Zap! Ray Gun Classics

by Leslie Singer

Assembled here in 100 full-color photographs are the classic exciting ray guns that inspired many a galactic showdown for boys & girls alike — guns that have now become rare & valuable collectors items. Originated with the Art Deco ray guns of the thirties, these toys have evolved over the years into elaborately colored & detailed guns. Every ray gun here will spark a memory for anyone who grew up in America during the past half-century. This splendid collection will delight the casual nostalgia buff & prove a valuable resource for collectors, who will appreciate the vintage gun price guide included in this volume. Bibliography.

Genres: Art

96 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1991

Reviews

[Ann Leysen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with so many purchases, Zap! has been on our bookshelf for years without taking time to read it. Now that I finally did (it only took about an hour to get through it) I wondered why it took me so long for it to get my well deserved attention. The similarities between the author and myself as an avid collector of all things cool is striking. Leslie Singer stresses that his book is an overview of his collection and not a comprehensive guide to collectible ray guns - an approach I dig. Furthermore, Singer explains he moves toward toys that are not in mint condition because "a toy that has been played with has had a life breathed into it - like a broken-in baseball glove. The scratches, scuffs, and dents are proof that its purpose in life has been fulfilled." I love this guy. I love his words. He is so wise! So good to read that my own collecting approach which is often criticized, is finally shared by someone who published this fantastic book in the early 90s. With only images and few notes he made me go on a nostalgic trip this sunny Sunday afternoon full of thunderstorms. In hindsight the prices in the back of this book published in 1991 illustrate how much value ray guns have gained over the years. Reminiscing about Buck Rogers, Flash Gordon, my childhood in the 70s and 80s, my water (and cowboy) guns and paper poppers was one of the highlights of this day thanks to Singer. Seeing some of the ray guns which are in our own collection in the book triggered starting thinking about buying more. I also rediscovered my love for Big Little Books in just one photo. Let me rest my case here. Time to go. Off to Ebay.

[Alan Amron · Rating 5 out of 5]

The classic toy guns all in one book

[Little Timmy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you grew up with toy ray guns this is a book for you. Tons of old guns I remember having. Great source and reference book. Very recommended