Thanks for checking out our review of the Medicom Mafex #181 Steel Action Figure. I know he's been out for a while, but since I only recently added the figure... I wanted to share my thoughts on it. Right from the start, I have to admit to being fairly impressed with Steel. My figure has a couple of small issues but overall is pretty darn sweet.
Steel, also known as John Henry Irons, is a celebrated superhero in the DC Comics universe who first appeared in The Adventures of Superman #500 in 1993. Inspired by Superman’s sacrifice during his battle with Doomsday, Irons, a brilliant weapons engineer, dons a technologically advanced suit of armor to protect Metropolis and carry on the legacy of the fallen hero. With his massive sledgehammer and near-impenetrable armor, Steel stands as a symbol of justice and resilience.
Accessories 9/10
Medicom’s Mafex #181 Steel action figure comes packed with an impressive array of accessories:
Three interchangeable head sculpts (mouth closed, teeth bared, yelling expression)
Five extra pairs of interchangeable hands
Boot thrust effects for dynamic flight poses
A two-piece hammer (compact and extended form)
A wired cape for enhanced posing options, allowing for dramatic flowing and wind-swept effects while remaining sturdy and maintaining shape
These accessories allow collectors to capture Steel’s personality and create diverse, action-packed displays.
Appearance 9/10
Medicom has done a stellar job capturing the intricate details of Steel’s iconic armor. The figure boasts a striking bluish silver tone for the body that adds depth and a unique sheen, contrasting nicely with the brighter silver accents on specific armor pieces. This dual-toned approach enhances the visual appeal and highlights the segmented nature of the suit.
Each of the three head sculpts is distinct, with sharp, expressive features that faithfully represent John Henry Irons' stoic heroism and fierce determination. The paint applications are clean, with subtle shading that adds depth and prevents the figure from appearing flat.
The cape is another highlight, featuring built-in wires that allow for increased posing options. Collectors can create dramatic flowing or wind-swept effects, adding dynamism to any display. Despite the flexibility, the wires remain sturdy, ensuring the cape holds its shape well and stays in place.
Articulation 8.5/10
Medicom’s Mafex figures are known for their high level of articulation, and Steel is no exception. The figure boasts over 30 points of articulation, including double-jointed elbows and knees, as well as a ball-jointed torso and hips that allow for fluid, lifelike movement. This extensive range enables a variety of action-packed poses, from wielding the hammer overhead to recreating powerful flying stances with the boot thrust effects.
However, the bulk of Steel’s armored design does pose minor limitations on certain poses, particularly in the shoulders and upper torso. While these restrictions are understandable given the character’s design, they are worth noting for collectors who prioritize extreme flexibility. Additionally, the hip joints, while sturdy, have a somewhat limited range of motion that affects how high the figure can kick forward. This limitation can make certain dynamic combat stances more difficult to achieve, which may be a minor drawback for those looking for maximum poseability.
Affordability 7.5/10
As with many premium Mafex releases, the price point for Steel is on the higher side, typically ranging from $120 to $150 depending on the retailer and current market trends. While this may deter some collectors, the quality and breadth of accessories, combined with Medicom’s exceptional attention to detail, justify the investment for many. For those passionate about completing their DC Comics lineup or showcasing standout armored figures, Steel is a worthy addition despite the cost.
Overall, Medicom’s Mafex #181 Steel action figure shines with its impressive accessories, detailed sculpt, and dynamic articulation. The inclusion of three expressive head sculpts and a range of hands makes this figure versatile and full of personality. The exceptional paint applications and thoughtful accessory design set it apart as a premium piece, while minor articulation limitations and the price point slightly impact the overall score of:
8 out of 10 ToyBoxes
Steel’s embodiment of resilience and strength is faithfully represented, making this figure a must-have for DC Comics enthusiasts and collectors seeking an imposing, heroic display piece. That's it for now, until next time... GEEK OUT!!!