This next model is somewhat usual and somewhat outside the scope of what we’re used to reviewing here at DiecastSociety.com.  At first sight, our thoughts are this is uber cool, something different, something refreshing, a switch from the regaular sport and supercar themes.  We present here in 1:18 Fallout Pick-R-Up Utility Vehicle from The Wand Company.  Suggested retail $99 US.

If you haven’t heard of the manufacturer or brand, they are a UK based team.  Small in size doesn’t mean small results, the team has many release that might just be up your alley.  The Wand Company dabbles in unique finds from pop culture, some past inventions include the Star Trek Communicator and Kymera Wand.  One of their recent releases is another stunning addition to the Fallout series, the 1:18 Nuka-Cola Delivery Truck – it is now listed on their website check it out it is stunning!

The model’s packaging is a presentation for the senses.  The exterior jacket is colourful in design and provides a hint to what’s inside.  Once removed you find cardboard finished box with various graphics and information about the model.  One more step and the model is revealed in a protective Styrofoam shell.  In additions to the model, the team supplies some goodies for you.  These include Chryslus Pick-R-Up Technical Guide, Five Year Service Pin and Post Card featuring Pick-R-Up Utility Vehicle.  For those that purchase the model via the retail route, you will also receive Garage Receipt and a Certificate of Authenticity.  There is more but we’ll get into that later on.

There are actually three versions of the Pick-R-Up Utility Vehicle.  One includes the standard edition as we present here – limited to 2500 pieces worldwide.  There is also Limited-Edition Red Rocket Service Vehicle Pick-U-Up (Golden Yellow) limited edition of 400 and finally the Limited-Edition Nuka-Cola Pick-R-Up another limited edition of 111 pieces.

As for the model itself, she features diecast exterior completed with other metal and plastic parts.  It also offers 360 access and unique bonus feature too.   As for paint application, the Cherry Red Metallic finish on our example was flawless in execution from front to back.  Shutlines are solid and panel gaps aren’t finest level craftsmenship but they are more than capable.  Chrome work throughout is solid too, this is more evident on the front section.

The front of the Pick-R-Up is dominated by a massive grille – LOL it will definitely give some rappers a run for their money!  Work here is nicely executed.  In behind the chrome, there is Black mesh grille, perforated too.  It doesn’t reveal any on the motor detail.

Pop the hood and more chrome is found as the primary colour with the motor and exhaust work.   Here is where you find the extra bonus feature, we mentioned earlier.  This vehicle is equipped with the nuclear powerplant, the core is removable and it lights up too.  Uber cool!  As for the overall detail, it is good but seasoned collectors looking for up-scale hinge work and a highly detailed motor won’t get that level of detail here.

As we move to the rear the large bed leads to two missile style taillights on either side.  The rear hatch is functional.  Our example was flawless, smooth as butter in operation.  Move down a little and recent centre portion helps defines the massive fenders.  Nice on the metal step!

Wheels are nicely crafted here too.  Great work on the centre chrome hub.  Tires are also crafted with rubber material.  The front tires do provide steering adjustment, though not connected to the interior steering wheel.  The undercarriage does reveal some of the suspension working and structural engineering of the Pick-R-Up.  This is also where the batteries or should say where the plutonium is inserted for the nuclear powerplant.

Inside the cockpit, the interior is nicely cast in diecast metal.  The doors cards are decent in detail chrome grab handle and speaker are present.  Dash is mated to the steering wheel; this is all completed in plastic. We give above average marks to the detail here.  The single seat is executed in plastic too – in all the interior is decent for the price point.

Friends, collectors, we think diecast metal isn’t dead.  The team at The Wand Company with their replica of the 1:18 Fallout Pick-R-Up Utility Vehicle has provided a cool romance of fantasy and scale.  The model in some aspects is toy-ish but that’s what we think gives it the added charm.   Overall design along with fit and finish make it a desirable product.  If you’re looking something outside the box look more into The Wand Company for some fascinating examples.  We gives this one two thumbs up.  Enjoy the pics!

Now we wouldn’t be doing our job if we don’t ask the tough questions.  How can a small company like The Wand Company produce a fully opening, diecast metal replica and retail for less than $100 US?  We don’t believe they cornered the market on efficiencies.  And based on our calculations production is slightly more than 3000 units based on the three variants issued.  Surely the big boys like AUTOart who almost abandoned diecast metal for composite and Minichamps who release more sealed diecast with mediocre detail have a better understanding of product development and associated costs.  Are we collectors getting hosed?  What are your thoughts?