Here is a 2500+ word blog post on the 7 most expensive Nerfs:
Nerf blasters have come a long way since the original foam ball launchers first hit shelves back in 1969. What started as a humble children‘s toy has evolved into an iconic brand with a massive fan following spanning all ages. Today Nerf makes everything from spring-powered pop guns to fully automatic electric dart blasters equipped with tactical rails and scopes.
As the technology has progressed, Nerf blasters have also become highly coveted collectible items amongst hobbyists. Rare and limited edition blasters can fetch steep prices in the secondary market. Even retired models from decades past can command premium values due to scarcity and novelty.
In this article we will be counting down the 7 most expensive Nerf blasters of all time. We‘ll look at what makes them so valuable, where they stand performance-wise, and what it‘s like to own these prized showpieces coveted by collectors and enthusiasts everywhere.
A Brief History of Nerf Blasters
To understand why certain blasters become grails for collectors, it helps to know the history.
The first Nerf products came out in 1969 – oversized foam balls marketed as "world‘s first indoor ball". This novel concept of soft indoor play proved hugely popular. Over the next decades Nerf expanded into sports-themed toy balls and ball launchers.
The Nerf blaster as we know it arrived in 1989 with the Ball Blaster. This incorporated a spring-powered plunger to shoot a mini foam ball. Hasbro later introduced suction cup darts, allowing safe indoor target play.
In 1992 the first dart blaster arrived – the Sharpshooter. Featuring a revolving barrel and better range through whistle-tip darts, it kickstarted the iconic N-Strike line that dominates Nerf today. Through the 90s and 2000s Nerf blasters evolved rapidly, with battery powered semi-auto and full auto functionality, removable clips, tactical rails to mount scopes and other accessories, illuminated ammo, and tie-ins with popular media franchises.
Limited edition and special release blasters also began appearing around the early 2000s. Often featuring premium decoration and packaging, special ammo types or upgraded internals, these quickly became collector catnip. As early blasters fell out of production over time they too gained secondary market value. More recently Nerf has branched out into rival ammo, laser tag and even a motorized toy tank with live video feed!
In short, constant innovation keeps Nerf highly popular decade after decade. Yet old blasters retain nostalgia and novelty, feeding a vibrant collector scene.
On to the good stuff – the 7 most valuable Nerfs out there!
#7: N-Strike Longstrike CS-6 (2010)
The Longstrike CS-6 marks a turning point where Nerf transitioned to modern tactical looks we expect today. Modeled after military sniper rifles, it introduced the barrel extension and bipod which became staples going forward.
At a mammoth 3 feet long fully assembled, the CS-6 really played up the oversized sniper rifle fantasy. The flip up sight, 2-in-1 ammo clip and greatly improved range combined to make this a milestone early N-Strike offering.
Originally sold for $30, mint-condition CS-6 blasters now auction for between $150 to $200. boxed variants with all accessories intact can fetch up to $500. That‘s over 15X appreciation!
Given its historical significance and striking profile reminiscent of modern Nerf, the CS-6 deserves a spot in any serious collection.
Key Specs:
- 36‘ firing range
- Flip up sight & barrel extension
- Two 6-dart clips
- Tactical rails
- Reinforced shoulder stock
#6: Clear Deploy CS-6 (2005)
Here we veer into true collectors territory with the ultra rare Clear Deploy CS-6. This clear-bodied edition of the original Deploy CS-6 came as aONY Toy Fair exclusive in 2005, limited to mere hundreds.
The Deploy CS-6 already won hearts for its radical folding design. The blaster literally folds in half for transport and deployment, extending to full size when ready for action. Plus some nice tac rails to mount a scope.
The clear shell lets you gaze lovingly at the innards of this fascinating transformer blaster. It also looks stunning on display. Alpha Nerfers rate this as one of the holy grails – seldom seen and trading privately for $800+. One UK listing hit an eye-watering $2,700!
Only dyed-in-the-wool Nerf historians and completionists need apply though. That collector clout comes at a steep price!
Key Specs:
- Folding Deploy mechanism
- Clear body – view internals!
- Integrated tactical scope
- 30‘ firing range
- Onboard 6 dart clip
#5: Gear Up Raider CS-35 (2008)
2008‘s Gear Up series contained orange re-colors of existing elite blasters, plus a few unique offerings. The true star was the Gear Up Raider CS-35.
This variant of the popular Raider CS-35 came tuned up with bonus accessories – a 35 dart drum magazine and removable stock. These features would become standard later but were still novelties at the time.
