1985 ARCO V VISITORS LASER BLASTER TARGET GAME SET #351 BOXED COMPLETE RARE

1985 ARCO V THE VISITORS LASER BLASTER TARGET GAME SET #351 – BOXED & RARE

Offered here is an exceptionally scarce vintage 1985 ARCO Laser Blaster Target Game Set No. 351, a highly sought-after piece among collectors of V / The Visitors, vintage science-fiction toys, and 1980s action toys.

This unusual ARCO set is particularly notable for its association with the classic 1980s science-fiction television franchise V (The Visitors). The modular blaster components can be assembled into multiple configurations, including the distinctive futuristic pistol and rifle configurations associated with the Visitor weapons from the series.

Unlike many surviving examples that are found loose or incomplete, this example retains its original large illustrated ARCO box, original molded Styrofoam insert, blaster components, projectiles, accessories, and target game material printed on the reverse of the box.

SET INCLUDES

The set includes the components shown in the photographs, including:

• Working ARCO Laser Blaster pistol

• Rifle/barrel extension

• Modular scope components

• Shoulder stock components

• Rifle hand grip

• Original dart projectiles

• Original grenade-style projectiles

• Target stand

• Additional accessories/components

• Original molded Styrofoam packaging insert

• Original illustrated ARCO retail box

• Target Game Set graphics, instructions and targets printed on the reverse of the box

The front of the box advertises that the rifle version “Fires Grenades & Darts” while the pistol features “Sparkling Action & Ricochet Sound.” No batteries are required. The pistol has been tested and the Sparkling Action and Sound is functional. 

When fully assembled in rifle configuration, the packaging states that the blaster measures approximately 29 inches (74 cm) long.

V / THE VISITORS CONNECTION

This particular ARCO Laser Blaster has become a desirable collectible among fans of the classic V television franchise because of its connection to the futuristic weapons associated with the Visitors.

The modular design allows the components to be assembled in several different configurations, ranging from a compact pistol to a full-length science-fiction rifle.

Although collectors commonly associate this ARCO set with V / The Visitors, please note that the original retail packaging itself is branded ARCO “Laser Blaster Target Game Set” and does not display V or The Visitors branding. We mention the V association because it is an important part of the item's collector history, while allowing the photographs and original packaging to speak for themselves.

ORIGINAL 1980s ARCO PACKAGING

This is not a modern reproduction or reissue.

The original box is copyright marked:

© 1985 ARCO Industries, Ltd.

Model information shown on the packaging:

No. 351
Asst. No. 359

The original Toys “R” Us price sticker is also still present on the upper corner of the box, adding another great piece of period retail history.

CONDITION

This is a vintage pre-owned collectible approximately four decades old.

In overall Excellent condition, but the original box displays age and storage wear including edge/corner wear, surface wear, creasing, old tape/tape residue and other signs of age and handling. The molded Styrofoam insert also exhibits age, discoloration and wear.

The blaster components and accessories show varying degrees of storage and handling wear consistent with their age.

We have photographed the set extensively so buyers can examine the exact contents and condition.

PLEASE REVIEW ALL PHOTOS CAREFULLY. THE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE DESCRIPTION AND SHOW THE EXACT ITEM AND COMPONENTS YOU WILL RECEIVE.

No representation is made that any vintage projectile-firing toy meets current toy or safety standards. This item is being offered primarily as a vintage collectible/display piece.

A SCARCE SURVIVOR

Large boxed 1980s toy sets like this were rarely preserved intact. The packaging was bulky, the accessories were easily separated or lost, and many examples were heavily played with or discarded.

Finding an ARCO Laser Blaster today is difficult enough; finding one still housed in its original illustrated box with Styrofoam insert and numerous original components and projectiles is considerably more desirable.

It is an impressive display piece for collectors of:

V / The Visitors • 1980s Sci-Fi • Vintage ARCO Toys • Retro Toy Weapons • Vintage Target Games • Science-Fiction Props & Memorabilia • 1980s Television Collectibles • Vintage Toys

A very unusual opportunity to add this seldom-seen 1985 ARCO Laser Blaster Target Game Set #351 to an advanced vintage science-fiction or V collection.

Sold exactly as pictured. Please examine all photographs for contents, completeness and condition before purchasing.