1976 Hot Wheels Redline Aw Shoot Collector Guide
Quick Value Snapshot
Current market data suggests that a loose, Excellent (EXC) to Near Mint (NM) example of the Aw Shoot typically sells between $45.00 and $95.00. Specimens with heavy paint loss or missing guns often fall below $20.00. Mint-on-card (MOC) examples are rare and command significant premiums, often exceeding $250.00 depending on card condition.
Collector Summary
Released in 1976 as a new casting, the Aw Shoot is a military-themed vehicle designed by the legendary Larry Wood. Produced in Hong Kong, it represents the later "Flying Colors" era of the Redline period. It features a heavy die-cast body and base, characterized by its distinctive mounted plastic swivel gun and rugged military profile. It is a staple for collectors focusing on military vehicles or late-era Redlines.
Known Variations and Details
- Production Location: Hong Kong.
- Base: Olive-painted metal base.
- Gun: Olive green plastic mounted gun capable of 360-degree rotation.
- Tampos: A white five-pointed star and the word "ARMY" are printed on the front hood/fender area.
- Wheels: Standard Redline wheels.
Color and Desirability Notes
Unlike many early Hot Wheels that featured a rainbow of Spectraflame colors, the Aw Shoot was produced in a utilitarian Olive Drab enamel to suit its military theme. Because there is little color variation, desirability is driven almost entirely by the crispness of the white tampos and the structural integrity of the plastic gun. Examples with bright, un-faded white printing are more sought after than those with yellowed or "ghosted" tampos.
Condition Factors That Affect Value
- The Gun: The most common flaw is a missing or snapped plastic gun. A missing gun reduces the value by 60-70%.
- Tampo Wear: The "ARMY" and star tampos are prone to chipping. Complete, centered tampos are required for "Near Mint" status.
- Edge Wear: Being a heavy casting with sharp angles, the olive enamel tends to chip along the fenders and the rear corners.
- Axle Straightness: Like all Redlines, bent axles significantly impact the stance and value of the vehicle.
Restorer Notes
Because the olive enamel is a flat, non-Spectraflame finish, it is a common candidate for amateur "touch-ups." Collectors should inspect the paint under magnification to ensure the finish is original. Replacement guns are widely available in the secondary market; however, a car with a reproduction gun should be valued lower than a 100% original survivor.
Buyer Cautions
Verify the gun's authenticity. Reproduction guns often have a slightly different plastic sheen or "flash" (excess plastic from the mold) compared to the original Hong Kong-produced parts. Additionally, ensure the gun mount (the circular base) is not cracked, as the plastic can become brittle over time.
Seller Notes
When listing an Aw Shoot, high-resolution photos of the front tampos and the gun assembly are essential. Sellers should clearly state if the gun rotates freely or if it has been glued in place. Mentioning "original gun" or "replacement gun" is vital for maintaining transparency and avoiding returns.
Pricing Analysis
The market for the Aw Shoot is stable but sensitive to condition.
| Condition |
Estimated Sold Price Range |
| Poor / Beater (Missing parts) |
$5.00 - $15.00 |
| Good / Fair (Play-worn, visible chips) |
$20.00 - $35.00 |
| Excellent (Light wear, intact tampos/gun) |
$45.00 - $70.00 |
| Near Mint / Mint (Loose) |
$80.00 - $110.00 |
Note: Confidence in these ranges is high due to consistent sales volume, though outliers exist for exceptionally "white" tampos.
Listings to Exclude or Treat Carefully
- "Restored" Cars: Do not use prices from restored or repainted cars to gauge the value of original survivors.
- Missing Gun Listings: These should be treated as "parts cars" and do not represent the market value for a complete Aw Shoot.
- Active Asking Prices: Avoid treating $150+ eBay asking prices as market value; these listings often sit for months without selling.
New Collector Advice
The Aw Shoot is an excellent entry-point for collectors interested in the late Redline era. It is relatively affordable compared to 1968-1972 models. When starting, prioritize finding an example with an original, unbroken gun, even if the paint has minor chips. Replacing the gun later can be difficult to color-match perfectly.
Advanced Collector Notes
Advanced collectors look for "Dead Mint" examples where the olive paint is smooth and devoid of the "toning" or darkening that sometimes affects Hong Kong enamel. Pay close attention to the base; a clean, un-pitted olive base is a sign of a well-preserved environment. Carded examples should be checked for "blister cracks" near the gun, as the plastic accessory often puts pressure on the bubble during shipping.
Short Page Blurb
The 1976 Aw Shoot is a Larry Wood-designed military powerhouse. Featuring a rotating olive gun and classic "ARMY" tampos, this Hong Kong-produced Redline is a favorite for those who value rugged design and functional play features. A true survivor of the Flying Colors transition era.
Disclaimer
Value guides are based on historical market trends and recent sales data. RedlinePriceGuide.com does not guarantee exact values, as the market for vintage die-cast fluctuates based on demand, platform, and individual buyer preference. Always perform your own due diligence before purchasing.
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