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1986 Characters, Page 4

Click-to-Reveal Profiles for Viper, Claymore, Serpentor, Motor Viper, and Thrasher

Click a code name to show the character's profile.

+ Viper

VIPER - a family of small poisonous snakes with long hinged fangs

Char. #088, 12th Cobra troop type

Note: Viper Pilots, Viper Guards, and the various (prefix)-Vipers are treated separately.

Sunbow Cartoon Notes: Various voices. Spoke 27 lines in 11 episodes. First appeared in ASA 2; first spoke in ASA 3. Total appearances: 24. Wore 1986 outfits with white lenses on their goggles and red skull patches on their shoulders.

Prioritized Appearance List: Glamour Girls, Arise Serpentor Arise parts 2-5, Grey Hairs and Growing Pains, G.I. Joe and the Golden Fleece, My Favorite Things. One line: Let's Play Soldier, Cobrathon, Sins of Our Fathers, The Movie parts 1 and 3-5. Silent: Last Hour to Doomsday, Sink the Montana, The Million Dollar Medic, The Rotten Egg, The Spy Who Rooked Me, Raise the Flagg, The Most Dangerous Thing in the World, Nightmare Assault, Joe's Night Out. Vipers were included in the opening sequences of season 2 and the Movie.

DiC Cartoon Notes: Wore 1989 outfits as part of the Python Patrol in Operation: Dragonfire.

1. 1986
2. 1989 (Python Patrol)
3. 1991 (Sonic Fighters)
4. 1994 (Battle Corps)
5. 1997 (Trubble Bubble)
6. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1.5)

7. 2002/II (Crimson Strike Team)
8. 2002/III (JvC Wave 2.5)
9. 2003/I (Venom Cycle I)
10. 2003/II (Venom Cycle II)
11. 2003/III (JvC Wave 7.75)
12. 2004/I (VvV Wave 1)

13. 2004/II (VvV Wave 5)
14. 2005 (VvV Wave 7)
15. 2006/I (Viper Pit silver)
16. 2006/II (Viper Pit gold)
17. 2008/I (25th Wave 7)
18. 2008/II (CLAW/FANG)

19. 2008/III (Arctic)
20. 2008/IV (Heavy Weapons)
21. 2009/I (Cobra Collector 5 Pack)
22. 2009/II (Conquest X-30)
23. 2009/III (Hall of Heroes)

Version 1: 1986 regular carded assortment
Fig. #0096: Cobra Infantry
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: Viper (86, 89, 91), Dr. Mindbender (93) legs: Viper (86, 89, 91), Dr. Mindbender (93)
	Accessories: black backpack (new, with Cobra emblem, canteen, and two grenades); light grey assault rifle (new, with grenade launcher and two grips)
	Vipers are the backbone of the Cobra Legions. They are highly motivated, superbly trained, and formidably equipped. All Vipers are issued a combination assault rifle/grenade launcher; the rifle part of which can function as a short burst assault weapon, a sustained fire cover support weapon, or a long range sniper rifle with an advanced light-intensification night vision telescopic sight with a built-in range-finder. Multi-layer body armor and wraparound acrylic/composite helmets with built-in RTO gear are standard issue. "If you want to get anywhere in Cobra, you have to start out as a Viper. That's the bottom of the pyramid, and serving in the Cobra infantry is a small price to pay to gain access to the glittering prizes at the top. Cobra doesn't reward success with parades and medals. They offer material wealth, power, and an outlet for the terrible urges that drive the greedy, the envious, and the cruel. If that doesn't make a Viper a dangerous opponent, nothing does!"
Variations: Early packaging gave the figure's name as "Viper"; later cards read, "Vipers."
Toy Notes: Featured in 1986's Battle Stations commercial. Item #6473.

Version 2: 1989 Python Patrol carded assortment
Fig. #0222: Python Patrol Assault Viper Python Viper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: Viper (86, 89, 91), Dr. Mindbender (93) legs: Viper (86, 89, 91), Dr. Mindbender (93)
	Accessories: black backpack (86 Viper's); black assault rifle (86 Viper's)
	The PYTHON VIPER is the backbone of the Python Patrol. He is highly motivated, superbly trained, and formidably equipped. Due to the Pythonizing Process [a process in which personnel and/or vehicles are outfitted with a primary layer of radar-resistant black-ball paint, then blanketed with a thermal-wave dispersal grid], this particular viper is equipped with stealth-like capabilities, whereby he can penetrate enemy areas undetected! His combination rifle/grenade launcher has been retro-fitted with a passive, infrared seeker and the barrel rifling has been changed to accept hyper-velocity discarding ammunition. "If you want to get anywhere in the Python Patrol, you have to start out as a Python Viper. That's the bottom line of the pyramid, and serving in the Python infantry is a small price to pay to gain access to the glittering prizes at the top. The Python Command doesn't reward success with parades and medals. They offer material wealth, power, and an outlet for the terrible urges that drive those who are greedy, envious, and cruel. If that doesn't make a Python Viper a dangerous opponent, nothing does!"
Toy Notes: Item #6623-2. The 1989 insert catalog shows a grey rifle instead of a black one.

Version 3: 1991 Sonic Fighters premium carded assortment
Fig. #0275: Cobra Infantryman
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: Viper (86, 89, 91), Dr. Mindbender (93) legs: Viper (86, 89, 91), Dr. Mindbender (93)
	Accessories: gold Sonic backpack (new, with roll and pouch); gold pistol (88 Shockwave's); gold submachine gun (88 Hit & Run's Colt 635); gold submachine gun (89 Annihilator's); gold mortar (89 Downtown's)
	VIPERS are the grunts of the Cobra Legions. If there's a dirty job that needs Cobra-built, knock-off imitations of G.I. Joe's sonic weapons, which in itself should have earned each and every one of them the Cobra Medal of Villainous Valor with Bronze Serpent Clusters, considering how easy it was for these shoddy copies to self-destruct when fired. Outfitted with multi-layered body armor and wrap-around acrylic/composite helmets with built-in RTO gear, Vipers are now armed with multi-burst laser pistols, 5.56 Colt Commando Rifles, 60mm surface-to-surface grenade launchers, and stadard issue 9mm Cobra service pistols. "When you know the equipment you're carrying could jam or explode at any minute, you get a little edgy. Especially when hand-to-hand combat is the only safe way to neutralize hostile forces. Sure these guys were tough fighters before, but now, they're unbelievable!"
Toy Notes: Released before Christmas 1990 in some areas but listed in 1991's catalog and included a 1991-style filecard. Yojoe.com lists this figure as a 1990 release. Item #6315.

