Saber Forum

Hi everyone, I'm brand new here. Waiting on my first saber (Sentinel V4 Staff), but since Halloween has just past, and there was nothing going on for me, I figured it would be a good chance to try to see if I could throw together a halfway decent Star Wars inspired costume.

Luckily I already have a pair of red LED nunchucks (which is what lead me down the path to getting a saber), so I figured, hey, it's a martial arts weapon made out of aluminum and polycarbonate that lights up, that's close enough.

So I took that, and started Googling some Star Wars cosplay, stock photos, fan art, etc. Turns out full Jedi robes can be pretty pricey, and I have no skill at making them myself, so it was time to improvise. I've always been a fan of Gray/Grey Jedi (is one spelling objectively correct here?), and the nunchucks I have are red, so I figured something darker would make sense, so shades of grey and black, not the traditional Jedi colors.

Anyway, I had a pair of black/gray Thai fisherman pants I bought for cheap a while ago, and a long-sleeve black turtleneck compression shirt. From there, I figured I needed SOME sort of robe or whatever, so I bought a relatively cheap lightweight men's grey long cardigan/overcoat, and cut off the sleeves, to kind of look like a low effort version of the guy in the center of this image I found online:

(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/hDo1Km4bMys/maxresdefault.jpg)

Where it looks like there's a relatively form-fitting black shirt under a grey robe. I have no idea how the robe overlapped and whatnot like in that photo, so I opted to just keep it open, like this photo I also found randomly online:

(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/9f/1b/19/9f1b1941a27e89088a0dd119cb5741a1.jpg)

Then I need an obi sash or whatever it's called, both to keep the robe in place, a well as to function as a belt and eventually hold the lightsaber (or the, what should I call the, saberchucks?). I didn't have anything that fit the bill, but I did have a black and red dip/pullup weight belt that conveniently has two clips on the front that hold the nunchucks, and can hold two pairs if I ever decide to pick up another pair. It's far from perfect, but for a makeshift work in progress, it was sufficient, and the price (I already had it) was right.

(https://i.imgur.com/rr2XxeM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/x3d9qhT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Xw3uLYd.jpg)

Link to some practice with the nunchucks:
https://i.imgur.com/TVBcn25.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/TVBcn25.mp4)

Room for Improvement Going Forward:

>Some form of gloves/gauntlets/wraps would be nice I think.
> An actual obi sash belt or whatever it is called would maybe be optimal? Or at the least I could cover the logo on the belt haha
>Cover the Nike logo on the shoulder of the compression shirt. I actually think the logo/symbol on the neck looks Star Wars like enough to keep though.

>Get the actual Sentinel V4 Staff I'm waiting on!

Any thoughts? Feedback? Criticism? Room for improvement or changes?

Thanks!

On a side note, how could saberchucks actually work in the Star Wars universe? I suppose you could have gloves/gauntlets made out a material that can withstand grabbing the blade? But even then, a lot of nunchuck movements involve wrapping the chucks around the body to control and redirect momentum. So that wouldn't really work. Maybe something that's not actually a lightsaber, like what the MagnaGuards used, the Electrostaff? It appears to me, and correct me if I'm wrong, that, unlike a lightsaber where the length of the blade retracts when not used, the "electro" part of the electrostaff doesn't actually retract, but simply becomes "electrified" when activated? So applying this same logic to nunchucks, maybe a skilled force user could strategically turn on and off each side of the electro-chucks as it leaves their hand and body to strike, ensuring that they never end up grabbing the electrified part, while still allowing them to be able to grab either end or wrap it around their body as needed. This would also work better than a lightsaber for the particular pair of chucks I have where the LED parts don't extend all the way to the end, but only in the middle portion. I can head-cannon that it's just that part being charged, not a blade retracting and extending like a lightsaber. Granted, I do not have the ability to turn on and off the lights while using them, but I guess people using the lightsabers also don't have the ability to retract and extend them at will either, so nobody is perfect. And sorry for the rant.

Not bad :P Could use some clearer pics though. As for an inexpensive robe, can't go wrong with JediRobeAmerica, I have their dark brown robe but they also have a black robe as well =]

Sorry about the bad image quality. It was just the self-facing camera on my phone. If/when I make further improvements and/or get the actual saber I'm waiting on, I will at the least turn the phone around to use the less-worse camera. My bad.

Thank you for the robe suggestion! I'll definitely check them out.

Looks really nice, definitely one of the better outfits and it doesn't at all look like you just threw it together so that's a huge plus. I think it's the style that you have going on but I immediately thought that arm wraps would be an excellent addition or maybe something resembling gauntlets. Wraps are easier because essentially it's just a long piece of fabric but you can play around with it some to add a bit of flare. A great start, keep us updated with pics!

Thanks! I was thinking grey arm wraps too. I don't want big bulky gloves, as that could potentially interfere with my ability to properly use the nunuchucks.

I have been looking at just some grey canvas arm wraps, which should only run me $10-15 or so.

Alternatively, I've also been eying the Century martial arts forearm armor:

(https://s.yimg.com/aah/yhst-36451256984760/century-forearm-armor-141.jpg)

Or their forearm/elbow armor:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71%2B69ye7uyL._AC_SX425_.jpg)

Which would even help save my elbows from stray nunchuck misses haha.

Their forearm and hand armor is awesome looking too, but I'm not sure if the hand padding would interfere with some spins:

(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/14933_1.jpg)

Those options run $30-40 instead of $10-15 though.

Edit: and I guess if I did go with just the canvas arm wraps, or any of the non-hand arm armor, I could pick up some boxing hand wraps for around $7. Maybe they even have longer handwraps that can also serve as the arm wraps, to kill two birds with one stone.

Edit 2: so I had an old set of white boxing hand wraps, and they do not interfere with the spinning at all. So I could either run black hand wraps and black forearm wraps, or black and wraps and grey forearm wraps, or any color combination of grey and black. Or black hand wraps with the black Century arm/elbow armor. I think handwraps may look more finished than open/plain hands, even with the forearm wraps/guards.

Those look very interesting, might be really easy to modify those pads to look like armor with some craft foam if you are in a crafty kind of mood. I guess when I said "gauntlet" I should have specified the part from the wrist towards the elbow and not the actual hand (which I'm sure is called something but my medieval nomenclature is not exactly up to par.)

You're right I think. The gauntlet is just from the wrist to the forearm I think. I was just showing some options. And I'm not sure if I want to just run the forearm pads/armor/wrap with nothing on the hands, or if I want to run some handwraps with whatever I go with.

Unfortunately I have not experience with craft foam. I did quickly use the old white hand wraps I had to make a hand wrap and then a forearm wrap over the black compression shirt, just to see what it'd look like. I can always run black or grey handwrap with black or grey arm wrap or black armor/pad/gauntlet/etc.

This is what it looks like thrown on real quickly. I wouldn't go with white with the grey/black colors I have, but it's all I had laying around to check:

(https://i.imgur.com/NcQznnF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8QX4Ewf.jpg)

I may just end up leaving the hands open with no wrap and just going with whatever forearm option I decide on though. Thoughts?

It looks pretty cool. Traditionally I think wraps tend to start at the wrist and go to around the elbow (the Rey look), I don't think I've ever seen them around individual fingers. I'd imagine that would compromise your finger range of movement somewhat. Yeah white may not go to well with the costume but you've got options on that. A lot of costumes are put together the method you're using of finding things that work and putting them together. It's a pretty good method.

Thanks. What you say makes sense. The hand wraps around the fingers aren't particularly restrictive IME. Some/most MMA fighters wear them under their gloves (as do most/all boxers) wrapped around the fingers, and they do plenty of grabbing and grappling, etc. I was able to do all the spins just fine with the nunchucks and the handwraps around the fingers, but I would want to make sure the material isn't at all slippery/slick, as I could see that making it hard to get a firm grip on the chucks. I guess the jury is still out on the handwraps for now.

I see what you're saying about the Rey-style arm wraps. I guess I was looking more at the Medieval style arm wraps that seem to go from wrist to just short of the elbow, stopping short of covering the elbow:

(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/94/0a/a4/940aa49f395596be649aef20d0e02d7b.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/18/63/80/1863803b5753c90baced1a1d04618fed.jpg)

Or like you'd see associated with Shaolin monks:
(https://www.totalmartialartsupplies.com/content/images/thumbs/0000202_shaolin-monk-off-shoulder-uniform-set.jpeg)
(https://totalmartialartsupplies.com/content/images/thumbs/0000201_shaolin-monk-off-shoulder-uniform-set_300.jpeg)

Or, for lack of a real-life picture, around the hands up to the top of the forearm like Rock Lee from Naruto:
(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/564a7651e4b03f66f2c1023b/1524016274997-FB5XQ4T85TGA2KJUAH48/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kFitVLlCHWWWXBq9M-YKMD9Zw-zPPgdn4jUwVcJE1ZvWhcwhEtWJXoshNdA9f1qD7Xj1nVWs2aaTtWBneO2WM-tdQO6SS0j2gAmvawSNOjcHhmEoyutdQk94cOMWlYsBQg/Unknown-19.jpeg?format=2500w)

is the long cardigan you use the coofandy one on amazon, ali express or wish? I was looking at that for my own costume purposes in the same way…

It is the Coofandy one on Amazon. I ordered the grey one in large. I'm ~5'-10" for reference. I think it's a good size for me. I sort of made the mistake of cutting one of the sleeves off partially inside the seam, which means the armhole is slightly larger on one arm than on the other, but it's not the end of the world, and it's not like a Jedi's outfit isn't susceptible to wear and tear over time. I definitely can't complain for the price ($31 with free Prime shipping).

So to eventually replace my dip/pullup lifting belt (it works, but it's not 100% secured in the front, and I think it's a little bit too bulky/padded, I want to try to replicate the belt the Grey Jedi in the center has:

(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/hDo1Km4bMys/maxresdefault.jpg)

So I'm thinking of getting a 1.5" belt (like the one shown below) that is at least designed to be a tactical belt, so should be study enough to hold a saber/chucks without sagging too much (I'm not expecting a true duty/carry quality belt for $15 though, but it should be better than your typical cheap nylon I'd imagine):

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/612zMI1ty5L._AC_UX425_.jpg)

And then knocking off/out the center clip, and replacing it with a ~2" circular silver carabiner (not necessarily shown at the proper size below):
(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b8/ef/52/b8ef52a6065b2b3ecf54958349e76416.jpg)

And then maybe 2 smallish pouches, perhaps one to hold my phone and one to hold my wallet:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71xU2INkDFL._AC_SL1400_.jpg)
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Bz6oJMWoL._AC_SL1001_.jpg)

So I'm looking at $15 for the belt $20 for 2 pouches, and $5-10 for the carabiner, so $40-45 for what should be a fairly sturdy functional belt with 2 functional pouches. Then I guess to complete the look I need a regular grey Obi sash thing to go behind it like in the image, which I see any number of for ~$15 on Etsy, so ~$60 when all is said and done for something to try to be unique and replicate a look while still hopefully being functional.

That's all solid stuff and looks like it'll work fine. I'm biting my tongue to not tell you to make the belt and pouches yourself out of craft foam and such because you mentioned you hadn't used it before.  :-\  If at some point you want to expand out I even have a tutorial link for the pouches in my signature (forgive me the shameless plug.)  ;)

I will check out your tutorial for sure! Nothing shameless about providing resources to help out and give ideas! What exactly is the benefit of making the belt and pouches out of craft foam and stuff, besides further options for exact customization I'd assume? Is it substantially cheaper, especially once you start making multiple pieces? Supposed reviews for that belt claim it is stiff/durable enough to handle EDC type use, so should hopefully be more than sturdy enough to handle holding a lightsaber, and maybe even a phone and wallet haha.

Edit: OK, the pouches you show look super nice, so I guess that's one benefit over buying the generic ones that probably don't look so custom/slick.

Oh yeah, that belt and pouches should hold pretty much anything you throw on it/into them. If my craft foam/vinyl belts could withstand a saber and all sorts of crap then I have no doubt that tactical belt will work fine. It's designed for much heavier items after all.

Yeah the ability to create something specific to your costume is super appealing for a lot of costumers, the low cost is also a huge deal. To pick an example, all of the Jedi belts I've made cost something like $6 each for all the materials involved, even cheaper for the pouches. The thing with a lot of Jedi costume pieces is that in order to make something look really nice you typically have to spend quite a few pretty pennies in order to achieve that. I figured there had to be an inexpensive way to make items that also looked solid and realistic, and so that's what those tutorials were born out of. Haven't made a tutorial for a belt yet but that's on the to-do list.

Makes sense to me! Definitely sounds appealing to see the quality of the pouches at the price you can make them for. Even just looking around on some costume/cosplay/etc. sites and Etsy, it looks like it'd be VERY easy to spend a few to several hundred dollars on a full outfit if you're buying everything from people selling them all as actual Star Wars items. From the robes and tunics and all that to the gloves and boots and belt and accessories, I can totally see the huge appeal of making things look how you want without having to pay an ultra-premium not just for quality items, but specialty/custom items beyond that. Interesting to see how many options there are out there, and that it doesn't have to involve either spending tons of money or being insanely skilled at making things and clothes and whatnot. Thanks again!

Thought so! You're making me rethink my costume idea now that you shared this.


I am trying to create bracers, helmet, shoulder armor and other parts with eva foam for my idea

I'm desperately trying to find dimensions for the Lord Starkiller belt buckle with the switches on it. Anyone able to help?

One like this one?
(https://images1.sw-cdn.net/product/picture/710x528_2617735_2104956_1527302513.jpg)

They list "7.2 x 14 x 1.94 cm" or "2.84 x 5.51 x 0.76 inches" which seems SUPER specific, so I doubt it's a generic estimate. Seems super specific and the seller seems to have a lot of 3D printed stuff, some of it seeming pretty intricate, so they seem to know what they're doing I' dassume.

https://www.shapeways.com/product/ETK8NYC8S/lord-starkiller-style-belt-buckle (https://www.shapeways.com/product/ETK8NYC8S/lord-starkiller-style-belt-buckle)

Apparently it's 3D printed.

If you're trying to find the actual dimensions of the switches and whatnot, that may be a little more difficult. I guess you could just print an image of it to scale and go from there? I have zero experience with foam and that sort of thing. Sounds like your idea is quite the challenge, but I'm sure it'll be amazing when it's done!

omg! thanks…not sure how I missed that on his site?!? My Dark Apprentice build has both shrouds from Sedsti's shop and his stuff is legit! I am just trying to cut my teeth with EVA and thought this buckle could be a good starting project before I tackle the bigger projects. I think I'm going to mix the starkiller buckle with a kylo ren-esque obi over either the cardigan or the kylo ren inner tunic…can't quite decide. I also intend to find a decent turtleneck to use and create a neck seal using some weather stripping.

The results I'm trying to get should blend ideas from at least 3 Sith lords into one costume plus some original ideas…basically: iI'm uts

BTW you can get a full jedi or sith kit from shopdisney.com for about $180. They look rather spiffy in my opinion.

Happy to help!

I think I get what you're going for, should be sweet once it's done. As amazing as established designs and cosplays can be when done well, and as many ready-to-wear options there are, I feel like there's something special about unique/custom outfits.

Thanks for the heads up on the Disney option, they do look pretty legit, both on their site and from some reviews/photos I've seen of people who bought them.

The belt and round carabiner to replace the belt clip came in today! VERY pleased with how it fits,functions, and looks for $24 total.
(https://i.imgur.com/78O5IA1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VI1W7C3.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Y8zE637.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dIuApy8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/O8JJhh2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DHbOvQn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VEScQ0p.jpg)

I'm currently waiting on grey canvas forearm wraps, and considering getting 1-2 belt pouches. I'm honestly not even sure if I want/need a grey obi under the belt or not.

costume's evolving nicely!

started work on my starkiller buckle as well…EVA is not as simplle as it looks :-S

Thanks! Good luck with the EVA. I'm sure it's challenging, but I'd imagine once you get the hang of it, it'll open up a ton of possibilities for custom work and cost savings.

I also switched the carabiner that held the chucks with another circular carabiner identical to the one serving as the belt loop. No idea why I didn't do that earlier, as the larger diameter allows me to "sheathe" and "unsheathe" the chucks without having to undo the clip, as it's large enough to allow the chucks to pass through it. It also looks less out of place when not being used, as it's now just another silver ring identical to the belt "buckle," and not obviously a carabiner.

So now that the belt passes the form and function test, I guess it's time to try out a pouch. Making one would look nicer than what I could get for the same price, but I don't think I want to make anything for this outfit, just plug and play and maybe replacing parts here and there (like the clip on the belt for the ring). Maybe just one pouch on the side opposite the chuck/saber holder. I'm thinking something cheap/plain but still large enough to hold a phone or wallet, like one of these:
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/8166eIWUEqL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71OMqmUNqXL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)

Other than that, just waiting on the grey forearm wraps (shown towards the back):
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/MY100740.jpg)

and a grey obi. Although the more I think about it, perhaps a pouch that's longer as opposed to taller would look less obtrusive on the belt, while still allowing for a phone or wallet to be stored in it.

That should likely complete the outfit, at least until I think of something else, and until I get the saberstaff in, and may change some things up for that!

All told, I'm looking at:

Long Cardigan (- sleeves): $32
Thai Fisherman Pants: $15 (already had these, so functionally $0)
Turtleneck Compression Shirt: $20 (maybe more depending on the brand, but I also already had this, so functionally $0)
Tactical Utility Belt with Circular Carabiner and saber carabiner: $24 total
Canvas Forearm Wraps (not pictured): $11
Grey Obi (not pictured): $15

TOTAL: $117 (or $82 for me, since I already had a few things)

I also already had the boots, which I'd imagine would be one of the pricier pieces to buy new, but since I'm not tucking the pants into them, and they're pretty baggy, and black pair of boots should suffice for this sort of look.

I figure I could also just wear the fisherman pants and forearm wraps without the cardigan and compression shirt for a more minimal "martial artist" look if I don't feel like having multiple layers.

…most impressive!! The overall look  is quite effective

I have most of my starkiler buckle cut out and ready to assemble. Howver, my lack of basic geometry understtanding is slowing me down. I want the switches to look like switches and nt rectangles andcan't tquite get it figurd out…pics soon

Definitely will make sure to check in on your progress. I have zero experience with that sort of thing, but if I had to guess at a way to get the switches to have that 3D dimension of being switches and not just rectangles, and didn't have a ton of easy to work with material, you could maybe just try two lego triangle/sloped pieces facing each other to replicate a switch, with some smooth/flat pieces to cover the raised parts that are used to attach lego pieces to each other. Then paint them whatever color you wanted.

Something like two of these (or the ones that are only half as thick/wide):
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71WRgo1n0aL._AC_SX425_.jpg)

Covering the top parts with these:
(https://img.brickowl.com/files/image_cache/large/lego-tile-1-x-4-2431-91143-32.jpg)

But I have ZERO idea if they're the right size, or how you'd get flat pieces to sit flush with a slightly rounded buckle, or if they're even close to the right size (length and/or width wise).

Or maybe that is totally off base. I have no idea haha.

Here's the belt assembled. Just used some hot glue (didn't want to break out the Barge contact cement yet).

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1bn1dBh9BoxQGci70mj_jlWDxxYK9m_0m)

I have to heat seal this and then prime it with some plasti-dip before painting.....

As you can see, I have given up on the beveled switches....I was ruining a lot of foam that way...lol.

I think it's coming along nicely. Do you happen to have dimensions for each of the rectangular switches, the length (top to bottom) and width (side to side)? Either way, I have a feeling that from more than a foot or two away tops no one will really be able to tell that the switches aren't technically switch-shaped. But I do get wanting to make it as nice and accurate as possible too, if only for yourself.

I think I may just try and remedy this with some painting and maybe add some details like scoring or such that will make it a little more switch looking. It's a good piece to just learn with. I'm sure the heat gun will smooth some areas out a little....we shall see.

I think it'll look great. Definitely great for learning, but I still think it should be VERY usable. If you're having trouble visualizing what the switches should look like in 3D, the belt buckle discussed earlier has an option to view/rotate it in 3D, not sure if that would help you to shape them, if that's something you were still interested in trying.

Got the grey canvas arm-wraps in. They're a little darker than I expected, but that may be good in retrospect, as they're enough darker than the cardigan to still look good IMO. I think that them being substantially darker is better than them being just a hair darker but not quite the same color. And they match the pants pretty well I'd say, so all good.

(https://i.imgur.com/0AXNxlp.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/1maorRY.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/MtFiI0y.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/qG3OrRo.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/2zhhAmm.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/N2rgpZq.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/4jgRJjM.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/C43UD72.png)

So now just waiting on a grey obi, and contemplating what type of pouche(s) to get. And of course waiting on the actual saberstaff!

They look fantastic! Amazing how something simple like arm wraps can add so much to a costume. Love the pictures, seeing your costume take shape before our eyes is really cool.

Thanks! I'm very happy with how it's evolving. In retrospect, the forearm wraps are pretty similar to what Quinlan Vos wore:
(https://lumiere-a.akamaihd.net/v1/images/databank_quinlanvos_01_169_77d70d48.jpeg?region=0%2C0%2C1560%2C878&width=960)

 I figured I can also go with a more minimal, less typically/identifiably "Star Wars," but more "martial artist" look by just wearing the pants and forearm wraps without the compression shirt and cardigan.

Kirak Infil'a, a Jedi Master who Vader fought, didn't wear a shirt at times, and did have some form of arm covering, although it resembled a basketball player's arm sleeve on a single arm rather than forearm wraps on both arms. I guess having a muscular physique is pretty much a necessity to pull of that look though haha.
(https://mlpnk72yciwc.i.optimole.com/cqhiHLc.WqA8~2eefa/w:382/h:462/q:75/https://bleedingcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/dv2-e1498074125753.jpg)
(https://www.starwars-universe.com/images/encyclopedie/personnages/kirak.png)

Pretty much just a regular black basketball sleeve:
(https://assets.suredone.com/2530/media-photos/irs1142-nib-mueller-basketball-performance-shooters-elbow-arm-sleeve-keep-hand-dry-black.jpg)

looking fab sir!

I'm starting over on my buckle…between my first use of a heat gun and overuse of the quick seal, I got sloppy. The plasti dip didn't hide enough of the sins as I'd hoped…

back to the drawing board…

BTW: I ordered that cardigan in black plus a pair of gloves from ali express…I liked the way it looks

I need a turtleneck and an interesting pair of pants or something. besides the cape, everything else will need to be made…yikes!

Thanks! Sorry to hear about the belt, but I'm sure you'll figure it out. Very cool on the cardigan and gloves. You thinking something tight or loose on the shirt and pants?

I was looking at this. Although with the cape over the cardigan and then this, I wonder if it's too flappy and too many layers?
(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1_0ddXkL0gK0jSZFxq6xWHVXaV/2020-Plus-Size-xxxl-Medieval-Costume-For-Men-Western-Style-Spliced-Loose-Pants-Gothic-Fashion-Pant.jpg_Q90.jpg)

and this:
(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB14SfIxuOSBuNjy0Fdq6zDnVXaR/Hot-Sale-Adult-Men-Black-Ankle-Banded-Pants-Medieval-Viking-Navigator-Trousers-Renaissance-Gothic-Pants-Halloween.jpg_Q90.jpg)

As for the layer under the cardigan, I am confused with how to go and am open to ANY ideas! I had looked at compression shirts but I have been considering this as I want some kind of texture on the arms(akin to Vader's undersuit) but without getting too kylo ren-y
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/713qaHeOnDL._AC_UL1500_.jpg)

I would be modifying the neck to create a neck-seal (https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/34548-10-diy-neck-seal-v1/ (https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/34548-10-diy-neck-seal-v1/)) that would look spiffy with and without helmet.

SORRY ABOUT THE SIZE OF THESE...NOT SURE HOW TO RESIZE THE PICS

I like both of those pants. I get what you're saying about all the layers, but that's not something I'd be able to tell you either way if it'd look great or be too much. I don't think you could go wrong with either of those two though, and it's not like it's unheard of for Jedi/Sith outfits to have a bunch of overlapping layers I suppose.

I'd agree with you on not going with compression for the turtleneck if you want it to appear more textured. It does seem that the vertical ribbing would fit what you're looking for more than horizontal ribbing.

