Can anyone tell me when Megabass stopped using the “coffin” style packaging for the pop max?  The popper is in a color called pm Raigyo and has 2004 on the back. I just ordered it in the last couple weeks direct from japan. The finish and detail of the lure does not disappoint.  Thanks

I received this one from Japan last week.

This is how it came . . . 

 

You're right on the pattern too - Just Killer ! 

A-Jay

 

We have twins. Great minds do think alike!! I had no idea that this pattern had that wonderful crackle belly paint, I am very pleased by the aesthetics alone.  I had not thought about the chance that in the JDM lures that the plastic boxes were still produced and sold, is that what you're implying @A-Jay

4 hours ago, Smells like fish said:

I had not thought about the chance that in the JDM lures that the plastic boxes were still produced and sold

They (hard boxes) are not being used by MB anymore. Those still being sold are NOS still sitting on shelves. I'm not sure exactly when they stop using the hard box, but I have some 2014 vintage in those boxes. However, I have some 2010 Balsa Max 80 and 90 lures in the newer boxes, so I think there was some overlap where MB was still using up the older boxes they had on hand for the Pop Max. 

8 hours ago, Smells like fish said:

We have twins. Great minds do think alike!! I had no idea that this pattern had that wonderful crackle belly paint, I am very pleased by the aesthetics alone.  I had not thought about the chance that in the JDM lures that the plastic boxes were still produced and sold, is that what you're implying @A-Jay

Just saying this one was received in one.  Can only speculate as to how new stock is or will be packaged. 

A-Jay 

I still get them in the coffin boxes from time to time. Seems as though if it comes from Japan it is more than likely in one. I'm assuming they have quite a bit of stock to get rid of and many of them are still in the coffin boxes.