Version 4: 1994 Battle Corps Wave 4 carded assortment, #5
Fig. #0460: Cobra Infantry Trooper
	head: Viper (94), Iron Anvil (05) arms: Viper (94), Iron Anvil (05) torso: Viper (94), Iron Anvil (05) waist: Viper (94), Iron Anvil (05) legs: Viper (94), Iron Anvil (05)
	Accessories: red pistol (91 Sludge Viper's); red pistol (92 Spirit's assault gun); red trident gun (86 Monkeywrench's); yellow spring missile launcher (93 Alley Viper's, with black trigger); two red missiles (common for 93 Cobras); red knife (88 Hydro-Viper's); red figure stand
	Vipers are the grunts of the Cobra Legions. If there's an especially dirty job that needs to be carried out, these guys aren't asked to do it, they VOLUNTEER for it! They are highly motivated, superbly trained, and formidably equipped. All Vipers are issued a combination laser rifle/rocket launcher; the laser part of which can function as a short burst assault weapon, a sustained fire cover support weapon, or a long range sniper rifle. They're also equipped with multi-layer body armor and blast resistant helmets with built-in night vision visors. Fighting them is like fighting any tough-as-nails Army grunt, except these guys NEVER show mercy! Motto: "If you want to get anywhere in Cobra, you have to start out as a Viper."
Variations: First sold on 1993-style packaging with a normal-sized filecard, then on 1994-style packaging with a baseball card-sized filecard with abbreviated text.
Toy Notes: Item #81006.

Version 5: 1997 carded Cobra Viper Team set
Fig. #0508: Cobra Infantry Trooper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories: black backpack (86 Viper's); black submachine gun (82 Stalker's M32); black figure stand
	Vipers are the backbone of the Cobra Legions. They are the bottom of the pyramid, which leads to the hierarchy of material wealth and power within the organization. When COBRA Commander received word that G.I. Joe operations had been shut down by the U.S. Government, he promptly began recruiting more soldiers. Within weeks, the most cruel, greedy, back-stabbing lot joined the ranks; tripling the original size of their ground forces. All Vipers are issued a combination assault rifle/grenade launcher, along with a three day field pack. Multi-layered body armor and wrap-around acrylic/composite helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear are standard issue. This equipment and a bad attitude makes them very dangerous opponents. Vipers are highly motivated, and superbly trained. However, to make them follow orders, the punishment for failure is to be left on battlefield when the B.A.T.S. (Battle Andriod Troopers) are deployed. This is due to the fact, these Androids are programmed to shoot and incinerate anything that moves in front of them. That is the last thing any Viper would want, better to take his chances with the real enemy. Vehicle Specialty: COBRA Flight Pod a.k.a. "Trouble Bubbles" [sic]. "If you want to get anywhere in Cobra, you have to start out as a Viper. That's the bottom of the pyramid, and serving in the Cobra infantry is a small price to pay to gain access to the glittering prizes at the top. Cobra doesn't reward success with parades and medals. They offer material wealth, power, and an outlet for the terrible urges that drive the greedy, the envious, and the cruel. If that doesn't make a Viper a dangerous opponent, nothing does!"
Toy Notes: Carded in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive vehicle pack with the Trubble Bubble (97). Item #28016.

Version 6: 2002 Joe vs. Cobra Wave 1.5 two-pack assortment (02/I)
Fig. #0619: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories: black backpack (90 SAW-Viper's); black laser rifle (84 Baroness's); black knife (91 Low-Light's); black figure stand
	COBRA VIPERS are the grunts of the COBRA legions. If there's a dirty job that needs doing, these guys are first in line. They wear mutli-layered body armor and wrap-around helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear, and carry multi-burst laser pistols, commando rifles, and grenade launchers. They know that they're looked down upon by the more elite COBRA groups, but that just makes them fight harder, so they can prove to everyone that plain rottenness gets the job done as well as fancy training. They're ready at a moment's notice to cause harm and do damage anywhere that COBRA COMMANDER sends them. when MIRAGE from the G.I. JOE team defeated them despite their massive weaponry, they vowed revenge. "G.I. JOE be warned! We have more weapons and more guts than you could ever hope to have."
Toy Notes: Carded in a two-pack with Mirage (02/I). Item #57460.
Re-releases: Also carded in a Kmart-exclusive three-pack with Sure Fire (02) and Slice (02).

Version 7: 2002 Crimson Strike Team boxed set (02/II)
Fig. #0627: Crimson Strike Team Trooper	MOS 1: Infantry
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories: black backpack (86 Viper's); black assault rifle (91 Red Star's AK-103)
	COBRA VIPERS have always been the backbone of the COBRA Legions. But taken from their ranks are troopers who have been recruited into the Crimson Strike Team - an elite group of shock troops and bodyguards loyal only to the secret cabal formed by the BARONESS and TOMAX & XAMOT. They are hand-selected not only for their superior skills and ruthless efficiency, but also for their overwhelming greed. Untraceable financial incentives from the Crimson Twins, and brainwashing from the BARONESS, ensure their unswerving loyalty - even to the point of following the orders of the treacherous trio in direct opposition of COBRA COMMANDER himself. These COBRA VIPERS are ready to lay down their lives for the BARONESS and their Crimson Commanders, if not out of fanaticism then for the substantial mission bonuses! "Although they are not artificially enhanced like COBRA NEO-VIPERS, the COBRA VIPERS of the Crimson Strike Team are no less formidable. their hand-to-hand combat training renders them so deadly that weapons and armor are virtually unnecessary. Nonetheless, they carry specially modified Viper gear: assault rifles, a wide variety of small arms, the latest energy-displacing body armor, and helmets with built-in night vision visors and radio telecommunications gear (specifically tuned to their crimson commander's secret frequencies)." "We attack like a crimson tide washing over the battlefield, leaving only destruction in our wake."
Variations: Early releases (the majority) were mistakenly colored a pinkish fuchsia. The last run of the figure sets was the correct crimson color. "Fuchsia Vipers" are of only average convention-exclusive value.
Toy Notes: Twelve copies were boxed in a convention-exclusive set with Baroness (02/I), Tomax (02/II), and Xamot (02/II). This figure, known to fans as "Crimson Viper," is considered a high-demand item. (Note: Some sellers also refer to versions 10 and 11 as Crimson Vipers because of their red torsos.)

Version 8: 2002 Joe vs. Cobra Wave 2.5 two-pack assortment (02/III)
Fig. #0644: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories: metallic backpack (90 SAW-Viper's); metallic laser rifle (84 Baroness's); metallic knife (91 Low-Light's); metallic figure stand
	COBRA VIPERS are the grunts of the COBRA legions. If there's a dirty job that needs doing, these guys are first in line. They wear mutli-layered body armor and wrap-around helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear, and carry multi-burst laser pistols, commando rifles, and grenade launchers. They know that they're looked down upon by the more elite COBRA groups, but that just makes them fight harder, so they can prove to everyone that plain rottenness gets the job done as well as fancy training. They're ready at a moment's notice to cause harm and do damage anywhere that COBRA COMMANDER sends them. when MIRAGE from the G.I. JOE team defeated them despite their massive weaponry, they vowed revenge. "G.I. JOE be warned! We have more weapons and more guts than you could ever hope to have."
Toy Notes: Carded in a two-pack with Mirage (02/II). Item #57460.

