Saber Forum

I started off doing some weathering with some sandpaper. Still determining if this is enough or should it go further
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4704/39274902214_5b4eb87713_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22QA97s)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4701/28205984189_4da2cae95b_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JYt3qe)

Just received my 3D printed Emitter Shroud  ;D I still have to do some weathering on it and attach it with some new thumb screws....
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4710/26265980418_85ee9c6971_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/G231Tm)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4657/26265980298_32d0f8ed2d_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/G231Rh)

Looking good so far!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4653/26265980078_d69195982c_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/G231Mu)

Looks like a good start!  Warning, it's addictive. ;)

Looks good for far. I agree with Illyiss, modding is very addictive.

Looking good.

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Thanks! Remember: admitting the problem is the first step… :P

Who says it's a problem? ;)

My wife and bank account think it’s a problem,but I think they don’t know what they are talking about.

-Goldldr

I have only one of these obstacles to contend with!  What I'd love to do sometime, is work on some for others!

well…at least I don't have a problem … ::)

My next steps are a new pommel, weathering further (dry brushed) and ultimately a shroud for the grip as well. I'd love some ideas on that last part.

as for designing for others: I belong to a SW RP group in the Second Life community and I "build" custom sabers and sell them…much more cost effective than this real life stuff :)

There is a really great thread here;

http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=17790.0 (http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=17790.0)

And there are lots of videos on Youtube as well.

Subtle, but that emitter shroud adds a lot.
Might want to consider a new pommel for it

Ya missed it, Therion. ;)

Nice, Been wanting that shroud or the Vox shroud myself for my Dominix. Love those slanted shrouds :P

Looks really good!

I did read that and saw some of the youtubey stuff. I just wonder about the thickness of the PVC on the hilt. I may go the 3D print route again. The bottom of the Dominix is only about 5 & 7/8" so it's not much to work with design-wise. Also, since the Dominix hilt is thinner than others, trying to find an appropriate cardboard tube to use for a template is challenging.

Hi.  This is the v2 version therefore it is not MHS compatible as it is more narrow than the other sabers.

Here's a pic of one of my customs with a tap from Ronin hardware that I added on to the pommel.  The inner walls required some dremel reduction to hug the pommel securely.  This one is for display and removable for use... but could be placed permanently.


(https://i.imgur.com/z2COUH8.jpg?2) 

Use the concepts and apply them to thinner material, such as copper pipe.  As for not being able to use the TP roll trick, there is that, but graphing paper is pretty amazing.  Roll it evenly around the saber, mark where to cut it to make it the same size, and now you have a gridded representation to design on.

Nifty!

IIRC TCSS makes an adapter to allow MHS hilts to be used on the V2 models...

Just ordered my new pommel and having it powder coated…A shame since II'm ust gonna rough it up when I get it  ::) :P :-*

Nice Hilt!!

Ok...So have been thinking about some "alternative" ideas to creating a grip shroud. I was looking at the contact paper ideas and found a website that is sending me some free samples. Instead of the normal leather or metal samples, I am going to take a look at some options that include, crocodile, snake, Alligator and Tortoise patterns. I love free samples :)

One Question: O-Rings...for a Dominix LE V2 hilt...what size do you recommend? I am thinking about adding them to the grooves (in the silver) once it is covered with the contact paper. That should look nice and sinister.

Testors aluminum enamel paint purchased along with some thinner…Time to do some paint weathering on the 3D printed shroud and hilt…pictures forthcoming  ;)

UPDATE: Weathering has commenced! Let me know what you think as this is my first attempt at such feats of derring-do.

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(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4771/40743632412_367811b2de.jpg)

I've left the grip area scuffed up with just sandpaper as I am going to possibly be going the contact-paper route (depends on what comes in the mail).

Also...I think O-rings to set off the contact papered grip....anyone have a recommendation on size for the Dominix LE v2?

Looking good to me.

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I know…right?!?  :P

You using your cell phone to take pictures? You sound try to focus more on the saber. Seems like all your pictures are focused on the background so it makes it hard to see the details of your work.

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The old flip phone can only do so much  :-* ::) :'(

The work is looking good, but your emitter shroud may be just a hint off kilter

Got it, no problem.

