Lego seagull piece - weak grip issue

[zinnn]

I have 3 seagulls - all of them have really weak grip when placed on top of a plate, usually moving my set in a clumsy manner will make them disconnect... Is this a common problem or just a number of pieces were 'faulty' (for the lack of better word)?

[williejm]

I assume it might be an issue with them being rubbery?

[adwind]

Same with mine, I think it's common for this piece. I'm okay with it though

[Lion King]

I dont understand why TLG made seagulls out of rubber material instead of hard plastic ones….

[Mylenium]

It's perfectly normal. As much as I love them, but the birds come off easily of the Old Fishing Store. They use the "old" soft material and a somewhat loose mold. These days LEGO would likely just dual- or triple-mold them with a regular hard material.

Mylenium

2 minutes ago, DBlegonerd7 said:

I dont understand why TLG made seagulls out of rubber material instead of hard plastic ones….

Different times back then...

Mylenium

[Lion King]

23 minutes ago, Mylenium said:

Different times back then...

Mylenium

Sure…but I think it’s a great idea if TLG make seagulls out of hard plastic materials, similiar to wing-spreading eagle from Wildlife Rescue since seagulls have their wings spread out.

I’m not just a fan of seagull made out of entirely “soft” materials. 

[Maple]

My guess to them being rubbery is probably because of the wings.

I also guess the bad grip is the reason LEGO no longer uses the mold.

[zinnn]

Thanks everyone for your input. I really love that piece, the design is beautiful, but I agree that it'd be great for it to be made of dual or triple molded plastic instead.

Edited February 18, 2022 by zinnn

[CopperTablet]

On ABS plastic, you can increase friction with a coating of clear nail polish.  I'm not sure if the material the seagulls are made of is compatible with it, however.