Version 9: 2003 Spy Troops Wave 5 carded Venom Cycle vehicle (03/I)
Fig. #0694: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories: none
	COBRA VIPER members are the grunts of the COBRA legions. If there's a dirty job that needs doing, these guys are first in line. They wear multi-layered body armor and wrap-around helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear, and carry multi-burst laser pistols, commando rifles, and grenade launchers. They know that they're looked down upon by the more elite COBRA groups, but that just makes them fight harder, so they can prove to everyone that plain rottenness gets the job done as well as fancy training. They're ready at a moment's notice to cause harm and do damage anywhere that COBRA COMMANDER sends them. Ripping up the roads on their COBRA VENOM CYCLE vehicles, COBRA VIPER members like to think of themselves as a biker gang with the most technologically advanced "hogs" on the planet. "G.I. JOE team be warned! We have more weapons and more guts than you could ever hope to have."
Toy Notes: Item #57479.

Version 10: 2003 Spy Troops Wave 7 carded Venom Cycle vehicle (03/II)
Fig. #0749: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories: none
	COBRA VIPER members are the grunts of the COBRA legions. If there's a dirty job that needs doing, these guys are first in line. They wear multi-layered body armor and wrap-around helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear, and carry multi-burst laser pistols, commando rifles, and grenade launchers. They know that they're looked down upon by the more elite COBRA groups, but that just makes them fight harder, so they can prove to everyone that plain rottenness gets the job done as well as fancy training. They're ready at a moment's notice to cause harm and do damage anywhere that COBRA COMMANDER sends them. Ripping up the roads on their COBRA VENOM CYCLE vehicles, COBRA VIPER members like to think of themselves as a biker gang with the most technologically advanced "hogs" on the planet. "G.I. JOE team be warned! We have more weapons and more guts than you could ever hope to have."
Toy Notes: Item #57479. Due to uneven distribution and high demand, this vehicle was considered a moderately hard-to-find item at the time of its release.

Version 11: 2003 Spy Troops Wave 7.75 two-pack assortment (03/III)
Fig. #0755: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories: metallic backpack (90 SAW-Viper's); metallic laser rifle (84 Baroness's); metallic knife (91 Low-Light's); metallic figure stand
	COBRA VIPER troops are the grunts of the COBRA legions. If there's a dirty job that needs doing, these guys are first in line. They wear multi-layered body armor and wrap-around helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear, and carry multi-burst laser pistols, commando rifles, and grenade launchers. They know that they're looked down upon by the more elite COBRA groups, but that just makes them fight harder, so they can prove to everyone that plain rottenness gets the job done as well as fancy training. They're ready at a moment's notice to cause harm and do damage anywhere that COBRA COMMANDER sends them. "G.I. JOE team be warned! We have more weapons and more guts than you could ever hope to have."
Toy Notes: Carded in a two-pack with Alley Viper (03). Item #56900.

Version 12: 2004 Valor vs. Venom Wave 1 two-pack assortment (04/I)
Fig. #0802: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) arms: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) torso: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) waist: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) legs: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06)
	Accessories: red and black weapons pod (new, separate top and base); black assault rifle (03 Sand Viper's G36); black knife (91 Low-Light's)
	COBRA VIPER forces are the most recent wave of COBRA infantry. Chosen for their independent thinking, initiative, and daring, they are expected to carry the fight far inside G.I. JOE territory. They are equipped with armored climate-control suits that enable them to function efficiently in extreme environments, and they are given advanced training in deep battle tactics, survival procedures, and high-tech weapon-systems management. They are aggressive, yet wary; attentive to detail, yet practical; sneaky, yet trustworthy; ferocious in combat, yet willing to retreat tactically. This combination of traits makes them formidable foes, and the last thing that the G.I. JOE team wants to have sneaking up on them from their left flank. These qualities also make them favorable candidates for the DNA experiments of DR. MINDBENDER, a fact that has the COBRA VIPER troops volunteering for long away missions and assiduously avoiding the doctor's presence. "Nothing makes our day like watching the G.I. JOE team roll right past us while we are under cover and camouflaged. Especially when we call artillery in on them!"
Toy Notes: Carded in a two-pack with Alley Viper II (04/I). Item #55470.

Version 13: 2004 Valor vs. Venom Wave 5 two-pack assortment (Python Patrol, 04/II)
Fig. #0923: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) arms: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) torso: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) waist: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) legs: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06)
	Accessories: black assault rifle (02 Neo-Viper's AK-74); black assault rifle (03 Sand Viper's G36); black knife (91 Low-Light's)
	COBRA VIPER forces are the most recent wave of COBRA infantry. Chosen for their independent thinking, initiative, and daring, they are expected to carry the fight far inside G.I. JOE territory. They are equipped with armored climate-control suits that enable them to function efficiently in extreme environments, and they are given advanced training in deep battle tactics, survival procedures, and high-tech weapon-systems management. They are aggressive, yet wary; attentive to detail, yet practical; sneaky, yet trustworthy; ferocious in combat, yet willing to retreat tactically. This combination of traits makes them formidable foes, and the last thing that the G.I. JOE team wants to have sneaking up on them from their left flank. These qualities also make them favorable candidates for the DNA experiments of DR. MINDBENDER, a fact that has the COBRA VIPER troops volunteering for long away missions and assiduously avoiding the doctor's presence. "Nothing makes our day like watching the G.I. JOE team roll right past us while we are under cover and camouflaged. Especially when we call artillery in on them!"
Toy Notes: Carded in a two-pack with Tele-Viper (04). Item #03535.

Version 14: 2005 Valor vs. Venom Wave 7 two-pack assortment
Fig. #1023: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) arms: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) torso: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) waist: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06) legs: Cobra Viper (04/I, 04/II, 05), Viper Guard (06)
	Accessories: black submachine gun (02 Neo-Viper's Skorpion); black assault rifle (02 Neo-Viper's AK-74); black knife (91 Low-Light's)
	COBRA VIPER forces are the most recent wave of COBRA infantry. Chosen for their independent thinking, initiative, and daring, they are expected to carry the fight far inside G.I. JOE territory. They are equipped with armored climate-control suits that enable them to function efficiently in extreme environments, and they are given advanced training in deep battle tactics, survival procedures, and high-tech weapon-systems management. They are aggressive, yet wary; attentive to detail, yet practical; sneaky, yet trustworthy; ferocious in combat, yet willing to retreat tactically. This combination of traits makes them formidable foes, and the last thing that the G.I. JOE team wants to have sneaking up on them from their left flank. These qualities also make them favorable candidates for the DNA experiments of DR. MINDBENDER, a fact that has the COBRA VIPER troops volunteering for long away missions and assiduously avoiding the doctor's presence. "Nothing makes our day like watching the G.I. JOE team roll right past us while we are under cover and camouflaged. Especially when we call artillery in on them!"
Toy Notes: Carded in a two-pack with Gung Ho (05/I). Item #56235.

