As any sci-fi fan knows, collecting related memorabilia is part of the game. It’s fun, and it makes for excellent interior decorating. Move aside, Grandmother’s Wallpaper, we’ve got some honest-to-goodness science fiction classics coming in!
I got myself a late little Christmas present, Quantum Mechanix’s Star Trek: TNG replica communicator badge (say that ten times in a row!).
It was advertised to be “real” metal, but you know how such things can go. Any collector knows how misleading product descriptions can be. “Deluxe Adult Star Trek Tunic” is at the top of my list when it comes to this. Almost any Star Trek fan knows what I’m talking about, the overpriced costumes of the wear once variety–an innocent gesture like sneezing, and you have a series of runs in your not-so-spectacular command tunic.
I decided to take the plunge and get this one because there was no evidence of the wear-once-phenomenon in the reviews. I was thrilled when I opened it to find that the metal was solid, and not the weak sort that bends when you bump into something. It’s a little on the heavy side, but I like it. The weight gives it a more realistic appearance.
It comes with a strong magnet and metal backing instead of a pin-like clasp. I was skeptical of it at first, but once I put it on, I found that the large back helps keep it from drooping (I’ve found that some badges and broaches with clasps will sag). The magnet works through heavy fabrics–just don’t put several layers between it and the back! It holds up pretty well.
I give it 5/5 starships!
It’s fun, it’s durable, it has a nice shine, and it is a decent replica. I recommend this for all TNG fans with a $20 bill that is burning a hole in their pockets.