The neck seal is a cool idea! Especially if the neck of the shirt isn't super tight, which may well happen with a non-compression option. That's a very good idea.

Sounds like your idea is coming together!

I don't think it would be too many layers, and would give options if you wanted to change things up later.  I think that base shirt looks great, would you put some kind of tunic over it, or just go with that?

This is a good point. If you end up ever wanting to wear something without a long cardigan/robe/cape, then that added layer could be very appreciated then.

Decided to see what it'd look like with a more minimal approach, just the pants, belt, and forearm wraps.

(https://i.imgur.com/Bux2Fma.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/10G3KHA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vmRZPxz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hUFH2JU.jpg)

It's not quite so easily identifiable as Star Wars, since I have neither the robes nor an actual lightsaber, but here's a preview of things to come. Not an actual saberstaff, but it is a staff:
(https://i.imgur.com/m211tZc.jpg)

Got the belt pouch in. It's pretty big, but that means it can fit my phone and/or wallet, so it's functional. It ended up fitting/feeling more natural further to the side than the front, so I think that's how it'll be, and I see no need for another pouch. I suppose I could go with 2 smaller pouches, perhaps one on each side as opposed to this one larger one, but this one does work, so I don't really see a need to change it for now.

(https://i.imgur.com/rQVgvfP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Qe5eHyY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RxN6kk1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Kh3pSGt.jpg)

Looking very good here. And, unlike some, you have the build to get away with going shirtless.
I couldn't do that.

Thanks! We all have our strengths. It would be a boring world if they were all the same.

some have washboard abs…I call mine washing machine abs!

A friend of mine once asked "why have a six pack when you can have the whole keg?"

Thought I'd share the current look of my MKI version of the Starkiller belt buckle. I need another coat on the red "button". This is all pre-weathering. I went with a hammered black look (oddly it dries quite glossy...wtf).

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1NUv1oDzX_3UwUqN8Tu0HdTNN3jTVK1Sy)

Looks like it's coming along nicely!

Awesome ensemble, Sir!  I like the surcoat (was thinking of supplementing my own tunics with one).  Yeah, I was considering the merits of one large pouch vs. two smaller...haven't decided yet  :P

Point!

Nice job, Mrg!  I can't wait to see this with your full costume  :)

Point!

Here it is with the weathering. I still have to hit the whole thing with a coat of clear flat to finish the buckle. It's just too shiny. The picture's pretty crappy too...lol

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=12uGZu_1SEK3HHL8nlyfKWNN0IabTevdT)

Looking pretty nice I'd say. I couldn't tell it's glossy from the photo, so if it ends up looking like it does in the photo in person once you hit it again, that should be nice.

Replaced the batteries in the chucks. They're a little bit brighter now, which is appreciated. Recorded a little practice while I was at it.

Practice Part 1:
https://i.imgur.com/g9pZ9Yj.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/g9pZ9Yj.mp4)

Practice Part 2:
https://i.imgur.com/07l7CpE.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/07l7CpE.mp4)

thanks for the encouragement Sir!  Your kit continues to look good…take away a "chuck" and we can call it a lightwhip :-D

Thanks haha. I have no idea how to actually use a whip well, but lightwhips are pretty cool in their own right. If I had to make some sort of headcanon to how they'd actually function in-universe, I think electrostaff type tech would work, like what Grievous' Magnaguards used. Since a lightsaber blade retracts when not "on," this would be an issue with saber-chucks, as you don't want to grab the saber part of a lightsaber, but if you turned it off, there'd be nothing to grab, which would make many nunchuck hand-switches impossible. But it seems to me that whatever powers electrostaffs, however they work, the "blade" portion never retracts, it just has the charge turn on or off. So, in theory, a skilled force user would probably be able to turn off one handle/side of the electro-chucks whenever it touches their hand/body, and then turn it back on when it leaves their hand, so 1 of the 2 sides would be on when striking, and either side that is held in the hand would be off. I think this also works with the visual design of the chucks in that the "blade" light-up part doesn't extend all the way to the end, but only in the central portion of the chucks.

(https://www.kombativ.com/images/products/large/deluxe-led-nunchucks-5057286.jpg)

I don't have the ability to turn on and off one side of the lights while using them, but I'm visualizing in-universe, or with special effects, right before a handle comes in contact with a hand or the body, that side would turn off, and then as soon as the other side leaves the other hand, it would turn on, so any side touching the body would be off, to protect the user, but the side that is spinning/moving not in contact with the body would turn on. See below electrostaffs for the general idea, where the "charged" part that would turn on and off is represented by the lit-up part of the chucks, which has the actual "hilt/body/staff/etc." on either side of it.
(https://oyster.ignimgs.com/mediawiki/apis.ign.com/star-wars-respawn/6/6b/StarWars_PurgeTroop.png?width=1280)
(https://external-preview.redd.it/A7Y7D5NraSj7SA0QPomep1gkf0bH6zOaxgY-qF-Z7Jk.jpg?auto=webp&s=406cf494a3a6b8f7ea2dcb460ecb94bcadf8a1ea)
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/a/af/ElectrostaffGuard-SWL.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/340?cb=20190902031928)
(https://comicvine1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/11117/111178634/4715625-magnaguard%20staff.jpg)

In short, I'm thinking it would function almost like if someone cut the ends off an electrostaff, and then connected them with a chain to form electro-chucks. I know red isn't the right color for electro-weapons, but whatever, there have been purple and yellow beams/sparks, so stretching it a bit for red isn't terribly outlandish I suppose.

Ouch! my head....Just give me the lightsaber.... ;D :D

Lol. Luckily I got shipping confirmation for my saberstaff, so that will be a lot simpler to explain!

But I was basically saying take this electrostaff:
(https://external-preview.redd.it/A7Y7D5NraSj7SA0QPomep1gkf0bH6zOaxgY-qF-Z7Jk.jpg?auto=webp&s=406cf494a3a6b8f7ea2dcb460ecb94bcadf8a1ea)

Cut it so you just have the two end pieces, and put a chain the middle, making electro-chucks:
(https://i.imgur.com/ZXGd3k6.jpg)


And any time you were about to grab one of the handles, you'd be able to de-activate the charge on that side so you don't injure yourself, and then re-activate it when that end starts to swing at an opponent.

But as I said, a double bladed lightsaber will be MUCH easier to explain! Coming soon!

most excellent! can't wait to see the saberstaff!!

Look what arrived today:

(https://i.imgur.com/fUJR4QM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/l9d0kta.jpg)

Shown with the quick release coupler, which brings the total length to about an inch short of my height or so, which is perfect. It does make the exact center a bit thicker than the main hilt, but it hasn't been an issue yet in the very limited time I've used it so far, but we will see. If it does become an issue for more intensive demonstrations, I can always put the standard coupler back on. The light is very bright in a darker room, as you can see, but still bright enough to be be discerned as clearly blue blades in full daylight outdoors. Weight seems solid but not horribly heavy. Definitely heavier than competition thin "toothpick" bo staffs, but I'll have to compare it to the weight of the thicker 6' non-tapered hardwood staff I have. Overall, I am VERY pleased so far. Hopefully I'll get up a quick demo testing video later when it's darker out, since I'm VERY hesitant to use these much indoors coupled, since I know I've hit the ceiling more than once or twice with my 6' wooden staff.

Update: my 6' hardwood staff weighs 2.4 lbs, and the saberstaff with the quick release coupler weighs 3.0 lbs. the length is about 5 finger widths shorter than the 6' staff, so about 3.5-4" or so, which means it's likely somewhere between 5'-8" and 5'-9", which is a good height for me. The weight is a bit heaver than I'm used to, as were the light-chucks, but I'm sure I will adapt in time with practice, and it will only make the normal wooden ones I use seem even lighter and move even faster in comparison.

Also, there is an ever so slight movement of the batteries in the hilts. I don’t anticipate it being an issue, but it is something I did notice. Perhaps just a little bit of something to go around the battery pack would easily remedy this issue, although it’s not a dealbreaker by any stretch of the imagination.

Ms. Malice makes chassis for the stunt sabers that takes care of that, and protects the sometimes fragile battery packs.  IIRC they can be found on Etsy, and there is a thread for them someplace on the forums.

Awesome, I will look into that for sure. Thank you!

Some quick photos with the more minimalist outfit, since I didn't feel like putting everything on. Excuse one of the forearm wraps falling down at one point.
(https://i.imgur.com/BBwcm2t.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tdKK3jp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pQN0GtK.jpg[img][img]https://i.imgur.com/sfTkrRD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iF7v9h2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fnrDfuL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6DkCDFa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/z4mZzMq.jpg)

And a quick video of some admittedly slow and clumsy spins and whatnot. I had to take the quick release coupler off, as it being wider and exactly in the center of the staff sometimes interfered with hand placement, particularly with anything one-handed where I wanted to grab the staff in the very center. Still, I am VERY happy and impressed with this saberstaff.

https://i.imgur.com/tCnwZAb.mp4

Some photos with the full outfit:
(https://i.imgur.com/51mVngj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Brvob2c.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/y5mCtss.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HOHsVOZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dQ3uK7e.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/f6zzink.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/w3dg8jh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7l4X5GM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/V8kA5JA.jpg)

On a related note, while I LOVE the quick release coupler for its ability to make separating the saber much faster and easier (both for easy storage/moving and also just to practice with a single saber or dual-wielding sabers instead of a staff, I don't think I will use it for serious practice with the staff. I haven't run into any real issues while holding the staff with both hands, but while using it with one hand (so one hand is EXACTLY in the center, on top of the coupler, as opposed to two hands each being slightly off-center), there was one time when the motion of my hand and the spin of the staff lead to the blades becoming uncoupled while spinning, which is not ideal. So it seems like the standard flush coupler is the better option for more intensive practice and training.

I see you have constructed your lightsaber…Now your training is complete!

Looks awesome my friend!

Thank you! But my training has only just begun!

Picked up a few o-rings to check the size. They fit, so now I can get more. We’ll see how it feels to actually use, but I love the look. They seem sturdy, but time will tell when I have enough for both hilts. And will that extra grip be useful, or too much for spins between hands? We will see!
(https://i.imgur.com/UUeIXIY.jpg)

Tried some copper tape on one of the hilts. I got it as smooth as I could, but it's not perfect. Thoughts on if you like the look? Yay? Nay? Keep that one as is, or try to get it more perfect, or live with that one as-is as part of the authentic lightsaber building process and training?
(https://i.imgur.com/wZtWWRu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/grg86ul.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jP6iqhf.jpg)

WOW, that is pretty impressive as it evolved. I was tempted to say "finished product" but I know how these things go... it's a work in progress till you call it a complete outfit you're happy with 100% (if that's really even a thing). But really, very cool, I like it a lot. In games with morality choices I tend to go the grey route so I can appreciate your choice. Plus the galaxy is usually better off that way. You've seriously given me some thought about adapting/adding to my base cosplay design. I'm curious if you plan on eventually getting a black or grey full robe to go over it? You know how in the movies they usually go around in a hooded robe, and drop it once combat is about to start; like that universal symbol of "this is about to get serious!" Overall your outfit works pretty dang well with your saberstaff too, so you planned that part out nicely.

Also @ Illyiss and mrg149 concerning layers: I don't think there is really a concept of "over doing it" in terms of layers in general. They are layered pretty extensively in some of the outfits and cosplay you see in SW and at various events in photos. BUT, if you've ever been to a convention for an extended duration, live in a warm climate, or plan on wearing an outfit for an extended duration... I'll just say planning accordingly comes to mind. You can start to sweat a lot in the right mix of conditions, especially high intensity movement or surrounded by tons of people at conventions. So this is where having lighter weight or breathable materials could be a big help. Keep up the great job gentlemen.

Oh almost forgot cool idea with the 0-rings, I'll be seriously interested if they help or hinder grip and spinning results. Although I think the copper (since it's just for visual appeal anyway) is more about if you find it aesthetically pleasing to you in the end. I view it like asking others if they like the color of your hilt, from a fashion perspective it may reflect how they view you, but your connection to it is more meaningful. Similar to art, anyone viewing it can form or relay an opinion; but do they see the artist's intent/message conveyed through it. I'm a big believer in letting the blade do the talking (when possible).

I appreciate the kind words. I wanted something that would go well with the red chucks I had and also with the blue staff that was, at the time, on the way, and figured that grey with black would work with both, and I'm happy with how it has turned out. I also think it reflects my philosophy as well, in that I'm not a Sith, but also not inherently entirely adverse to using the dark side and emotions. True, it can be challenging to not let emotions and a desire for power to consume you, but if I avoid large portions of knowledge and resources because of this, because of this FEAR, then am I really upholding the Jedi ideals of having no emotion and fear?

I do not attempt to have no emotions, I feel this is a mistake of some Jedi, and even many spiritual aspirants in general. I feel that instead of trying to repress emotions, I should seek to identify them as they arise, be aware of them, and then control them. Much like any training, be it martial arts or weight lifting, with regular practice, one can train the mind. To identify negative feelings when they arise and not deny them, but acknowledge them, and see them for what they are. And then either look at them and realize they have no power over me unless I let them, or harness them for a purpose and release them that way, as I am fond of doing while weight lifting.

A commentary of the Bhagavad Gita I am fond of said something to the effect of the first realization being that we are not the body. There is more to us. The second realization is that we are not the mind. There is more to us. It may sound strange at first, but reflect on it. How often does the mind wander? Think about painful or embarrassing memories that we do not want it to. Now, if the mind was what we truly were, why would we disobey ourselves? That would be madness. So the mind is just another tool of what we truly are. A tool that can be trained to obey us more effectively, just as the body can.

But now I am ranting pretty far off-topic!

Back on topic, I took off the copper tape. It looked fairly nice, but the more I looked at it up close, it looked a little battle-worn due to the slight imperfections. Now, that's not inherently a bad thing, but it didn't quite go with my more modern aesthetic and color scheme. But it's a nice trick to know for future sabers.

Oh, and you bring up a good point, a long, hooded robe would make a fine addition at some point.

Here's a quick video of my accidentally activating the QR coupler while spinning the staff with one hand. Quite a quick release indeed!

https://i.imgur.com/4mZ6IL4.mp4

Well said, and glad if I could be of use. But that "robe idea" is just so fundamental throughout the movies, it's like the one thing Sith and Jedi Orders can agree upon other than "yes we're both using the Force". Although I hope you could find one in a grey. Even if Black would suit your color scheme (and I'm obviously biased) it might send the wrong "image" to most casual fans. Black outer robe= Evil Sith agent, if you don't think in terms of grey. Although the Jedi allowed Anakin to wear one so I suppose you can too.

Good point on the presence of robes. I agree a grey one would be ideal, although black would still match. So since I can think in shades of grey, I don't have to go with grey. Especially since I don't see any affordable grey robes, and I'd prefer not to spend more on a robe than on the entirety of my outfit besides the robe.

JediRobeAmerica on Etsy has a black robe for $60
(https://i.etsystatic.com/7523377/r/il/f90e9c/660640960/il_794xN.660640960_oe6b.jpg)
(https://i.etsystatic.com/7523377/r/il/4bbea8/660765355/il_794xN.660765355_b34g.jpg)

If I go grey, the closest thing I see is a cloak for $51:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/MY100294_3.jpg)

Which may still work. Although perhaps this "medieval ritual robe/cloak in grey could serve as a Jedi Robe for $82?
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MCI-294_5.jpg)
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/MCI-294.jpg)

Hmm, well the standard "robes" in universe seem to have sleeves. So the cloak without any that just goes over the top (to me) shows a separation from either Order and doing your own thing. The last/bottom Grey robe looks like something I could easily see a Grey Jedi wearing, like stating I'm grey but formerly of the Order. But since your under layers have black, the black robe matches well enough too. I view it as what kind of statement do you want to make (if any at all)? Or what did you envision as the style that goes best with your original vision, if it's not just a constantly evolving idea instead. Like if this is an astral projection of you, you in SW, or you're character building in an RPG which would you spend your hard earned in game currency on/ or say "that's the one gotta have it for sure" kind of thing.

I'll try to use my plans as an example. I built the idea of this Sith Lord, then started my sketches (not this avatar but costume sketches). Deciding what I did or didn't like personally while avoiding being to derivative. My friends made fun of capes for years from anime but I'm like "I don't care I really want one". Then, is it going to be over the shoulders or purely behind the back. I don't want it in the way of combat, but maybe if it's over one shoulder it could conceal my lightsaber. Seeing those pictures I think I'll settle on something closer to the sleeveless cloak for function (but in black). That way I can modify it a bit, and never have to remove it for combat unless I really want to "get serious". So if you consider those things and have an "ahh ha!" moment then great. I find it helpful to build off the idea of "a character's persona" but you have a pretty solid sense of fashion. And other people might have much better advice than me on this. Like experience with how it rests on you, if it can be partially open all the time to show off the rest of the outfit. I've been more anime cosplay, less experience with these details.

I got my Jedi robe from here. They are very good to work with and if you contact the seller and ask for some specific things like "gray fabric" they do work with you! They want you to be happy!

https://www.etsy.com/listing/274306858/galactic-dark-knight-robe-black?ref=yr_purchases (https://www.etsy.com/listing/274306858/galactic-dark-knight-robe-black?ref=yr_purchases)

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1zg8Fwl7JEVcaCsRgA20KWsgGtXmzZt0B)

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1jNdLX30B550J-1kNRwg_2F2RM6cl9dFm)

You raise some good points. I'm not entirely sure if I'd actually separate from the order, or if I'd merely be more Qui-Gon-like and, while remaining part of the order, still sort of do my own thing, agreeing with the goals of the Jedi Order and the work they do, but not really agreeing on all their methods and code, or even always obeying everything they say. Sort of how Neeson described Qui-Gon:

So I wouldn't be opposed to a traditional Jedi robe in grey (or even black), but I also wouldn't be opposed to something slightly different either. I'll reflect on it a bit. There is no rush for me to get either one. Thank you for the input, as usual.

Very nice, thank you for the lead. The price seems very solid as well.

No problem. I like to think of myself as a cosplay bargain hunter...lol

Here is the folder in my Google Drive that contains all of the current elements for my intended costume. I haven't settled on anything below the knees yet.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OqnJ4-jrlCbvf54L4rBXPayq5Z_ng1ve?usp=sharing

Added some black and red o-rings to my saberstaff:
(https://i.imgur.com/fXjUdHm.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oh8pLMA.jpg)

Omg, I know this is out of order but...
@ mrG: I just noticed the Logan Starkiller variant. Holy, almost speechless. Yea, good luck to anyone trying to kill that guy... Logan with the Force, and maybe claws deflecting
             lightsabers; in addition to wielding 2 of them... If adamantium can't be cut through with lightsabers he's "the Juggernaut B..."
             Point for you on the sheer terror that just inspired.

That looks super cool, the red/black contrast is a very nice touch and adds a lot to the look of your sabers. Can't say I've seen colored o-rings used before, that is definitely an avenue worth exploring.

Thank you. It should be these o-rings from Amazon. It says $10.83 for 100, but it says $7.92 on my phone where I'm signed into Prime, which is how I bought them. I think you need 20-something per saber (Sentinel V4) so a pack of 100 is more than enough, especially if you run more than one color like I did.

https://www.amazon.com/118-Silicone-Ring-Durometer-Width/dp/B000FN0XSQ/ref=sr_1_12?dchild=1&keywords=Sterling+Seal+%26+Supply%2C+Inc.+%28STCC%29+%2B+118&qid=1606270041&sr=8-12 (https://www.amazon.com/118-Silicone-Ring-Durometer-Width/dp/B000FN0XSQ/ref=sr_1_12?dchild=1&keywords=Sterling+Seal+%26+Supply%2C+Inc.+%28STCC%29+%2B+118&qid=1606270041&sr=8-12)

$7.92 is the prime price.  It's not just free 2 day shipping.

Thank you for clearing that up. I totally blanked on the explanation.

Those aren't bad alternatives at all!  For my own Gray Jedi cosplay, I got my robe and tunic from Etsy vendors:
(https://i.ibb.co/dfP0Zpq/IMG-20180825-140026521.jpg)
Full ensemble

(https://i.ibb.co/GpT79rh/IMG-20180825-140139972.jpg)
Without robe holding mainhand saber & shoto

(https://i.ibb.co/7VZt0V3/IMG-20180825-131608576.jpg)
Me with an awesome General Marine and the local Mando Mercs

(https://i.ibb.co/0yvdS1k/grey-jedi-cosplay-Luxury-STAR-WARS-Inspired-By-Emperor-Palpatine-Robe-Mens-Handmade.jpg)
Finally, an analogue of the robe I think looks best for my cosplay character (LOTS of story blah blah blah BUT I came across this pic and thought it looked perfect for what I want  :)).

LOVE what you did with your saberstaff!  This looks fantastic  :)

Point!

I love your Grey Jedi look. Most impressive. And thank you regarding the saberstaff!

That snap-front robe, at least it looks like snaps hold it shut in the front, looks awesome. Is it just the photo you found? You wouldn't happen to know who sells it, would you?

Adamantium = Cortosis?

Logan would make the WORST Jedi! ;-)

Hey...check these out...Just EVA foam. I built this for "proof of concept". This is EVA, plasti-dip, paint and weathering. looks like legit leather...I think

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1s9WNZOq8dbK9uk4mdkCLmHqagG5nlCWI)

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1wkqxXKhkDdBg6utEBEN7TSQsiACbR6cn)

If I may I'd like to disagree...Logan would be a great Jedi...of course he'd need to own a pair of these sabers from me though...

(https://ftsabersite.files.wordpress.com/2020/05/wolverine-one-plate-1.png)

Sorry 'bout the interruption...back to costuming.

Now that would be some sick fan fiction right there.  8)

I love how this thread is turning into everything costume related. The amount of knowledge and tips being shared in here is top tier. Perhaps it will inspire even more peeps to go the costume route themselves.


That looks really good, and very much like leather. What kind of paint did you use for the final coat? It definitely has the slight sheen that is totally the look of leather.

That looks great! If you'd told me you bought it from a dedicated seller of those sorts of things I would not have even thought of questioning it. I'd imagine being able to make it the exact size you want is a huge pro too, as opposed to having one that's so small it's not functional, or one so large it's cumbersome. Great job!
Agreed. It is awesome to see many things costume-related, and I do hope this can continue to build as a source of ideas and leads for costume building.

For the pouches I used nothing but Plasti-dip for the base layer.
The "buckle" (still EVA foam) is painted in MIG Air Gunmetal
Weathering was done with Raw Umber and Black Master's Touch Acrylic paints. Slather it on full boar and wipe most off. It stays in the nooks and crannys and looks like dirt and grime.

-Interesting note about the "grime" layer. Don't mix the paint very much so you get different levels of pigments in your "wash". I did this with a lightsaber hilt (can't sow because it is non US....pity cuz it looks dope!) and it looks like it is either has some super rusty bits or was dropped in a bit of mud.

I forgot to do this before the plasti dip but ended up doing it after: Rolled a ball of tinfoil so it was crinkly and then rolled that over the surface of the pouch. This gave a leather-esque texture to the whole thing.


As for the "sick" fanfic....someone needs to get on that! or maybe we need to start another thread and make it a group project...lol....PROJECT X!

I know it's not costume related, but here's a video of some practice going from a saberstaff combo into a little bit of Jar'Kai using the Quick Release coupler.

https://i.imgur.com/ahn4vDe.mp4

Last time I'll go off topic here in regards to this, yea he wouldn't be the worst in history... But he'd definitely earn his place as "one of the lost", it's why him as Starkiller is such a great reference. Logan's so antihero he's basically one of the founding fathers of that concept. True, they are both energy resistant materials. That's the scary part, he might not be able to be dismembered via lightsaber (in comics he survives a Nuke) and pain from trying only seems to motivate him more. I'd weigh in on a thread somewhere or fanfic since I've got nothing but time right now. But, agreed, I'd do it elsewhere to not monopolize the costume convo.

In regards to that, excellent work here in getting the ball rolling liftalot! Almost 1000 views, and tons of great resources coming together here. I'll definitely end up make use of some of it in adapting my outfit. This is pretty great. Glad you got so many great options to work with now. Great contributions from everyone.