Version 15: 2006 Viper Pit carded set (06/I)
Fig. #1137: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories (for four of the figures): black backpack (92 Gung-Ho's); light grey bullpup rifle (90 Ambush's EM-2); red figure stand
	COBRA VIPER troopers are the grunts of the COBRA legions. If there's a low-level, down-and-dirty job that needs doing, these are the guys who are sent in to do it. They wear multi-layered body armor and wrap-around helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear, and carry multi-burst laser pistols, commando rifles, and grenade launchers. Even though they are superbly trained and formidably equipped, they are looked down upon by the more elite COBRA groups, simply because of their "basic infantry" status. However, this actually makes them fight even harder, just to prove that plain rottenness gets the job done as well - or better than - all that "specialized" training. They're ready, willing, and able to cause harm and do damage anywhere that COBRA COMMANDER sends them. "G.I. JOE be warned! We have more weapons and more guts than you could ever hope to have."
Toy Notes: Five copies were carded in a Direct-to-Consumer/Toys 'R Us-exclusive set with one copy of Viper (06/II). Item #18498.

Version 16: 2006 Viper Pit carded set (06/II)
Fig. #1138: Cobra Infantryman COBRA Viper
	head: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) arms: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) torso: Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) legs: BAT (86), Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
	Accessories (for two of the figures): black backpack (92 Gung-Ho's); light grey submachine gun (05 Duke's MP5K); black mini-machine gun (06 SAW-Viper's M249 SAW); red figure stand
	COBRA VIPER troopers are the grunts of the COBRA legions. If there's a low-level, down-and-dirty job that needs doing, these are the guys who are sent in to do it. They wear multi-layered body armor and wrap-around helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear, and carry multi-burst laser pistols, commando rifles, and grenade launchers. Even though they are superbly trained and formidably equipped, they are looked down upon by the more elite COBRA groups, simply because of their "basic infantry" status. However, this actually makes them fight even harder, just to prove that plain rottenness gets the job done as well - or better than - all that "specialized" training. They're ready, willing, and able to cause harm and do damage anywhere that COBRA COMMANDER sends them. "G.I. JOE be warned! We have more weapons and more guts than you could ever hope to have."
Toy Notes: Carded in a Direct-to-Consumer/Toys 'R Us-exclusive set with five copies of Viper (06/I). Item #18498.

Version 17: 2008 25th Anniversary Wave 7 carded assortment (08/I)
Fig. #1258: Infantry COBRA Viper
	head: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 08/IV, 09/II), Cobra Trooper (08/V) arms: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 09/II), Tele-Viper (08/I); upper arms only: Mutt (08); lower arms only: Cobra Viper (09/I, 09/III) chest: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) midsection: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) legs: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I)
	Accessories: black goggles (new, small with strap and square lenses); black vest (new, with red padding and dark red grenades); black backpack (new, rectangular with canteen and dark red grenades), light grey assault rifle (new, similar to 86 Viper's); black Cobra figure stand
	COBRA VIPERS are the backbone of the COBRA Legions. They are highly motivated, superbly trained, and formidably equipped. All COBRA VIPERS are issued a combination assault rifle/grenade launcher; the rifle part of which can function as a short burst assault weapon, a sustained fire cover support weapon, or a long range marksman rifle with an advanced light-intensification night vision telescopic sight with a built-in range-finder. Multi-layer body armor and wraparound acrylic/composite helmets with built-in RTO (radio telecommunications) gear are standard issue. "If you want to get anywhere in COBRA, you have to start out as a COBRA VIPER. That's the bottom of the pyramid, and serving in the COBRA infantry is a small price to pay to gain access to the glittering prizes at the top. COBRA doesn't reward success with parades and medals. They offer material wealth, power, and an outlet for the terrible urges that drive the greedy, the envious, and the cruel. If that doesn't make a COBRA VIPER a dangerous opponent, nothing does!"
Toy Notes: Item #30279.

Version 18: 2008 boxed FANG and CLAW vehicle set (08/II)
Fig. #1338: Air Trooper COBRA Viper	MOS 1: Pilot
	head: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 08/IV, 09/II), Cobra Trooper (08/V) arms: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 09/II), Tele-Viper (08/I); upper arms only: Mutt (08); lower arms only: Cobra Viper (09/I, 09/III) chest: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) midsection: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) legs: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I)
	Accessories: grey goggles (08/I Viper's, with red lenses); grey vest (08/I Viper's, with green grenades); grey backpack (08/I Viper's, with green grenades), black assault rifle (08/I Viper's); black Cobra figure stand
	COBRA VIPER troopers are the backbone of the COBRA Legions. These frontline forces are heavily equipped and highly trained for battle. Within their vast ranks are subdivisions that have received focused preparation for land, sea, and air combat. COBRA VIPER air troopers are skilled pilots with a necessary reckless disregard for their own safety that makes them especially effective. They favor small, lightweight aircraft like the COBRA C.L.A.W. and COBRA F.A.N.G.; these let them display their piloting skills and allow them to get as close to their targets as possible, so they can enjoy every second of the chaos and destruction they deliver. "Being a COBRA VIPER trooper means you're the one that goes fist-to-fist, barrel-to-barrel with the G.I. JOE team. But isn't that the fun part?"
Toy Notes: Boxed with Cobra Pilot (08), a retooled FANG vehicle, and a slightly miniaturized CLAW vehicle. Item #33557.

Version 19: 2008 Extreme Conditions: Arctic Assault Squad boxed set (08/III)
Fig. #1386: Arctic Trooper COBRA Viper	MOS 1: Infantry
	head: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 08/IV, 09/II), Cobra Trooper (08/V) arms: Cobra Officer (07, 08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 08/IV), Cobra Trooper (07/I, 07/II, 07/III, 08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 08/IV), Air Trooper (07), Vehicle Driver (07), Night Watch Officer (08), Night Watch Trooper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 08/IV), Grunt (08), G.I. Joe Hawk (08/II), Cobra Driver (08), Cobra Bazooka Trooper (08), Cobra Pilot (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I, 08/II), Short-Fuze (08), Steeler (08/II), Vehicle Gunner (08), Cobra Viper (08/III), Cobra Paratrooper (08), Shockblast (09), Cobra Stinger Driver (09); left arm only: Maj. Bludd (08/III) chest: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) midsection: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) legs: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I)
	Accessories: black goggles (08/I Viper's with silver lenses); grey vest (08/I Viper's, with black trim and silver grenades); black backpack (08/I Viper's, with silver grenades), black assault rifle (08/I Viper's); black Cobra figure stand
	Highly motivated, superbly trained, and formidably equipped, COBRA VIPER troopers are the backbone of the COBRA legions. Each one is issued a combination assault rifle/grenade launcher, the rifle part of which can function as a short burst assault weapon; a sustained fire cover support weaon; or a long range marksman rifle with an advanced light-intensification, night vision telescopic sight with a built-in range finder. Those who wish to prove their ability to go further up the ranks compete for a place in elite units like the arctic assault squad, where the stakes are higher and the challenges are greater. "If you want to get anywhere in COBRA, you have to start out as a COBRA VIPER. That's the bottom of the pyramid, but it's a small price to pay to gain access to the glitering prizes at the top: wealth, power, and an outlet for the terrible urges that drive the greedy, the envious, and the cruel."
Toy Notes: Sold in an Internet-exclusive boxed set with Scrap-Iron (08/II), Cobra Tele-Viper (08/II), Cobra Viper (08/IV), Snow Serpent Officer (08), and two copies of Snow Serpent Trooper (08/II).

