Triceratops 1:15 (CollectA)

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One of the standout pieces in CollectA’s 2012 lineup is this 1:15 scale reconstruction of Triceratops. The creation of this piece was certainly influenced by the success of CollectA’s giant 1:15 Tyrannosaurus model. However, while the giant Rex was essentially a “blown up” version of their popular “Deluxe” sized figure, this Triceratops is an entirely new sculpt. It is a whopping 26 inches in length.

One of the benefits of this quadrupedal model is that it stands quite comfortably on its own, requiring no base like its carnivorous predecessor. The model seems largely hollow and lightweight, slightly pliable in some areas, and generally a safe choice for tots, provided they aren’t prone to gouging their faces with pointy objects. This, combined with its relatively compact design, means it is surely easier to move around than the Rex, and we all know that base-free figures lend greater playability.

Of course, most people reading this review are probably unconcerned with child safety. They want to know how accurate the model is, am I right? Well, this is certainly progress for CollectA, but there are a few areas that could use improving. The feet aren’t quite correct, and face directly forward. The head could use a bit of symmetry retooling as well.

That being said, most of the sculpt is impressive. The incorporation of a short tuft of quills over the hips is certainly daring, and based on some recent fossil evidence. It is fairly unobtrusive, and that of course keeps the figure a bit safer around children as well. The teeth are visible within the beak, and the eye glistens impressively, a bit like the Megacerops. Perhaps my favorite aspect is the adornment of the frill, which clearly emphasizes the role of display. Too many figures ignore this feature today. It’s also nice to see that this pattern has consistency across the line, as the newly repainted Deluxe model and carcass figures have the same paint apps.

Elongated patterns cover the ventral side of the body, while the flanks appear to have tough-looking scutes. The frill’s texture is also interesting, with hexagonal surfaces aplenty. Although they are not exactly finely-textured, this variety adds considerable aesthetic appeal.

CollectA has done more than their fair share of ceratopsians, and it can be safely said that this is one of their most impressive. The pose is active as expected, with the head tilted upward in a somewhat menacing bellow. The legs have a sullied look to them, another aspect which I feel is often underused in dinosaur models. For those interested, the cloaca appears to have been enhanced with a spot of dark brown. Let your imagination run wild.

Although it is certainly more affordable than a high-end resin model of comparable size, one wonders if it is really a low enough price point to appeal to parents looking to appease rowdy young children. It seems at times to struggle between child-friendly appeal and scientific accuracy. For those collectors with enough cash to spare, it definitely has the size necessary to grab your attention in a room. The only question is, which room does it belong in?