspects through various poses. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Charging Ki Blast: Recreate the moment Android 17 gathers energy to unleash a powerful Ki blast. This involves positioning the figure with one arm extended forward, hand cupped, and the other arm drawn back, as if preparing to fire. A slight lean forward adds to the dynamic feel. The figure’s face should convey a look of intense concentration.
Defensive Stance: Android 17 often adopts a defensive stance, ready to block or counterattack. Pose the figure with arms crossed in front of the body, legs slightly bent, and a determined expression on the face. This pose emphasizes his resilience and strategic thinking.
High-Speed Dash: Capture the figure in mid-dash, showcasing his incredible speed. This can be achieved by angling the body forward, with one leg extended and the other bent at the knee. Consider adding a blur effect using some creative photography techniques, such as using cotton or other materials to simulate movement.
Energy Barrier: Android 17’s energy barrier is a signature move. Position the figure with arms raised and hands forming a spherical shape, as if creating the barrier. A neutral or slightly strained expression on the face would suit this pose perfectly.
Unleashing a Barrage: Simulate a rapid series of attacks by posing the figure with a clenched fist and the other arm drawn back, as if throwing a punch. Consider alternating this with other punches or kicks to create a sense of movement.

Achieving Iconic Poses

Replicating iconic poses from the anime requires attention to detail. Several key moments define Android 17’s character. Here’s how to recreate some of the most memorable ones:

The Stand-Off: Recreate the tense moments where Android 17 faces his opponents. This pose typically involves a confident stance with arms at the sides or crossed, a slight smirk on the face, and a look that suggests he is in control.
The Energy Blast Preparation: Capture the moment Android 17 charges his energy blasts, just before unleashing them. One arm should be extended with an open hand, palm facing forward, while the other is drawn back near the waist, as if holding back. The figure’s face should be serious, reflecting his focus.
The Final Blow: Recreate the decisive moments where Android 17 delivers the final blow. This pose could involve a powerful kick or punch, with the figure’s body angled forward and a look of determination.

Displaying the Figure Effectively

The way you display your Android 17 figure can significantly enhance its impact. Here are some tips to consider:

Lighting: Use lighting to highlight the figure’s details. Spotlights can emphasize the figure’s musculature and the intricate paintwork. Backlighting can create dramatic shadows and add depth to the display.
Backdrops: Choose backdrops that complement the figure and its poses. For example, a backdrop depicting a desolate landscape or a futuristic cityscape can enhance the figure’s environment. Consider using printed backgrounds or even creating your own custom displays.
Accessories: Use included accessories to enhance the display. The energy effects can be attached to the figure’s hands or feet to simulate Ki blasts.
Positional Variation: Experiment with different poses to find the most visually appealing configuration. Consider changing the poses periodically to keep your display fresh and engaging.
Base Integration: Use the figure’s base effectively. This can be used to add height, stability, and visual interest to the display.

Comparison with Other Android 17 Figures: Sh Figuarts Dragon Ball Z Android 17

The world of Android 17 figures is surprisingly diverse, spanning various toy lines and price points. Evaluating the SH Figuarts version necessitates a comparative analysis to understand its strengths and weaknesses relative to its competitors. This involves examining articulation, accessories, and overall execution, allowing for a well-informed assessment of its value proposition.

Articulation and Accessories

Articulation and accessories are key differentiators in the figure market. Examining how each figure handles posing and what extras it includes reveals a lot about its target audience and intended play experience. The SH Figuarts Android 17, as we know, emphasizes posability and detail.For comparison, let’s consider a few alternatives:* Dragon Stars Android 17 (Bandai): This line is generally more budget-friendly and aimed at a broader audience.

S.H. Figuarts Android 17 (Bootleg)

There are many bootleg versions.

Android 17 Figure from a “High-End” Line (e.g., Figurise Standard, if available)

Some companies focus on high detail, complex builds, and often a higher price point.Now, here’s a comparative overview:

Articulation: The SH Figuarts figure boasts superior articulation compared to the Dragon Stars version. This allows for a wider range of dynamic poses, capturing the character’s energy and combat stances. The bootleg versions are hit or miss, often sacrificing articulation for aesthetics. The “High-End” figure would likely rival or exceed the SH Figuarts in this regard, with more points of articulation and advanced engineering.
Accessories: SH Figuarts typically includes multiple interchangeable hands, faces, and energy effect parts. The Dragon Stars version might offer fewer accessories, focusing on the basic essentials. The bootleg versions often skimp on accessories. A “High-End” figure would likely offer a more extensive array of accessories, potentially including multiple head sculpts, effect parts, and even display bases.

Pros and Cons of the SH Figuarts Figure Relative to Alternatives

Here’s a breakdown of the SH Figuarts Android 17, weighing its advantages and disadvantages against the competition.