Version 20: 2008 Extreme Conditions: Arctic Assault Squad boxed set (08/IV)
Fig. #1387: Heavy Weapons Trooper COBRA Viper	MOS 1: Anti-Armor Weapons
	head: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 08/IV, 09/II), Cobra Trooper (08/V) arms: Roadblock (07, 08/I, 08/II), Copperhead (08, 09/I), Cobra Viper (08/III) chest: Roadblock (07, 08/I, 08/II), Copperhead (08, 09/I), Cobra Viper (08/III) midsection: Roadblock (07, 08/I, 08/II), Copperhead (08, 09/I), Cobra Viper (08/III) legs: Copperhead (08, 09/I), Cobra Viper (08/III)
	Accessories: black goggles (08/I Viper's, with silver lenses); black vest (08/I Roadblock's, with brown strap); light grey backpack (08 Snow Serpent's), black pistol (07 Flint's 9mm); grey AK-47 (08 Snow Serpent's); black mini-machine gun (06 SAW-Viper's M249) with tripod (84 Roadblock's); gold ammo belt (07 Roadblock's); grey mortar (85 Snow Serpent's) with stand; black Cobra figure stand
	COBRA VIPER forces are chosen for their independent thinking, initiative, and daring. They are expected to carry the fight far inside enemy territory, and are given advanced training in deep battle tactics and survival techniques. Their armored climate-controlled suits enable them to function efficiently in extreme environments. Aggressive, focused, and ferocious in battle, they are formidable infantry forces. Heavy weapons troopers are experts in all anti-tank weaponry, and those in the COBRA arctic assault squad have additional expertise in regions with severe climates to ensure high accuracy and precise targeting, despite challenging environmental conditions. "Nothing makes your day like welcoming the G.I. JOE team to our neighborhood with a few well-aimed rounds of anti-tank fire."
Toy Notes: Sold in an Internet-exclusive boxed set with Scrap-Iron (08/II), Cobra Tele-Viper (08/II), Cobra Viper (08/III), Snow Serpent Officer (08), and two copies of Snow Serpent Trooper (08/II).

Version 21: 2009 Cobra Collector 5 Pack boxed set (09/I)
Fig. #1411: Infantry Cobra Vipers
	head: Cobra Viper (09/I, 09/III) arms: Cobra Viper (09/I, 09/III); upper arms only: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 09/II), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08) chest: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) midsection: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) legs: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I)
	Accessories: black goggles (08/I Viper's, with silver lenses); black vest (08/I Viper's, with red padding and grenades); black backpack (08/I Viper's, with red grenades), metallic assault rifle (08/I Viper's); black Cobra figure stand
	The COBRA VIPER units are the backbone of the COBRA legions. They are highly motivated, superbly trained, and formidably equipped. This is the group that all new COBRA recruits want to join, and they'll do everything they can - fight hard, betray fellow troopers - to be chosen for advancement to the COBRA VIPER force. They get bigger weapons, better training, and more opportunities to rise even further up the lader of power and privilege. Because they have nothing to lose (being comprised of thugs and criminals hiding from the law) and everything to gain as a COBRA VIPER, they are willing to do anything asked of them. "G.I. JOE, be warned! We have more weapons and more guts than you could ever hope to have. One thing we don't have: a conscience. And that makes us even more dangerous."
Toy Notes: Boxed with Baroness (09), Cobra Commander (09/II), Storm Shadow (09/II), and Zartan (09/I). Item #36448.

Version 22: 2009 Conquest X-30 boxed vehicle (09/II)
Fig. #1431: Python Patrol Assault Viper Python Patrol Viper
	head: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 08/IV, 09/II), Cobra Trooper (08/V) arms: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 09/II), Tele-Viper (08/I); upper arms only: Mutt (08); lower arms only: Cobra Viper (09/I, 09/III) chest: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) midsection: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) legs: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I)
	Accessories: grey goggles (08/I Viper's, with red lenses); grey vest (08/I Viper's, with yellow padding); grey backpack (08/I Viper's), black assault rifle (08/I Viper's)
	PYTHON PATROL VIPERS comprise the bulk of the elite PYTHON PATROL corps. Each is highly trained in experimental weaponry, explosive ordnance, and stealth infiltration. Fluency in several martial art forms is required, with focus on close quarters melee combat. PYTHON PATROL VIPERS are outfitted with radar and thermal-detection resistant clothing - the same used on all PYTHON PATROL vehicles - making them hard to identify with instrumentation, even at close range. They're the "Black Ops" of an already wicked organization; to PYTHON PATROL VIPERS wreaking havoc isn't just sport - it's art. "Architecting our enemy's demise takes skill, patience, coordination and resolve. We don't take destruction lightly: we make masterpieces of mayhem."
Toy Notes: Boxed with the Target-exclusive Python Patrol repaint of the Conquest X-30 (2009).

Version 23: 2009 Hall of Heroes carded assortment, #6 (09/III)
Fig. #1437: Infantry Cobra Viper
	head: Cobra Viper (09/I, 09/III) arms: Cobra Viper (09/I, 09/III); upper arms only: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 09/II), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08) chest: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) midsection: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I), Mutt (08), Scrap-Iron (08/I), Lift Ticket (09), Duke (09/II), Firefly (09/II) legs: Cobra Viper (08/I, 08/II, 08/III, 09/I, 09/II, 09/III), Tele-Viper (08/I)
	Accessories: black goggles (08/I Viper's, with silver lenses); black vest (08/I Viper's, with red padding and grenades); black backpack (08/I Viper's, with red grenades), metallic assault rifle (08/I Viper's), gold Cobra figure stand
	COBRA VIPERS are the backbone of the COBRA legions. They are highly motivated, superbly trained, and formidably equipped. All COBRA VIPERS are issued a combination assault rifle/grenade launcher, the rifle part of which can function as a short burst assault weapon, a sustained fire cover suppor weapon, or a long range marksman rifle with a built-in range-finder. Multi-layer body armor and wraparound acrylic/composite helmets with built-in RTO (radio telecommunications) gear are standard issue. "If you want to get anywhere in COBRA, you have to start out as a COBRA VIPER. That's the bottom of the pyramid, and serving in the COBRA infantry is a small price to pay to gain access to the glittering prizes at the top. COBRA doesn't reward success with parades and medals. They offer material wealth, power, and an outlet for the terrible urges that drive the greedy, the devious, and the cruel. If that doesn't make a COBRA VIPER a dangerous opponent, nothing does! "
Toy Notes: Item #39532.

CLAYMORE - a basket-hilted Scottish broadsword; or, the M18A1 Claymore, an anti-personnel mine

Char. #089, 58th Joe Team member

John Zullo (American with Italian surname) of Manchester, VT.
Manchester (pop. 4,180) is a shire town (county seat) on I-91 in southwest Vermont. The other Joe from Vermont is Snow Job of Rutland to the north.

Grades: O-3: 1986

SNs: MH 009-40-3277

The Lt. Clay Moore figure released for Cobra in 2007 is considered a different character.

Sunbow Cartoon Notes: Claymore is one of four 1982-86 characters never to appear in the cartoon. Also not appearing were the Stinger Driver, Grand Slam, and Keel-Haul.