I'd been thinking about walking around in full cosplay with a lightsaber. Then the potential "carrying a lightsaber with blade attached, but not ignited, diminishing the overall effect". I'd want it attached for ease of use in spontaneous photos or whatever if at a convention or something like that. Plus the pure ascetics of the outfit kind of demand this to me, to convey realism. Let alone taking time to attach a blade or worry about separate storage/carrying of blade(s). I've also heard of other creative solutions like cross straps on the back (shamefully I can't remember the user's name off the top of my head) but this sounded super cool "ninja movie" style carry and drawing ability, but conflicts with a cape. So I thought more concealment or sheath options might be better. I found a thread on construction of something that could work (sadly the pictures are no longer available) with detailed building instructions. I plan to cobble together something like this whenever my lightsaber arrives, but thought I'd post the link here too. Just incase this is useful to anyone else here, or others have found creative solutions to this issue? http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=23280.0 (http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=23280.0)

You raise a good point. That is one more reason why I think the QR coupler is useful, as it allows you take a ~6' staff and split it into 2x 3' sabers, which can be more easily be transported with the blades on. I already have my tactical belt with the ability to attach rings/carabiners to (as I did for the saberchucks), so maybe I can figure out some way to hold one saber at each side using attachments for that belt.

Figured out a way to use the round carabiners I had on my belt to hold the two sabers in place by looping them through the vents in the quick release couplers. It takes a few seconds to do, but they’re firmly in place, and the length is fine in that they won’t trip me up or drag on the ground. This may change depending on how long your hilt and blade are, how high you wear your belt, and how tall you are, of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/Lrwlts9.jpg)

The belt and the clips were ~$24 in total from Prime, with a few more clips left after using those 3.

Update of the whole ensemble:
(https://i.imgur.com/ccYoUYI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MxEew3h.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/84TIfe9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dlYNhIn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ekuVe3G.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Yu0RJCp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VWex4wn.jpg)

At first I liked the O-ring use and thought about it personally, but wasn't sure I was a fan looking up close at the lightsaber hilts with them in an alternating pattern. BUT seeing them from further back, the effect of both colors has me pretty sold on the pattern they make. I'm jealous, it's pretty damn cool.
Also an enjoyable holiday to all of you celebrating. (I'm going to enjoy several strong beverages...)

Thank you. I can link the exact one I got, if I haven't already. Very affordable and easy to do. They've held up well so far too. One or two of them may slide slightly out of place while using the sabers, but there's so many of them that it's not a big deal, and a loose one can't go far, since there are so many on either side of it keeping it in the general position. And I just re-align them when I'm done using them. You have a lot of freedom in patterning too. You could do one hilt black and one hilt red, or just the top half of each hilt one color and the bottom another. Or wider stripes by using more o-rings per color before alternating colors, or use more of one color than another to make the less-common color seem more of an accent, etc. I know they make other colors as well, but I haven't really seen them in a larger size like this.

Added some gaffer tape to the two choke points on one of the two hilts. This serves the purpose of helping me to identify which side of the staff is forwards, so I can know which way to manipulate the coupler to separate the staffs. The two black portions should be fairly visible even with the blades on, and there's also a tactile difference where the tape is, so it seems I could also be able to feel which side is which by the presence or absence of this tape/grip texture.

The good thing about gaffer tape is that it is not supposed to leave any residue when removed, yet is also designed to be strong and durable, which should make it perfect for this application.

I also think it looks pretty sweet.
(https://i.imgur.com/Wl8dCEq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/s4uqPvS.jpg)

The evolution of your personal lightsaber out of necessity keeps being something I'm loving seeing. Because it was more function than form that prompted some of these changes but then the resulting vibe it gives off is reminiscent to me of something you might see during the Clone Wars. You haven't had it more than a month, but it has a certain character now. Like some tried and tested friend that had to adapt with you through many battles. I just find it working well with enriching your costume as a counterpart but technically portion of the overall costume.

Point for that, the authenticity mixed with creativity.

Thanks. It’s been evolving partially out of necessity even before I received it. Switching from LE to regular when they told me LE was OOS was what lead me to look into the o-rings, since I felt plain silver with no accents looked a little plain. But there have been some things that I have just been lucky finding out worked, like the round carabiners I used to hold the nunchucks on the belt fitting in the vents on the QR coupler to secure them to my belt. I don’t know if I posted pictures of it yet, but some of the angles on the staff keep cutting into the top of  my thumb knuckle, so now I just wrap a bit of athletic tape around that part of my hand. Only that portion, as not to use a ton of tape or end up with a lot on my hands that could hinder movement.
(https://i.imgur.com/i2Aa3lY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ve6PVhj.jpg)

Ok folks! Decided to open up my own thread for my custom Sith costume WIP.

http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=46500.0 (http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=46500.0)

I thought I replied but it timed me out originally and I never went back to fix it I guess. I need to pick up some of that black wrap, looks cool but will be functional so I hope CVS or something has black athletic tape. I figured this would be an issue eventually since lightsabers are in general made for form not function, you're not supposed to fight for years, or train for hours on end with hard steel/aluminum edges in direct contact with skin... that's probably why I've always used wooden, leather wrapped, or cloth wrapped hilts. I'm used to tons of blisters and calluses but only ripped my hands open a time or two. This will save my skin, literally. Thanks man, now I gotta go spend a few bucks, so worth it.

Not in costume, but I was gifted a Baby Yoda:
(https://i.imgur.com/DbCXFVN.jpg)

"Let’s make the baby do the magic hand thing. Baby, do the magic hand thing!"- Greef

Another quick practice video, not going fast at all, more just to get the moves and sequence down, as I changed a few things a bit:

https://i.imgur.com/jYAg40C.mp4

Assuming I pick up the speed a little bit, do you guys think it would be a sufficient quality presentation to submit to Darth Cephalus' Spin Wars?

good news! My "outer tunic" like yours has arrived. pictures to follow soon…

Gotta chop those arms off first. Did you just follow the line of the seam?

Nice! I tried to follow a bit outside the seam, to keep the seam intact, which keeps the sleeve-hole tighter. One one of them I did it properly, but on the other I ended up cutting into the seam on part of it, which is why you can see one sleeve looks a bit bigger and more worn than the other. You can see it in these images:
(https://i.imgur.com/dQ3uK7e.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/f6zzink.jpg)

I don't think either way is objectively "wrong," but I intended to keep the seams intact, if only to try to maintain long-term durability. But it seems to be holding up well with admittedly very minimal use as-is, and doesn't seem to be particularly fragile or delicate regardless.

I agree with your rationale 100%.  I want to keep the seams intact too just to preserve durability. However I'm probably going to beat this up a little and try to weather it up along with the rest of the intended parts. I don't like the idea of a pristine, newly minted Sith Lord :-) With a black wrap tunic and obi (getting a decently cheap one on amazon) & the turtleneck/neckseal combo, I think it will look nice. I keep toying with the idea of a wine red turtleneck to add a splash of color under the tunic. Who knows?

Makes sense. I guess you can always cut it a little uneven/jagged/etc. and keep the seam intact. In my case, if the sleeve I cut the seam off does start to wear a bit, then it'll be part of the look, unless it got the point of interfering with functionality, which I'd imagine would be a LONG time before that happens. Wine red could look nice for a splash of color as you said. Would that mean that the arms would also be that color, or do you have something else over it for the arms? Either way, I'm looking forward to seeing your outfit come together.

Might as well, still a few weeks people can so I'd do it if I thought I could. Sadly, I won't in all likelihood have received mine, but that'd be awesome. Pretty sure he edits them all together to music? So I could see how yours would fit in with what I've seen so far this year. He makes them all seem to flow together pretty well, I enjoyed watching through them. It sounds fun.

Thanks. Master Resolute has recently directed me to some of his videos that have been both inspirational and instructional, so I think I'll try to incorporate some of the things I've picked up from him into my routine, particularly a few spins and transitions from spins he has some tutorials for. Fingers crossed you get yours soon.

it wouuld be the wine red turtleneck (utilizing the neck fr the neckseal) under a basic black tunic (thus covering arms) ad the faux tabards over top. bracers cape and shoulder armor to round it out

Ah, I see. Then I think you may be right in that just a splash of color could look quite nice without being overwhelming if the sleeves were also visibly that color.

Random semi-costume related thought or question:

How difficult do you think it would be to make a Beskar spear à la what the Magistrate used and Din Djarin now has in The Mandalorian? It's obviously a spear, but it appears to me that one could make something that looks pretty spot-on with just a roughly 5.5 to 6 foot pole/shaft with the spearhead on top. I know Home Depot sells 6' aluminum pipe (3/4" inner diameter with a 1.050" outer diameter seems like a good thickness) for ~$21, and should weight about 2.33lbs (~38oz). From there you'd just have to be able to attach an accurate looking spearhead. I have yet to see any actual metal spearheads modeled after the Beskar spear, seen below:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/6/68/BeskarSpear-TMCh13.png/revision/latest?cb=20201128035924)
Although this one doesn't come too far from it:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/600074.jpg)
It weighs 1.25 pounds itself, and fits on a 1.25" diameter shaft, so the 1.050 inch diameter aluminum pipe wouldn't work. Although the combination would weigh a bit over 3.5 pounds, so about half a pound heavier than my saberstaff.

Hell, if this was all sprayed to be the same "metal" color like Beskar, it would probably be pretty similar looking for $80 total, and ~3.25lbs total. The most noticeable difference I see is that this one has a bit longer sleeve that goes over the shaft, although this would be much less noticeable if they were the same color.
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/07-95MEP.jpg)

Although a solid steel spearhead could be a bit much, so maybe some PVC pipe, or still a wood staff/shaft, sprayed with some metallic spray paint and a more forgiving material spearhead would make for a better practice or sparring tool, if not the same level of awesome costume piece. Even with UltraEdge Heavy Grade blades, I don't imagine you'd want to do even non-full contact sparring against a 3+ pound spear, and if that spearhead came in contact with anything, lightsaber blade or otherwise, I'd imagine it would do significant damage if it had any speed behind it, which is not what you want. I suppose a wooden staff/shaft instead of an aluminum one would be better for sparring, but that steel spearhead just seems like it would absolutely wreck anything it came in contact with, which makes it sound like it would only be suited for display/costume purposes, or exhibition purposes for someone skilled enough with it to not hit themselves with it.

I know I JUST got my saberstaff, and I LOVE it, but I guess I have something in common with General Grievous in that I want another fine addition to my collection, and I love staff-type weapons.

you have competition....

(https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1mTYRtCfEUXzja-gURef3i_XNTvRLOkUx)

For a spear that's hard to consider, from my knowledge anyway, how to build something NOT damaging. I love halberds and such with greater diversity of use than just the stabbing type of thrust. If you wanted something you could use to spar or do something with lightsaber contact I'd say yea plastic of course. The edge not being honed is obviously important but I don't know what strengths of materials are out there to construct something. I'd try something similar to what the lightsaber blades are made of, maybe with paint inside it or mixed into it when it's made to give it a more metallic look? I could see a highly reflective/metallic paint poured inside a hollow but thick enough plastic spearhead possibly giving off the right look from afar. Maybe with a 3D printer (if you know someone with one) they could fashion you a starting point or prototype? Or a mold used to make a spearhead from something poured into it...

It basically could just be a trophy weapon you gained on a journey, some relic from an ancient Sith/ result of one trying to kill you. So you're keeping it out of the wrong hands and not "hesitating" to wield it when necessary. I say this just because I've seen awesome pictures of ancient Sith swords and vibroblades I always thought were cool.

http://static.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/f/fe/SavageOpressSpear-SWE.png/revision/latest?cb=20160913232413 (http://static.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/f/fe/SavageOpressSpear-SWE.png/revision/latest?cb=20160913232413)
http://static.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/3/3a/Scepterofragnos.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20141004020453 (http://static.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/3/3a/Scepterofragnos.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20141004020453)

Don't think the links work right, Savage's spear and Scepter of (Marka) Ragnos

Just checked out those weapons, very nice. I think that for sparring purposes, the cheapest and easiest option would just be a ~6' PVC "pole" with a 3D printed spearhead attached to it. And they could both be sprayed with some metallic paint, but I guess paint chipping onto opposing sabers could be why you suggested something with paint on the inside instead of just on the outside? Would clear coat help mitigate that, or not really?

I know PVC comes in 6' lengths with the right width/diameter for very cheap, and is quite durable and strong at that width, but not hard enough to damage polycarbonate saber blades when sparring I'd imagine.

Something I'll consider going forwards I suppose.

It looks like one Etsy seller has a spearhead modeled after the Beskar Spear that should be suitable for sparring:
(https://i.etsystatic.com/18663763/r/il/25a5ea/2701406746/il_794xN.2701406746_onrp.jpg)
(https://i.etsystatic.com/18663763/r/il/b94880/2749086453/il_794xN.2749086453_mva6.jpg)

Yeah, you're right, a clear coat done in a few layers might last long enough to avoid paint transfer. That's exactly what I feared happening to other saber blades on contact.

You're also alright keeping a beskar spear as some kind of souvenir from the Mandalorian War in KOTOR era, even if your Jedi isn't from/living in that era; it could be some relic from the temple that was brought back after that war... handed down to your master and entrusted to you. Tons of reasons you could train to use it, like wanting a weapon less damaging on contact than your lightsaber but still able to parry one (with serious skill). You know how easy you can trip up, disarm, or knock out a foe with the blunt end of a spear without having to bring the tip to bear. Pretty Light Side aligned to wield that in a time with potentially heavy lightsaber use, and removing your ability to deflect blaster bolts too. Still just fun to use anyway.

Good points. A non-saber staff or spear could provide a less-lethal way to take on fights, which is a pretty light-side oriented strategy. But it can also perhaps have other uses, such as combating opponents wearing saber-resistant armor? I read that, at least in Legends, cortosis could temporarily short out lightsabers. Having a spearhead that's made of Beskar can have actual combat benefits too, and should be able to stab through at least some saber resistant armor I'd think. I know real steel spears had trouble piercing steel plate armor IIRC (so the weapon and armor being made of the same material, just like a Beskar spear vs Beskar armor would be), but perhaps with force-augmented strength, it wouldn't be beyond the realm of possibility for a Beskar spear to even pierce Beskar armor? Although I'd still think aiming for the body parts not covered by Beskar armor would likely be a better option in general.

Not to mention that even though a saberstaff provides additional defensive options relative to a normal lightsaber, a beskar spear/staff provides potentially even more potential conditional benefits. With a saberstaff, you can only hold it somewhat offset, to give a bit more reach than a normal saber (an extra normal hilt length at most usually), while with an entirely Beskar staff/spear, you can hold it all the way back at one end, giving you incredible reach and range with it, which has offensive and defensive benefits. I could even see potential utility in running a Beskar spear/staff AND a saber, one in each hand, although perhaps just using one saber as opposed to the staff would be much more manageable, especially without a ton of training.

Honestly I just want an excuse to be able to use a ~6' staff as another in-universe weapon haha, since I could likely get some additional moves and speed with it, just for fun and practice.

Hell, Master Vodo literally just imbued a wooden staff with the Force and fought lightsabers with it, although it didn't hold up to a full onslaught from Exar Kun. And Chirrut Îmwe made quick work of fodder Storm Troopers using only a flame-hardened wooden staff, so a Beskar staff or spear should be quite a formidable weapon in the right hands, especially when you have the option to use that OR a saberstaff, depending on the situation.

And I do have a 6' PVC bo staff case on the way, which should be able to fit 2 staffs, so even if I'm not keeping one saber from the staff attached to each side of my belt, I should be able to keep the saberstaff AND a "Beskar" staff/spear in the case on my back.
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/12430_010_2.jpg)
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/12430_1.jpg)

So if I had a 6' staff, it would fit. If I went with a spear, it would either have to be 6' or less with the spearhead attached, or have a removable spearhead.

Too true, especially considering one huge potential advantage you didn't mention that you would have in the SW universe. I was thinking wood with metal tip at first, but yes a full beskar spear (although harder to procure that quantity of material/ kill a Mandalorian with one and take it) would be monumentally easier to deflect lightsabers with. And again yes, having that ridiculous reach is great against especially multiple opponents. And it'd be amazingly cool to learn to fight with that one handed with a lightsaber in an off hand. Like spear & shield combat replacing the shield with a short sword that cuts through most objects. Like you said, that spear tip could pierce even (and especially) some armor even lightsabers can't. By using the Force to augment your strength or Force throwing it in an accelerated manner like a lightsaber toss except straight, you might be able to skewer multiple enemies into a shish-ka-bob even.
But, getting back to my initial point, your biggest advantage in SW universe is that a lightsaber has no weight. It's not an issue generally since saber vs saber that's irrelevant, and in other contact situations they tend to slice through so weightlessness is a non issue. Now VS your spear they're kinda screwed because you have leverage to throw their blade around and parry it like nothing with the spear's weight and momentum. Conversely they can manipulate a "light as air" blade faster and redirect quicker than you but are also not likely heavily trained VS solid objects in this manner... Sith with extensive training in these areas would be your main problem, or using ancient/classical Sith weapons. In all honesty if I saw you with that thing and only had my saberstaff I'd think twice about how else to win that fight knowing it could turn very desperate very quickly with the number of options that weapon opens. Hell, even pole vaulting into the air, or stabbing my leg or foot and piercing them in place before drawing your lightsaber to kill me or try to capture me wounded. Also countering the light whip we're both fond of is much more possible in my mind with this type of weapon. You're quite dangerous for wanting to use such a thing, and being able to justify it to Jedi Masters no less... mad respect.

Thank you. Very good point regarding the weight of a Beskar staff/spear relative to a lightsaber. Trading some speed for power can be very useful, either against standard sabers and exotic sabers as you mentioned, but also against armor, as I mentioned. Even if I am unable to easily pierce solid Beskar armor with my spear, that extra mass the staff/spear has relative to a lightsaber means that even if I can't pierce the armor, even "just" making contact with swings to the body, limbs, and head can still knock them down, or off their feet, or at least stagger them making them more vulnerable to being targeted in places not covered by armor (either by the staff or with an off-hand saber perhaps), or even by a downwards stab with a ton of force when they're downed.

The good thing is that it's still essentially a staff-based weapon, so practice with a bo staff and saberstaff will still carry over greatly, just the center balance wouldn't be exactly in the middle (unless I put some sort of counterweight on the opposite end, and instead of the entire saber blades being "cutting surfaces" only the spearhead would be a cutting surface. But skill with one would have a lot of carryover for the other, so I wouldn't be terribly disadvantaged in skill using one relative to the other.

Hell, I already have a 6' wooden staff with a 1.25" diameter. Maybe I just buy that sparring-usable Beskar-modeled spearhead that they say fits a 1.25" staff/rod/etc, and then give the staff a nice spray paint with some metallic paint, and then a clear coat or two.

While you're at it you can mark the "true balance point" on it before the clear coat. Or wrap a foot (6 inches above and below that point) with leather or the wrap you use to show you that point visually. Maybe writing a saying translated into Mando 'a centered on that point on on 4 sides of the spear shaft before the clear coat. Tons of options, but if you're assembling it like you say you could just counter balance it. Either way I bet you'll have some fun.

Sadly I don't know where I can watch the Mandalorian so I've been avoiding it like the plague... EVIL commercial ads and freakin wookiepedia suggestions/links ruined like 2 things for me already no matter how hard I try. I'm wishing seriously slow painful deaths upon the idiots in the respective advertising departments that thought it was a good idea to just throw scenes around like that or reference characters in un related articles like it's fine. I refuse to believe it's "safe" just throwing spoilers around so casually without regard, alerts, or ability to skip those ads permanently on say youtube. It's not like the whole planet's SW fans have Disney Plus or wtf ever. They have earned much hate, considering this is the best live action SW I've had to look foward to since Solo. Yes, barely contained seething rage. I'll put it into my outfit work, how fitting. No pun intended.

All good ideas, thank you. If I do go with one of the printed plastic spearheads, I don't think it would add so much weight that I'd need to counterbalance it, as opposed to if I was using an actual metal spearhead, so I think I'll just go with some marking at the balance point, like you said. Perhaps just the word "BALANCE" written in Mandalorian, as it is both quite literally the balance point on the saber, but also representative of the goal to balance oneself, and balance the Force.
(https://i.imgur.com/FJqYaWr.jpg)

Ok, that made me laugh and is something I'd see myself doing so +1 Point for you on the simple yet ironic choice, at first glance almost a joke to someone thinking simply; but like the best MA proverbs masters throw at you, if you dig past the first few layers of knowledge and meaning you get to the deeper insights. That's like the most true to a Grey Jedi thought process and quote choice I could see someone throwing on there... very well done indeed. If I make a Grey Sith outfit and customize a lightsaber to go with it I'll have to steal that to engrave on the hilt in Kittât or High Sith. A post I was reading makes me really want to paint a "display only" saber... that may be a worthy candidate in the running for limited cosplay use solely.

Fishing line or the Force?
(https://i.imgur.com/GQHe6qt.jpg)

Def the Force.

LOL this is too cool. I too own one of those Child dolls and to be honest that thing was begging for this kind of photo treatment, it's just so realistic looking. And did you make the control knob yourself? I made one myself out of a foosball. There are a ton of little props for this little guy that can be readily gotten and/or made. Point!

The Child I got as a gift came with a plastic knob (and a plastic frog and bowl too).

I know masks are really only popular due to the pandemic, but they do have some level of presence in the Star Wars universe as well, and this one looks like it may go really well with my costume, being grey and black. They have a variety of colors too, and I could see some of them looking really good with a hood as well.
(https://i.etsystatic.com/16818156/r/il/1f7a3d/2625107085/il_794xN.2625107085_4la9.jpg)
(https://i.etsystatic.com/16818156/r/il/802be3/2655780400/il_794xN.2655780400_rpj6.jpg)

Yep seen several good mask setups out there, but it is more that just out of simple necessity I suspect. I posted somewhere before about it, but they are rather prevalent in lore and use in general. If you think about it almost every Sith Lord you see wears or winds up wearing a mask at one point, the notable exceptions being Sidious since masks aren't discreet (and he seems too proud to "hide" his face once he's ascended anyway), and Count Dooku likely for similar reasons and maybe lingering ideology in his head. Who truly knows why those two don't but in movies Kylo Ren, Vader, and Maul (his permanently tattooed face) basically balance it out. In games and books they also fall heavy mask but nearly 50-50 leaning toward more masks. Although in KOTOR 1 & 2 masks are also heavily available, many Sith wear them, and there are breathing apparatus similar to the mask you've shown.

I know I'll integrate one, I do agree that one will go very well with your overall style. I kind of want to go full face covered though instead, since that was the plan for mine and they're less prevalent and much creepier. Luckily since masks are common enough in society you can easily add one into an outfit without people calling you a Dark Lord or some such. I seriously like the one you found though, I've always loved the subzero/scorpion type of mask. Probably why I never complained once it became mandatory, since part of me has fun wearing one around and having different styles. I need to make a good Sith logo one still.

You bring up good points. A full face mask would be better suited for the dark side than the light side in general I'd say, although every rule has its exceptions (see Mando almost always wearing a mask but being a "good guy"). A nose/mouth mask seems to be a compliment to an outfit, while a full face mask seems to be more of a prominent part of the outfit, or even the defining characteristic of the wearer at times. See Vader, Kylo, Nihilus, Revan, etc. So if that's the look you're going for, I totally get it.

Oh cool, I think I've seen that set around somewhere. Very neat!

Just checking out some potential alternative costume ideas for fun, and came across some Japanese Samurai inspired options.

Samurai Pants (in black or grey) for $54 (also in red for a bit more from a Canadian seller):
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/MCI-2353.jpg)

Kimono (black) for $25 (also in red or white for a bit more from a Canadian seller):
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/MCI-2351_4.jpg)

Vest (black and gold or red and gold) for $43:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/MCI-2350_4.jpg)

So $122 for all 3, or just under $100 with the more minimalist option of just the pants and the vest with no kimono under it.

You can see an example of all 3 pieces here:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0111/9043/5921/products/Jinbaori-black-1_1200x1200.jpg?v=1582578683)
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0111/9043/5921/products/Jinbaori-red-1_1024x.jpg?v=1582578684)

Or different colors without the kimono:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0033/9306/0928/products/300783_1_184aac29-00f3-422a-a5d0-b6545ec0c76c_620x.jpg?v=1571714077)

I think it looks pretty in-universe for Star Wars, and I do already have the arm-wraps that would go with an option that included some grey in it.

