T-Rex Hunter
din003 · Dino
Adventure / Dinosaur hunting · 2000. This figure debuted during the transition period of LEGO experimentation with new aesthetics and articulated figure styles.
Figure ID
din003
Theme
Dino
Year Released
2000. This figure debuted during the transition period of LEGO experimentation with new aesthetics and articulated figure styles.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While the 2000 Dino line was a standard retail theme, the unique 'Technic-lite' construction and specialized parts make finding them in good condition today somewhat difficult.
Head
Flesh-toned head with a stern/angry expression, thick eyebrows, and a distinct cheek scar. This head uses the 'stud-head' design specific to this figure type rather than a standard minifigure stud.
Torso
Green military-style shirt with a black collar, vertical button line, a black belt, and a Dino-themed badge/logo on the left chest. The arms feature specialized shoulder armor joints for increased articulation.
Legs
Green legs with black-painted feet. These legs are attached via a unique T-bar hip piece allowing for forward, backward, and outward movement, which is non-standard for traditional LEGO minifigures.
Accessories
Missing in image. Originally, this figure came with various equipment like a tranquilizer gun, binoculars, or tools depending on the set context (often set 6720).
Color Scheme
Mainly Green body and legs, with Black for the belt/feet and Flesh-tone for the head and hands. This reflects a tactical, jungle camouflage aesthetic.
Printing Details
Pad printing on the torso front and head. The printing is relatively simple but durable; however, the lack of back printing is common for this era of specialized figures.
Variants
Variations of this character exist with different headgear (hats) or minor facial hair differences across the 2000 Dino line.
Condition Notes
The primary concern for this figure is the 'joint tightness.' The shoulder and hip joints are prone to loosening over time. Paint wear on the black feet is also common.
Estimated Value
Used sets/figures typically range from $8 - $15 USD depending on joint stiffness and paint quality. Complete with original gear is worth the higher end.
Price (New)
N/A (This figure was typically included in sets ranging from $10 to $50 USD in the year 2000).
Compatible Sets
Set 6720 (Tyrannosaurus Rex), Set 6721 (Mosasaura), and Set 6722 (Dilophosaurus).
Character Background
Generic protagonist/hunter from the 2000 Dino theme. This short-lived theme focused on capturing and studying dinosaurs using high-tech vehicles and specialized teams.
Design Notes
These figures represent a 'hybrid' era where LEGO experimented with more action-figure-like articulation (11 points of movement) compared to the standard 7 points on a classic minifigure.
Similar Minifigures
Other Dino 2000 figures, Jack Stone figures (roughly the same size but different style), and the later 2012 Dino theme hunters (standard minifigures).
Collectibility
High for 'completionist' collectors or fans of 'oddity' eras of LEGO. It is less popular than standard Star Wars or Castle figures but holds a niche nostalgic market.
History
Followed the 'Dino Island' Adventurers theme and preceded the 2005 'Dino 2010' and 2012 'Dino' themes. It marks the first time LEGO attempted this specific articulation style for an adventure theme.
Interesting Facts
Despite having more articulation, these figures were widely criticized by fans at the time for being 'un-LEGO-like,' leading to the return of traditional minifigures in subsequent Dino lines.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a dedicated 'Dino' or 'Oddities' collection. Due to the articulating legs, they are better suited for sitting in vehicles than standing on standard plates.
Modification Potential
Low. The joints are proprietary, and parts are not easily swapped with standard minifigures. Useful mainly for MOCs (My Own Creations) requiring articulated pilots.
Overall Assessment
A fascinating relic from LEGO's 'Jack Stone' era of design experimentation. While not as iconic as a standard minifigure, it is a sturdy, highly-poseable figure that represents a specific pivot point in LEGO's history.