how long do we have?

[karl]

I am new to Lego and I am learning that they release sets only for a short period of time. I want to purchase 2 of the new large castle sets but don't have the cash right now so I am wondering how long do I have before they are unavailable?

[Aliencat]

Mostly these sets stay in the store shelves for about a year. That's about the best indication I can give you, because it of course really depends on how fast a set is selling compared to how many are produced.

[architect]

Core themes like Castle typically are produced in three year cycles. The new large castle should be available for at least 2010 and 2011. Limited edition and exclusive sets for any line can sell out quickly.

Ben

[karl]

Good, I still have time! Right now I'm still trying to get all the fantasy theme sets before he prices get too high. Next for me is 2 of the 10193 sets

[Ye Olde Republic]

That sounds wise Karl. The MMV has been available for a couple of years now and has been on backorder for a couple of extended periods and being an exclusive set, it can be discontinued at any time without notice. Make sure you buy so it keeps going but I'll let you read the many topics on why it's such an important set for any LEGO castle fan to get.

[OverLoad]

While in your post, you stated that you were looking for the larger sets, you also might want to think about the impulse sets, which not only sell fast, but are pulled off the shelves after about 6-8 months. Small price, but worth getting in time.

But other than, I think everyone else answered anything else. So, good luck getting what you are looking for.

[RichardAM]

The hoarder in me went into an uncontrollable panic this morning and decided it would be a good idea if I bought another one myself.

While in your post, you stated that you were looking for the larger sets, you also might want to think about the impulse sets, which not only sell fast, but are pulled off the shelves after about 6-8 months. Small price, but worth getting in time.

I've seen this recurring across all the themes, but particularly with Castle and Pirates. The Knight impulse was short-lived and seemingly replaced with the battlepack (themselves often only having a short lifespan), but i'd have far rather bought multiples of the former than the cheap-prod figs found in the battlepack.

This is a contrast to some of the City ones- i'm sure the police/traffic warden one has been around for well over a year and a half.