Arkanjel's etched sleve build

[Arkanjel]

A few teaser pics of this weekends progress on my second build.

I etched the MHS sleeve material pretty deep. This pattern gives a kung fu grip. The power and acc switches are disguised as dots.


IMG_0219 by Simon Rivers Photography, on Flickr

Im going to concave a lot of the flat surfaces of the MHS blade holder (24) and pommel (3). I put the first groove into the rim of the blade holder (matches pommel) on a friends lathe with some hand files.


IMG_0221 by Simon Rivers Photography, on Flickr


IMG_0220 by Simon Rivers Photography, on Flickr

The pommel will also get a good working over for a sleeker profile. I plan on puting the recharge port into the bottom of it and making a kill key to look like the point.


IMG_0222 by Simon Rivers Photography, on Flickr

plenty more to come...

Edit:

Ok, so I made some design changes. The length of the hilt was just too short/fat for a dueler. And with just a couple of modifications it took on a whole new feel. Proportions and balance are much improved. Speaker has a good resonance chamber in the choke.

I really wanted to add some brass for contrast. So I cut and stripped some sink tube and etched the reveal section of the MHS under body.


photo2 by Simon Rivers Photography, on Flickr

I also installed the chrome power switch and recharge port. Then I added a final trim panel to the top.


photo (1) by Simon Rivers Photography, on Flickr


photo3 by Simon Rivers Photography, on Flickr

Swings like a dream. Very happy with the direction it took. Its funny how weapons really do take on a personality of their own....

[amwolf]

Nice! Second build, huh... wow.

[Starwinder]

Awesome! love the "kung fu grips" pattern - came out beautifully! Could you show a picture of the hidden switches? I'm interested in seeing how those turned out.

[Nick Knight]

grip pattern is so beautiful.

[madmaxx]

very very nice hilt.you should be proud.well done

[Arkanjel]

Thanks all. Im definitely happy with the initial work. Its going to get some more lathe work tomorrow. Im really having fun hand shaping with the files.

Did I mention how tedious applying the resist was? Im still seeing dots in my sleep....

Edit:SW Ill take some pics of the buttons when I get everything.....wait for it..... buttoned up.

[Ty_Bomber]

Dude. Thats pretty slick looking.

[MrCafe]

That is amazing etching and weathering.

[Batosai]

nice etching!
did you use saltwater etching or rootkiller?

[Darth Ryo]

Very nice looking grip, good job