G.I. Joe L.A.W. (Laser Artillery Weapon) (1986)

 

Overview

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The L.A.W. (Laser Artillery Weapon) was released in 1986 as part of G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero and came packaged with the exclusive Tripwire (Version 2) action figure. Designed as a mobile laser defense system, the L.A.W. gave the G.I. Joe Team a powerful anti-aircraft and anti-vehicle weapon that could be quickly deployed on the battlefield.

Although relatively compact compared to tanks and missile launchers, the L.A.W. is remembered for its futuristic concept and distinctive rotating laser cannon.

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Key Features

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1. Includes Tripwire (Version 2)

Every original L.A.W. came with Tripwire (Version 2), the G.I. Joe team's explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) specialist.

Unlike his original 1983 release, this version featured a darker green uniform designed to complement the L.A.W. battle station.

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2. Rotating Laser Cannon

The centerpiece of the set is its large articulated laser cannon, which can rotate and elevate to engage:

• aircraft

• helicopters

• armored vehicles

• incoming missiles

The futuristic design made it one of the most advanced weapons in the 1986 lineup.

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3. Wheeled Mobile Platform

Mounted on a two-wheel trailer, the L.A.W. can be:

• towed by larger vehicles

• repositioned around a battlefield

• deployed as a defensive emplacement

Its mobility increases its tactical versatility.

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4. Adjustable Crew Station

The rear operator's seat allows a standard 3.75-inch G.I. Joe figure to control the laser system while aiming the cannon.

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5. Compact Battlefield Support Unit

Unlike larger artillery pieces, the L.A.W. occupies relatively little display space, making it easy to integrate into bases, checkpoints, and defensive lines.

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Fun Facts

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L.A.W. Stands for "Laser Artillery Weapon"

The acronym is one of the simpler and more straightforward names in the G.I. Joe universe, directly describing the vehicle's intended role.

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Often Displayed with Tripwire

Although any figure can operate the system, most collectors permanently pair it with Tripwire, as the figure was created specifically for this release.

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One of the First Laser Weapons in the Line

The L.A.W. helped push G.I. Joe further into science-fiction territory during the mid-1980s, introducing directed-energy weapons alongside more conventional military hardware.

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Surprisingly Stable Design

Thanks to its wide wheelbase and support structure, the L.A.W. is less prone to tipping over than many other small artillery accessories from the vintage line.

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Frequently Used in Base Dioramas

Collectors often position the L.A.W. around Headquarters Command Centers, Watch Towers, or defensive checkpoints to create layered perimeter defenses.

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Value Drivers

The biggest factors affecting collector value are:

• inclusion of the original Tripwire (Version 2) figure

• intact rotating laser cannon

• complete trailer assembly and wheels

• original decals in good condition

• instruction sheet included

• original box

• absence of broken pivot points or stress marks

Because the laser barrel and smaller accessories can be damaged or lost, fully complete examples with Tripwire command a noticeable premium.

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Why Collectors Love It

The L.A.W. (Laser Artillery Weapon) remains a memorable addition to the 1986 G.I. Joe lineup thanks to its:

• futuristic laser-based concept

• exclusive Tripwire (Version 2) figure

• compact and highly playable design

• rotating and adjustable cannon

• versatility as a defensive emplacement or mobile support weapon

Although overshadowed by larger vehicles like the H.A.V.O.C. and Conquest X-30, the L.A.W. has earned a lasting place in vintage collections as one of the most distinctive battle stations of the A Real American Hero era.