Originally Posted by
girot
So I couldn't wait until this weekend to open my new kit. Took about half an hour to get it assembled in TFA configuration. Here are my first, 100% honest and unbiased, impressions:
PROS:
1) Very, very close to a vintage graflex. I compared mine side by side and was very pleased with how close they are.
2) It feels and looks fantastic in hand. I can’t wait to get my saber stand in so I can put both sabers on display together.
3) Extremely easy to assemble. I took my time but if I weren’t also watching TV while I was working I could have fully assembled any version of the hilt in less than 10 minutes.
CONS:
1) The blade retention screw and socket hole threads do not match. While I cannot rethread the screw I can retap the hole in the blade socket. Easy fix.
2) The clamp ring is kokeyed and because it is also significantly thinner than the real thing it’s almost too fragile to bend it into place. I’m sure it wouldn’t be a big deal when wearing the saber as part of a costume but when its purpose is to look pretty on a shelf these are the sorts of little things that really damage its presentation.
3) The Kobalt D-ring looks almost like its chrome plated. Not sure if this is canon or what but I’m not a fan of chrome.
4) All of the small bits seem REALLY thin and fragile. Again, this is definitely going to be a show only piece.
5) The blade socket/upper chassis is a straight shot all the way through. There is no hard stop for the blade, blade plug, and nothing whatsoever to mount electronics to. As much as it hurts me to admit it I am going to have to get a printed chassis for this thing.
CONCLUSION:
I really like this kit. Aesthetically it is a beautiful kit. The detailing is film accurate enough to impress anybody but the scruffiest of nurf herders. That being said I wouldn’t dar attempt to spar with mine. In the end this build is going to cost about $400 and I have no desire to invest in repair work once it’s complete. I admit I was surprised at what its actual skill level was once I got it open and started working on it. For someone looking for a non-functional prop or those seeking a display piece this is an excellent novice-level kit. For those looking to “finish” the saber by installing electronics this is an advanced-level kit.
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