In May, we reported on how Todd McFarlane expressed hope that the McFarlane Toys Star Trek: Discovery phaser would still be released, even after pre-orders for it had been cancelled. Today, McFarlane Toys sent us a statement regarding the anticipated role play replica, explaining the cancellations and reiterating Todd McFarlane’s hope.

According to McFarlane Toys, the cancellation of pre-orders was due to changes required to fit regulations regarding toy weapons:

Based on federal, state and local regulations around replica/toy weapons, McFarlane Toys has decided to cancel pre-orders on the Star Trek: Discovery Phaser 2018 release until we can determine a more acceptable way to release it without compromising the integrity of the item. We are still pursuing options on releasing this item in the future. We apologize for any inconvenience and disappointment this may have caused the fans.

A number of US states have regulations regarding the sale and design of toy guns, to ensure toys cannot be confused with real weapons. The latest promotional image for the McFarlane Toys Star Trek: Discovery phaser (see below) did show how they were trying to comply by adding new orange colored nozzle, a change from the prototype shown at Toy Fair earlier this year.

Hopefully McFarlane finds a way to make these toys. The quality of the toy is impressive and is reasonably priced at just $35.

Figures still coming this summer

McFarlane’s statement also noted how this summer they will “be releasing Star Trek action figures based on the fan-favorite characters, Captain Jean-Luc Picard and Captain James T. Kirk.” The two 7″ articulated figures will debut in late July. Captain Kirk is available for pre-order from Entertainment Earth for $17.99 , and Captain Picard is also available for pre-order from Entertainment Earth for 17.99.