Warning: Spoilers for Laura Kinney: Wolverine #5! As a longtime admirer of the Winter Soldier, I often find myself amazed at the unexpected feats he can achieve. Recently, Bucky Barnes surprised fans by executing a classic “Fastball Special”with Wolverine, showcasing a remarkable display of strength. It seems that this old soldier still has some new tricks up his sleeve.
In Laura Kinney: Wolverine #5, written by Erica Schultz and illustrated by Giada Belviso, Bucky, now operating under the codename “Revolution,”teams up with Wolverine to combat a swarm of Hydra Bots. In a strategic moment, Bucky utilizes the iconic X-Men maneuver, the “Fastball Special,”launching Wolverine into the fray against the nearest Hydra Bot.
While the Fastball Special isn’t a novel concept, it’s typically executed by those with superhuman strength, like Colossus. Bucky’s ability to hurl Wolverine—who now possesses a full adamantium skeleton—through the air truly underscores his innate power.
Bucky’s Strength to Handle Wolverine’s Adamantium Skeleton
Laura Kinney: Wolverine #5 by Erica Schultz, Giada Belviso, Rachelle Rosenberg, and Cory Petit
To appreciate the implications of Bucky’s impressive throw, it’s essential to examine several factors. Previously, Laura Kinney did not have her entire skeleton coated with adamantium, but that has changed. Now, as Wolverine, she shares a similar physical structure with Logan. The addition of an adamantium skeleton significantly increases her weight, potentially doubling her mass compared to her prior form. Therefore, Bucky’s ability to launch her is a testament to his extraordinary physical capabilities—far beyond merely lifting her from the ground, especially considering the distance he aimed for the Hydra Bot.
This accomplishment is not attributed to combat skills, strategic thinking, or sharpshooting abilities; it is an impressive display of brute strength—a quality that has not traditionally defined Bucky.
In history, we have seen only extremely strong heroes performing this move with Wolverine. Colossus is the usual partner, alongside occasional others like She-Hulk. Typically, such feats are accomplished by individuals with extraordinary enhancements. While Bucky is exceptionally skilled, he does not fit into this category. His display of raw physical power was striking, particularly since, even with a cybernetic arm, he usually does not exhibit this level of strength.
Bucky Barnes Lacks Super Soldier Serum Enhancements
MCU’s Version of Winter Soldier Exhibits Distinct Abilities
If you primarily know Bucky Barnes from the MCU, you might be surprised to learn that his comic book counterpart lacks the super soldier serum. Unlike Steve Rogers, who gained immense strength, durability, and agility, Bucky’s powers have not stemmed from such enhancements. Until recently, his longevity and capabilities were largely due to his history of being cryogenically frozen at intervals, which allowed him to function as the Winter Soldier intermittently. Despite his skills and precision, it’s easy to overlook that he doesn’t possess the same enhancements as traditional super soldiers.
While not an ordinary human, Bucky did receive the Infinity Formula following a confrontation with Sin, granting him some enhanced abilities, though they remain significantly inferior to those of a true super soldier like Steve Rogers. His cybernetic arm contributes to his strength; this formidable appendage enables him to perform feats that ordinary humans cannot, including his extraordinary act of launching Laura as a projectile. This moment, however, marks a new level of strength for Bucky.
Bucky Barnes’ Display of Power Complements His Codename Transition
Embracing “Revolution”May Reveal New Depths to the Winter Soldier
As a fan of Bucky, I’m thrilled with Marvel’s direction for him ahead of his anticipated return in Thunderbolts. Bucky’s collaboration with characters like Laura Kinney signifies his growth, and his commitment to the “Revolution”codename appears to be resolute. This character evolution is also accompanied by new opportunities to showcase his talents—this time extending beyond pure combat expertise.
Though historically not recognized for his physical power in the comics, Bucky’s recent display has shifted my perception. The single performance of the Fastball Special has revealed his true strength, compelling me to reassess my underestimation of him. While he may not reach the super-soldier status of Captain America, the combination of his cybernetic arm, the influence of the Infinity Formula, and sheer determination allows Bucky Barnes to achieve extraordinary feats. His potential goes far beyond what I previously believed, with the capability to launch Wolverine into battle being just the start.
Laura Kinney: Wolverine #5 is now available from Marvel Comics.