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contact paper samples (free) are en route…more when they arrive…

UPDATE: Waiting for contact paper to arrive and purchased one can of satin clear spray paint (thought I'd try that finish out…why not?!?) Still waiting on the pommel from tcss to be completed.

contact paper was a bust for several reasons.…on to the next idea  :-\ Not so sure about the satin clearcoat but I'll see what the morning brings on the tested areas from today.

Win some…Lose some :'(

New TCSS pommel arrives this week…fingers crossed it fits my saber :o I will weather it and clear coat it. STAY TUNED

Digging the work- love the emitter shroud🤘🏻 just curious- are you weathering for use, or display?


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First, thanks!

The weathering is mostly for display. However, I'll probably get use out of it too as it's my only saber to date. It's more just to try and make this sber more of my own.

Gotcha- all good and understood.  I’m just curious because on my recent first weathering job, i used all sandpaper because i was afraid the regular use would wear off any drybrushing.  Let me know how it holds up!🤙🏻


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Can always hit the finished saber with a dullcoat to protect your work

Just my opinion, I like the results of the sandpaper more than the drybrushing at this point. It was necessary on the 3D printed shroud as it was plastic. The satin clear ended up ok but I think I would go with a flat clear next time. More shall be revealed...

(http://i1249.photobucket.com/albums/hh513/mrg149/DSCF0608_zpsdfavw9ko.jpg)

(http://i1249.photobucket.com/albums/hh513/mrg149/DSCF0605_zpsa0kccsky.jpg)

(http://i1249.photobucket.com/albums/hh513/mrg149/DSCF0615_zpswh4kdsuj.jpg)

Update 2: Well, not only was the contact paper a bust.. :-[..now the TCSS pommel that I had powder-coated is a bust as well.. >:(..the thing is just too dadgum big for the hilt as I had feared. That was a waste of $$. SO....anyone want a TCSS pommel, insert and O-Ring?  :-\

What pommel did you get?

MPS V2 Pommel Style 3. Powder coated in wet black

Hey folks, about to get a delivery of my new Grip shroud!! (thanks Sedsti)

stand by for updates  ;D

Looking good man!

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/28008810807_1d555ab33f_m.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JF3tDa)
New 3-D printed shroud for the grip on my hilt.

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1805/28008806687_66056d5df5_m.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JF3sq8)
Side view
FUN FACT: The shape of the cutout was taken from a piece of packaging in an AXE Bath Scrubber...

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/900/42877455391_ba826e41e1_m.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28jWaEg)
Installed shroud - The fit is a bit large, so I am going to have to come up with a way to secure it on the hilt. I am considering using some brown duct tape to simulate a leather wrap underneath.

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/41977174175_c5bcd2a78b_m.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26XnZqk)
Overhead view #1

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1768/41977176165_7bed1ab76f_m.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26Xo11D)
Ovehead view #2

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/41977173285_8bbcf460dc_m.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26XnZ9Z)
Light 'er up! This is pre-weathering. I intend to give it a bit more 'character'...

Let me know what you think!?

Again: Shout-out to Sedsti for the great work on the grip!

Hi.  This is going to turn out really good.  Am most interested in viewing the final results.  :)

I like how that is coming out, very nice.

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That's incredible work MRG!

I'd love to see what other mods for sabers you come up with!

Thanks folks! This has been fun so far I'm currently trying to figure out how to secure the new part snugly (suggestions)? I may just use some strategic and visually pleasing duct tape (brown for a simulated leather wrap look). Also would like a more interesting pommel but none seem available for the Dominix v2 :-( Also considering a more Vader-esque D-ring assembly on the emitter shroud.

Finally, This needs a name…methinks…? Suggestions?

Definitely an interesting look with that shroud.
And I've used a longer scre in the covertec to help hold the shroud in place on the Lance.
Consular uses a similar idea

I dig it🤘🏻😁  my first customization was on my Dominix LE V2 as well- also blazing red.  I’m fond of the sandpaper as well🤙🏻


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The convertec option was something I was considering. However, tthere's ot much room inside the hilt with the battery pack.

can I tap it with a dremmel?

