-Sep 1, 2025-
BMC Toys is a beloved manufacturer specializing in historically themed plastic soldier playsets, reviving mid-20th-century classic toy soldiers. Founded in 1991 by Bill McMaster, this company combines nostalgia, quality, and American-made products, appealing to collectors, hobbyists, and children alike while expanding its product range to include female plastic army figures.
BMC Toys was founded in 1991 by Bill McMaster, a former Toys “R” Us purchasing agent passionate about bringing back classic historically themed plastic soldier playsets that had largely disappeared after the 1980s. His vision was to revive the iconic toy soldier styles from the 1950s and ’60s for modern audiences. McMaster led BMC Toys successfully until his unexpected passing in 2014, after which VictoryBuy Inc. took over the brand, continuing his legacy.
BMC Toys offers several distinct product lines focused on historically accurate and collectible plastic figures:
American Hero Collector Series: Playsets featuring key periods in American history such as the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and D-Day.
Classic Army Men Collector Series: Reissues using vintage molds from renowned companies like Louis Marx & Co.
Plastic Army Women: Introduced in 2020, this line features female soldier figures developed with community input.
Heavy Haulers: Large plastic toy trucks complementing the soldier playsets.
Classic Marx: Revivals of classic farm animals and other playset accessories reminiscent of mid-20th-century toys.
These lines cater to collectors and enthusiasts seeking historically themed, detailed, and nostalgic toys.
Plastic Army Women mark an important evolution in the toy line, inspired by customer demand and heartfelt requests, including letters from children advocating for better representation. Introduced in 2020, these figures address diversity and inclusivity in military-themed toys, reflecting real women’s service in the armed forces. This new line has broadened BMC Toys’ appeal and garnered positive media attention for its inclusiveness.
BMC Toys leverages vintage molds from iconic mid-20th-century toy companies while incorporating improvements like upgraded packaging and enhanced molds for accessories. Some products are made in the USA using these classic molds, preserving authenticity. Others remain produced overseas but maintain vintage aesthetics. New packaging designs improve durability and usability, while product updates keep the line fresh and relevant to today’s collectors.
BMC Toys are available at multiple retail outlets and online platforms, including:
The official BMC Toys website (BMCToys.com)
VictoryBuy.com, the parent company’s e-commerce site
Major online retailers like Amazon and Walmart
Specialty hobby shops and toy soldier retailers such as Michigan Toy Soldier and The Toy Soldier Company
This multi-channel approach provides convenient access for hobbyists and collectors worldwide.
VictoryBuy Inc. assumed control of BMC Toys after Bill McMaster’s passing in 2014. Since then, they have focused on continuing production, modernizing packaging, and expanding the product range with new lines like Plastic Army Women and the Classic Army Men Collector Series. They redesigned packaging to reduce freight costs and improve durability, and updated molds for accessories, maintaining the brand’s historical charm while adapting to current market demands.
Jeff Imel, president of VictoryBuy Inc., leads the company managing BMC Toys. With a longstanding history in toy retail, Imel has honored Bill McMaster’s legacy by maintaining the product line’s quality and expanding offerings. The team works closely with artists and manufacturing partners to preserve the authenticity and appeal of classic plastic soldiers while innovating new products relevant to modern consumers.
Yes, BMC Toys create historically themed playsets that serve both educational and recreational functions. Their detailed figures and battle scenes introduce children and collectors to significant events in American history like the Revolutionary War and D-Day. These playsets foster imaginative play, historical interest, and collection value, supporting learning through engaging storytelling and hands-on activity.
“BMC Toys exemplify how heritage and innovation can coexist in the toy industry. Their commitment to preserving classic molds combined with new product lines like Plastic Army Women demonstrates a dedication to both tradition and inclusivity. At Golden Times, we appreciate how BMC balances nostalgic play with educational value, reinforcing why timeless toys continue to inspire generations.”
— Product Development Manager, Golden Times Amusement Toys
BMC Toys stands out by reviving and continuing the legacy of classic historically themed plastic soldiers with a blend of nostalgia, quality craftsmanship, and modern inclusivity. Their diverse product lines—from American heroes to plastic army women—offer something for collectors and kids alike. With a strong presence across retail platforms and a commitment to authenticity, BMC Toys remains a cherished name in toy soldier collecting and play.
Q1: Who founded BMC Toys and when?
A: Bill McMaster founded BMC Toys in 1991, aiming to revive classic plastic soldier playsets from the mid-20th century.
Q2: What makes the Plastic Army Women line special?
A: It represents female soldiers in toy form, responding to community demand for inclusivity and diversity, introduced in 2020.
Q3: Where are BMC Toys manufactured?
A: Some products are made in the USA using vintage molds; others are produced overseas, all maintaining high nostalgic and collectible value.
Q4: How has VictoryBuy Inc. influenced BMC Toys?
A: After acquiring BMC Toys post-2014, VictoryBuy updated packaging, expanded product lines, and ensured continuity of the brand.
Q5: Can BMC Toys help teach history?
A: Yes, their historically themed playsets educate users by bringing key American historical events to life through engaging, detailed figures.
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