Comic notes: Claymore did not appear in the comic.

1. 1986 (Special Mission Brazil)

Version 1: 1986 Special Mission: Brazil boxed set
Fig. #0097: G.I. Joe Covert Operations	MOS 1: Anti-Terrorist Specialist MOS 2: Martial Arts
	head: Footloose (85, 89), Claymore (86), Rumbler (87) arms: Flint (85, 88), Claymore (86), Starduster (87); upper arms only: Flint (04/I, 05) torso: Tele-Viper (85, 89), Claymore (86) waist: Flint (85, 88, 04/I, 05), Claymore (86) legs: Dusty (85, 88), Claymore (86)
	Accessories: lt green helmet (85 Footloose's); black pistol (82 Snake Eyes's Uzi)
	Claymore was born to the son of an immigrant who came to this country to work in the marble quarries of Vermont. A graduate of Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, Claymore finished at the top of his class with a major in Eastern Philosophy. He's a master at Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Portuguese languages. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served three hitches back to back somewhere in South East Asia. His work there was, and still is, classified. Attended Airborne and Ranger school. Qualified expert in all NATO small arm and long range sniper rifles as well as all NATO and Warsaw Pact explosive devices. Proficient in all forms of Martial Arts. Joined the Joe Team at the insistence of Hawk. His only stipulation was that he be called in on special assignments only. Hawk agreed. Claymore is respected by all branches of the armed services and his reputation as a soldier is known far and wide. Very few men have ever seen Claymore - but those who have served under him have not and will not ever forget him.
Toy Notes: Boxed in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive set with Dial-Tone (86/I), Leatherneck (86/II), Mainframe (86/II), Wet-Suit (86/II), and an audio cassette. Item #6691.

SERPENTOR - portmanteau of serpent+emperor

Char. #090, 13th Cobra individual

Sunbow Cartoon Notes: Voiced by Richard Gautier. Spoke 268 lines in 23 episodes. 16th most frequent speaker. First appeared in ASA 1; first spoke in ASA 4. Total appearances: 25. Wore his 1986 outfit with a blue-to-black cape, darker green detail on the uniform itself, and wider segmented chest padding. Commerical animation and a few shots from the cartoon gave him a red outfit. Serpentor was seen operating the Air Chariot (in 15 episodes), Moray, and Night Raven. The cartoon portrayed Serpentor as impatient, unstable and unwilling to receive advice. This weakness is explained by Dr. Mindbender's inability to obtain the DNA of Chinese military genius Sun Tzu. According to ASA, the emperor was created from the DNA of Napoleon, Xanoth Amon-Toth, Montezuma, Vlad Teppes, Ivan the Terrible, Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Hannibal, Julius Caesar, Geronimo, Rasputin, Atilla the Hun, Eric the Red, and "dozens more." The episode My Favorite Things added Ulric the Batterer and King Takshaka.

Prioritized Appearance List: Arise Serpentor Arise parts 1, 4, and 5, The Movie parts 1-5, My Favorite Things, Joe's Night Out, The Most Dangerous Thing in the World, Second-Hand Emotions, Sins of Our Fathers, Not a Ghost of a Chance, Nightmare Assault, The Million Dollar Medic, Cobrathon, Computer Complications, Grey Hairs and Growing Pains, My Brother's Keeper, Ninja Holiday, Into Your Tent I Will Silently Creep, The Rotten Egg, Raise the Flagg. One line: Glamour Girls. Serpentor was included in the opening sequence of season 2.

DiC Cartoon Notes: Spoke 39 lines in 2 episodes. Total appearances: 3 (Operation Dragonfire parts 1, 2, and 4). Wore an outfit similar to his 1987 one but with dark green replacing much of the gold. Forcibly merged with Gnawgahyde's iguana into a reptilian form that Cobra Commander said would be temporary. Serpentor is included in the opening sequence of OD.

Comic Notes: Serpentor appeared in 20 issues between 1986 and 1991: #49, 50, 52-56, 63-65, 72-76, 90, 116, Special Missions #7, and Yearbooks #3 and 4. Serpentor was killed by Zartan in #76.

1. 1986 (Air Chariot)
2. 2002 (RAH Collection)

3. 2005 (Comic #49)
4. 2007 (25th Wave 2)

5. 2008/I (Air Chariot)
6. 2008/II (DVD)

Version 1: 1986 boxed Air Chariot vehicle
Fig. #0103: Cobra Emperor
	head: Serpentor (86, 02) arms: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) torso: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) waist: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) legs: Serpentor (86, 02, 05)
	Accessories: green cloth cape (new, glittery); gold backpack (new, snake-hood); silver dagger (new, segmented handle); gold cobra (new)
	A secret cabal of Cobra scientists, under the direction of The Interrogator and Destro, combed the tombs, sarcophagi, and relics of the great despots of history to find cells with DNA traces. From these long-dead genetic blueprints they produced a composite clone with the military genius of Napoleon, the ruthlessness of Julius Caesar, the daring of Hannibal, and the fiscal acumen of Attila the Hun . . . the ultimate Cobra Emperor! A master of political intrigue and a brilliant tactician, he is capable of wresting power from Cobra Commander for the benefit of The Interrogator and Destro. Fortunately for the Joes, the Cobra Emperor's own ambitions were not taken into consideration by his creators . . . "His eyes have seen the legions of Rome trample the Gauls and Nervii into the dust. His hand lifted the horse-hair baton that signaled the first charge of the Carthaginian armored elephant phalanx. His ears have heard the rattle of French cuirassiers on the streets of Moscow. But it is his mind we must fear the most. The thoughts of the Cobra Emperor have not drifted from global conquest since the reign of King Solomon . . . "
Variations: Some mail-order Serpentors did not come with the cape. Snakes included with Serpentor ranged in color from green to gold to brown to black. Gold is most common.
Toy Notes: Item #6062. The commercial animation for Serpentor showed red trim on his hood, arms, and legs.
Re-releases: Also available by mail through various offers from 1989 to 1993.

Version 2: 2002 Real American Hero Collection Wave 5 two-pack assortment
Fig. #0601: Cobra Emperor
	head: Serpentor (86, 02) arms: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) torso: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) waist: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) legs: Serpentor (86, 02, 05)
	Accessories: glittery black cape (86 Serpentor's); black backpack (86 Serpentor's); silver dagger (86 Serpentor's); yellow cobra (86 Serpentor's); black figure stand
	A secret cabal of COBRA scientists combed the dusty vaults, tombs, and sarcophagi of long-dead despots, scraping together enough DNA to achieve a warped plan: a supreme leader dedicated to evil. They succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. SERPENTOR is a milityar genius, ruthless tyrant, fearless warrior, financial sorcerer, and political demigod. His plans are subtle, vicious, and intricate, making him a formidable enemy of G.I. Joe. Even COBRA COMMANDER has to watch his back in case his genetic brainchild tries to wrest control from him. The conquests of the distant past still echo in his mind, urging him to achieve the glory his DNA still remembers...and he'll stop at nothing to again grasp the world in his hands. "The greatest men of history flow in my veins, and my goal is to let them rule the world again."
Toy Notes: Carded in a two-pack with Shock Viper (02/I). Item #53086. This wave was exclusive to various online and specialty outlets.

