Presented below are some photos of an authentic TOS stunt Type II or pistol phaser. These props, sometimes referred to as the "$1.98 Specials", were amongst the least rigorously constructed group of hand props for Star Trek and exhibited significantly less attention to detail than their midgrade or hero counterparts. They were constructed of thin, vacuuformed plastic that was quite delicate and could be deformed if moderate pressure was applied when holding the prop. While the hero props were specifically fabricated to withstand the scrutiny of close-up photography; these pieces were developed for background or stunt use only - particularly in action scenes where there was a risk of prop damage - and were never meant to appear in full view on camera; although, occasionally, some stunt pieces with their telltale smooth, rounded silver nozzles are distinguishable in episode screenshots.
This stunt pistol phaser sold at a Profiles In History auction with 1960's era provenance from William Shatner ...