You could just get a covertec wheel and permanently super glue it into position.  May have to lightly prepare both surfaces for a close fit.  No screw would be needed.  :)

The object here is to attach the grip shroud to the saber...otherwise I'm going to quickly become an expert at throwing the saber unintentionally.... :-\

Sorry... got lost in the conversation lol.  How about using that tacky/rough black grip that you often see on ladder steps or even stairs.  Can't think of the exact name but know that it can be purchased at hardware stores.  Are you wanting to permanently secure the shroud ?

Where did you purchase the set screws that usually go with a covertec ?  I can't find them anywhere in Canada.  Also what are they called and what size/length did you get.  Thanks.  :)

I don't own a convertec (yet) so I'm not sure…anyone else know?

The covertec screws are 8-32 threading x 1/4 long, socket head style.   You can find them in the specialty screws bins of Lowes Home improvement stores if Canada has that chain.   They're also sold on the TCSS site in their misc saber parts/screws section.

Thanks for the info on the screws.  We do have Lowes but they don't stock these socket head screws where I live.  :)

Thanks for the info, point for you!

Your saber looks to be coming along quite well! I’m glad you like the shrouds as well! The grip shroud was a fun design to work on.

I look forward to following your continued progress  :)

Looking good!!

 

UPDATE:

1) Finished my very first leather wrap on my grip and think it came out well (for a first-timer) I found getting the grooves detailed more challenging than expected but I ended up holding it together when drying wuth some zip ties and it helped

2) Installed my 3D printed shroud today and sadly had to cut it to get a good fit…I think it still looks pretty sweet and used someBSI 30 min epoxy to have some time to get it fit just so

pics soon!!!

Great to hear!  Any tips on getting the grooves detailed when wrapping? Techniques? I look forward to seeing it!

Honestly, I just kept going over it as I progressed…I used some wooden chopsticks and pressed like a mofo ;) When I was done, I used zip ties that conveniently fit in the grooves and let it set overnight. I probably could have done more but…impatient

Thanks for that, have a point

UPDATE: Here's pics!

Post Leather wrap....looks nice, eh? Not bad for my first ever....
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1878/44419489292_689a80007f.jpg)

The seam didn't quite come together perfectly...but it will be covered by the grip shroud
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1894/29531220837_7696bc0c50.jpg)

Here's the shroud again...
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1881/43751240594_fa3f16f829.jpg)

Using epoxy, here's the shroud drying....I used these zip ties to hold everything together and they fit nicely in the grooves of the hilt keeping the definition I was hoping for.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1847/29531221067_fcd20cc480.jpg)

Completed!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1846/29531220907_f718a3db30.jpg)
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1899/44469274781_5cdc2d9bf7.jpg)
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1900/44419488772_6863fafe48.jpg)

Here is a link to the full album from beginning to end: https://flic.kr/s/aHskBeJvMX

Looking good there, mrg!  Thank you for posting up your steps, you made it look really easy and the leather adds more to your saber in my opinion.  Looks like a whole new saber, how does it feel?  Also, did you make that grip shroud yourself?  PVC pipe or metal?  I like it! Point.

Yeah, The leather is called "Chocolate Maroon" and it looks nice and "Sithy" on the saber. I felt the grip needed something to really make it look different. Overall, it's a bit heavier but it feels substantial in a good way. The shroud and grip shrouds are 3D Printed plastic with help from Sedsti Skyfaller (plug). I, sadly had to cut the notches in the grip shroud to get it to fit. It was originally all 1 piece. However, once installed, I've come to like it better this way.

The only things left to do are:
1) I'm considering attaching a D-Ring or Covertech up by the emitter end to give it another little bit of flare

2) I would like to inscribe either a saying "Chaos is my ally" in Sith font or maybe even the Sith Order logo or some rune-ish stuff. Haven't quite decided.

Overall, this has been a fun first project and I can't wait to learn how to wield this bad-boy.

Great project there, I remember when you first started it and looking at it now, it's a completely different saber.  I can't wait to see whether you'll inscribe in Sith font or use a Sith logo on it.