The huge 35-dart drum delivers noticeable firepower advantage. Meanwhile the stock lends greater stability and accuracy at distance. These features combined with exclusive orange livery make the CS-35 perhaps the most functional collectible Nerf you can buy. Mint boxed versions trade hands privately for $600 and beyond.
For diehard Nerfers keen to flex at the next battle, this is a proper grail blaster that also performs!
Key Specs:
- 35-dart drum magazine
- Detachable stock
- Exclusive orange paint job
- Whistle darts increase range/accuracy
- Full auto battery powered
#4: N-Strike Vulcan EBF-25 (2008)
The Vulcan EBF-25 stands out even now as one of Nerf‘s most over-engineered masterpieces. This belt fed, tripod mounted, fully automatic electric blaster meant business!
The EBF stands for "electric belt fed" – which describes its defining feature. Rather than a clip, darts load into an ammo box from a belt holding 25 shots. From there they feed automatically into the firing chain.
The Vulcan was meant as a squad support weapon to pin down enemies. The removable tripod and insane 3 dart per second spew rate lent incredible suppressive fire. Of course you also look darn cool blazing away with a minigun-esque swarm of glowing darts!
Discontinued years ago, Mint-in-Box Vulcans trade privately for between $700 to $900+. Loose but complete examples still run $3-400+. Certainly one for the wishlist of any true ballistic Nerf connoisseur!
Key Specs:
- Fully automatic electric blaster
- Detachable tripod with swivel
- Belt fed ammo box holds 25 darts
- Spews up to 3 darts per second!
- Requires 6D batteries
#3: TerraScout RC Drone (2020)
This next entry proves Nerf still has innovative tricks up its sleeve! 2020‘s TerraScout ushered Nerf into the modern era of smartphone warfare.
This chunky RC tank drone packs live streaming video from an onboard camera. Operators view the camera feed on their phone as they trundle into battle. The turret packing an actual N-Strike Elite blaster adds familiar foam dart mayhem into the mix.
Between the futuristic gadgetry and sheer novelty factor, the TerraScout clicks with both younger fans and seriously hardcore Nerfers. Availability was initially very limited too, forcing prices over the $1000 mark on secondary markets.
As a cutting edge collectible or the ultimate tactical plaything, the TerraScout has huge appeal. Prices still hover around $700-800 for a Mint example. Truly a glimpse into the blending of foamsport combat and high tech wizardry!
Key Specs:
- Smartphone controlled RC tank
- Onboard camera streams video feed
- Fires Elite darts from turret
- Rugged all-terrain treads
- Rechargeable batteries
#2: Nerf Stampede ECS (2010)
The Stampede ECS stands out even among other rare blasters. It marks an outstanding combination of high performance and gorgeous aesthetic design.
This convention exclusive variant of the Stampede ECS rocks beautiful gold decoration plus crimson Blastersmith logos. Externally it resembles the regular Stampede save for the opulent paint job.
Inside though, Blastersmiths fitted metal internals for drastically improved power and range. We‘re talking 60-80 feet of pure precision nerfage!
Between the looks and enhanced performance, this special edition Stampede tantalizes both form and function fans. It typically auctions around $1000 mint-in-box, but can reach $1500+. Loose samples still run several hundred due to those gnarly internals.
For the collector who also demolishes friends in functionality focused battles, the Exclusive Stampede ECS checks all boxes. A true crown jewel blaster.
Key Specs:
- Convention exclusive variant
- Gorgeous gold/red aesthetic paint
- Enhanced range and accuracy via metal internals
- Battery operated full auto fire
- Detachable clip, stock and barrel
#1 Most Expensive Nerf: Crimson Strike Longshot CS-6 (2007)
The #1 priciest Nerf blaster hardly looks the part on first glance. In fact it was available widely at retail during 2007. So what gives the Crimson Strike Longshot such elite collector value?
Simple – it was discontinued abruptly amidst strange circumstances. Rumors of IP issues with the crimson logos terminated production prematurely. Availability plummeted virtually overnight.
This overnight rarity combined with striking logos and deco means the remaining boxed examples now easily break $2500+. Even loose bits sans darts or clips reach upwards of $1000. That‘s some appreciation for a $30 toy!
For the ultimate Nerf collector then, the Crimson Longshot represents the peak. A strange story, abruptly curtailed distribution, and gorgeous yet deadly deco. This blaster has it all to command kingly sums from the true high rollers.
Owning this crown jewel conveys supreme NERF bragging rights. As close to a Holy Grail as the foam flinging hobby possesses!
