Clone ARF Trooper (Advanced Recon Force Trooper)
sw0297 · Star Wars
The Clone Wars · 2011 - Debuted in the Clone Trooper Battle Pack (7913) during the height of The Clone Wars TV series popularity.
Figure ID
sw0297
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2011 - Debuted in the Clone Trooper Battle Pack (7913) during the height of The Clone Wars TV series popularity.
Rarity
Uncommon. While common in 2011, it was only available in two sets and is now highly sought after by army builders.
Head
Standard 2011-era 'Clone Wars' style face with large stylized eyes. Features a unique ARF-style helmet with a peaked visor and side ventilation detailing.
Torso
White torso with light bluish gray chest plate, printed utility belt, and detailed back plating. Features black hands and white arms.
Legs
Dark red legs with white and gray printing on the upper thigh and hip area to represent the character's unique kama or armor patterns.
Accessories
Standard medium-length black blaster (Blaster Carbine). This figure is also frequently depicted with a brick-built sniper rifle or jetpack in some customs.
Color Scheme
A striking combination of white and dark red (Maroon) with light bluish gray accents and black visor printing.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing for the era. The helmet has crisp red stripe markings on the top and intricate gray details on the rebreather area.
Variants
Standard ARF Trooper (sw0297); the 'Elite Clone Trooper' (sw0378) features the same helmet mold but in a different color scheme.
Condition Notes
Watch for 'helmet chin' wear where the paint rubs off. The white torso and helmet are susceptible to yellowing if displayed in direct sunlight.
Estimated Value
$12.00 - $18.00 (Used); $25.00+ (New/Mint). Prices fluctuate based on the volume of army building demand.
Price (New)
Included in set 7913 which retailed for $11.99, meaning the individual figure was originally valued around $3.00.
Compatible Sets
7913 Clone Trooper Battle Pack (2011), 9488 Elite Clone Trooper & Commando Droid Battle Pack (Helmet variation).
Character Background
Specialized reconnaissance troopers trained for stealth and surveillance, frequently seen in the Geonosis and Umbara arcs of The Clone Wars.
Design Notes
The ARF helmet is a unique mold that captures the aerodynamic, scout-like appearance of the trooper perfectly, differing from standard Phase I buckets.
Similar Minifigures
sw0378 ARF Trooper (Elite Clone), sw0522 41st Kashyyyk Scout Trooper, sw1191 187th Legion Clone Trooper.
Collectibility
High. Army builders often buy these in bulk to create dioramas, maintaining a steady floor for market value.
History
Introduced during the 'yellowing' era transitioning to more detailed 'realistic' clone designs. It remains the definitive ARF trooper for many fans.
Interesting Facts
Despite their popularity, LEGO has produced very few ARF-specific molds, making this version a staple for 10+ years.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside 501st or 212th legion troopers to show a diverse army. Looks best in a Geonosis desert-themed MOC.
Modification Potential
Excellent base for custom 'Waxer' or 'Boil' minifigures using water-slide decals or 3rd party cloth kamas.
Overall Assessment
A classic 'Golden Era' Clone Wars figure. Standout helmet mold and unique dark red leg coloring make it a must-have for Star Wars collectors.