I know it's already pretty similar to my outfit, but I figured I'd throw some options out there for anyone who may be looking for ideas from scratch and wants something different than your typical Jedi or Sith robes.

The Vest strikes me as very Palpatine, which I guess makes sense with fashion on Naboo being "traditional" and strikingly Japanese in the fashion you see in those movies showing their planet. Looking through his walk-in closet would be hilariously varied. Ancient honorary outfit for traditional occasions, clean more modern political finery, ornate and fine silk pajamas with emblem of his house, jet black hooded robe... one of these things is not like the others, even slightly?

I'm debating a variation of the vest now... you're liable to bankrupt me, my bargain shopping is dangerously close to turning into impulse buying.

those are very interesting pieces and I think they would need a few sci fi items to better star warsy the outfit.

As far as the mask discussion: My suggestion for your Gray character would be some kind of half mask to reinforce the duality of his Force affiliation…Full mask for full dark…just an idea

It does have a very Palpatine feel to it now that you mention it. It is dangerously easy to want to pull the trigger on so many different things. But even if it's just posting things up for inspiration and ideas for other people, I am happy with it. I did go ahead and order the grey and black mask, and also the sparring-usable Beskar spearhead to attach to the 6' wooden staff I have (and likely spray it to look metallic) to make my own sort of beskar spear. One has to live a little bit I suppose!

You bring up some good points. I ended up ordering the grey/black mask I posted earlier, which is a half mask, as it does, as you said, have that duality to it. I agree on that!

I also agree that one or two more sci fi items would be needed to really pull the look off as being entirely Star Wars. Although perhaps even jut a lightsaber would do that, but the look would then be dependent on having the lightsaber at all times, which isn't entirely ideal. Maybe even just a Star Wars type belt. As Quinlan Vos didn't exactly have a very sci-fi outfit, but the utility belt and the pauldron or whatever his upper chest and shoulder armor was called was enough to make it look right. Hell, Kirak Infal'a had an even less sci-fi outfit, and would have looked just as much in-place in a Kung Fu action movie as in the Star Wars universe, which makes sense for his character. So I guess having a story and skillset that matches your appearance, if the appearance is a bit unorthodox for Star Wars, is very important to making the whole thing work.

But with the Samurai pants and vest, I'd say throw on a half-mask (like the one shown earlier), some forearm cover (either the wraps like I have, or the Samurai bracers I posted earlier, or even any manner of metal/plastic/foam/etc. bracers that you think go well with it) and a utility belt (both for form and function) would probably be more than enough to make it look passable I'd say.

But I guess there is a distinction to be made between "yeah, that would work in the Star Wars universe" and "yeah, that's definitely a Star Wars look." Jedi Robes and longer cloaks and things like that scream Star Wars, while perhaps Quinlan, and definitely Kirak, are more looks that wouldn't scream "they're from Star Wars" to someone who didn't know who they were and they didn't have their lightsabers on them. But they work for the characters on-screen, and fit their personalities and characters well. I mean, cosplay as Kirak without the lightsaber and I don't think many people who aren't big Star Wars fans would say "that's a Star Wars look." But it works in the right context.

Got a case for the saberstaff on Amazon for $30, and it arrived one day after ordering it. It has two large compartments, so I can put each half of the saberstaff in its own compartment, which should prevent them from knocking against each other too much. It also has a nice adjustable shoulder strap, and two additional smaller exterior pockets, the larger of which is a perfect fit for my LED nunchucks, and the smaller of which is a perfect fit for a pair of my smaller metal nunchucks, although these compartments could also be used to store any number of things, from batteries to couplers and other saber parts, etc. The Yin/Yang symbol and Chinese characters that I am told translate to "Chinese Wushu" aren't really Star Wars, but the Yin/Yang really does it the theme of balance I'm going for. And it's not an actual/explicit part of the outfit, more of a functional piece of gear to help protect the staff during transport.

(https://i.imgur.com/K7zi4kc.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GoADbf7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iMOatQi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sh1z3kZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pQGYSvG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iz4sCfi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0B6Gbe9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FS1G6lr.jpg)

I just was inspired by an idea I think will work for a mask I'm trying to make. Figured I'd share it since I thought it'd be cool if I can make it work right, I wanted one-way transparent material or simply eye slots. So it's "blacked out" in the eyes/ across surface of mask but still see through... I realized maybe integrating sunglasses or sunglass lenses might work, but now I'm considering cutting and fitting in dark colored/tinted glass. I have plenty to mess around with, and want to do some practice cuts, but if it goes well it'll make custom inserts/ whole face (maybe in a layer like a mosaic) on my non combat mask. If I can integrate it properly I think it'll look cool, if it's a little "rough looking" then seemingly broken glass held together looks pretty damn Sith in my opinion. Like Scion almost in mask form, also heralding potential pain, which gives depth on a subconscious level to people viewing it; which has always been the idea, making people a little uneasy, uncomfortable, or perturbed by it's appearance is a definite plus.

That does sound pretty cool if you could pull it off. I have no idea how to go about making a full-face mask, but some of the Sith ones on Etsy are pretty cool. The Sith Acolyte ones seem to be pretty popular.
(https://i.etsystatic.com/9126439/r/il/b00300/813969252/il_794xN.813969252_r8te.jpg)
And another person on a different forum made a mask that seems to have what looks like metal mesh for the eyes, but actual tinted glass instead would be pretty awesome.
(https://i.imgur.com/8DFvuJb.jpg)

Definitely interested to see what you come up with for your mask, as unique designs are special and give an outfit a nice distinguishing edge.

This guy is a former member of this forum if I am not mistaken....this is Hake Felflame, a well known Sith cosplayer based in North California and a member of the Golden Gate Knights.

Good info, thanks! It's amazing how skilled some people are, both with sabers and costume making.

Hi there,

Yeah, he put a lot of effort into both and happily he got the credit he deserved. He was well thought of here, shame he doesn't post anymore.

Though now we have the new generation of costume builders like yourself and mrg149 to admire. Keep up the good work.

just an fyi on that mask…it's a airsoft mask…I think it is either called papladin or templar…looks super cool

Ah, it is the Templar. I did not know that, thanks. but that does contextualize what looked like metal mesh eyes. Apparently Evike carries it, and man, that's a name I haven't heard in a long time.

prodigal:

 look up chrome faceless mask.  They're cheap enough to cut up.

My mask design will utilize these with a kendo-style grill overlaid (think Darth Vindican)

I very well may look into that, appreciate the suggestion. I just looked at a pic of Vindican, I have some kendo armor so I like the sound of it already. In functionality anyway, maybe I'll consider it for my combat style armor... or some variation. It doesn't look all that bad, and never a bad thing to model armor after a Sith Pureblood's. I can't wait to see how your helmet/mask comes together. I'm working on my purely aesthetic mask version 1.0 now, so we'll see what I like and don't; carrying over to subsequent versions. I'm already mad at myself, I cleaned out some things a few weeks ago suspecting some may have proven useful, now a recent revelation means the discarded materials would have been perfect. Damn tidying up set me back considerably because that would have been enough to make a full model.

I really like that one, if it's not a custom build and buyable as is... I might buy it and use it as a base for my combat mask, so I'm not building from scratch and it looks a bit like my initial designs. Or at least like it'd be easier (than most mask types I've seen) to modify a bit heavily.

If I don't like the way that my first mask comes out....I may opt to get this and mod it a bunch...

repaint...more greebles maybe some kind of further Sithy designs.

(https://popularairsoft.com/sites/default/files/import_files/Mask_MTX_RLUX_GrFox_1A_lg.jpg)

It is buyable. Amazon seems to have a variety of colors for ~$50, compared to the ~$90 on Evike, which is OOS anyway. They look identical, and the Amazon image even seems to show an Evike logo on the back strap, but I'm not positive they're identical or if one just stole the image. But I suppose the takeaway is that they are indeed buyable as-is, from somewhere, for some price.

That is pretty cool. I could see that working out well as the basis for a backup plan.

Almost looks a bit like the Temple Guard mask designs. It's not quite as... sinister looking as most Sith masks but therein lies the opportunity to customize it any way you want. Good find!

The overall effect and light do give off a certain creep factor. I could see it being nightmare fuel for some kids easily, especially if you could switch out the internal light/color. Repainting it would seriously make a dramatic difference... a pretty great option as well. I'm always supportive of trying to flesh out your original ideas, but these are pretty great too. Having multiple masks in different styles can serve a dual purpose as well. I had a core group of 3-6 others who loved to go to conventions, but were only willing to put in varying (somewhat low) levels of effort on outfits. Most enjoyed cosplay but weren't dedicated to putting together their own to the extent of time and money requirements. So having say 3 different masks ready could make for options for friends to wear, only having to buy their own robes and such. Or wearing different ones at different times. Even just using them as display pieces or battle scarring one like Kylo Rens sort of. At any rate, decisions decisions.

True, but it does seem to go quite well with the gauntlets/bracers he is making. Even without extensive modifications, just some paint design could go a long way to making it look unique, as you said.

I just ordered a long sleeve compression shirt with a hood, with the thought that I can swap out my turtleneck compression shirt for this one if I want to wear a mask and hood at times. I don't think a hood is needed for just the half lower mask I ordered, but having the option should be nice, and if I do eventually go a full mask route, a hood is pretty much a necessity unless the mask also has a full back, not just straps, which is what most of the masks posted here seem to have, just a few back straps. This would be mostly for future sparring purposes, to have a full face mask and still look good with it. And either way, it's always fun to have options and keep building outfit(s).

I'd thought of the possibility of using a cowl (if that's the right term) in lieu of a full hood potentially. Since hood's are more common and have slightly more visibility restriction potentially/generally. I would likely use a hood mostly, but even maybe a cowl underneath with the mask fitted into it? Think similar to the habit nuns wear or even sort of like a hajib (if I got that term right). Like Darth Nhilius, KOTOR/KOTOR 2 Mandalorian's head gear, or some hybrid in between. But basically tight fitting to the head, worn under a hood or without one. Maybe a modified ski mask with a Sith mask fitted over & into it. So I could drop the robe/cloak to be all business while maintaining the air of theatricality.

Might be going off on a tangent, but you guys have fed me some wonderfully great ideas that got the gears turning.

Oh, a cowl could work nicely, but I think you'd likely need some form of shirt/vest/robe over top of it so it doesn't look so obvious? I guess my point is that I think you'd want SOMETHING to cover the back of your head if the mask isn't a full helmet and only has strap(s) on the back like a lot of the airsoft style ones do. I don't think a cowl would work with my outfit though, since it would have to go over the compression shirt, which would look strange, so ideally the hooded compression shirt fits close to as nicely as the one I have, so I will have the option of a hood.

Also, thanks to Galef's video and assistance, I built a saber pike extension, using 2' of 1" PVC pipe, a 1" PVC pipe adapter, a 1" PVC endcap, and a TCSS coupler, which had to be filed down a good bit and hammered into place with a good bit of effort using a rubber mallet. Basically, I filed down one of the two sides of the coupler, and then mashed it into the PVC adapter. Then I used PVC cement to attach the open end of the PVC adapter to one end of the PVC pipe, and then put a PVC endcap on the other end of the pipe, but this one isn't glued, so I can remove it if I want to. From there, I just wrapped the whole thing with some gaffer tape I had left over. I could do a better job on the endcap, but I think I may opt for spraying the endcap, since it's removable and easy to replace, and isn't going to really be coming in contact with other sabers where paint chipping off would be an issue. But I figured tape on the actual pipe/pike part would be better than spray paint which could bleed/chip off onto things it strikes. Plus I had gaffer tape, not spray paint.

(https://i.imgur.com/5NnUh7O.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tjvESVz.jpg)

There's still the little bit of white on the ends of the adapter and coupler visible from the right, or wrong, angles, but I'm not overly concerned with that, and I'd wager than just some black Sharpie would remedy that if need be.

Handling is about as good as one could hope for. It feel firm, and is still more than capable of doing saberstaff style spins, and the shorter length means even more maneuverability and speed, at the cost of one blade and some reach. But I mainly did this if I wanted to do some sparring or exhibition-type routines with someone else, so I can give them a standard saber and still have something more staff-like for myself.

Excuse the slow and cautious spinning, as my gym room is quite cramped for practice with the addition of the exercise bike, and also excuse my pretty bad farmer's tan as well. the video is mostly just to show the concept and finished result seems to work well:

https://i.imgur.com/fykLciz.mp4

Cost:

Coupler: $12 shipped
1" PVC adpater/coupling: < $1.00
2' of 1" PVC pipe: < $2.50
1" PVC endcap: < $1.00
PVC Cement: ~ $5.50 (although it will last much longer, and if you have super glue or something, that should work too

So around $16.50 if you don't need cement or glue, and ~$22 if you do. And you could go with a shorter or longer piece of PVC pipe as well, or even put the coupler with an adapter on both sides to attach more than one, or to serve to make a saberstaff even longer or something, although that would cost more money.

Edit: and probably $2-3 in gaffer tape, but electrical tape would also work just as well I'd say, but would just have a gloss finish instead of a matte finish. So ~$20 seems to be a reasonable amount to estimate it costs.

That's a pretty cool modification. Nice pet project to give you an additional weapon option in your arsenal, to train with, and as you said to give you a backup saber now if someone joins you in training.

What's the overall length of the pike's shaft from tail end to emitter? Looks approximately 4 ft with the 24 in blade for a total around 6? But you probably have it closer to 5 & 1/2 ft or 5 and my eyes are playing tricks on me. I remember you don't like a weapon that close to your overall height, so it is easier to wield and doesn't contact the ground as easy.

Thanks. The overall length from the PVC endcap to the tip of the blade is actually only around 5'. From the start of the thread on the coupler (so the part that isn't in the hilt) to the end of the endcap is ~26". So add that to around 12" for the hilt, and then 22" for the blade (24" - 2" or so that is in the hilt to secure it), and that's about 5' right there.

It's just hard to discern the length because I'm never really holding it with one end on the ground to get a good gauge of it's height relative to me. I'm comfortable with a length of 5' to 6' really. I have a 6' wooden bo staff, and also a few 5' wooden bo staffs as well, so I'm pretty used to those lengths already. The saberstaff with the QR coupler is still my go-to weapon, but I do think I'll occasionally practice with the pike, even if I'm not sparring an opponent, just for a little change of pace.

I do think I'll try to do something a little nicer with the PVC endcap though. The gaffer tape comes right off and leaves no residue, which is nice, although buying another endcap is super cheap as well. I'm thinking of some metallic spray paint for it, but we will see.

Anyway, here's the first minute of the 1:15 or so video from today's practice. I think it's up there with my best runs. There's a few stumbles and pauses here and there, but do you think if I don't manage to get a better run in the next few days, that this would suffice for a Spin Wars submission? There's another 15 seconds at the end, but it's more or less more of the same as what's in the video:

https://i.imgur.com/QomXOQ1.mp4

nifty mod!

Thanks! Here's some practice using the extension to make a saberpike. Not going too fast, since it's a little bit differently weighted than the saberstaff is, and I wanted to more get a feel for it than push the speed.

https://i.imgur.com/VPF6JYk.mp4

Figured I'd post up my Spin Wars submission:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kHRwXC9dcQ&feature=youtu.be# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kHRwXC9dcQ&feature=youtu.be#)

Got in my new long-sleeve hooded compression-ish shirt to use as an alternative to my compression turtleneck, particularly for use with a lower-face mask.

Fit is pretty good I'd say. The hood around the head is a bit smaller than what you'd typically see on a Star Wars type outfit, but I suppose that is expected for a compression type shirt. Worn on it's own, a tight shirt with a huge hood would be a strange product to to sell. I think it will still look nice with the grey/black mask I mentioned earlier.

Also pictured is a new and slightly different pair of Thai Fisherman pants in slightly different colors than what I posted in all my other images. So now I have two pairs of pants and shirts, with the long grey robe being the only main article of clothing that doesn't have a secondary option.

Anyway, without the lower mask here yet, here's some side-by-sides of the new outfit with the hood down and the hood up:

(https://i.imgur.com/iKyiNf5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WdSjUve.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KOzyOZK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oMn8m5S.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/G2n6jS4.jpg)

And one more with The Chilld.
(https://i.imgur.com/8f5N2uH.jpg)

It goes well, and is a nice option I think. It'll compliment that grey mask well in my opinion, and the hood size is kind of fortunate. Big black hood usually screams Sith to people because it obscures your features more and looks all menacing. This is a bit more balanced and fits in with your outfit.

Btw, your second to last photo... the set right before the last one, the right side photo doesn't have your hood up like the rest. So I figured it's an oversight since it breaks from the running theme.

Also, I believe your child may be adopted... if not you have some rather unusual proclivities I'm unaware of. But, I guess yodas need love too, so to each their own ideas of fun.


That's not fast? I guess it falls into the slow is smooth, smooth is fast category then. You looked pretty quick and fluid, but I guess you were just "feelin it". All the practice with your lightsaber for SpinWars must have paid off getting your muscles and reflexes back into coordination. Dam you, you always make me want to train MORE; which is of course a good thing. Half the fun is in the chase and pursuit of power.

Thanks. And good point on the hood. And good catch on the last split-photo. It did break the theme, but I did it to provide a photo of what the hood looks like down on from the back, since none of my photos showed what the black hood just resting on the grey robe looked like, and I wanted to post a picture to show it doesn't look terribly out of place. And yeah, the child is adopted. I've been told I have big ears before, but not quite Yoda size ears.

Thanks. I mean, it was about as fast as I was comfortable going with it at the time, since I didn't want to drop it and wasn't quite used to the staff's balance yet to be super comfortable with it. Like you said, I was more just going with the flow of the motion here, not really trying to push the speed. I can get it going faster, particularly for short bursts, but if I try to push the speed too much, I end up making mistakes more often. I would agree with you that smoothness helps make it look faster, where if I push the speed, it can look choppier, which can mitigate a lot of the increased speed from an appearance perspective. I think the best approach would be to practice at a speed I'm comfortable with, continue getting the muscle memory down, and the endurance up, and slowly picking up the speed over time, with some shorter bursts of really pushing the speed mixed in for extra practice and to help get me used to it. But I know I have to keep the desire to go too fast in check, since form often starts to break down a bit with excessive speed.

Got the grey and black mask in. I think it fits with the outfit well!

(https://i.imgur.com/gwrOXyE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2kftpoQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JDhL9Ni.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/N9AWheb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HqETRxb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/L0l7aOV.jpg)

SA-WEET!! That waas a very nice addition to a very good looking costume! your choices have all been well thought oout nd on-point

It's a good fit, but to me now reminds me of Mortal Kombat. Like Smoke stepped into SW, not like that would be a bad thing either, I love MK. Also there are various assassins in SW U so also not complaining.

Thanks! I'm working on making a Beskar spear right now. I picked up the 3D printed spearhead that won't destroy whatever it comes in contact with like a metal spearhead would. As for the spear shaft, the spearhead fits into 1" PVC pipe after a bit of sanding, so I'm spray-painting some 1" PVC pipes to approximately match the color. There was no 5' or 6' length of pipe, and I didn't have anything to cleanly cut a 10' pipe in half at the time, so the plan became 2x 2' pipes, and 1x 1' pipe, which I will connect to each other with 1" inside connectors and PVC cement. So the 3 pieces should look pretty flush when connected, as opposed to the larger connectors that the pipes go into, which would result in two larger pieces on the shaft, which isn't really desirable for a staff. I did end up picking up a PVC pipe cutter later, so I suppose the "optimal" thing would be to pick up a 10' length of pipe, cut it in half, and then paint that piece so it's one solid shaft, but I think I'm going to run with what I've been doing, as I already have all the parts here or on the way, and I think there's some character to be had in designs made out of utility or necessity. I first went with a lighter metallic-type spray, and put on 3 layers on each pipe to get good cover and also to ensure that all the writing on the pipes is covered. But I didn't get the 3rd layer on the last pipe, so I went over it with a darker steel colored spray paint which I think would have been too dark if I just used multiple layers of it, but as one layer over 2-3 lighter layers, it seems to be a very happy medium to what a Beskar spear should look like, and matches the color of the spearhead I have pretty well I'd say.

So now I just have to experiment with the clear coat spray I have on a spare pipe to make sure it will work and look alright, and then spray the 3 lengths of pipe I will actually use. Once that's done, the only thing remaining will be, once the inner connectors arrive, so attach/cement the pipes together and hammer the spearhead into one end of the pipe-shaft, since it's a super tight fit that way and shouldn't need any glue/adhesive.

So the spear-shaft should be a little bit over 5' (2'+2'+1' plus the little bit from the two connectors), and then 8" or so from the spearhead, so probably ~5'-10", or roughly the same length as my saberstaff haha. Which I think is a fair height for the Beskar spear shown in The Mandalorian, considering Pedro Pascal is listed at 5'-11" (which I assume is in shoes, s it almost always is for anyone who isn't measured at a sports combine IME), a quick pixel count in one of the images I saw puts the spear staff at roughly 5'-6" in length. So if I had to go with 5' or 6' for the shaft, I'm going with 5, as ~5'-10" overall is preferable to 6'-10" for me. And since this is a spear-shaft with a spearhead only one on side, as opposed to a saberstaff with blades on both sides, I can hold this one way to one end, which will give it incredible reach relative to even a longer saberstaff I'd say, so I don't think leaving some length on the table will be at all a disadvantage here considering I'll still have the option of very long reach, while also having optimal mobility when holding it towards the center like a staff.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/En0ezirXIAA-TrU.jpg)

Haha, I totally see the Mortal Kombat vibes now that you mention it. But I suppose that does make sense, considering I repeatedly drew from a Martial Arts background for ideas and inspiration. The half-mask idea I originally got from the leather Japanese mempo, which is pretty much what a lot of the Mortal Kombat characters wear. And Star Wars does draw heavily on martial arts and monks, so I think it works.

But yeah, looking at some of these Smoke images, some of which being art, some fan-art, but still relevant, etc. I TOTALLY see it.

The mask design and the grey over-layer with the forearm coverings here:
(https://i.redd.it/3j1kieie8cc41.jpg)

To the forearm wrap on one of the arms here, and even the black belt with the silver circular clasp.
(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/8a/a3/c0/8aa3c0e5375252d8e94f5a56663d7f3f.jpg)

I see it for sure, and honestly can't complain about it.

Nope, I mean if you photoshopped a lightsaber into the top image it'd look perfectly Jedi. And obviously Sith for the second one. But I could see both working in SW too. And at any rate all confusion would end the minute you ignited your lightsaber anyway... as it should be. All debate stops dead when a lightsaber is drawn.

I'm a long time MK fan, so Sub Zero with an Arctic Blue blade on a Azure Grand Master or Azure Butcher would sit perfectly well with me. Probably fighting Scorpion with a Reaper in one hand and a Scorpion in the other with both blades in Sentinel Yellow! (I now need to see fans do a video with this mashup.)

All very good points. And assuredly drawing a lightsaber removes all doubt. Hell, Kirak Infil'a's look hardly screams JEDI or STAR WARS. He could be from any number of martial arts shows/movies, and his scars look more like something from One Piece than Star Wars at first glance:
(https://slightlynerdishblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/08/kirak-infila.png)

But give him a lightsaber and it becomes obvious and brings the whole look into the Star Wars universe:
(https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-2b9a127dbfbad6602203144d351b6687)

Oh, and some people have done Mortal Kombat cosplays with lightsabers:
(https://64.media.tumblr.com/4ea16407821977d659925810a6fd9f33/tumblr_psofolW7kI1s9254co1_1280.jpg)

And I'm pretty sure Jade already has what can pretty easily pass for a saberstaff (so long as you ignore the part where she's holding what would be the blade haha:
(https://i.redd.it/qyrbcztfpo341.jpg)
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/7XIbX5xzgiY/maxresdefault.jpg)

WOW, proud of that Sub Zero for sure, he did exactly what I was saying more or less. Just need a Scorpion to show up and attack to fulfill the dream. And I swear it looks like he's selling masks & lightsabers which is priceless!

And as far as Jade is concerned I'm pretty sure she's part reptile or from the same race as Reptile? So since there is a long history of SW beasts with lightsaber resistant skin... who's to say she doesn't fall into an EU crossover category where she could resist it for a few seconds. But that top image of her drawn holding a saberstaff style weapon is gorgeous. That would make a nice hilt design IRL if it were even slightly practical to do. But overall just too cool.