Version 3: 2005 Wave 2 comic three-pack assortment
Fig. #1046: Cobra Emperor
	head: Serpentor (05) arms: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) torso: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) waist: Serpentor (86, 02, 05) legs: Serpentor (86, 02, 05)
	Accessories: light green helmet (new, snake head with white fangs); yellow cloth cape (86 Serpentor's); light green backpack (86 Serpentor's); black knife (86 Serpentor's)
	A secret cabal of COBRA scientists combed the dusty vaults, tombs, and sarcophagi of long-dead despots, scraping together enough DNA to achieve a warped plan: a supreme leader dedicated to evil. They succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. SERPENTOR is a milityar genius, ruthless tyrant, fearless warrior, financial sorcerer, and political demigod. His plans are subtle, vicious, and intricate, making him a formidable enemy of G.I. Joe. Even COBRA COMMANDER has to watch his back in case his genetic brainchild tries to wrest control from him. The conquests of the distant past still echo in his mind, urging him to achieve the glory his DNA still remembers...and he'll stop at nothing to again grasp the world in his hands. "The greatest men of history flow in my veins, and my goal is to let them rule the world again."
Toy Notes: Carded in a three-pack with Firefly (05/II), Scrap-Iron (05/I), and a reprint of Marvel #49. Item #61063.

Version 4: 2007 25th Anniversary Wave 2 carded assortment
Fig. #1175: Cobra Emperor
	head: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II) arms: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II) chest: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II), Nemesis Immortal (08) midsection: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II), Nemesis Immortal (08) legs: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II)
	Accessories: gold helmet (06 Hannibal's, with silver fangs); green skirt (new); gold sword (Hannibal's, with silver blade); silver boomerang (new, U-shaped with black handle); black Cobra figure stand
	A secret cabal of COBRA scientists, under the direction of THE INTERROGATOR and DESTRO, combed the tombs, sarcophagi, and relics of the great despots of history to find cells with DNA traces. From these long-dead genetic blueprints they produced a composite clone with the military genius of Napoleon, the ruthlessness of Julius Caesar, the daring of Hannibal, and the fiscal acumen of Attila the Hun. . . the ultimate COBRA Emperor! A master of political intrigue and a brilliant tactician, he is capable of wresting power from COBRA COMMANDER. Fortunately for the G.I. JOE team, the COBRA Emperor's own ambitions were not taken into consideration by his creators. "His eyes have seen the legions of Rome trample the Gauls and Nervii into the dust. His hand lifted the horsehair baton that signaled the first charge of the Carthaginian armored elephant phalanx. His ears have heard the rattle of French cuirassiers on the streets of Moscow. But it is his mind we must fear the most. The thoughts of the COBRA Emperor have not drifted from global conquest since the reign of King Solomon."
Toy Notes: Item #25979.

Version 5: 2008 Armadillo/Air Chariot vehicle two-pack (08/I)
Fig. #1276: Cobra Emperor
	head: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II) arms: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II) chest: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II), Nemesis Immortal (08) midsection: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II), Nemesis Immortal (08) legs: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II)
	Accessories: gold helmet (06 Hannibal's); green skirt (07 Serpentor's); black Cobra figure stand
	A secret cabal of COBRA scientists, under the direction of THE INTERROGATOR and DESTRO, combed the tombs, sarcophagi, and relics of the great despots of history to find cells with DNA traces. From these long-dead genetic blueprints they produced a composite clone with the military genius of Napoleon, the ruthlessness of Julius Caesar, the daring of Hannibal, and the fiscal acumen of Attila the Hun. . . the ultimate COBRA Emperor! A master of political intrigue and a brilliant tactician, he is capable of wresting power from COBRA COMMANDER. Fortunately for the G.I. JOE team, the COBRA Emperor's own ambitions were not taken into consideration by his creators. "His eyes have seen the legions of Rome trample the Gauls and Nervii into the dust. His hand lifted the horsehair baton that signaled the first charge of the Carthaginian armored elephant phalanx. His ears have heard the rattle of French cuirassiers on the streets of Moscow. But it is his mind we must fear the most. The thoughts of the COBRA Emperor have not drifted from global conquest since the reign of King Solomon."
Toy Notes: Boxed with Steeler (08/I) and the vehicles Armadillo Tank (08) and Air Chariot (08). Item #32395.

Version 6: 2008 DVD Battles assortment, #3 (08/II)
Fig. #1354: Cobra Emperor
	head: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II) arms: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II) chest: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II), Nemesis Immortal (08) midsection: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II), Nemesis Immortal (08) legs: Serpentor (07, 08/I, 08/II)
	Accessories: gold helmet (new, snake's head with fangs); gold skirt (07 Serpentor's); gold boomerang (07 Serpentor's); gold scepter (new, with cobra-head tip); gold snake (new, thin); black Cobra figure stand
	Inspired by a strange, recurring dream, DR. MINDBENDER hatches a traitorous plan to replace COBRA COMMANDER with a new leader. The mad doctor sends teams to tombs around the world to gather the DNA of the greatest warriors of all time. With this genetic material, DR. MINDBENDER creates SERPENTOR, the new emperor of COBRA. He has the military genius and political acumen of Napoleon, Julius Caesar, Vlad Tepes, Ivan the Terrible, and other rulers who have shaped the course of history. World domination is the one and only thought in the mind of SERPENTOR, and he immediately launches a campaign to conquer the world. "I am the one born to rule and destined to conquer. Let those who fear me, follow me. Let those who oppose me, die."
Toy Notes: Boxed with Dusty (08), BAT (08/II), Montezuma's Skeleton (08), MASS Device control turret, and Arise Serpentor Arise DVD. Item #33559.

MOTOR VIPER - all-encompassing term for engine-driven road or off-road vehicles

Char. #091, 13th Cobra troop type

Sunbow Cartoon Notes: Various voices. Spoke 16 lines in 6 episodes. First appeared in ASA 1; first spoke in ASA 4. Total appearances: 14. Wore the 1986 outfit, with no dark blue patches on the pants, and with visors usually smaller than on the figure.

Prioritized appearance list: The Most Dangerous Thing in the World, The Spy Who Rooked Me. One line: Arise Serpentor Arise parts 1, 2, 4, and 5, Glamour Girls, My Brother's Keeper, The Movie parts 1, 2, and 4. Silent: The Million Dollar Medic, Nightmare Assault, Sins of Our Father. Motor-Vipers were included in the opening sequence of season 2.