Shroud sets off the leatherwork nicely
Excellent work on this

Nice for sure =] Could always drill a screw in the bottom of the pommel to hold a d-ring, kinda like an old school Graflex set up look kind of thing :P So d-ring, screw, then washer, then nut like inside to hold it all together

You did a fine job of this v2... I hardly recognize this saber style.  :)

awesomeness point  8)

Good job on the saber, that shroud design is fantastic!

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Well done! I agree with D7- you can hardly see what is was originally🤙🏻.  More importantly- way to roll with all of the “missteps” or goofs along the way!  That’s a part of customizing that nobody ever really talks about: being ready and able to adapt to new ideas, biffed plans, inconvenient setbacks, and everything in between to still ultimately end up with a work of art.  More importantly to finish with something you’re proud of😊


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Ooh thanks for that tidbit…pointage!

Seriously folks, thanks for the kind words

Did good bub. Did damn good.

From where did you get your 3d printed piece?

Looks good - if you’d just busted out the final pic first no one would’ve been able to guess what it started as.  That’s awesome.  Well done.

That is an amazing custom saber you have there. Gives me ideas to customize my Aeon V2.

The 3D printed stuff came from Sedsti Skyfaller designs. The grip shroud he did custom for me off of a design I put together. He has some awesome other parts for sale

can someone walk me through the process of using a dremel to do engraving or etching. I am going to etch the Sith logo at the activation switch.

If using a Dremel, you need to be VERY careful.
I would draw the design out onto the hilt in marker.
As far as bits go, you'll likely want the smallest engraving bit you have

Take it slow, and very carefully as the engraving process is hardest to fix mistakes with

Thanks! Luckily the design is simple. Does it need sanding afterwards to soften edges?

Purely up to you.
Mine didn't, but I don't mind a rougher look sometimes

I finally picked up the Dremel and gave it a go! Here is my FINISHED saber!

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1965/44681711274_b7ff22bdaf.jpg)
Using the ignition switch as inspiration and the central circles of the design, I carved the Sith Order logo's "wings" on each side of the switch using a Dremel tool and a fine bit. This was my first work with a Dremel..on anything....and I ended up with a rough design which I think works nicely. Almost as if the Apprentice scratched it in himself.

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1938/45405808821_8a19db7a59.jpg)
Close-up of the "wing" design

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1939/44491435485_0a26f5cc30.jpg)
My training is now complete...

Here is a link to the full album from beginning to end:
https://flic.kr/s/aHskBeJvMX

This was a fun first project and I surely have caught the "bug" and am looking forward to the next project. I've already made some decisions to go ahead with a Jedi-inspired build...For balance...of course!

Thanks for all the fun and inspiration here on the boards as well as the encouragement!
MTFBWY

Great work, mrg.  I've been following your work since you began and the dremel work is a nice touch on the saber.  It's a completely different saber now, one fit for you.  Point incoming.

He’ll ya! It’s balzy to take a dremmel to a saber, I know from experience;) came out great bub! Point

That looks like some excellent work my friend. Thanks for the share. Point

Engraving looks good

Good job, I wouldn't try to engrave!

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Good job! Using the Dremel is difficult

It was not so bad once I started but it'll take more practice to be able to do anything impressive. I say try it all and you'll have it in your wheel-house when inspiration strikes!

Wow ! That's a great looking creatively designed saber.  :o

excellence point  8)

Aww shucks :P

Great work, thanks for sharing

Point

Here is my final formal post for this thread. The final project pic for my Dominix LE v2 "Dark Apprentice" build!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4872/32442566928_00c72b6d09_z.jpg)

project album below in Arsenal list.

Beautiful project there, mrg!

An excellent looking hilt there

Love the tutorial, filing it away for use when my first sabers get here!

Looking forward to your posts! WWhat'd ya buy?

Got 2 mystery boxes for my first purchases. So hard to wait for them to get here, so I'm spending my time imagining all the ways i can make them "mine" once they are here.

The sabers will "tell" you what to do… check out my album for my Invictus build in my signature below. That ended up 180 degrees from its humble beginnings

That really does show that even it you get a mystery box that "doesn't match" or something you can do anything with it. Thanks for showing it off!!

Nice job!

thank you!