That top photo is apparently a cosplay. You can see the photographer's name on the bottom left of the image:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EDJn24IWwAIGEwf?format=jpg&name=medium)
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EDJn24JWkAEeVLw?format=jpg&name=medium)

I wouldn't doubt if there were some effects and or filters, as is commonplace with pretty much every professional photoshoot, but it is real.

And good point on having skin that is at least somewhat or temporarily lightsaber resistant. Not quite the same, but the same basic design of a staff with three light-sections is actually the design of the LED staff from the people who make the LED nunchucks I have. In aluminum or black:
(https://www.kombativ.com/images/products/large/deluxe-led-bo-staff-3099290.jpg)
(https://www.kombativ.com/images/products/large/led-bo-staff-8508714.jpg)
You'd have to wrap/paint/whatever the "hilt" portions are to make them match the gold design of Jade's weapon, and you technically have that little portion on either end that isn't lit, but if someone was looking for a Jade-style LED staff, I think these would be a pretty solid option. Of course, that staff doesn't uncouple, and the blades aren't removable, so it's always a 6' staff, but it's the only 3-portion LED staff I've seen. From an in-universe perspective, that central part being lit up would be a bit strange, as I'm not really sure how it would even work, and unless you had saber-resistant skin/armor/etc. handling it would be a nightmare, but her weapon does already look almost like a saberstaff as-is.

I can see the desire to thwart the opponent's mentality toward cutting your saberstaff in half which would exist in SW combat... also it's a slightly offensive option as an extra choice to block/use that part to attack VERY creatively. But that would require amazing use of the Force to coordinate in any way and not lose fingers blocking, handling that monster, or with surprise attacks using the center. I'd personally craft some type of handguard out of lightsaber resistant material around the individual handles! Either quarter shields similar to a rapier guard or shaped blades that offer finger defense & even more offense (similar in design to brass knuckles but extending outward into a blade about 2" in length)... Either way that mod would help channel the enemy lightsaber into that central "lock zone" thus created to control their blade potentially and parry instantly (keeping that control or deflecting their lightsaber) as you cut them with either end at your disposal. That'd be a glorious Sith weapon mod right there... you once again got the ole gears turning in the weapon design part of my brain. I love the base concept anyway because it's the closest I've seen yet to a 3 section staff and I adore those. Although this would function as the exact opposite functionally with grip points and since it's one piece vs the flexible 3 parts. Still really cool! Added to my Sith Armorer potential project list... I can feel the anger radiating from such a weapon design.

You mean one of these?

(http://www.karatemart.com/images/products/large/high-impact-led-3-section-staff.jpg)

The lovechild of a bo staff and nunchucks. I want one...

That's F***ING SAVAGE!!! I hate you because I WANT ONE now! Damn it, this is grinding my piggy bank to dust under the weight of my desires/wishlist...  But that is a perfect weapon to cruelly deflect a lightsaber, slip the middle section behind someone's back, and "hug them" and look them in the eye as you slice them in half. Bold and brutal Sith style, classic "I want to make this personal, feel the terror up close."

In SW I totally would have "recruited" you from the shadows to hunt down epic weapons tech and gear because you have an eye for finding nasty hardware. Ugh, I will be poor at this rate if I don't go conquer something.

It is pretty wild. $160, so not crazy expensive, but man, does that wishlist really add up quick, even with things that aren’t exorbitantly expensive alone.

Now that you get me thinking about it, I’d probably get myself kicked out of the Jedi order for my love of exotic weapons and my inevitable association with those who make, collect, and use them.

I mean, my first light weapon was nunchucks, then a saberstaff. And now I’m making a Beskar spear. Definitely nothing orthodox here.

Lmao, they do love to Exile those who break ranks too harshly... but you would likely be given choices. You know how to "tow the company line" enough and say "yes Master" enough to likely stay. I don't know if your ideas would ultimately be called outright heresy. It's more how far you're willing to take a train of thought, or if you simply stop after receiving "warnings" or "guidance" to steer you in a more proper/fitting direction. If you proved you weren't going to go kill crazy with your weapons projects or allow them to "fall into the wrong hands" I don't think they'd simply expel you for your studies so much as frown upon your desires if they feel they began to pull in too negative a direction. If it were me (within the Order) overseeing you I'd likely just have you placed under the direction of the Council of Reconciliation to put you out there using the honed skills to settle diplomatic situations that spiraled into full on conflict. Or (although it's potentially dangerous) place you under the care, direction, and at the disposal of the Council of First Knowledge. So you have archive access to weapons of all sorts to quench that thirst for knowledge under supervision. If you make something to dangerous/heretical they'll hopefully see it in advance and do that good ole Jedi BANNED and lock/store it away as tabboo! But with proper training or focus you could be "cleansing" ancient Sith weapons, cataloguing exotic weaponry collected, or coming up with new variants for use by the Order. Even possibly corrupted by an ancient relic or two... It would wholly depend on you and guidance you received. Will of the Force and all that. Your choice of blue blades falls in line with that training regimen and desire to progress in prowess while seeking new avenues of weaponry/technique. Your poor Jedi Master might indeed have their hands full, Qui-gon probably would have been an example of a great choice for mentorship or dealing with a potentially atypical Knight of the Order.

So I think I'm getting the hang of the Obi-Ani spin with the saberstaff. Funnily enough, it almost feels more natural with the staff than with just a single blade. Likely just due to my being more comfortable with the staff than a single saber in general. Using a single saber with an extension (saberpike) also seems a bit more natural than just a single saber to me, but is a bit slower. Any loss of speed with the staff, if there is any, is mitigated by there being two blades moving, so even if it's a bit slower, a blade moves past a point twice as often, so I think it still looks nice. Always room for improvement though. But with the saberpike, there's still the added length/weight, but no second blade, so it looks like it's going a bit slower to me, since I guess it is. When using a single saber, I think I have the motion down, but I seem to sometimes, when picking up the pace, not get a full rotation behind the back and bring the blade back to the front in a way where it's almost more sliding it to the front than spinning to the front, which, unless my mind is playing tricks on me, it looks like Obi-Wan does a bit in the actual Episode 3.

Anyway, here's the saberstaff spinning, since I think it looks better than the single blade spinning at the moment:
https://i.imgur.com/tmDaJDc.mp4

Good points as usual. I heard that Yoda didn't like Dooku's curved hilt lightsaber, not because it was "different," but because it as designed primarily to combat other lightsaber users. But seeing as Yoda seemed to believe, obviously incorrectly in retrospect, that the Sith were gone, he saw that the only purpose of Dooku's design was to fight other Jedi. However, Yoda didn't exile Dooku from the order for it, and actually still took him as his final Padawan. So if they were in an era where they either knew the Sith were present, or had a more proactive approach at preparing for potential Sith threats that seem to always inevitably arise at some time, a weapon designed to combat other lightsabers wouldn't be inherently frowned upon or viewed with suspicion, but only perhaps some general caution and guidance I'd say. It's not like exotic lightsabers have ALWAYS been entirely taboo, or at least not explicitly banned, as Exar Kun had a double-bladed lightsaber as a Jedi, and more recently, Pong Krell used two of them, and the notes in The Jedi Path mentioned one Jedi using a saberstaff, but I forget who it was offhand.

Something too "dangerous" or wild like the lightsaber rifle would likely be archived though, both due to it's potential to deal damage, especially at a distance and to unsuspecting opponents, as well as it being pretty much exclusively an offensive weapon with little to no "defensive" uses, which isn't exactly very Jedi-like most of the time. No idea if a three-section-saberstaff would fall in the category of hyper-offensive or not, as I really have no idea how a three-section-staff is used, with the exception of knowing that it being exotic and unorthodox can make short work of opponents with no experience against it, and that the segmented staff can help to strike around shields and things like that. I am totally unaware of how it would function defensively though.

The applications of the one you have listed the pictures of could easily be very defensive. It isn't crazy far from Jar'Kai in standard applications but has more potential reach and ways to swing the "independent" ends since they are joined. Basically you can rotate them/spin them different ways holding the center, or hold the grip of one while constantly rotating the other to form a shield (similar to how you're familiar with spinning your num-chuks) Think almost of how you might use the pair if they were elongated and bonded at one end to each other. The traditional weapon is soooo cool to me but this lightsaber variant is so different in a fun way. I guess I'm partially in love with the danger of "losing fingers" with carelessness, having to re-train in a slightly varied way, and the new applications the extra offense could bring. Searing/cutting in half is vastly different that hitting with metal, wood, carbon fiber, so the Sith in me is overly fascinated. I doubt it'd be the same story in Jedi hands...

 But even to me it's a little horrifying to think of twin independently moving lightsabers spinning on both sides of the wielder. Even with excessive training, a slightly improper movement, angle, step, or unforeseen factor would spell serious disaster! It could easily in my opinion be even more dangerous to the user than a light whip used improperly. Since that's only one tendril and these would likely be more concentrated/thicker beams. No lie I feel genuine fear at the thought of using this in a lightsaber variant, almost too potentially dangerous for some of the moves I'd want to attempt/use. It'd be more of a novelty than combat weapon for me, so I'd not lose a leg or part of something. I'm thinking YEARS of use before combat application.

You know, I totally had a brain fart on not realizing that it can be used in a Jar'Kai fashion, just with the middle part between them, which could help defensively. Thanks for clearing that up for me. I also saw a three-section-staff that can screw together so it can form either a three-section-staff, a bo staff (all three sections together) or some sort of flail type weapon, with two of the sections together, and the third section swinging forward, almost like a hybrid of a flail and nunchucks.

I'd imagine making one of these that also has LEDs in them would be a challenge in our world, but in the Star Wars universe, that versatility, if you could keep the chains and a quick-release option to join the sections into a staff, or separate them into their natural chained connection, that would be incredible versatility.

(https://www.karatemart.com/images/products/large/6-foot-three-section-converta-staff.jpg)

I suppose if you wanted one of these in-universe and didn't want to risk Mauling yourself (pun intended) with the slightest mistake, a Jedi could get incredible use out of a Beskar three-section convertible staff. You get all the benefits of a "weightier" staff against lightsaber resistant materials, the reach of a staff, the non-lethal options that Jedi often enjoy, and that's only with the traditional staff form. Unscrew one of the sections and you have a flail that, with the long handle/staff (the other two sections) you can probably get a lot of speed and power going behind the swinging section/flail, that can probably still pack a wallop to lightaber resistant material, and even potentially hit around shields and even other blades. Then you have the fully separated three-section staff for the Jar'Kai style combat, as you mentioned, and also for tying up opponents and potentially disarming them or something.

Interesting how our minds differ, with the Sith mentioning the fear it can induce, even in the wielder, and the Jedi, even if a greyer one, talking about potentially less-lethal but potentially more versatile options.

Just got the actual Ultrasaber pike extension. Good timing too, because the coupler I sanded one end down on to hammer into the PVC coupler for my makeshift pike extension came apart. Nothing a little super glue can't fix, but it's nice to have an extension that matches the saber so well. Added some o-rings to it of course, and got a little practice in.

It's a bit shorter than the one I made. I want to say it's 15" vs 24" on the extension, but it's still enough length to make it function largely like a pike or staff. I want to say it's a bit over 4' in length now, with around 2.25' being hilt, which means enough hilt to spin it like a staff.

(https://i.imgur.com/SZiQCQk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zrFyyzc.jpg)

The Obi-Ani spin with it feels more natural to me with this than with a single normal saber:

https://i.imgur.com/2dsZN0Q.mp4

And it's still long enough with a good enough balance point to do staff spins. It is a tad short to be truly optimal right now for the spins, but I think that may just be me not being used to this length yet, so I am quite pleased still.

https://i.imgur.com/VAsV2i3.mp4

Or if I'm really feeling crazy, I suppose I could attach the extension to the middle of the saberstaff to make an over 7' long saberstaff with over 3' of hilt. Probably a bit much, although if I put one blade plug in, I can now pick up length for a true saber pike, as I'd gain another foot of hilt, bringing the overall pike length to 5' from blade plug to blade tip.

Or if I don't want to do that, once the other extension is fixed, I can put the Ultrasaber extension one on blade, and then the makeshift extension on the other end, which would give me the 12" hilt, plus the 15" extension, plus another 24" extension, good for 4.25' of hilt/staff, and just over 6' of total length including the blade. This could be a cool option with a ton of reach. A true saberpike. It would be interesting to see where the balance point would be with that, seeing as I'd have quite a few different materials. The blade, then the hilt with the battery, then the metal extension with nothing in it, to the PVC extension with nothing in it. I guess the location of the balance point would determine if it can still be used largely like a staff, or if it would have to be used more like a spear.

The true saberpike is born.

The end of the pike is on the ground, and I'm 5'10", so this is over 6' total length.
(https://i.imgur.com/8peCUiI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Oudy0uS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7Fa98dr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NhgCgsC.jpg)

It can still function like a saberstaff as well for spins holding the center, which is nice:

https://i.imgur.com/umapEnJ.mp4

I'd imagine that the real utility of this configuration would be reach though, using it more like a spear/pike/polearm than a saberstaff with one blade. But there is definitely some speed lost when you hold it all the way at the back. The farthest back I think I'd hold it is shown in the outdoor photos, with the front hand on the rear portion of the middle extension. So I suppose there's a reach of 15" + 12" + (24-2)" minus maybe 6" for where my hand is, so 43" past my hand, which is a fair bit longer than a "standard" 36" blade, and still longer than an "extra long" 40" blade. Not to mention that when I'm holding it at arms-length fully extended, I have two hands on the hilt for more power and control, while anyone holding a traditional lightsaber out at arms-length has to do so holding the saber with only one hand, which I'd imagine could be rather difficult to maintain and control with a 40" blade.

All things said, this is a fun configuration.

Glad to see the saberchucks and saber pike getting some love. My only recommendation for you though would be to shorten the pike a bit. It seems from your video of you spinning it that you're trying to keep it from hitting the ground and therefore aren't spinning it at its fullest speed potential. I had this issue when I first experimented with different pike lengths. I'm 5'9" and found that anything slightly shorter than myself was ideal for spinning fast without having to worry about hitting the ground or having to adjust my technique any.

The overall costume looks great too and I wish I had found those belt rings to attach a saber to years ago.

Thanks! You are 100% correct, that pike is a bit longer than I'd like it to be. My actual saberstaff is between 5'8" and 5'10", and I am 5'10", which is perfect for me, as the general rule of thumb from my background in Taekwondo is that the staff should be the same height as the user, or a few inches shorter. Luckily for me the 2' makeshift pike extension should be easy enough to trim down a bit, as the endcap on it is not cemented on, so I can just remove it and cut the end of the pipe (which is just wrapped with gaffer tape) to the desired length.

EDIT/UPDATE: I cut the PVC pike extension down so that the overall length of the pike (one saber, the metal extension, and the PVC extension) is slightly shorter than I am. I just measured it to be 5'9.5", which is ever so slightly shorter than I am. I think that should be sufficient. Thanks for the tip!

Thanks for the compliments on the costume! It was a happy accident that the belt rings worked with the QR coupler vents. But as Qui-Gon said, nothing happens by accident.

I seriously did not know they made an actual pike extension you could buy outright! I'd only seen custom ones... that is exceptionally cool how you joined your custom mod onto their extension to reach the desired marriage of length and mobility. Your first version was even a bit longer than my saberstaff, but being able to hold it all the way ac one end you'd have me wrecked on pure reach advantage now. And that vicious ability to thrust the lightsaber blade in instantly past my defenses would pose a huge problem, especially if the hilt/shaft of the pike is lightsaber resistant. I'm loving that additional offensive potential born of the redesign, mixed with it being something you're super comfortable with already, retaining great spinning ability, and it still having an extremely customized feel. Nice work, pretty cool. You also look like you're having a lot of fun, which is one of the best aspects of making something cool.

Master Venturous, if I may ask a question since you stopped by... Are you aware who, or could you point me in the right direction toward the individual who adapted Jar' Kai to use a saberstaff in one hand and a more standard lightsaber in the other? I wish to seek out their guidance, or simply view some video of their exploits/training if such exists. I ask out of personal interest but also because someone else here (on the forum) had broached the question. This is the link for that topic if you wished to reply or post there directly: http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=46614.0 (http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=46614.0) Thank you in advance for your consideration of this matter. And may I say I'm a big fan of the outfits you've put together as well, let alone your work with a lightsaber. Impressive on both counts.

Practicing the Obi-Ani spin with the saberstaff, and some other spins with it too:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqtYoiZBSck&feature=youtu.be# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqtYoiZBSck&feature=youtu.be#)

And with the short saberpike (just the Ultrasaber metal one). It is short, but long enough to be spun like a staff, which is perfect.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnHK1u39Tao&feature=youtu.be# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnHK1u39Tao&feature=youtu.be#)

And with both extensions, so the 5'9.5" saberpike. Much easier to spin than at the well over 6' length. Not too fast here, but still fun

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ROHxj6F-OQ&feature=youtu.be# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ROHxj6F-OQ&feature=youtu.be#)

All said, I am pretty happy with the extensions! And thank you Master Venturous for your reminder to trim down the long pike length!

I seem to have a habit at times of not fully rotating the saber all the way as it goes behind my back before bringing it back forwards, which makes it looks like the saber is being more dragged across from back to front than being spun from back to front. I think I did a good job of avoiding that in the saberstaff video, but I can see it more in the pike videos.

Also, some of these spins really dig into the hands. The changing widths and metal angles/dips on the various parts of the saber don't help with that. I think a good pair of tight-fitting gloves is in order!

It's been OOS for a while, and it was listed as OOS when I went to look at it a few to a handful of weeks ago. I messaged them on the on-site tool, and they said they had a few in-stock, but not enough to list them as in-stock, but they'd get it out to me if I ordered it. It still took a few to a handful of weeks, but considering the holiday rush and the pandemic, I cannot complain at all. I think they have a black one as well, but I think it was also OOS.

Thanks! I do enjoy it, both the process of making, adapting, and using them. I just measured, and I took 6" off the PVC extension, so if I calculated 43" past my hand before, it would be ~37" past the hand, or let's just say a clean 3' when held fully outright, which still retains the benefit of being able to hold what becomes a normal length blade fully outright while having the strength and power of two hands with a polearm-style grip.

I assume from an in-universe perspective, assuming cost and obtaining materials is no issue, all lightsaber hilts would be at least somewhat resistant to lightsaber blades. The Jedi really haven't historically had a good relationship with the Mandalorians, but if Mandalorians could make full suits of armor and 6' spears out of Beskar, then I don't see any reason why enough couldn't be used for the hilt of a lightsaber or saberstaff. So any metal piece could realistically be called beskar or beskar-infused, but if I had to explain how/why the black extension is lightsaber resistant, I could either kind of hand-wave it by saying it's beskar but wrapped with black tape for added grip, or maybe say it's Phrik? Isn't that a dark color? I have read that some lightsaber hilts have been made from or with Phrik.

That said, if I'm saying that any of us, Jedi or Sith, can say pretty much any part of anything we make or use can be lightsaber resistant, I am pretty much allowing people wearing armor/plates/gauntlets/bracers/etc. they make to also say they are lightsaber resistant, which means if I accept that my staff is lightsaber resistant in sparring, I have to accept that someone wearing bracers and a chestplate also has those made of lightsaber resistant materials. Which means carefully placed strikes are in order, and also that perhaps the Beskar spear I'm making would have great utility at combating those, as a Beskar spearhead should be able to pierce just about anything.

You know, I could make another pike extension with another Beskar spearhead on it, which would allow me to have a lightsaber on one end AND a beskar spear on the other. That would be quite the versatile weapon for all scenarios and opponents!

Now you're talking my language... "what's this design missing, oh something to stab people". Only question left is is it a spear with a lightsaber or a lightsaber with a spear? lol If you full on threw the spear right (and probably using the Force to accelerate it) it'd fly right through somebody and the lightsaber end trailing the spear could cauterize most of the wound closed. Idk if that's merciful or just adding insult to injury with pretty sadistic first-aid use on the fly. (yes horrible pun intended)

Now that is a question for the ages. I'd say it's a lightsaber with a spear, since the lightsaber came first, then the extension, then the spear on the extension. As for merciful or taunting:
(https://media.tenor.com/images/b425108b563971a72bd2675c5cec1961/raw)

Funny since I suppose it's just a matter of perspective. To you it came 1st since you modded the lightsaber, but in SW traditional weapons predated lightsabers so you can argue the spear came 1st. But if it's a spear of lightsaber resistant material it was designed to combat lightsabers... so yea, chicken and the egg. Just playing Devil's advocate.
As to the second part, guess there truly are fates crueler than death.

You bring up good points again. We'll just call it balance. "Something, something, something, bring balance to  the force."

I'm sorry, but I don't know of anyone who practices or teaches that particular setup. The only people I know of or think would dabble in such a thing would be Darth Cephalus, Master Resolute, and CH3M15T. Aside from that, I wouldn't know of anyone who actually teaches it.

I appreciate the information at any rate, it may prove helpful in the end.

@ SirLiftaLot: So, do you feel your outfit has approached a degree of completion? How close would you say it is to your ideal level? Will it remain a work in progress, evolving with desire or necessity... what else do you feel it needs/lacks if it is to grow beyond it's current state? I believe you'd agree it is wearable in it's current state/configuration. And you have different variants already to suit your mood or the weather... but I am curious (and may simply be forgetting) what you might want to do in addition or modify further.

I do think it's presentable. Some gloves are coming, more out of necessity than aesthetics, as some positions and grips and spins with the various staff configurations can really cut up the hands. I'm thinking perhaps some fingerless black lifting gloves will be a good compromise of value, maneuverability, and protection. So it is a work in progress to some degree, and will likely remain one on some level. As you said, I have a few variants, with two pants and two compression shirts, so I guess the only thing I can think for clothing would be an second over-layer/robe. I love the one I have, but it is pretty long, which is great for aesthetics, but having a shorter option may be something I consider at some point, perhaps. Other than that, I think I'm good. Perhaps something will pop up as an idea or a cool item to add though.

Although if I do go down a more physical sparring route, some padded equipment would be in order. Probably the black Century forearm and elbow pads that would replace the grey forearm wraps. Maybe some more padded lacrosse-style gloves too, and I assume some headgear. No idea what I'd use for that though if it's necessary. So always room for evolution!

Yes, weather forced me to use gloves while Spin Wars filming and it surprised me the level of dexterity and grip I retained (I'd feared it would be drastically diminished, but thankfully not so) likely due to the fact they were leather gloves. Even a bit insulated, they didn't prove an issue in the slightest; lets say I was very pleasantly surprised to avoid the cold for at least a brief while. I have some of those fingerless gloves and meant to try them (figuring they'd be perfect marriage of palm/inner knuckle protection while keeping tactile sensation and grip... but I shamefully can't find them. I'll have to try them out too. Robes and cloaks are awesome visually, but true if too long (I know from experience) you may easily "step on it maneuvering" or otherwise trip yourself up. So best to do as in the films, and shed the outer layer before true engagements... Unless you have some way to "affix" them in a non obstructive place on your person. I have ideas I've yet to implement. Glad you still have some room for growth.

Leather gloves sound great for this, but I'm hoping the lifting gloves I have on the way will suffice. I know a lot of sparring recommends padded gloves, so finding a pair of those that don't inhibit movement terribly would be great, but we will see. It can limit movement a little more than what I'd use for pure exhibition purposes, but not much.

As for the robe/cardigan I have, I don't know if the issue is so much tripping over it as it is just it sometimes billowing out behind me and potentially interfering with behind the back spins. The front is held more or less in place by the belt, but I'd imagine more vigorous movement in sparring could loosen that as well. So I think if I was sparring, I'd have the turtleneck compression shirt, no robe, padded forearm and elbow guards, whatever padded gloves I end up getting, and whatever sufficient headgear I end up getting. I also already have a padded football girdle with thigh, hip, and tailbone pads, and an insert for a cup, which would go under the pants and not be visible at all.

As for the headgear, this guide/rules talk about light, medium, and heavy armor classifications, and light seems to little, and heavy too expensive, so I think medium would be a good balance, and what I mentioned would suffice (padded gloves, optional forearm/elbow pads, a cup, and headgear with mesh protecting the face and padding on all sides).

https://www.roguesaber.com/sport.php#mediumarmor (https://www.roguesaber.com/sport.php#mediumarmor)

Now, it looks like even the cheapest fencing masks run $60+, and wouldn't be terribly out of place with my outfit I suppose. A hockey goalie mask really wouldn't match the look, and Kendo helmets seem to easily $100+, if not double that. Granted, I don't think I'll be doing that intense sparring super soon, but it is something to consider and plan for.

