Holiday Gift Guide
It’s that magical time of year again! The time when the malls are packed with eager (and often grumpy) shoppers, when trimming the tree becomes the next project on your to-do list and holiday cheer attempts to fill every inch of your home. It’s a time for giving and receiving gifts and being asked “So, what do you want this year?” Although loved ones and friends may not be able to fulfill your wish list that’s stocked with a new skid steer or backhoe, perhaps they can satisfy your craving for a new machine with a detailed die-cast model. With similar features as their larger counterparts, these replicas can fill the void for new equipment, with no maintenance or hefty spending required.
Over the next few pages, we showcase the latest die-cast models that are available from your favorite manufacturers, books that can teach you a thing or two about popular equipment companies and toys and games that can excite the young and old alike. So, take the time to explore these pint-size replicas and other merchandise that promise to give you that extra holiday glow and maybe you can find something perfect for you, or even better, someone on your holiday gift list.
JLG Industries ATLAS II Military Telehandlers
Two die-cast ATLAS II military telehandler models have been introduced by JLG Industries. Exceeding 16 in. in length, the replicas can extend their three-section booms more than 10 in. at angles up to 45 degrees. The ATLAS II models boast paint and decals, true to the original machines. A highly detailed operator’s cab and engine compartment also add to the authenticity of these die-cast reproductions.
The models feature 20 fully functioning parts giving them the ability to roll forward and backward, as well as lift and extend their boom arms and rotate their wheels into crab steer, four-wheel steer and two-wheel steer modes. The ATLAS II military telehandlers are available in olive drab or desert sand. For more information or to order, go to www.jlgmerchandise.com. RS#50
Volvo 13033 Backhoe Loader
This backhoe loader replica from Volvo is a fully die-cast metal model. It features a triple-function front bucket and a backhoe arm, which can slide left to right with lock position. Foldout legs allow the machine to be stabilized. The detailed cab also has a steering wheel and controls similar to the real machine. The model is not suitable for children under 3 years and costs $43. For more information or to purchase this model, visit www.volvobrandshop.com. RS#51
1960 Vintage Cat 988 Wheel Loader
The holidays are meant for reminiscing and Classic Construction Models, of Beaverton, Ore., has produced its own piece of nostalgia through the creation of a 1960’s vintage Cat 988 wheel loader die-cast model. The 1:48-scale replica boasts the same features as the original, including rubber tires, wear plates on the bucket and a cooling fan located on the engine. A complete cab interior adds to the authenticity of the model, as well as a realistic drive-train and scale appropriate railings. Created with collectors in mind, the model was designed through the combination of rigorous field surveys and incorporated the latest in model-making technology. Only 2,500 models have been produced and individually cost $129.95. For more information or to purchase this model, visit www.ccmodels.com. RS#52
ASV Posi-Track SR-80 Rubber Track Loader
There’s a first time for everything and for ASV that came with the introduction of its first die-cast scale model, the Posi-Track SR-80 rubber track loader. The 1:32-scale replica features a moving rubber track, working loader arms and functioning quick-attach interface — just like the real-life machine it imitates. The model is approximately 3.5 in. long, 2.25 in. wide and 2.75 in. high. ASV loaded the replica with an array of interchangeable work tools, including a general purpose bucket, tine grapple and pallet forks. The SR-80 rubber track loader model can be purchased for $14.95 through ASV dealers or online at www.asvi.com. RS#53
Bobcat T190 RC Compact Track Loader
With the Bobcat T190 RC compact track loader, you take control of the machine. The loader, which is designed to look and function like its much larger counterpart, is operated by a hand controller in two frequencies — 26.995 and 27.095 mhz. Through radio crystals inside the controller, the receiver limits the communication to only those frequencies, minimizing interference from outside sources and providing more remote drive to the machine. The hand controller is used for directional purposes, moving the loader forward and reverse and even turning it. The T190 is powered by a rechargeable 7.2v battery pack. The hand controller, battery, charger and 9v battery for the hand controller are packaged with each unit. The loader is available from www.bobcatstore.com. RS#54
Komatsu WB140 Backhoe Loader
From the fully detailed cab interior to the functioning outriggers and stabilizer shoes, the Komatsu WB140 backhoe loader is assembled from more than 170 parts. Individual body features include grated steps, grab handles, light bar with hand-painted lights and a smoke stack. The transparent cab windows showcase the fully-detailed interior with loader and backhoe controls, hand and foot throttles, instrument panel, steering wheel and shaft and swivel seat. The functioning loader arms and cylinders accommodate either a working multi-purpose bucket or pallet forks; both are included. To purchase, visit www.3000toys.com. RS#55
Mini Cat Die-Cast Replicas
To ease the financial burden of holiday gift giving, Norscot introduced a line of affordable “construction minis,” which includes four miniature replicates of Caterpillar equipment. The Cat 420E backhoe loader, Cat 906 compact wheel loader, Cat 315C excavator and Cat D5G XL track-type tractor were all shrunk down to 2 in. in length and sculpted into die-cast collectibles. Each model has authentic Cat decoration and their very own clear display case. The individual models are equipped with their own unique movable parts. For example, the 420E model is ready for work with a moving loader arm and backhoe boom. The suggested retail price of each model is $1.97 and all are available at participating Caterpillar dealers and select Wal-Mart stores. RS#56
Curl Up with a Good Book – Top Manufacturers Release Books Detailing Their Rich Histories
Bobcat Marks 50 Years with Commemorative Book
The Bobcat Co. is marking its 50th anniversary with the release of Bobcat: Fifty Years of Opportunity — 1958-2008, a hardcover book detailing the company’s beginnings and successes. Over the course of 11 chapters and 264 pages, the history of Bobcat and the people and products that have helped mold the company into a worldwide brand icon are explored through interviews, photographs and historic accounts.