Pros:

Exceptional articulation allows for a wide range of dynamic poses, perfectly recreating scenes from the anime.
High level of detail and accurate sculpting, capturing Android 17’s likeness effectively.
Generally comes with a good selection of accessories, enhancing display options.
High-quality materials and build construction contribute to its durability and premium feel.

Cons:

Price point is typically higher than budget-friendly options like Dragon Stars.
Some collectors might find the overall size of the figure a bit small.
Availability can be an issue, as SH Figuarts figures often sell out quickly.

Availability and Pricing

Obtaining the SH Figuarts Android 17 figure can be a thrilling quest for any collector. The journey involves navigating the secondary market and understanding the fluctuations in value that often accompany sought-after collectibles. Knowing the original retail price and the current market dynamics is crucial for making informed decisions.

Original Retail Price

The initial retail price of the SH Figuarts Android 17 figure varied slightly depending on the region and the retailer. However, a general estimate places the original price around $60 to $70 USD. This price reflected the quality, articulation, and accessories included with the figure at the time of its release.

Current Market Value and Potential Price Fluctuations

The secondary market for the SH Figuarts Android 17 figure is subject to various factors that influence its price. These include the figure’s rarity, condition, demand from collectors, and overall market trends for Dragon Ball Z collectibles. Prices can vary significantly based on these elements.The price of a used figure in good condition can range from $80 to $120 USD.

Mint-in-box (MIB) figures, particularly those with no signs of wear and tear, can command higher prices, potentially exceeding $150 USD or even more, depending on the specific release and any included bonus items.

Keep an eye on these factors when assessing the price:

Condition: Figures in pristine condition are always more valuable.

Accessories: Complete figures with all original accessories fetch higher prices.

Rarity: Limited editions or figures that are no longer in production are generally more expensive.

The value of this figure, like other collectibles, is also influenced by broader market trends. For instance, increased popularity of Dragon Ball Z or a resurgence of interest in specific characters can drive up prices. Conversely, a saturated market with an oversupply of figures can lead to price drops. Collectors should keep a close watch on these trends to anticipate potential fluctuations.

Common Places to Purchase the Figure, Sh figuarts dragon ball z android 17

Finding the SH Figuarts Android 17 figure requires exploring various channels. Here are some of the most common places to search:

Online Retailers: Websites such as Amazon, eBay, and specialty figure retailers are often good starting points. Prices vary, so comparing different sellers is important.
Collector Communities: Dedicated online forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit communities dedicated to Dragon Ball Z figures can be excellent resources. Collectors often sell figures within these communities, and you may find better deals.
Local Comic Book Stores and Collectibles Shops: These brick-and-mortar stores sometimes stock older figures, and they provide a chance to inspect the figure before buying.
Auction Sites: Platforms like eBay are also useful for finding the figure. Auctions can lead to competitive bidding, so setting a budget is crucial.

Collecting and Customization

The Android 17 SH Figuarts figure, like any collectible, is an investment. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, taking care of your figure and exploring customization options will significantly enhance your enjoyment and the value of your purchase. This section provides insights into preserving your figure’s pristine condition and unleashing your creativity through modifications.

Maintaining Figure Condition

Preserving the figure’s condition requires proactive measures to safeguard it from environmental factors and physical damage. This ensures its longevity and maintains its value over time.

Storage: Store your Android 17 figure in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Sunlight can fade the paint and cause the plastic to become brittle. Consider using a display case or a dust-proof container to protect it from dust and debris.
Cleaning: Regularly clean the figure with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the paint and plastic. For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp cloth with a mild soap solution, but ensure the figure is completely dry afterward.
Handling: Handle the figure with clean hands to prevent oils and dirt from transferring onto the surface. Avoid excessive posing or articulation, as this can lead to wear and tear over time. Be careful when swapping out accessories, as some parts are delicate.
Display: If displaying the figure, consider using a display stand to prevent it from tipping over and potentially causing damage. Rotate the figure periodically to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight on a single area.

Common Customizations and Modifications

Customization is a popular aspect of the hobby, allowing collectors to personalize their figures and create unique displays. These modifications can range from simple enhancements to more complex projects.

Repainting: Repainting is a common customization method that involves applying new paint to the figure. This can be used to improve the accuracy of the figure’s colors, add weathering effects, or create custom color schemes.
Adding Accessories: Collectors often add custom-made accessories or swap existing ones from other figures to enhance the figure’s appearance. This might involve adding weapons, energy effects, or alternate hands.
Articulation Modifications: Some collectors modify the figure’s articulation points to improve its poseability. This can involve adding new joints or modifying existing ones to allow for a wider range of motion.
Kitbashing: Kitbashing involves combining parts from different figures to create a new, unique figure. This requires a good understanding of figure construction and a willingness to experiment.