Maybe something more exotic for the headgear if I have to spend that much money anyway:

For $88 this is cool:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/MY100232.jpg)

Or $97 in black:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/MY100233.jpg)

Or $144 for a fancier two-tone one, but that's pricey:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MCI-2654.jpg)

This is $77, but probably too bulky for the tighter outfit I would be wearing:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/HW-700741-18.jpg)

$80 here:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MY100213.jpg)

$88 and some metal face mesh would almost make it look like an ancestor to a Mandalorian mask:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MY100643.jpg)

Or a similar one for $90:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MCI-2426.jpg)

Or $98 for this similar one:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/HW-700006.jpg)

Or $99 for something not too dissimilar:
(https://www.medievalcollectibles.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MCI-2427.jpg)

$89 here:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/HW-700020.jpg)

$96 here:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/HW-700569.jpg)

$106 for this one:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MY100231.jpg)

$115 here:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MY100214.jpg)

And $139 here:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MY100224.jpg)

As for the fencing masks:

$70 here in grey:
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71FTqw4yglL._AC_SL1000_.jpg)

Or $68 in black:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81xMiRfcgyL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)

You know, looking at them all now, the Fencing one probably almost look the most Star Wars fitting? I know there's some very cool Airsoft style masks, and some masks sold as Star Wars masks, like the Mandalorian ones and Sith-style ones, but I have no idea of the durability of those, or if they're more for aesthetic purposes than protective purposes.

Apparently someone on Reddit sprayed their fencing mask to look like a Temple Guard mask, so spraying a design on the fencing mask may be the best option:

(https://i.imgur.com/MNERunH.jpg)

Some attempts at some Obi-Ani spins with two bo staffs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QBx4ljFty4&feature=youtu.be# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QBx4ljFty4&feature=youtu.be#)

Still a lot of work to go, both with the timing of the two together, as well as keeping form good with each one individually. I know I'm having a habit of not fully rotating the right hand (red) staff sufficiently behind my back before bringing it forward, making it look like it's dragging to the front as opposed to spinning it forward, and the left hand (blue) seems to rotate more in front, crossing way over the midline of the body at the front, so the two motions/hands not being symmetrical likely prevents continued synchronization and flow. Lots of progress to be made, but it is a start. Maybe one day I'll be able to imitate Pong Krell.

Hi SirLiftaLot,

I am guessing that you are looking for a face mask/helmet for wearing during your choreography but still be aware that fencing masks and Airsoft masks may not be the most sturdy when spinning saber blades are involved. I recall seeing this video by fellow forum member Darth Nonymous testing such masks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rhlFOPPAz0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rhlFOPPAz0#)

Basically, I'm saying don't scrimp on saving money when purchasing good head gear - even for spinning routines! Stay safe.

Thanks for the info, and for the concern. This would be for light to medium sparring if I eventually go that route. For spinning and solo exhibitions, I am fine as is, whether or not that is truly optimal. I am a little rust now, but I have close to a decade of martial arts training using staffs and nunchucks, and we never wore headgear for solo practice or demonstrations. Perhaps I’m being a bit old fashioned for that.

But you are certainly correct that I should not skimp on qualify for sparring headgear, even if it’s not full force sparring.

So I suppose I may as well get something of the ideal utility and quality for sparring, and if I’m trying something particularly new and daring for solo choreography, I’ll wear it too.

I will check out the video too for sure!

Too true, I know the feeling. It's not so much worrying bout whacking yourself in the head so much as an over eager opponent... I do agree with ForT that since these lightsabers are terribly sturdy and "combat rated" I'd gear up like I have a carbonfiber or wooden sword/staff flying at my face, for serious sparring gear. Back when I ordered my Kendo gear through our organization we'd use Ebogu.com. They have high quality helm obviously meant for full contact sparring... I had checked a while back to see they had good COVID style sales going (and generally not too bad discounts at certain times of year). From what I remember most of their helmets are purely Kendo but I haven't looked extensively in a bit, I just know they stand up to punishment, and they also offer the additional under padding for your head or wrists. I might have to check and see if anything particularly "Sith" jumps out at me. And scroll through your post in detail, since some of those look cool, and possibly sturdy? Warrants further examination... But yea, you've got plenty of competition level experience so I trust you to not wind up concussed, or losing an eye fighting some flailing fledgling combatant.

BTW after looking I really do like this one, personally I'd consider using it myself.
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/MY100233.jpg)

It's something I could see lying in the dust on some ancient Sith planet, on a battlefield, or in a tomb...

If I do actual sparring, not just choreographed "fights" with someone, I will definitely pick up some sturdy head gear. I meant to say when I did practice and exhibitions with weapons on my own (solo) I never worse any headgear. I definitely would not advise actual non-choreographed sparring with no headgear, or with cheap headgear. You guys are right on that point for sure.

It looks like the cool black helmet is OOS for 2-4 months. It says it's made from 18 gauge steel, so I'd imagine it's pretty durable, but probably not really cushioned on the inside. One review (there aren't many) said that they added memory foam inside it to make it more comfortable. But it really does look like it could be sitting in an ancient Sith tomb or something.

See the inside here:
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/MY100232_7.jpg)

It looks like the more expensive black and grey one has more internal padding. Which makes sense, since it costs a bit more money.

I'd think 18 gauge steel and some internal padding would suffice for protection?
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MCI-2654_9.jpg)

The Kendo headgear you mentioned looks legit, and the martial arts look wouldn't be terribly out of place with the look I have going I suppose. At $133 for the cheapest men's headgear, it's still pretty expensive, but not totally outlandish if I plan on doing regular sparring eventually.

Just watched the video posted, and it seems to be cautioning against airsoft masks, especially mesh airsoft masks. He mentioned fencing mesh masks being rated for more impact.

He even says at the end, "go get a fencing helmet. They're not that much. $60-70 or so on Amazon with the option to spray paint a design on them, I think that's probably the way to go for my look. Maybe a Temple Guard inspired look, but with a different color than gold, since my outfit is grey and black, not white and gold.

Yes, I had watched as well. No one would probably debate it greatly if you alter the color scheme, but use the same design. Similar to how various versions of the Imperial logo are in different colors on different armor colors or sections of stormtroopers.

As far as that helmet I like it'd really be how it connects into other "created" support or rigging to keep your face from suffering direct force. I like that the black model has some padding already, it's forehead and chin support that is generally necessary to keep the "grill" from your face/breaking your nose. So that one looks like it'd still need some work to suit my needs... Although I might not truly use it for full contact anyway without researching how much reverse damage my own helmet would do to incoming blades! I like that it may be a deterrent to hitting my helm if it breaks blades, but that is cruel to purposefully add into a design... I'd rather not regularly shred sparring partner's blades, since it'd limit repeat fun.

Still I love the look...

Just made a quick edit of a black fencing mask with metallic silver Temple Guard style markings. Should be pretty easy too, since it's really just one layer to spray on, so making a stencil for it shouldn't be terribly difficult once I figure out the proper size. And mask off the parts of the mask that isn't the metal mesh of course. The bottom part below the face part would be black if I can find one. Or at least grey, this was just the best straight on image of a black fencing mask I could use for a reference.
(https://i.imgur.com/rO3BeYl.jpg)

Got some fingerless black lifting gloves to help preserve my hands while doing some spins. They seem to work well in protecting my hands without impairing mobility and the ability to grab, hold, and spin. I think they also work pretty well with the outfit:
(https://i.imgur.com/x15DCpp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ycEKwjM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8Udwf2F.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fV4oUDf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/sl9bCRC.jpg)

cool beans dude! Love the look! Just gets better and better!

Yep, totally love those type of gloves personally for their utility with a touch of BA vibe too.

I also seriously love the look of that mask concept so far, it'll look sick once you obtain and paint a version!

Since you didn't want to go off topic there...


It's possible IRL although a functional version would be harder (and likely heavier) in construction. I'd think thin segment like portions of a circle would be the way to go, all layered onto/above the forearm. Then they "expand" out into their "shield form" and "lock in place some how. Think like those fans Katana uses, except perfect circle. Outer edge of circle near wrist and central point/rotation point near where bicep meets forearm, not quite elbow. Now making that pneumatic would be the intense part (if even desired) and however it finishes it's expansion before locking/how it locks in place. Since part of their movement would likely go against gravity and the segments would be on different planes so "coming together" could be problematic if too rigid a material is used. I'm probably unintentionally drawing on something I've seen in a movie or game. But you said bracer style and this came to mind.

A quick interweb search yielded a similar result: not what I was thinking, and I've never seen the "Percy Jackson" movies, but this is close. Good ole youtube to the rescue with a visual aid of sorts:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8igMh8ycHg# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8igMh8ycHg#)
Because I was thinking more "fan style" mounted onto a legit full gauntlet look, based of what you said.

Thanks. Yeah, that's a cool video, but man is that thing pretty bulky, and not exactly duel-worthy haha. Still a cool proof of concept for the general idea though. I've seen some videos of metal ones that have some sort of "power" to deploy them, but they aren't really something you'd just have as a gauntlet and "forget about" until you needed it, so at that point you may as well just have a normal metal shield that weighs the same and doesn't have a ton of electronics if you're going to keep your hand busy holding a heavy shield anyway.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=CJ0unSMWtsk# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=CJ0unSMWtsk#)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCq8adZdKP4# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCq8adZdKP4#)

What's the name of that stuff that is like a strip of some material that is flat, but can wrap around something when you hit it? Just found it, slap bracelets. Seems like if you fixed the center of that, but had a larger one that was shaped like a shield when unfolded, to some sort of bracer/gauntlet, you could have it wrap around the forearm as much as necessary, and then pull it apart to form the shield. Granted, it wouldn't be automatic, and you'd have to pull each side out to straighten it yourself, and it really wouldn't hold up to dueling at all, and not even super vigorous movement, but it could be a pretty simple route that could look decent for purely cosplay purposes.

Yep, those vids you threw up are basically what I was thinking more or less. And since one said ironman that might be partially what embedded the idea into my mind! But no, you're right any "sparring capable" version would have to be durable as heck, and therefore likely "heavy" even if you opted for something closer to ceramic VS metal. Tempered glass or the type of material they make riot shields from might do it! But the structural points holding them together then become the potential weakness needing reinforcement. Kevlar type weaves would also be pretty crazy expensive... so  doubt you'd want to go there for serious edged weapon/low caliber resistance. Since I doubt you want truly combat capable, and even then anything in a "legitimate" caliber stopping category is again not really feasible without exorbitant expense and design capabilities. Sorry my mind always tugs toward warfare, light sparring style I say riot shielding level would be most applicable. But again possibly prohibitively expensive to even construct a prototype to torture test, although it would be cool since then it's potentially see through. So you can use it as a good shield without limiting visibility. Also the design leaves the shield arm free for weapon use too. Pretty cool, but I doubt Mr. G is worried about such horrifyingly deviant modifications since his ideology leans less toward the necessity of such applications. Dang sparring obsessed fools that we can be instead. I love his design, and will just keep imagining a Mass Effect style energy shield appearing from said bracer.

Yeah, his design is awesome. And something that looks incredible and doesn't cost a small fortune usually is for aesthetic purposes, which is still amazing.

The whole concept sounds/looks possibly "ancient" Mandalorian. Or perhaps something a bounty hunter might use if trying to go low tech, maybe also because the random bounty hunter's race is into more primal styles of fighting instead. If blaster resistant it could be a "crouch down behind it" true style of riot shield/temporary deployable cover. A fun addition to some random outfit like that.

Got some padded/armored motorcycle gloves as a second pair, and hopefully something that would suffice for sparring. I saw a comment from Master Resolute mention them. Picked these up for $20 on Amazon Prime. Fit is good, enough mobility to spin staffs comfortably, and really nice and strong knuckle padding. The finger pads are not nearly as strong, and don't cover the entire fingers, but at the least they're a functional pair of gloves for spinning and at least light sparring I'd say. They also have a pretty sci-fi look to them, which is appreciated. I think they'd go well with the black Century forearm/elbow pads I talked about earlier for sparring. Which would leave the fencing helmet (and paint job) for head protection for light/medium sparring, and then I guess some form of shin and knee guards (probably the same Century ones if I like the forearm/elbow ones), and a chest protector for more intense sparring. No idea what I'd go for regarding chest protection, since I'd want something that checks three boxes: sufficient protection for at least medium dueling, not being exorbitantly expensive, and looking at least passable with my outfit.

So the plan is these gloves:
(https://i.imgur.com/KMqc2PD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rRrofvt.jpg)

This style painted fencing mask:
(https://i.imgur.com/rO3BeYl.jpg)

These forearm/elbow guards:
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/14934_010_1.jpg)

Probably these shin/knee guards:
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/149300_010_1.jpg)

And SOMETHING for chest protection. Oh, and I also have padded football girdles with hip, thigh, and tailbone pads, as well as a cup, so I'm good there.

I know there's some pretty cool looking and inexpensive motorcycle/motorbike chest armor that checks the two marks of looks and price, but I really have doubts about it offering sufficient protection from heavy blows, and it looks like a lot of them cover most of the torso, but not really all of the stomach, which isn't ideal for sparring.

Any ideas on chest protection for my outfit that would look decent, offer decent protection, and hopefully not totally break the bank?

Very nice gloves, got to consider a pair of those myself now...

Hi SirLiftaLot,

Hopefully this suggestion might be useful. You could take a look at BMX body protection padding. It is lighter than full on motorcycle armour and cheaper but still has some decent protection (I would imagine).
I did a quick search and found these on AliExpress as examples.

This one was $44
(http://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1B0Hsx98YBeNkSnb4q6yevFXaN/WOSAWE-Cycling-Body-Armor-Protection-Jacket-MTB-Riding-Mountain-Bike-Jacket-Strong-Elbow-pad-Chest-Protect.jpg_q50.jpg)

Whilst this set was $34
(http://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/Hffa3055ed35b4552bf50e3c4085c41cdL/WOSAWE-Adults-Cycling-Protection-Jacket-Outdoor-Sports-Skiing-Skateboard-Bicycle-MTB-Protective-Gear-Chest-Protect-Back.jpg_q50.jpg)

Just some ideas for the upper body. I can PM you the links if you want.

WOW ForT, that is very cool! I'm tempted to buy a set and allow one of my companions (who can show restraint/gauged force) to whack me at slowly escalating levels to see how sturdy such padding truly is to direct impacts. Fear not, my safety concerns would outweigh the highest thresholds of "torture testing" the gear. IMO once you can "feel it" you know the protective ability is about at it's limits. Bruising should not occur with "adequate protection" obviously and most sparring shouldn't truly involve unrestrained full force at any rate. That kind of thing would need a next level type of armoring. This looks like a good alternative for light sparring I'm going to consider, especially if it comes in black & red standard issue. Bike/motorcycle pads have to feasibly be rated to 35-55 mph impact force reasonably by my assumption. I find this potentially very useful...

Hi DarthProdigal,

The idea of using motorcross/BMX protection was suggested on "another Guys" forum a few years ago but back then it was really expensive kit (especially the sets that were looked at). But I thought it worth suggesting here. I also posted the higher price quote for each item and I'm not sure if AliExpress (or the other similar sites) have minimum order limits, as the layout of these sites can be confusing.

I'll send you the links to your Inbox.

Thank you! That does help. I had just watched this video that was posted on the forum:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0lNWKlOJiQ&feature=youtu.be# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0lNWKlOJiQ&feature=youtu.be#)

And it looks like a lot of companies sell pretty much that same exact design of armor. It seems like a solid option for at least medium sparring I'd say. I personally like the sleeveless one, but also like that it still has shoulder pads, considering I already have some forearm pads on the way. I also think having forearm pads not attached to the chest/shoulders would help ensure a better fit between items in terms of size and length, etc.

I see this one on Amazon for $64 with free Prime shipping:
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71838rumc7L._AC_SL1001_.jpg)

The ONLY thing I'd think would be a visual necessity is to cover the company/brand name on the "belt." No reason it can't be covered with an obi, or a belt, or even just by plastering a sticker of some Star Wars type logo on it.

I suppose it could be cheaper from an overseas vendor, but I think if I'm ordering something like this that isn't a premium brand, the fast and free shipping (and customer service) from Amazon may be a good idea? I do see the one you mentioned on AliExpress for $34 with free shipping. So that's pretty much half the price, with the "downside" of not having the ability to easily deal with Amazon for potential customer service, and estimated deliver on 2/13, as opposed to 1/12. Not really sure if the extra $30 is worth the faster shipping and easier potential customer service. Thoughts?

Hi SirLiftaLot,

I just posted the two examples from AliExpress as they showed up fastest in my web search. I would suggest you go with the shopping vendor you are most comfortable with. This is one reason why I was hesitant and haven't ordered anything from AliExpress or AliBaba (plus their webpages could be a bit clearer). I did take a "risk" and ordered a set of Jedi robes from Cosplaysky but I knew I had a bit of customer support to fall back on.

Thank you. That makes sense. Probably best to just go with Amazon then. One less place to give my card info, less worries about customer service issues if it isn't delivered or is the wrong item, etc. I've ordered from Amazon, Etsy, and ebay with success and satisfaction, but never AliExpress or AliBaba.

You're welcome...it just seemed better sense, security wise. I have ordered stuff through Cosplaysky as I mentioned and I have bought quite a few items via ETSY. I got a real nice wool Jedi robe for $88 - but that is another topic.

Looking forward to see which kit you buy.

Just found the sleeveless one from the brand in the photo you posted on Amazon for $40, so I think that's the way to go. I'm 5'-10" or 5'-10.5", with a 30-32" waist and a 39-40" chest, so I think the large (for 5'-9" to 6'-3" and 35.5 to 47" waist would likely be too big around the waist, so I guess the medium (for 5'-5" to 5'-9" and 31.5 to 43.5" waist) may be the better option. I do have a long torso, but it not swimming on me is probably more important than it being a tad short, since it's not exactly going to cover all the way down the stomach with the armor/padding from everything I've read.

Just want to say I have odered from all sites mentioned but cosplaysky with llittledisappointment . Just know that with aliexpressyou'll tend to get what you pay for but a few well calculated purchases can work out nicely. Some Amazon items are same from ali express but marked up by seller. Etsy is great because most sellers will work to give you what you want but etsy can be super pricey. The majority of my Jedi ensemble came from etsy sellers.

just my 2 ¢

Thanks. You bring up good points. The mask I bought was from Etsy. I just purchased the sleeveless vest on Amazon for $40, compared to $34 on AliExpress. Same brand and everything.

On a different note, Century Martial arts has some sweet clearance prices on actual quality martial arts clothing. I've used Century stuff for over a decade, and haven't been disappointed so far. Some things are only clearance for certain sizes and/or colors, but if you can find something that you like in your size, it can be a steal. Perhaps as part of a Star Wars outfit, or perhaps just for workouts/spinning or martial arts practice. Just figured I'd share:

KungFu top in black/black, black/red, or black/white for under $18:
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/0251_1.jpg)

and Kung Fu pants in black for $12:
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/0351_010_1.jpg)

So a top and pants for $30 for actual martial arts quality top and bottom is pretty nice.

Pants and top in red or grey for a bit over 30 for the top and bottom:
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/04732_038_4.jpg)
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/04734_038_5.jpg)

Sleeveless cotton jacket for $7 in red, black, blue, or white:
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/02192_1.jpg)

Or long sleeve for under $11:
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/large/02191_600_1.jpg)

Again, only some colors and some sizes are on clearance, but I may pick up some things here, since they're pretty much cheap Amazon/AliExpress prices for quality martial arts clothing at these prices:

well, crap...I wish I knew that before I bought my tunic.

I think they update their clearance relatively frequently, so what's there now may not have been before. Is there something that works in your size and color? I know a lot of them are only clearance for super small or large sizes, or more out-there colors. I just ordered black Kung Fu pants, the black/white Kung Fu top, and the red sleeveless jacket. Not sure if it'll make its way into an outfit, but it's always nice to have good martial arts gear I suppose. Even just for normal lightsaber/staff/nunchucks practice.

I'm not a size small, but there's a full set of Kendo gear asking $50 used locally. Mask, chest plate, gloves, and bottom half with bag.
(https://photos.offerup.com/04zKBgy9twSAssgphaWMBXZ8eQ4=/600x450/07e9/07e9bc5623ac49009c36f7c81eae0607.jpg)

I guess it's a good idea to check OfferUp and all those places regularly.

As a side note, and just to add to the general ideas presented throughout this thread, this umpire chest armor looks pretty nice for $35-40. Being umpire gear, it's designed to take very hard impacts from pitches and foul balls, and it looks more "armor-like" than most umpire/catcher/hockey gear in my opinion. It does not, however, have a back pad/armor like the motorcycle ones shown earlier do.
(https://epicsports.cachefly.net/images/129233/0/CHAMPRO/Champro19_070518_Done/CP33.jpg)
(https://d649kiwamqfdo.cloudfront.net/products/images/main/CP335-Worn-Front.jpeg)

I covet the kendo mask! but, typically I'm a size large in most things

That baseball gear is kind of intruiging. It would need to be modded for more "Swarzy-ness" but a good base

No small here either. But that would have been a steal in the right size!

Agreed on the chest armor needing some modifications to make it fit the Star Wars there. Perhaps even just going over the hard pads with a dark metal or steel color would suffice, while keeping the under pads black. Almost a color scheme like this:
(https://swtorista.com/articles/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/mandalore-the-preserver.jpg)

Perhaps not a bad piece if done right. But let’s hope the motorcycle one I have on the way suffices.

I doubt I'll view baseball the same way now... that does look like legit armor for an Imperial league or something. No back plates, no problem never get hit there! J/K. I still kind of like it, and could be alright for head to head sparring I suppose?

The only true problem with used kendo gear like that size-wise is that it's "custom ordered" to fit your head, wrist/forearm dimensions, basically measurements like that. So unless you're basically the exact same dimensions as the original order placing individual it wont fit quite right. And head sizes/shapes vary more dramatically than one might assume, even for people with otherwise similar dimensions. My companions and I learned this early in training, those helmets really aren't easily interchangeable/swapped person to person. Although you can buy pads to "augment" a fit if it's close but a little loose, you're SOL if it's too tight. A helmet like that should really be bought specifically for you to offer the best fit and protection. If you're a large a small is completely out of the question.

Also Mandalore is never a bad goal when making armor for sparring!

Good to know regarding the Kendo gear, thanks!

Just made some quick edits on the umpire armor with the hard plates a grey/silver color. of course, with paint the logo/text would be covered up.
(https://i.imgur.com/0ji2Re9.jpg)

Or some Saiyan armor inspired looks:
(https://i.imgur.com/GglFUO0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TqIhwwd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/f84YVbL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vb4awxX.jpg)

You know, these are kind of growing on me now. How important is back armor really?

Only fighting multiple opponents, using moves involving spinning, or if you somehow let them get behind you AND hit you too. I mean in a straight 1V1 duel it really shouldn't become that necessary or you either have become pretty sloppy/foolish, are fighting way out of your "weight class" in skill, or need real crazy improvement on footwork... (unless they have Kenshin levels of speed/other super human abilities somehow. I mean in that case the armor would likely be meaningless anyway) In all seriousness it's true you should be able to "control the situation" well enough to not get hit from behind in a straight up duel. Just limits some of the spinning or rolling attacks that leave your back momentarily exposed I suppose, if you're in close enough for retaliation... So possibly a bit restrictive in truth for some of the saberstaff moves you might choose to use?

In my experience you have to let them get really far to one side to land a "torso blow" that'll get around armor that provides half body coverage in a semicircle around the midsection. It looks like it might hurt if they aim low & to the side/ribs area like where that clip is located, since it's likely less padded? But just gives more reason to "fight" to keep them front and center or control distance if they start circling. Foot work for the win!

Thank you for the detailed response. That makes a lot of sense. I don't have much experience with weapon sparring, but I know in my time sparring with hands and feet in TKD, pads only covered the front and sides of the torso. Kicking to the back was not allowed, or at least not scored a point, even though it did of course happen, intentionally or otherwise. It also looks like the Kendo chest/torso gear doesn't cover the back either? So it doesn't seem entirely unfounded that weapon sparring armor for blunt weapons must inherently always cover the back?

