Judges Score: 9.06

Judges' Commentary:

- Very nicely done, I have seen the actual model of this concept from the bygone era of 1990's Joe, and I am impressed with the level of playability here. Clean and nicely done.

- Sweet merciful Zeus! This is a fantastic custom with a lot of fabrication going into the weapon system. Most impressive work.

- This looks deceptively easy, but let me assure anyone looking, those cuts are super clean and the removable, playable launcher is fantastic. This one goes beyond custom and enters the area of a preproduction mock-up. That is the level of skill it takes to pull this off.

- I think it completely looks like it fits in the GI JOE line.

- Wouldn't expect anything less from AVAC. The dude's vehicle custom skill is unmatched. He KNOWS how to make things that fit in your collection, whether they are from his own mind, whether he's just changing a few things around, or if he's dragging something out of GI JOE's history...his stuff LOOKS like it was released or should have been.

- This was a wonderful piece, and a perfect example of what this contest is all about. This vehicle demonstrates superior craftsmanship, inspiration, innovation, and talent.

I am a big fan of Guy Cassady and any excuse to get another version of his Rolling Thunder the better.

The cannon mount spins 360 degrees and attached to that is a European cabinet hinge that allows the cannon to move up and down. The cannon is kept parallel and stable by hidden rare earth magnets while lowered or in down position. It's this hinge that allows it to be detached from the "Man-O-War" chasse to be used as a personal toy firearm with a rotating top stabilizer handle as a shout out to 90's over the top "play action". The cannon is also easily removable for upgrades. The crank on the barrel box does spin, however, at this time, the cannon does not fire. The middle section opens for troop and supply storage. The vehicle is durable and made with the best fasteners, auto paint, and laquer. Very little to no glue used on the construction of this vehicle.

I had a fantastic time working on this project, thanks to everyone who put this together. It was hectic to work within the hard deadline but also thrilling, it really squeezed the creativity out of me. It was a refreshing experience, especially with all the repetition I have subjected myself to lately. Thanks for checking her out, all the best, YO JOE!! Avac.