Guide to Safe Customization

Customizing your Android 17 figure can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to approach it with caution and care to avoid damaging the figure. The following steps will guide you through the process safely.

Planning and Research: Before starting any customization, plan your project thoroughly. Research the techniques you’ll be using and gather all the necessary materials and tools. Consider the desired outcome and the potential risks involved.
Disassembly: Carefully disassemble the figure if necessary. Use a hairdryer to soften the plastic if the parts are glued together. Take pictures during disassembly to help with reassembly.
Painting: If repainting, prime the figure with a suitable primer to help the paint adhere. Use high-quality acrylic paints designed for plastic models. Apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat to avoid obscuring details and creating a textured surface. Consider using an airbrush for a smoother finish.
Accessory Modifications: When adding accessories, ensure they fit properly and do not interfere with the figure’s articulation. Use appropriate adhesives, such as super glue or plastic cement, to secure the accessories.
Safety Precautions: Always work in a well-ventilated area when using paints, solvents, and adhesives. Wear a mask and gloves to protect yourself from harmful fumes and chemicals.
Tools: Having the right tools is crucial for successful customization. Here’s a list of essential tools:
- Hobby Knife: For precise cutting and trimming.
- Sandpaper: For smoothing surfaces and removing imperfections.
- Files: For shaping and refining details.
- Paint Brushes: A variety of sizes for different painting tasks.
- Airbrush (Optional): For applying smooth, even coats of paint.
- Super Glue: For securing parts.
- Plastic Cement: For joining plastic parts.
Examples of Customization Projects:
- Weathering: Applying washes and dry brushing techniques to simulate wear and tear on the figure. This can be achieved using acrylic paints and weathering powders. Imagine Android 17, after intense battles, with subtle scratches and dirt marks.
- Energy Effects: Creating custom energy effects, such as Ki blasts or energy auras, using clear resin or other materials. This could involve crafting a glowing energy sphere for his hands, using clear plastic rods or translucent resins to simulate energy blasts.
- Head Swaps: Swapping the figure’s head with a custom-sculpted head or a head from another figure to create a unique look. Imagine swapping out the standard head for a battle-damaged version, adding a sense of intensity.
Reassembly: Once the customization is complete, carefully reassemble the figure. Refer to your disassembly photos to ensure all parts are correctly placed.
Sealing: After painting, seal the figure with a clear coat to protect the paint from scratches and wear. This also gives the figure a consistent finish.

Illustrative Breakdown of the Figure

Let’s dive into a detailed exploration of the SH Figuarts Android 17 figure, breaking down its visual components to truly appreciate the craftsmanship and design. We’ll examine the head sculpt, clothing, and accessories to understand what makes this figure so captivating.

Head Sculpt

The head sculpt of Android 17 is a crucial element in capturing his character. It’s the first thing that draws your eye, so getting it right is paramount.The figure’s hair is meticulously sculpted, mimicking the character’s distinct spiky style. Each strand appears to be individually crafted, giving the impression of dynamic movement. The texture is rough, as if it’s been exposed to the elements, adding to the realism.The facial expression is a neutral, almost stoic gaze.

The eyes are sharp and focused, with a hint of a knowing smirk playing on his lips. This conveys his cool and collected personality. The eyes are a key element, with realistic painting and depth, creating a captivating presence.

Clothing

Android 17’s clothing is instantly recognizable, and the figure replicates it with impressive detail. The colors, textures, and even the subtle wear-and-tear effects contribute to the overall authenticity.The primary color scheme consists of black, orange, and blue. The figure wears a black jacket with orange accents, mirroring his iconic look. The jacket’s texture appears to be slightly worn, suggesting a life of action.

The pants are a deep blue, with a subtle texture that hints at the material’s flexibility.The detailing includes the logos and insignias that are present on the original design. These small touches add a layer of authenticity and completeness to the figure’s appearance. The stitching and seams are also carefully rendered, adding to the realism of the clothing.

Accessories

Accessories can greatly enhance a figure’s display options. The Android 17 figure is no exception.The figure often comes with interchangeable hands, allowing for a variety of poses. These hands are designed to hold different accessories or to convey specific gestures. The size and shape of the hands are proportional to the rest of the figure, ensuring a realistic look.

One of the most common accessories is energy effect parts, designed to simulate Ki blasts. These are typically translucent, with varying shades of blue or yellow, creating a dynamic display.
The effect parts are sculpted to match the character’s energy blasts. They often have a swirling or radiating design, capturing the power and intensity of the attacks.
Additional accessories, such as different facial expressions or a dedicated base stand, can further enhance the figure’s display options.