Either way, I already ordered the sleeveless motorcycle armor that has chest, back, and shoulder pads. Hopefully it fits well and is of sufficient quality to do its job, since the price was great.

Yep it doesn't have wrap around coverage... The sides do go back part of the way, but like I mentioned an "enthusiastic" strike from enough of an angled sidestep (with the blade's reach) would pair together with the natural blade flexibility to still get you on occasion. Man did we wind up with some bruises from "near misses" attempted on targets some of the time. It's hard to hit a wrist perfectly, within a 6" zone, on a moving target, especially when they don't want you to hit them, and are trying to defend/strike you. But we were all adults, it was in good fun, and no harm was meant so no real ill will after. Ironically the same gear is used for Kumdo where I've both heard and seen training with multiple opponents simultaneously. So idk exactly why then never adapted a full coverage torso piece to that extent? Maybe the idea is just to not let them hit you from behind, or it's frowned upon heavily? Guess you have to let someone "test whack" you across the front/back of it a few time when it arrives to find out if it really works.

The danger of missing slightly is why I'd guess the rules of lightsaber swordplay for points doesn't allow or frowns upon thrusts? ...they are inherently quite dangerous! Especially since the Kendo "target on the neck" leaves you striking them in the neck if you miss worst case! Plus stabbing at the chest can naturally follow the momentum upward into the throat. It's pretty dang inadvisable (in fact it wasn't allowed to any novices to even attempt!) trying it especially with a "hardened" blade like lightsabers could likely collapse a windpipe if done foolishly or with excessive force. It was always an upper level target only used between practiced professionals with bamboo swords in my experience there! So yeah, I'd say to really avoid it to the head or chest basically, just my opinion. I could see it exclusively being used for stage combat with VERY limited light sparring applications (if ever) and only agreed upon in advance by very experienced duelists.

Yeah, I think I'll have someone give me a few good test whacks to see if it's functional enough for at least medium sparring or not.

Based on the info from Rogue Saber Academy, they have light, medium, and heavy armor.

LIGHT:

This is a popular choice if you want to attract the largest numbers of participants, especially new duelists. Light Armor is inexpensive, easy to find, and easy to wear in hot weather. This minimalist approach is similar to how the Jedi fight as peace-keepers in the Star Wars universe. Stabbing and head attacks are outlawed if this armor type is selected. However, even as duelists actively try to avoid the head and face (compromising many martial aspects of the sport) injury may occur, making this the least safe option. This armor class is similar to those found in Ludosport, The Saber Authority, and in many costumed performance-based groups.

Required: (1.) Gloves which are at least moderately padded with covered fingers to avoid breakage of the skin such as climbing gloves, padded lineman gloves, or thick leather gloves. (2.) An athletic cup or protective sport cup for male duelists.

Recommended: (1.) Eye Protection with a strap to avoid slippage in a match such as sport goggles, safety goggles, or other secure protective eye wear.

Optional: (1.) A common teeth-protective mouth guard.

MEDIUM:

For experienced fighters looking for a more authentic battle, Medium armor provides a good middle-ground compromise. It is not as expensive as Heavy Armor, and protects a great deal more than Light Armor. This approach is similar to how the Jedi fight as generals in the Star Wars franchise. Attacks to the head from above or the side are permitted, however all stabs are still forbidden with this armor class. Unfortunately, you may be turned away from some of the most intense of events if you only have Medium Armor. This armor class is similar to those found in the The Terra Prime Lightsaber Academy, The Lightspeed Saber League, and The Saber Legion (for sparring).

Required: (1.) A mask/helmet with mesh to protect the face (not just a metal cage or face guard) and with protection from above and sides such as a fencing mask, hockey goalie mask, HEMA mask, or kendo men bōgu. (2.) An athletic cup or protective sport cup for male duelists. (3.) Heavily padded gloves such as fencing gloves, padded fighting gloves, hockey gloves, lacrosse gloves, or HEMA gloves.

Recommended: (1.) Padded (not hard plated) protective arm sleeves such as arm guards or arm pads.

Optional: Additional shoulder, chest, and/or stomach protection (see the Heavy Armor section for more information).

HEAVY:

Heavy Armor allows for a full experience of the intense historical and martial realism that the sport can provide. This approach is similar to how the Sith Lords and imperial or republic soldiers armored themselves in the many massive conquests in the Star Wars Universe. As all of the armor can cost over $1,000 together, it is an option only for a section of the community. stabbing and head attacks are allowed when this armor class is used, however all other safety standards and rules apply. This armor class is similar to those found in San Diego Sabers or The Saber Legion (for tournaments).

Required: (1.) A mask/helmet with mesh to protect the face (not just a metal cage or face guard) and with protection from above, sides, and from BEHIND such as some types of fencing masks, hockey goalie masks, or HEMA masks. (2.) An athletic cup or protective sport cup for male duelists. (3.) Heavily padded gloves such as fencing gloves, padded fighting gloves, hockey gloves, lacrosse gloves, or HEMA gloves. (4.) Plated neck and throat protection (the larger the better, made not just of fabric) such as a HEMA gorget, throat guard, or goalie neck guard. (5.) Hard-plated shoulder, chest, and back protection such as (in combination as needed) HEMA body armor, hockey shoulder pads, lacrosse shoulder pads, umpire chest protector, kendo do (dou) bōgu, plated sport body armor, and/or body pad (protector). (6.) Heavily padded or plated knee AND shin protection such as (soccer / hockey / lacrosse / skating / motorcycle...) knee shin guards or knee pads and shin protector. (7.) Elbow protection such as (hockey / lacrosse / skating / motorcycle...) sport elbow pads or elbow guards.

Optional: (1.) Padded (not hard plated) protective arm sleeves such as arm guards or arm pads.

So I'd be at least at the medium with the fencing mask and the motorcycle armor. Even if the motorcycle armor isn't optimal, it's better than literally nothing I'd hope, since chest armor is optional for medium.

Actual throat protection becomes necessary for Heavy class, and hard plated chest, shoulder, and back protection. As well as back-of-the-head protection.

So if I have the motorcycle armor gloves, a fencing mask, padded (not hard) forearm guards, motorcycle chest/shoulder/back armor, padded shin and knee guards, and a padded girdle with medium/soft hip, thigh, tailbone pads, and a cup, I should at least be good to go for any medium class. So to go to heavy class, I'd either have to think the motorcycle armor I have on the way is sufficient (which I'd say it probably isn't for true heavy sparring, since it isn't armored on the entirety of the chest even), or get something different for torso armor, figure out something for back-of-the-head protection, and also for neck protection.

But I think medium level would be more than enough, and would be more than enough intensity for a long time for me. So back protection wouldn't be an absolute necessity there, and if I had to pick optimal chest/shoulder armor or less than adequate chest/shoulder armor to add back armor, the latter is probably just sacrificing some good coverage for no good coverage. But hopefully the motorcycle armor will be sufficient for medium sparring.

Oh yeah, that Heavy Armor is for full speed, full contact, savagery where you're brutally contesting those points! Sounds IMO much less like "friendly competition" and more like I'm winning this! Ugh, I'll get there eventually, but it's true. Collecting all the pieces gets a bit expensive and not everyone is THAT intent on sparring, especially to that level. It's a select breed for sure, it sounds worth it to me though from personal experience and desires. Funny how that reference highlights Sith or Imperials as Heavies VS Jedi armor as Midgrade. Too true. Jedi mentality "I'll block blaster bolts or fight as needed" Sith "Come at me bro, nah all of you at once! My armor can take it and I can take you!"

I just made myself laugh till I cried on that one, oh man. Terrible.

Totally agreed with you there. It's something cool and fun to aim towards, but I'm nowhere near ready for that yet! The way I see it, with that much armor, if stabbing and full-speed swings and strikes are allowed, I'd be super tempted to want to also be allowed to kick, even though that really doesn't mesh with the generally accepted idea of lightsaber sparring. I mean, a kick shouldn't count for a point, but kicking to create space, or stagger an opponent for a strike, is something that's far from alien in the Star Wars universe. And the reach of a kick isn't really the same as a lightsaber blade outstretched, so they could always in theory strike your leg for a point, so it's a risky move, and more of a situational tool than an anything I'd say. So if you're going for maximum realism, neglecting that seems like it would be leaving some realism out I'd say. But I guess you also don't want untrained people (in the realms of kicking martial arts) kicking someone's knees out, so I can understand why it's likely not allowed the overwhelming majority of the time. But if I was sparring someone I knew and we both had full, optimal heavy armor, you better believe I'd ask if kicking was allowed!

Lol, I'd love to see or participate in that, so post some video when/if it happens. I can't wait to see how the armor looks when you're done with it or with your outfit? I mean I guess it would supersede parts of it or get integrated in? Either way I look forward to seeing it painted/customized and whatnot. You tend to make these seemingly random odds and ends fit together well in general!

Haha, maybe one day in the future we will be able to spar. But in the meantime, I still need to improve my hamstring flexibility again, or I'll do more injury to myself than my opponent trying to kick!

I suppose I'm going to incorporate the armor into my outfit. The shoulder pads on the one I ordered may be small enough to wear under my grey robe/cardigan, for visual purposes, and so I can drop it to the ground like Obi-Wan did on Mustafar. But if it's too bulky to look good with the cardigan over the armor, then I just won't have it to drop.

And thanks for the compliment. I'll be wearing the new motorcycle armored gloves, and replacing the grey forearm wraps with the black Century forearm and elbow pads. I also imagine that I'll wear the turtleneck compression shirt under the motorcycle armor as opposed to the shirt with the hood, since it's more form-fitting on the arms, and I think that means I'll be able to wear the forearm pads over it. If they're too tight wearing it over the compression shirt, I'll probably have to opt for a sleeveless black compression shirt, which would mean padded shoulders, exposed upper arms to show off the biceps, and the black forearm and elbow pads with the gloves. Pants will be the same, one of the two Thai fisherman pants, and the boots will be the same.

I'll probably have to do something to hide the logo/text on the front band though, since I ordered the motorcycle one with the back pads, not the umpire one without the back pads, although that also has a logo/text that needs to be covered, although that one would definitely be painted if I got it. I suppose I could pretty easily just tape over the logo/text on the belt and maybe put some Star Wars type logo over it. And maybe even still through over it my belt with the saber carabiners, the silver circular buckle, and the pouch. We will see.
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61OR%2BjcS8kL._AC_SL1000_.jpg)

The more I look at it, the more I start to see that this armor may not cover my entire front torso with hard armor, while the umpire one would. But we will see. Hopefully the one I ordered will suffice, but if not, the umpire one would be my next option I suppose. Time will tell though. Either way, it will be fun to experiment with, both in terms of form and function. It's a learning and experimenting process to be sure. And seeing how some things work, or some don't, helps my whole look, design, and approach change, which is itself part of the fun I'd say.

The last picture you posted does look like a IRL version of Episode II or III CloneWars Era Jedi armor (or at least would with a little work). I'd use it for Jedi armor, if I were to make such an outfit. True even if an armor set didn't meet overall needs or you "upgrade" eventually to one with better coverage but in same class you could use it as a backup set for sparring partners, or filming, even base level cosplay option variants for friends. If you emblazoned the shoulders of that last pic style with symbol of the Order it would be a great fit. I also see the limited logos as being easy enough to cover up. Ha, once you finish a full set I might have to call you General at least once, since that seems to be the de facto rank of Jedi commanding Republic troops on battle. (for people that might argue the logic doesn't make sense remember there are often 4 echelons of that rank anyway, with varying degrees of authority so Jedi knight may be 2 star, Master 3 star, High Council Master 4 star) So it denotes their authority to advise/command Republic officers of any rank...  Lmao, GeneralLiftaLot has a ring to it.

You bring up good points and ideas as usual. I agree that having options and backups is always nice, both for myself and to change based on my needs and mood at the time, and also, as you said, to let friends use it. GeneralLiftaLot does have a nice ring to it.

On a related note, spinning with gloves on was a bit more challenging today. I'm not sure if it's because I took close to a week off, or if it's because I'm sore from my last few workouts, or if it's just I'm trying to go too fast before getting used to the gloves, which is what I think is most likely. I should probably swallow my ego and start slow with the gloves to get a feel for the slight differences and nuance with the gloves, and then build back up speed once I am more used to them.

Of all the spins, the behind the head one seems to be the most challenging at speed with the gloves, so I should probably go back to practicing each spin a series of times, starting slowly, and working back up to speed, and then going back into doing multiple different moves in a series.

I also noticed that if I start with the Obi-Ani spin into the other spins, it really gets a ton of speed going, which is great, but also often leads to me losing control, since it can get to be too fast to smoothly control at this moment. Or sometimes the speed of the spinning out of the Obi-Ani results in my grabbing the staff with the other hand not in the center, which then results in the blade clipping the ground during a spin, which is no bueno. So again, I think it's time to slow it down with the gloves and get a feel for them before going full-speed, and especially before picking up even more speed by starting with the Obi-Ani.

I also think I'm not losing as much speed in the fingerless lifting gloves, and they feel like a middle-ground between none and the motorcycle gloves, but the armored ones offer more protection, and if I'm going to spar eventually, I think getting used to using those would be the best idea, and if I use the other ones, or none, I'll be even faster I suppose.

Quick video with the fingerless gloves:

https://i.imgur.com/XieW9b8.mp4

And two with the full gloves. As you can see, the behind the head spin proves challenging at speeds:

https://i.imgur.com/9mswzLC.mp4

https://i.imgur.com/lCbLOOS.mp4

I'm thinking something like this for the motorcycle torso armor I have on the way:
(https://i.imgur.com/HLcoLqb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2Kfgfvx.jpg)

So a sort of grey metal color. And covering up the belt logo/text with a spare Temple Guard logo circle I have from an extra wall mount. Assuming it's the right size, I can just super glue it on the belt I think. If it's too small to cover the entire text, then I'll tape or cover the logo and then put it on I suppose.
(https://i.etsystatic.com/7690669/r/il/392b2e/2310033031/il_794xN.2310033031_fj87.jpg)

Oh yeah, that'd work brilliantly! That's a pretty cool thing to just have lying around? Especially fitting your color scheme perfectly. Guessing you ordered them to mount your sabers? Good "cannibalization of the spare part" at any rate.

I ordered 2, and received 2 (one for each half of the saberstaff). The order was delayed a bit due to the pandemic and holiday rush, but no big deal, I got what I ordered. I did not message the seller or complain or anything like that. And then weeks later, recently, another two show up. So I have two spare ones. Considering I don't plan on buying TWO new lightsabers in the near future, or even one more in the immediate future, I can afford to use 1-2 of them for their parts.

I just measured, and they're 2.25" diameter circles. I don't think that waistband can be more than 3-4", so the size should work, even if I have to cover up the logo underneath regardless.

The mounts are awesome, I'm trying to visualize what they'd assemble to look like or how a lightsaber gets mounted on that platform. Please let me know when you post a photo of such, I'm intrigued!

Thanks! Will do. Not my photos, but photos from the seller's page:
(https://i.etsystatic.com/7690669/r/il/6a0d8a/1704691534/il_794xN.1704691534_d6zi.jpg)
(https://i.etsystatic.com/7690669/r/il/72d8b1/2310033043/il_794xN.2310033043_px1d.jpg)

Why are some of these umpire chest armor so cool? Are these what MLB umpires are wearing under their shirts/uniforms? I'd take them much more seriously if they were wearing what looked like straight up armor.

Unfortunately this one is $200:
(https://d649kiwamqfdo.cloudfront.net/products/images/zoom/CPU5000-All-Star-Cobalt-Umpire-Chest-Protector-Worn-Front-View.jpeg)

And this one is $120:
(https://d649kiwamqfdo.cloudfront.net/products/images/zoom/DCP-PRO-Worn-Front-All-Attachments_1.jpeg)

But at $40, the one I posted earlier is the steal of the bunch, especially if you're going to paint/customize it anyway. Plus you can pick up a soft-padded abdomen extension for $7 to cover the full torso (not just down to the belly button or bottom of the lowest part of the ribs), and/or additional shoulder extensions (which look like they have hard pads) for $12. But $47 for the torso/shoulder pads and the torso extension sounds like a pretty cool option for anyone interested. Of course, the exact fit and mobility can't really be known until it's worn, since I'd imagine some saber spins and strikes would be different planes of movement than throwing a baseball or doing umpire stuff. Although this may also be applicable for motorcycle armor as well. We will see!

Got the forearm and elbow pads. Fit seems good just standing there, will see for spinning. Fit with the gloves seems good too. Cushioning should be adequate enough to not get hurt from medium sparring, but not enough that I'll try to be the Mandalorian and block saber swings with them. I suppose being able to feel hits helps to want to actually avoid getting hit. The inside of the forearms are not padded/covered, but still, most/all places I'm seeing list padded arm gear as optional for medium, so top-of-forearm and elbow pads are definitely better than no pads. Here's some quick photos of the pads with the gloves. Actual outfit photos with them later.
(https://i.imgur.com/NqjNuNN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/16kLzaP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fERNaF4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZNonHeb.jpg)

Incorporated the arm guards into the outfit. They'd likely be too tight with even a compression shirt under them, so I just wore a black tank-top undershirt. Perhaps I will use a black compression shirt another time, but eventually there will be chest/torso armor over it for the sparring outfit anyway. Photos with and without the grey robe/cardigan, as I'd likely wear it for the Jedi-robe look, but take it off before sparring. One additional bonus of having the tank top is I can flex my biceps for style and intimidation points.
(https://i.imgur.com/WLhACwA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/g8gjsAx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rFbaEKp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vfLVdYh.jpg)

I suppose I should probably cover up the "CENTURY" text on the pads for an in-universe look, but I don't think it's terrible to be honest. Maybe I go the meta route and cover it up with black tape, and on top of that put the Star Wars language text that says "CENTURY" just for fun.

Lol, intimidation points. RPG level of pricelessness. Making me think back to Fallout S.P.E.C.I.A.L. Perk tree, or Fable where if you're evil enough towns folk run away shrieking if they see you... Classic.

They look good enough to fit in while playing a functional role, and on their own add an intimidation factor. I'd laugh for sure if you rewrite "century" in basic, that's some brand loyalty if it spans universes. Have a blast testing them out, remember if you want to cover the logo to possibly think toward "machine washable compatibility/durability" if the pads themselves are washable in such a way. You know how it goes with training gear...

Fable. Now that's a name I haven't heard in a long time. Thanks. I'll have to have someone hit me at different strengths with them to test them out. That should be fun for me and the tester.

Good point on the washing part. I was thinking just covering it with a strip of black gaffer tape and then using a silver Sharpie to write whatever I'm going to put on it. It shouldn't take more than a minute or two to write it out twice once I get the hang of it, and the tape should be strong enough to stick, but also doesn't leave residue when removed, so I'd just have to take it off and use a new piece (with new writing) every time I wash it.

I just ordered the fencing helmet, so once that's here, after ensuring it fits properly, I think I'll work on the stencils for the Temple Guard design and then spray it.

From there, it's just waiting on the motorcycle armor to arrive, and if that works well, painting it, and then my medium sparring set is ready, considering I have a padded football girdle (hips, tailbone, and thigh pads, with a cup).

Just for fun, I looked up what I'd need to go full heavy sparring, and, in addition to everything I mentioned above (which hopefully is just waiting on things to arrive), is:

Back of head protection for fencing mask: $21
(http://supfen.com/uploads/products/hema-mask-overlays/hfg5221_pimg1.jpg)

Neck protection: $30 or $35:
(http://supfen.com/uploads/products/hema-protector/hfg5212_pimg1.jpg)
(http://supfen.com/uploads/products/hema-protector/dmz61108_pimg1.jpg)

Knee and shin armor: $40 for matching Century ones or fencing ones:
(https://www.centurymartialarts.com/product/image/medium/149300_010_1.jpg)
(http://www.supfen.com/uploads/products/hema-protector/hfg5292_pimg1.jpg)

So ~$100, assuming the motorcycle chest armor is sufficient for heavy sparring. Not that I think I'd be doing full heavy sparring in the immediate future, but I enjoy this whole thing of piecing things together and whatnot.

love the look of the arm-or :-D I think it will blend nicely with the rest of your outfit. Honestly a sleeveless tunic with an under layer would still look good with the armguards and bare biceps. even adding the cardigan "tabards"

iI'm just waiting for my velcro to arrive to complete my bracers. Perhaps as early as tomorrow! I'm going to aim to make them fit looser as they are a tight fit with the rest of my costume.

Thanks! I did post some pictures of the arm-or (nice one haha) with the outfit, both with and without the sleveless cardigan. I think it does blend nicely if I say so myself. It seems to flow well with the gloves too, which is appreciated.

Your bracers are coming along very, very nicely. Definitely looking forward to seeing your finished look.

Just a reminder to make sure you have fully charged/fresh batteries before taking photos with your saber(s). Shown below is one saber before changing the batteries, and one after. Both are now equally bright with new batteries:
(https://i.imgur.com/sGTRW1i.jpg)

And some attempts at new poses with new batteries in the sabers:
(https://i.imgur.com/QMRMU7W.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xhmMDqS.jpg)

Lol, oh yea pictures require fresh batteries... They (and filming) are best done before (or early on in) intense training. Dang rechargeable batteries are a MUST have IMO. I wonder, are any of these photos public on the image host? I'd upvote you at this point, or suspect people would be following a bit. lol, nice work overall man, great progression.

Thanks for the kinds words. All my photos are hidden on Imgur. Partially because I usually upload more photos than I actually post here, and then pick which ones I want. If I was more selective in only uploading the ones I wanted to share, or if I trimmed the posts down to those photos before switching them to public, I suppose I could do that.

Maybe when I get the fencing mask and paint it I'll start making some public posts there. I can re-upload/share some of my favorites so far, and then also add some more as the sparring outfit progresses.

I do need to get some rechargeable batteries. Just since I love experimenting, I picked up some normal alkaline batteries and some lithium batteries, but the lithium ones are not any brighter. I should test them out one time, leave them on all day, with one saber having the alkaline batteries and the other having the lithium ones, see how much longer the lithium ones last. Of course, as you said, rechargeable ones would be the best in the long run, so I can then test the battery life on those when I get them.

I understand your desire for a reasonable level of anonymity there, and share such concerns. I'm not a "selfie" kind of person. I don't see the need to plaster myself around for public consumption just because... not that I disagree with posting pictures of one's self by a long shot. Partly it's sharing the V for Vendetta kind of ideology (not having the mask makes the individual less of a symbol/mysterious) but also how Sith Lords tend to be cloaked, shrouded in darkness/mystery, or remain in the shadows until they choose to step forth. The persona is best kept intact for now IMO. Infamy serves it's own purpose too. "Darth" is a symbol after all. Plus in all honesty I feel like it could get annoying being spotted in a crowd, or if I (of please no) had fans! Our world is terribly bad for holding "celebrities" hostage to their fame. So if my designs, persona, or fighting styles eventually create ripples or waves of that magnitude I don't really want people acting a fool. Lets just say I learned well from the literary and big screen Sith Lord's. A degree of compartmentalization and/or control of one's image can be a benefit.



That's a great plan to see which last longer! I'm still using regular ones as well, due to initial investment costs of rechargeable batteries. I know individual ones that'd fit into the standard battery style setup are commercially available, but when I looked previously (while searching for game console controller options VS disposable batteries) they were prohibitively costly with or without the "charging stand" to juice the batterie back up.

Got my fencing mask in today!

Experimented with a few outfits with it. The neck padding didn't look right with the undershirt tank top I had before, so I opted for a short-sleeve under armor. I should probably tape over the Everlast Logo though, as it sort of stands out a bit with the yellow. So that's 1 look. Then I also have the grey cardigan/robe over it, which looks nice, but I don't think I'd want to actually spar with the robe on. Then the third look is a different sweatshirt I ordered a while ago that's a size too big, but actually works sort of well here, since the neck and hood are large enough to fit over the fencing mask. The sleeves were too loose/baggy to fit under the forearm pads, so I cut the sleeves off, and it works. This is nice, as it provides a hood around the sides and back of the mask, which may look good after painting a Jedi Temple Guard type design on it. On a related note, I didn't love the look of the back of my head and hair being exposed, so I put on a balcalva under the fencing mask which you can see in some of the photos, which I think makes it look better from the back, and even from the front, as you see more mask and less face under the mask, which I think may look good once the mask is painted. That said, I do plan on getting some back-of-head protection that will serve a visual purpose to "complete" the mask, as well as to protect the back of my head.

