Wolverine II

Year of release: 1992/1993; 1995 (X-Men Classics)
Figure Number:4933 (43216 X-Men Classics)
Accessories: Laser-type Pistol
Action Feature: Twist & Slash Waist; Spring out Claws

Comments: This figure, known as Wolverine II or Tiger Stripe Wolverine, featured a return to the original costume worn by Logan in the comics. The claws on this figure were spring loaded and did not stay retracted by themselves. The waist was loose to allow one to pivot the figure by using a finger or thumb on the figure's back.

This figure was re-released in 1993 with an updated cardback. The figure and accessories remained identical in all other respects. It is interesting to note that the sculpting of this figure is nearly identical to the body used for Wolverine III. There are only very subtle differences in the details of the body. The action feature is identical as is the weapon accessory. Only the head is significantly different. It is likely that the same mold was used for these two figures, perhaps with some slight retooling.

This same figure was re-released with the X-Men Classics line in 1995. The figure itself was identical to the original release. However, extra accessories were added (Wolverine I's sword, Wolverine II's original pistol, and Sabretooth I's ninja weapon). Each of the Classics figures came packaged with a special trading card representing that figure. These cards were not available outside these packages, making it a first for Toy Biz.

An interesting, yet unconfirmed rumor regarding this figure exists. It is rumored that the original release of this figure can be determined by using ultra-violet or black light. It is said that the color of the torso and legs of the original release figure will look identical under the black light. However, it is said that subsequent releases will show a difference between the legs and the torso when seen under a black light. As I said, this is totally unconfirmed, but would be interesting if actually true.