As an added bonus, the book contains interviews from people key to Bobcat’s growth such as Cyril and Louis Keller, inventors of the first loader, past presidents, management team members and other Bobcat personnel. Bobcat: Fifty Years of Opportunity— 1958-2008 can be purchased at Bobcat dealerships or online at www.bobcatstore.com. RS#57
Tales of Case IH Under the Tree
Case IH, a global leader in agricultural equipment, has released a new hardcover book, For Those Who Demand More: We Are Case IH, exploring the company’s legacy in modern farming technologies. The award-winning book showcases the history of the company, which spans two centuries from the early 1800s to today’s product line. The book details the machines, people and processes that have encouraged the evolution of farming and agricultural productivity. Readers can opt between English, French and Spanish versions of the book and each copy costs $35. For more information or to order a copy, visit a local Case IH dealer or the company’s Web site at www.caseih.com/na. RS#58
Gehl 7810E Skid Steer
Gehl 7810E Skid SteerGehl packed the hefty punch of its 7810E skid steer loader into a 1:25-scale, die-cast model. With all of the exciting details of the original, the replica features rolling wheels and a fully positionable lift arm and bucket. The detailed cab includes “T-Bar,” hands-only controls. In addition, the entire cab pivots upward to reveal a fully-detailed, 99-hp turbo diesel engine. The model sells for approximately $29 and can be purchased at www.gehl.com. RS#59
John Deere Three-Piece Gift Set
This holiday, grab a pickup and all the fixings for getting to work. The three-piece gift set from John Deere includes a heavy-duty pickup truck, detachable trailer and John Deere 317 skid steer. Just like the larger loader, the skid steer model has a movable bucket and detailed cab. This 1:32-scale replica is ready to get the equipment to the jobsite safe, on time and ready to go. Featuring official John Deere logos and colors, the set sells for $24.99. For more information on this set or other John Deere items, visit a local Deere dealer or www.johndeeregifts.com. RS#60
Four New Die-Cast Models from JLG
For those who have been good this year, they may have four new die-cast models from JLG Industries waiting for them under their tree. The JLG 860SJ telescopic boom lift, the JLG 10MSP mobile stock picker, the JLG Tow-Pro T350 trailer-mounted boom lift and the Liftlux 260-25 scissor lift have all been added to the company’s growing die-cast stock.
The die-cast reproductions are painted in authentic JLG colors and feature fully operable parts. Not to mention, all of the models have adjustable steering and a unique variable height-locking feature that allow the booms and scissors of the machines to be extended, without losing their height as time goes on. Prices range from $29.99 to $89.99, depending on which model is chosen. To purchase one of these models or other products from JLG, go to www.jlgmerchandise.com. RS#61
Online Holiday Shopping – Avoid the Long Lines at Stores and Conveniently Purchase Gifts from Home
Manufacturers like John Deere, Caterpillar and Ditch Witch have all established online stores where customers can purchase official company merchandise such as clothing, toys and work gear. Even though all of the items from these sites would be great to find under the tree, here are just some of our favorite offerings.
A Popular Board Game — John Deere Style
After the hustle of the holiday season calms a bit, family and friends can sit, relax and engage in a high-spirited game of John Deere Monopoly. Designed in the same fashion as the popular 1935 board game from Parker Brothers, the special Deere collector’s version pits players against one another, buying and selling tractors and loaders. Packed with John Deere equipment and products, players can explore and learn about the company, while enjoying a fun, competitive game. The game is recommended for players ages 8 and up and two to six players can join in on the fun. To order the special edition John Deere Monopoly game for $35.99, visit www.johndeeregifts.com. RS#62
A Stuffed Animal Fit for the Holidays
Just in time for holiday gift giving, Ditch Witch has released Digger the Dog, a soft plush animal, perfect for cuddling with on a cold winter’s night or even digging in the dirt. Made of super-soft plush, Digger is a great companion and is always ready for tackling tough projects on the jobsite with his hard hat firmly attached and sporting a Ditch Witch T-shirt. A perfect gift for construction enthusiasts young and old, Digger is available for $18. Digger the Dog and other Ditch Witch merchandise can be ordered at www.DWOutfitters.com. RS#63
Commanding a Jobsite from the Comforts of a Computer
Thanks to the advancements in computer games, now anyone can put on a hard hat and take control of their very own construction site. With “Caterpillar Construction Tycoon,” an interactive PC CD-ROM from ActiVision, players can manage and organize their own construction projects. While assuming the role of contractor, players can construct various facilities and drive machines. The game is $19.99 and can be purchased at www.shopcaterpillar.com. RS#64
Comments are closed here.