Version 1: 1986 boxed Stun vehicle
Fig. #0104: Cobra Stun Pilot
	head: Motor Viper (86) arms: Motor Viper (86), Airwave (90) torso: Motor Viper (86), Airwave (90) waist: Motor Viper (86), Airwave (90) legs: Motor Viper (86), Airwave (90)
	Accessories: none
	The Motor-Viper Corps attracts the type of individual who, without the benefit of an education and ambition, might have joined the Dreadnoks. The Cobra Recon and Perimeter Defense Forces are disciplined, effeicient, and highly motivated in the manner of all elite groups. This is fairly surprising, seeing that the Force seems to be comprised of the type that enjoys driving high speeds and finds amusement in danger. "As far as we can figure, the Motor-Vipers don't get paid any better than the Ground-Vipers or Sea-Vipers, nor do they receive any special privileges or benefits. They have their own distinctive uniform but it's no flashier than the rest. Why then, would a Cobra volunteer for such an obviously hazardous duty unless it was the danger itself that appealed to him?"
Toy Notes: Item #6041.
Re-releases: Also available as part of a vehicle drivers set by mail in 1988 through the offer Special Assignment: North Atlantic and in 1989 through the offer Operation Deep Six, then alone through the 1991 offer Escape from Doom. Also carded at a 1993 convention.

THRASHER - one who hits hard as with a whip or stick.

Char. #092, 8th Dreadnok individual

Bruno La Crosse (Belgian-born, with French surname) of Brussels, Belgium.
Brussels (region pop. 1,067,162) is the largest city in Belgium and the administrative center of the European Union. Other characters rom continental Europe include artan of France, Hotwire of Germany, Sparks of Italy, Vega of Spain, Daina of former Czechoslovakia, Baroness from an unspecified country, and a number of Oktober Guard from former Soviet republics.

Sunbow Cartoon Notes: Voiced by Ted Schwartz. Spoke 24 lines in 10 episodes. First appeared and spoke in ASA 1. Total appearances: 13. Wore his 1986 outfit, with lighter grey armor, more green in his hair, and a brown shirt. Thrasher was seen operating the Swampfire and Thunder Machine.

Prioritized appearance list: Arise Serpentor Arise parts 1, 2, 4, and 5, The Spy Who Rooked Me, The Movie parts 1-3 and 5, My Brother's Keeper. One line: Cobrathon, Once Upon a Joe. Silent: Into Your Tent I Will Silently Creep. Thrasher was included in the opening sequence of season 2.

Comic Notes: Thrasher appeared in 13 issues between 1986 and 1989: #51, 52, 69-71, 74-77, 79, 81, 89, and 90.

1. 1986 (Thunder Machine)

2. 2004 (Convention)

3. 2005 (Comic #75)

Version 1: 1986 Dreadnoks boxed Thunder Machine vehicle
Fig. #0105: Thunder Machine Driver
	head: Thrasher (86, 04) arms: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) torso: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) waist: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) legs: Thrasher (86, 04, 05)
	Accessories: black lacrosse stick (new)
	Thrasher was spoiled rotten as a child by his nice middle class parents in their nice middle class neighborhood. He was never disciplined, since his parents believed this would "stifle energies he might need later in life." Thrasher was never denied anything he asked for, even though everything he asked for wound up causing some type of unexplainable destruction or minor disaster. He got everything he wanted . . . but that wasn't enough! At a tender young age, this "wild child" wandered into the swamps where he could do what he pleased. It was in the swamps where he met up with Zartan and the Dreadnoks and was welcomed into the fold . . . "Even by Dreadnok standards, this guy is pretty low. He derives a slight sensation, which almost registers as pleasure on his primitive central nervous system, from inflicting misery onto others."
Toy Notes: Item #6042.

Version 2: 2004 Dreadnok Rampage special two-pack release
Fig. #0875: Dreadnok Driver Dreadnok Thrasher
	head: Thrasher (86, 04) arms: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) torso: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) waist: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) legs: Thrasher (86, 04, 05)
	Accessories: black pistol (86 Lifeline's 9mm); black machine gun (03 Torpedo's); grey knife (91 Low-Light's); clear figure stand
	DREADNOK THRASHER was spoiled rotten as a child by his nice middle class parents in their nice middle class neighborhood. He was never disciplined, since his parents believed this would "stifle energies he might need later in life." Thrasher was never denied anything he asked for, even though everything he asked for wound up causing some type of unexplainable destruction or minor disaster. He got everything he wanted but that wasn't enough! At a tender young age, this "wild child" wandered into the swamps where he could do what he pleased. It was in the swamps where he met up with ZARTAN and the Dreadnoks and was welcomed into the fold. DREADNOK THRASHER does the most damage behind the steering column of anything with three wheels and up. His unique vehicle creations continue to impress his fellow Dreadnoks, although its' his bragging and boasting that cause the gang to ignore him the rest of the time. "Every vehicle needs a custom-fit jet engine and a big machine gun."
Toy Notes: Bagged together with Dreadnok Zanzibar (04) at the Dreadnok Rampage-themed 2004 Convention.

Version 3: 2005 Wave 4 comic three-pack assortment
Fig. #1103: Dreadnok Driver Dreadnok Thrasher
	head: Thrasher (05) arms: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) torso: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) waist: Thrasher (86, 04, 05) legs: Thrasher (86, 04, 05)
	Accessories: black pistol (91 Dusty's 9mm); black knife (88 Hit & Run's)
	DREADNOK THRASHER was spoiled rotten as a child by his nice middle class parents int heir nice middle class neighborhood. He was never disciplined, since his parents believed that this would "stifle energies he might need later in life." DREADNOK THRASHER was never denied anything he asked for, even though everything he asked for wound up causing destruction or minor disaster. He got everything he wanted, but that was never enough to satisfy him. He was in his teens when he stole a motorcycle and hit the road to corruption. Eventually, he ended up in the swamps with ZARTAN, who welcomed him into the fold and channeled his newest member's destructive tendencies into profitable acts of sabotage and chaos. "What's wrong with slashing people's tires? I'm doing them a favor. Just think how boring their lives would be if I didn't add a little excitement."
Toy Notes:Carded in a three-pack with Dreadnok Buzzer (05), Dreadnok Ripper (05), and a reprint of Marvel #75.

Character Contributions

Cobra Infantryman: supervises, leads, or serves as a member of an infantry activity that employs individual or crew served weapons in support of offensive and defensive combat operations.
Python Patrol Assault Viper: serves in various front-line capacities for Python Patrol operations.

Covert Operations: employs conventional and unconventional warfare tactics and techniques in intelligence collection and processing; accepts special assignments at his own discretion.
Anti-Terrorist Specialist: combats the use of unconventional warfare tactics that instill fear in population as a means of coersion.
Martial Arts: maintains proficiency in codified systems and traditions for close combat.

Cobra Emperor: His job is to order, Cobra's job is to obey and fear him.

Motor Viper

Cobra Stun Pilot: operates and maintains Cobra's light wheeled high-speed sentry vehicles for security and combat operations.

Dreadnoks: undisciplined social outcasts who act as Cobra's mercenaries under the leadership of Zartan. They specialize in covert operations, primitive forms of sabotage, and general destruction.
Thunder Machine Driver: operates and maintains the Thunder Machine custom-assembled, weaponized assault truck as his personal vehicle.

Continue to 1986 Characters, Page 5 (Cross-Country, Slip-Stream, Lift-Ticket, Strato-Viper, and AVAC)

Go back to 1986 Characters, Page 3 (Lifeline, Iceberg, Sci-Fi, Wet-Suit, Dial-Tone, and Zarana)

Return to the INDEX.