Kai - Blacksmith
njo119 · Ninjago
Ninjago Masters of Spinjitzu / Remastered · 2015 - Released as part of the Airjitzu Battle Grounds and Epic Dragon Battle legacy context.
Figure ID
njo119
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2015 - Released as part of the Airjitzu Battle Grounds and Epic Dragon Battle legacy context.
Rarity
Uncommon. While not an ultra-rare convention exclusive, this specific 'civilian' blacksmith version of Kai is less common than his many ninja suits, as it appeared in fewer sets (primarily 70751).
Head
Yellow classic skin tone with Kai's signature determined/smirking expression and scarred eyebrow. Features the unique dark brown hair piece with a molded red headband.
Torso
Dark tan shirt with dark brown blacksmith overalls (apron) printed on the front and back. Includes pocket detailing and silver rivet printing. Arms are dark tan with yellow hands.
Legs
Dark brown hips and legs with sand blue 'boots' or bottom trim printing. Does not feature side-leg printing.
Accessories
Includes a black blacksmith hammer and a trans-neon orange katana (fire sword). The hammer is common to City and Castle lines, while the trans-neon blade is iconic to the character of Kai.
Color Scheme
Earth tones dominated by dark brown, dark tan, and sand blue, accented by the character's signature red headband and fire-themed orange weapon.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the 2015 era. Torso features fine line work for the apron seams. Head printing is crisp and aligned well with the hair/headband mold.
Variants
This is the 'Blacksmith' variant. Other Kai variants include Kimono, DX, ZX, Micro-figure, and numerous elemental suit iterations.
Condition Notes
Watch for 'arm cracks' at the pits and 'torso cracks' at the sides. The trans-orange blade is prone to bite marks or 'bubbles' in the plastic if aged. Ensure the hairpiece is the correct dual-molded version.
Estimated Value
Used: $12.00 - $18.00; New (pulled from set): $20.00 - $25.00. Value is heavily tied to the hairpiece.
Price (New)
Originally included in set 70751 Temple of Airjitzu which retailed for $199.99, providing a high entry cost for this specific figure at launch.
Compatible Sets
70751 Temple of Airjitzu (primary appearance).
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire. Before becoming a Ninja, he worked in his father's shop, 'Four Weapons Blacksmith', which is what this minifigure commemorates.
Design Notes
The dual-molded hairpiece with the red headband was a major step up in accuracy for the character, replacing earlier versions that used standard hair pieces.
Similar Minifigures
Nya (Blacksmith), Ray (Kai's Father), and Maya (Kai's Mother). It also shares DNA with the 'Legacy' series Kai figures.
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completists. It is a 'lore-essential' figure because it represents the character's origin story rather than just another combat suit.
History
Represents the 2015 'Legacy' era where LEGO revisited early show concepts with updated printing and molding technology.
Interesting Facts
The 'Four Weapons' logo is often hidden in the printing of these types of blacksmith torsos as an easter egg for fans of the pilot episodes.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the Temple of Airjitzu or a custom blacksmith forge MOC. Looks best with a warm-light LED to make the trans-orange sword glow.
Modification Potential
Excellent for medieval/fantasy MOCs. Removing the hair/head makes for a perfect generic blacksmith for a LEGO Castle village.
Overall Assessment
A standout Ninjago figure due to its civilian aesthetic. Highly recommended for fans of the show's early seasons and collectors who appreciate character-driven variants.