Key Specs:
- Gorgeous red/gold aesthetic paint
- Lightning crimson logos since removed
- Flip up sight & barrel extension
- 2 Quick reload clips
- Discontinued abruptly in 2007
- Strong resale from collector cachet
Takeaway Facts on Valuable and Collectible Nerf Blasters
Reviewing these 7 elite blasters reveals interesting patterns around expensive Nerfs:
- Rare special editions with limited distribution or sales duration command the highest values
- Convention exclusives, collector sets, premium aesthetic paints are also coveted
- Discontinued classics from the 1990s/2000s attain collector appeal
- Functional re-releases of vintage blasters also gain significant value
- Enhanced internals or accessories add interest for hobbyists actually playing with rare finds
- Strange backstories or controversies behind a blaster‘s distribution also raise resale prices
For the deepest Nerf pockets out there, owning one of these holy grail blasters conveys supreme collecting cachet and NERF bragging rights. Yet they often remain highly playable and competitive at foam warfare.
Given the constant innovation in Nerf toy weaponry, there will surely be new grails emerging year after year. Yet as nostalgia and discontinuations enhance their legend, the expensive blasters featured here seem likely to retain premier status for the foreseeable hobby future.
Buying the Priciest Available Nerf – What Collectors Should Know
While kids and casual fans happily snap up whatever colors a retailer stocks, true Nerf collectors take a more discerning approach. Here is some guidance around acquiring higher end and rare edition blasters:
- Box condition hugely impacts value – only mint boxes convey premium collector appeal
- Check production dates – small variations signal meaningful manufacturing changes
- Research identifying markers like special stamps or logos key to variant edition spotting
- Scrutinize deco differences – color schemes and themeing details matter!
- Ask sellers about any included rarities like limited ammo or paperwork
- Compare accessory completeness – high value models often have many loose parts
Those seeking the top shelf grails should brace for four figure territory. Yet patient saving and occasional auction luck can secure collector gems for several hundred dollars.
Exchanging notes and price ranges in dedicated Nerf collecting communities helps immensely. As with other hobbies, educating yourself on the nuances of high end Nerf is essential to avoid overpaying. This allows spotting opportune listings where loose understanding may cause others to overlook buried grails!
A bit of knowledge transforms Nerf collecting from lucking into retail rarities to actively investigating the news and history around coveted specimens. All part of the thrill of securing those special Holy Grail editions destined as museum pieces for future Nerf fandom!
Using Ultra Rare and Expensive Nerf Blasters
What‘s it like to actually own and use these pinnacle Nerf weapons costing hundreds or thousands of dollars?
For serious hobbyists these Grail blasters retain excellent functionality despite age or rarity. Collectors tend not to keep them as mere shelf queens. The joy comes from breaking out an impossibly rare piece on special occasions almost as a badge of honor.
Firing a tricked out Vulcan EBF-25 still serves up a wonderfully ludicrous dart swarm today as the day it launched. And the Crimson Longshot? Behind the collector premium lies fundamentally sound N-strike spec firepower. Plus bragging rights galore flaunting this unattainable unicorn!
Even for casual fans just entering the Nerf scene, getting hands on time with true top shelf blasters conveys lasting memories. You won‘t find gear like the Clear Deploy or Blastersmith Specced Stampede at retail anymore. Experiencing these apex foam flingers firsthand offers a window into the development arc of an iconic toy brand now nearing its 6th decade.
While the price tags limit playing with the big ticket blasters day to day, part of their mystique and appeal lives through occasional fielding at special events. True blue Nerfers know that behind each rare find lies a unique history and identity informing the evolution of Nerf up to today.
Final Thoughts
Looking back over half a century of foam flinging development, Nerf stands tall as a dynasty bridging multiple generations of toy fans. Along the way countless iconic blasters left their mark. A selection of particularly prized pieces now drive an enthusiastic collecting community constantly chasing specialty finds.
As new designs focus on digital interfaces and experiment with rival ammo, there remains strong nostalgia and appreciation of previous landmark releases. Once proud flagships fade into discontinuation, nostalgia accrues imbuing Nerf Grail status.
Whether you grew up staging legendary battles with friends, follow the hobby as a collector, or just want to try iconic blasters – expensive Nerfs represent fascinating trophies. Symbols of the changing state of toy weaponry through cultural shifts and technological progress.
Owning even one of these white whales puts a prized icon of pop culture history and childhood memory into lucky hands. We hope you‘ve enjoyed reading about these pinnacles of foam flinging as much as we did creating this guide!
This piece was compiled referencing collector price histories, out-of-production Nerfpedia records, prominent Nerf fan forums, and our decades of combined Nerf expertise. Photography sourced from official Nerf media archives.