Thoughts on the various looks? Prefer one? Thoughts for changes or additions? I am of course still waiting on the torso armor, so things may have to change when I get that to fit, and some may look better or worse with it, so it's a work in progress, ever evolving, as usual.

(https://i.imgur.com/PZE2JUA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/B5ImUTQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/amyGhAg.jpg/)
(https://i.imgur.com/2lsxR8Y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LzaI4OQ.jpg)

And here's the back of head protection.

One that just covers the back for ~$20:
(http://www.supfen.com/uploads/products/hema-mask-overlays/hfg5221_pimg2.jpg)

And one that overlays the sides, top, and back for ~$40, for more of a hooded look:
(http://www.supfen.com/uploads/products/hema-mask-overlays/hfg5201_pimg3.jpg)

Oh man! The 1st and last variants in the series of pics get my vote for sure. From a purely aesthetic perspective (not functional sparring) the darker grey outer layer and the fully layered version with the baclava under are stellar. They look both menacing and appropriate, purely impractical to have "stay put, or breathe well" while sparring/training but they look excellent.

I'd be thinking twice about plans to encroach on the temple if you met me at the door. Then again what is life without a little throw-down now and again to test your mettle, especially if you already made the trip out? Nice, real nice combos.

Thank you for the kind words. I'm honestly not 100% sure on the fit of the fencing mask. At first it was too tight, so I squeezed it a little bit as the internet people told me to, and it was good. Then I put on the balaclava and it was tight but good, and then it felt a little lose after that without the balaclava, and also somehow even with it on. But I messed around squeezing it in different directions, and with the balaclava on, it seems to be good. It's not falling off, even when jumping, spinning, etc. I smacked myself around with my hands and it never more than slightly moved, and I gave myself a few whacks with my hardwood staff and it didn't move enough to be a problem. So I think it should be good.

If I do end up doing actual full contact sparring in the future, I guess I could always ask an expert who is there to check the fit for me and help me further adjust it by squeezing/etc. it a bit. I know they also sell different thickness pads if needed, and some people recommend wearing an arming cap or a scrum cap under the fencing mask anyway for extra head cushioning/safety, so if it's a hair loose, then that means I can fit one of those under it. So I think it will all work out well!

I think for now my sparring outfit would be the far left (dark grey). It has a little cloak/cape and layered look, but it's not too long to catch on things at all, and it's really just one sweatshirt designed to look layered. But we'll see how torso armor impacts the look, as unless it's quite form fitting, it wouldn't be able to go under anything, so a tighter shirt under the armor may end up being the way to go. Especially if I'm gong to take the time to paint the armor, I'm going to want to show it off!

Funnily enough the dark grey shirt is the same brand as the light grey cardigan/robe. They make some very Star Wars looking clothes!

Yes, helmets are a funny thing to adjust to, especially if you haven't experienced full contact in armor before. It's true, a little (and I mean very little) bit loose is much better than too tight because as you say you can add padding or extra layers in my experience as well... Really if you don't feel movement while wearing it and moving around that's a good sign. Same for if you take a few impacts and don't feel it majorly shifting. Shaking head side to side and up and down while wearing it are also a good gauge for proper fit. I'd have to tie and retie my Men strings before feeling good and confident when I first got that armor and prior to each spar to assure it wouldn't move but also wouldn't give me a headache from over tightening. It's soooo fun IMO to go full contact once you have a reliable set of armor. Since you get to truly test those training skills, reflexes, and your mettle against a potentially cunning opponent with either similar or insanely different training. There is nothing quite like it that I've experienced in MA. Plus it highlights your potential weaknesses, flaws in technique, and openings like none other. We just move different with adrenaline pumping and at "full speed" especially if the opponent is actually proving challenging/worthy adversary. You probably know this from competition already, but you see inside yourself and can even realize when completely outmatched! But creativity, adaptability, and training shine through (or their lack their of) so extensively even in friendly matches. It's a beautiful thing (of course when attempted safely, and by those old enough to consent and accept responsibility for their actions & potential medical bills in worst case situations). I'm glad you're already enjoying it a bit, and can't wait to see that IRL paint job applied to the mask vs the theoretical workup. Best of luck.

It has a bit of slight wiggle/wobble if I tug on the neck padding, and may move a little bit if I really shake my head, but never enough that it loses proper overall positioning, and never so much that when I smacked myself or hit myself with the staff that it got out of position. And if that's just with a thin balaclava, I'm sure I'll be able to find some headgear that will make it a perfect fit, since it's easier too add a layer than to take on off that doesn't exist haha.

I played football for years, so I'm at least somewhat familiar with contact to the head though a helmet/mask, even if it's been years since then. I'm sure it will take some getting used to, but it sounds like fun.

As you said, going at least good speed really allows one to see what good has come from their practice, and what needs further practice. Always interesting to see how speed, power, timing, reflexes, strategy, and muscle memory all come into play, and how one can adapt to their opponent.

Got in the Century Kung Fu top and bottoms, and the red sleeveless top. They need to be washed to get out the wrinkles from being folded though. Not a Star Wars look alone, but perhaps as part of other outfits, or just something fun to practice in.

(https://i.imgur.com/bUnfxwK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/x6M83TR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m0KAdPX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NnT3yRL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/slrvGpI.jpg)

So the red martial arts top looks sort of "naked" to me without a belt, since I'm so accustomed to that type of top being worn with a martial arts belt, so I figured why not put on the belt I've been using for my outfit? Also used the baggier grey pants instead of the new black Kung Fu ones here:
(https://i.imgur.com/pEUSga7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/F9jXjjJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/okF6EN2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QlxRDrc.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ACsTJnF.jpg)

The good things is that his top is actually intended for marital arts. So for actual sparring, until I get the torso armor and make changes to make that work and look decent, I'm leaning either towards the dark grey hooded look, or this red top look. Thoughts?

Try with the grey medieval piece, will contrast with the pants perfectly I think, especially if you go with a black robe :P

I like your initial look. This new one is too Cobra Kai and not enough Star Wars

my 2¢ only

I am inclined to agree with you haha. That said, if I do end up doing regular sparring down the road, having more options if something gets dirty or if I don't want to look the exact same every time. If nothing else, it will be good for just some practice sessions and some videos going for a more martial arts vibe, which sometimes may be desirable, just not when going for an actual Star Wars look, as you said.

I do think the initial look is the best so far, even with the mask, but I probably don't want to spar in the long cardigan, especially since I don't want to ruin it. Although that fear could be mitigated by buying another one down the road I suppose. It's not that expensive. But past that one, I think the dark grey one with the small built-in cape and hood is decent as well.

Thanks everyone for the continued feedback!

I'm probably just tried, but what grey medieval piece are you talking about? The only thing I recall being medieval is the canvas forearm wraps?

I was thinking more of The Hand from marvel universe, but same nefarious vibe I suppose overall. Copious amounts of red with an obscured face just says evil. Not truly, just subliminally. And true, it may not be majorly SW but I refer back to the conversations points previously noteworthy in mentioning "all debate ends when a lightsaber is drawn" saying the lightsaber makes it unequivocal. Especially if just for working out/light sparring which isn't really intended for public consumption? Ah well, I don't have much to offer beyond that.

Now that you mention it, it's interesting how it seems to be the obscured face that makes the red seem evil. Since Ken from Street Fighter wears ALL red, but isn't associated with evil:
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a5/Ken_Masters.png)

While some members of the Hand have an almost identical outfit, but with hoods and/or obscured faces and look much more sinister:
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR13CF20dktzpFdc-hh6jkR6JbGD-rEYdaMtg&usqp=CAU&ec=45761791)

While Daredevil wears all red and, IMO, appears somewhere between good and evil from a purely visual perspective, with a partially obscured face:
(https://i.annihil.us/u/prod/marvel/i/mg/6/20/5ab2ab6155991/clean.jpg)

Oh, I always found him rather "evil" for wiping the floor with me! Or simply being the instrument of my destruction at the hands of others...

Also maybe this is the source of Vash the Stampede's PR problem, and why he can't shake that shake that $$60,000,000,000 bounty?
(http://i.imgur.com/m78y3Bf.png)
(http://i.pinimg.com/originals/ac/5e/4a/ac5e4a030e09b4e0bd0db8b5872be27c.jpg)

Or why Dante from DMC will always have a vague air of menace to say the least... or perhaps it's the whole demon thing.
(http://www.williamjacket.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Devil-May-Cry-4-Dante-Gaming-Coat.jpg)

After some expermimentation, trial, and error, and watching some YouTube videos for guidance, I got the stencils ready, adhered them to the mask, cut the necessary parts out, and sprayed it. No idea how it will turn out until the paint is dried and I remove the tape, but it was a unique experiment to be sure:
(https://i.imgur.com/sJ9GMCl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RtLuTKg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bpyqWDN.jpg)

Looking good so far, pretty much just how you planned and drew it up back on pg 15. Can't wait for the reveal, hopefully you could spray a small paint brush or something till wet to do minor touchups if needed. I doubt it'll be needed heavily since you look pretty through/careful.

The mask is complete! Paint and clear coat are done, and the tape is removed. It is not perfect, but I am very pleased with the result, especially given that I am no artist, and this was my first attempt at painting a mask. I also played around with some outfits and combinations:
(https://preview.redd.it/9xjx1akc8zb61.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=67b59b63e4000a4db21def7dd4f4723b3a418429)
(https://preview.redd.it/vv26tdkc8zb61.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=31136fd3385333982796f02eac44059fe35be0b0)
(https://preview.redd.it/ot9cpgkc8zb61.jpg?width=960&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=6e86545195619f5f5cd3a12bb26af3617c2d5aac)
(https://preview.redd.it/p5rvupkc8zb61.jpg?width=960&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=896149f46dfea5bd929175bf046e8cc9c92f1871)
(https://preview.redd.it/izjirfkc8zb61.jpg?width=960&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=42fe2f49378cdb4841bc95f9d7084604608d2547)

Oh man, that looks pretty dam awesome! I really like the outcome, it looks symmetrical and stands out enough. That's what really matters, overall anyway IMO from a visual standpoint. Plus the big win is that it matches well with the whole outfit/color scheme as intended... VERY cool.

Also FT posted a new lightsaber you might really like, so I'm giving you the link: http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=40017 (http://www.saberforum.com/index.php?topic=40017)

Thanks! I'm very happy with how it turned out. And I do like the idea of having a Jedi Temple Guard inspired mask in colors that match my outfit as opposed to just picking up an actual Jedi Temple Guard mask in colors that don't match, even if the lines would be perfect on it.

Now I'm eagerly waiting for the torso armor to arrive, both to see how it fits and functions, as well as to customize/paint it.

sick job on the mask!! I love the look and the fact that it is functional asz well!

Bravo!

Thanks!

I'm waiting on the motorcycle torso armor, but saw this Jedi Temple Guard inspired armor SWTOR (people have pointed out that the helmet looks like a Temple Guard mask styled after Ahsoka's markings) and had to mock up a similar design on the Umpire Torso armor.
(https://preview.redd.it/cmjfplh832w41.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=31825861fdf01c9758dbc5ccf1f0ec4ad4147cb1)
(https://i.imgur.com/STUCv4N.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/f5gYOlY.jpg)

With the black and grey/silver on heavy armor it looks pretty Sith though. Just something fun while waiting on the armor I actually ordered.

I mean up to a point yeah it does have a Sith like vibe... Black base armor looks very Sith, and white base looks more reminiscent of Imperial armor... But, the white does therefore resemble Clone Wars era armor in that respect. So if you went with a deeper Grey base coat with the same shade of silver/grey you used on the mask for the markings it may look more neutral? Or white base with deeper grey markings/lighter grey? Just ideas to look a bit less malevolent possibly. Or even adding the symbol of the Order on the shoulders then to make it more distinctively Jedi, and less questionable. More reminiscent of Obi-wan and Anakin's armor in that way. Those are my thoughts at any rate. I still think you're bound to scare the s*** out of a lot of onlookers/opponents in this armor style regardless!

As a side note I'm ashamed of myself for not earlier considering the practicality of motorcycle armor! I ride, but only really messed with wearing leather. Feeling that was all the protection needed for the most part since I wasn't going crazy with it. But this would give me a reason to invest in dual purpose armor... and not only look cool riding around but worst case for the armor if I fell is it now has a improvised weathered/battle scarred look. Or simply repaint it. Either way I have to now heavily consider it for investment. Likely also for my "light sparring" setup. So yeah, your idea might actually keep me safer overall (or make me feel safer and therefore more comfortable being reckless, oh the irony.) so I'll thank you and ultimately not hold you accountable. Might wind up looking like an Imperial Scout variant at the end of the day if I follow this path. Still, your designs are awesome thus far.

Thanks. Yeah, if you would actually wear it to ride, I'd invest in something a little higher-grade than the $40 torso armor I ordered. It's one thing to have it not be optimal getting whacked with a stick, it's another thing to trust it to help protect you from a potential unfortunate spill while riding. There's actually one locally that's $220-250 new, selling for $75 used, with a pretty diverse size fitting due to the way it fits/tightens/etc. And I think it already looks pretty sci-fi. Some touch up and custom paint on some accents would make it really pop:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0396/9401/products/mosko-moto-apparel-leatt-chest-protector-5-5-pro-hd-black-14204112797757_2000x.jpg?v=1598176126)
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0396/9401/products/mosko-moto-apparel-leatt-chest-protector-5-5-pro-hd-black-14204112699453_2000x.jpg?v=1598176126)

It looks to have front, side, back, and shoulder protection, and it looks like the torso tightens via football shoulder-pad style clips, which are pretty solid in my experience playing football.

As for the feedback on the color ideas for the armor, I would like to have the armor "plates" to be the same color as the silver on my mask, since it will match the same color/texture/sparkle/etc., and then have dark grey or black markings, to match the color scheme of the mask. But I think just throwing on the Temple Guard logo in the center portion of the chest plate would be sufficient to keep that "edge" to the look while making it known I'm not a "bad guy."
(https://i.imgur.com/Qn3sZ1H.jpg)

that looks far too nice ;-P let me know when yyou're eady to weather that stuff and Then we can talk. There needs to be some blast damage and lightsaber strikes before I will take you seriously …hehehe. I love weathering since it continues to tell the story in subtler ways

Oh yeah, that last render looks sweet. It will be a nice combo with the mask and outfit I think...but I'm a little confused how the word sparkle came into play?

As for armor for my dual purpose intent, I doubt I'd need higher grade/expense stuff. I rarely go above 50 and not on highways ever... I like my life and bones intact thank you. So minimal protection will be better than my current armor rating somewhere between 0-2. Even if the cheap stuff only offers severely limited improvement, it's better that just a helmet. Although I appreciate the concern, I'm seriously ironically more interested in sparring armor that happens to be marginally useful in fulfilling it's designed/advertised purpose as well. And just riding around looking like Billy BA. That's also a plus. Worst case, if something terrible were to happen (and I'm in one piece more or less) you get to say "I told you so" and I get to call myself a moron. That being said, I'm horribly cautious, and haven't laid it down since the first week I learned to ride it... so I've got a good feeling about this. Heck if I go get some of that "special" custom paint mixed up it can have detailing that is pearlescent/iridescent so bits of it reflect light. Making me visible in low light technically but also some details "pop" potentially with just a lightsaber illuminated. That could be really cool, got to double check some legalities just to be safe though, can't be "blinding people" or "distracting drivers" on accident. I'd laugh horribly though if I was written a ticket for "visually disorienting" armor while riding, that'd make my day x10. "Defendant was wearing outrageous 'Sith armor' as he called it which attracted the officer's attention." lol, priceless. I was tempted to go with red, but we all know I'd definitely be viewed as a "bad guy" then! "Where are you headed sir, and what is that?" "Oh just off to fight a bit for fun with an acquaintance, and these are my lightsabers officer... I'd show you but feel awkward drawing one under these circumstances."

Haha, I mean the silver/metal paint I used on the mask has a little bit of what I can only describe as that slight sparkle you see on a new car’s paint job when viewed from the right angle in the right light. I’m not a painter or an artist, so I have no clue what the proper term is haha. Although it’s really not at all noticeable on the actual mask, since it’s on thin metal mesh, it just looks like silver metal, so I guess it’s a moot point there.

Sounds like you keep safe and responsible, and know what you’re doing. If you can get sparring armor that pulls double duty for riding, that’s pretty cool for sure.

So it turns out the traditional bo staff forms would have chopped off my arms. I only noticed because when practicing with a stringer type tank top, or with no shirt, I got some decent bruises under my arms from where the hilt meets the blade. It's not a hard hit, so it was never an issue with even a light shirt or a compression shirt, but with no material between the staff and the skin, it became clear that it is an issue.

An extra few inches of hilt per side would make this a non-issue for in-universe purposes, but for my functional purposes, I suppose I should just wear a shirt. And from an armor perspective, some sort of "Beskar"  underlay would also solve the issue quite well.

Or technically I could go with 2 16" blades instead of the 24" blades and attach the Yari pike extension between the two. Taking 8" off either blade and adding a 15" pike extension would make the overall length of the staff essentially the same.  The only "issue" with that would be I'd either lose the QR coupler in favor of two normal couplers, or I'd keep the QR coupler on one end of the pike extension, which would potentially throw off the balance ever so slightly? Actually, I hardly think that would be an issue, and then I get the fun option of separating it into a very short "shoto" saber basically, and a shorter saberpike in the other. But then two 16" blades is getting really short on the blade lengths, and likely wouldn't look as visually appealing while spinning. I guess it's just food for thought, and shows how much more of an issue this would have been with the shorter hilts even. The two hilts I got are long enough for my grip to be ideal, but not long enough to avoid the blades hitting under my arms at times.

(https://i.imgur.com/qOI0Vv7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DzR02JC.jpg)

And it doesn't seem to be an issue with my form not being perfect, as even the instructor in the video would have ran into the same problem if he had a saberstaff by the looks of it:

http://youtu.be/ldf9SDBxJaU?t=68\ (http://youtu.be/ldf9SDBxJaU?t=68\)

I suppose an in-universe skilled saberstaff weilder could simply turn off the rear blade during these moves before it would hit their lats, and just be careful not to "overswing" the momentum without the back blade to stop the momentum. Although just having some form of Beskar or other saber-resistant back protection, or whatever area you call that, would be a solution for me without actually changing the saber itsefl.

I'm actually incredibly surprised you had not previously noticed/encountered this in your rigorous training sessions. Ironically your initial videos clued me into how relevant this likely outcome would be running through those kata and just moves in general. I'd thought we'd discussed as much, but I may be remembering poorly. It's true, if you want to go hardcore SW canon with your routines wielding a lightsaber in any capacity they are likely to be "cut short" or terribly unforgiving as far as the revelation of serious injuries are concerned (in theory). I always tend to chastise myself for grazing or full contact blows which are self inflicted. It's so easy and almost too dang easy to "inflict". I've kept training myself to avoid these things, but I'm sure once it goes full contact and even half speed, most of it can easily go out the window with adrenaline or action and reaction. It's how Sith and Jedi are often defeated in movies, all that training just doesn't prepare for the "moment of engagement" if it gets truly crazy. We can be our own worse enemies in so many ways...

We probably have discussed it before, and I probably forgot. I suppose that if we had real lightsabers we’d all be pretty much just stumps after a day or two, unless we practiced rigorously for months or even years with a practice saber first.

I do remember bruising up my lats a little once before, but I guess I had never actually sat down to think of it was the hilt or the blades that was doing it, until the last video made it abundantly clear.

I even got the longer hilts to allow for a wider bo staff type grip, which is great, but I was so happy with that working that I blanked on the next part where I need even more length than that for some movements, which means that no standard hilts would have worked for this design.

I suppose it’s now either having some saber-resistant armor there, which could prove a bit challenging to find, as that close to under the arms often is exposed, or picking up 2 16” blades and using the metal pike extension in the middle to alleviate the issue entirely with a longer hilt while keeping the overall length from blade tip to blade tip essentially the same.

I can’t help but laugh at missing such a silly thing that was staring me in the face, and slapping me in the back.

I suppose if this was a real lightsaber, I would have practiced with a less-lethal weapon with the exact same dimensions first, and a nice shock or two would have quickly brought the issue to my attention without costing an arm.

Always room for improvement!

Edit: or I suppose I could improvise some longer, perhaps removable, emitters in the style of the Fallen, which would mean I have the same blade lengths, but now the few inches closest to the emitter is covered by more emitter, meaning it would be safe to touch the body.
(https://ultrasabers.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/The-Fallen-Standard-Emitter-Ignited.jpg)

Edit again: Saber Legion specifies a maximum 36” hilt for staffs, so I could only add 12” to my hilt, not the full 15” extension. Fun. And the blades must be 24” from the ends of the emitter, so basically 24” blades in a standard emitter. So now long emitter to hide the blade apparently.

True, those Fallen emitters would basically provide the shielding you are seeking. Good choice. Not only do they look great, but I would not have thought of them functionally in such a way as a protective measure! Great call, but true it's really all up to your discretion, no need necessarily if you aren't trying to be canon fierce in training. If you are less worried about "blade contact" on movements it's not a terribly required thing. Unless you begin to worry about visually, technically, or theoretically "wounding/impacting" yourself.

So it looks like Saber Legion sets minimum saberstaff blade lengths of 22” from tip of emitter to the end of the blade, so pretty much 24” blades in a standard emitter. Which means that my 24” blades wouldn’t satisfy the rules if I added ~3” per blade of emitter.

Although the less ethical duelist in me can’t help but wonder if a few inches of blade hitting my lat for a second or two while moving in a duel would he caught by an opponent or a judge. So since it fits the hilt and blade requirements as is, maybe that slight contact would be something only I would know. But I don’t really plan on doing actual competitive sparring/dueling for a while, so that’s the last thing that’s a pressing concern I suppose.

I know I want to continue practicing forms with the staff, so for now I will ignore the issue, but will seek a means to remedy the issue, with some form of armor covering the area being one option, but an option that would mean the staff could only be used optimally while wearing that armor, which is not ideal.

I think I’ll measure how much of the blade contacts my body, and consider adding an extension of that length to each side of the hilt with extensions. If it’s 3” per side or less, adding 6” to the saber may not be the end of the world, we will see.

Got my torso armor in! The fit is pretty good so far. It seems snug enough, not too tight, not too big, and seemingly stays in place with some light movement so far. Protection on the padded parts seems pretty solid actually from having someone whack me in the chest, back, and top of the shoulders. It covers to about the bottom of the ribcage, so belly shots are not protected, and while the top of the shoulders are as well, the deltoids are not. The chest, top of shoulders, and entire back are protected, while the deltoids, upper arms, and sides (under the arms down to the waist) are not covered. Under the dark grey hooded shirt, it's hardly even visible, so I didn't take pictures with it on with the fencing mask, since it really just looks like some padded shoulders with the look previously shown. So here are some photos with the armor on top of just a black sleeveless compression shirt, and then with the long grey cloak/cardigan over it, since that being open in the front shows some of the torso armor, and gives a little bit of the padded shoulder shape.

Now the question is, what exactly should be painted? The parts that aren't hard-padded will remain the blackish color they are, so do I paint part/all of the hard parts a metallic silver-type color to look like metal armor?

EDIT: Imgur is not working to post photos. Images should be incoming soon!

EDIT: photos:

(https://i.imgur.com/qSpbk88.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/FdCDc3B.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1Njlj5T.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vPMEvfq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/O9lNmAj.jpg)

looks very nice! II'd uggest leaving any fabric parts as-is. Job 1 on the armored bits is to get rid of any logos and writing. either sand it, paint it or cover it.

Perhaps paint the plates a dark gray and the go back and weather it with some metallic silver and grime. I'd  be happy to walk you through any number of weathering techniques if you have some ideas in mind. You could also do some damage (purposeful) to add some further "backstory" to yyour gear.

love it!

Thanks! Agreed on leaving all fabric parts as-is. The armor Musashi Padawan has is VERY similar to the one I have (the plates are largely identical, just how they're adhered is slightly different given that one has sleeves and arm plates), and he painted just the hard armor parts, which looks great:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srnsvTlO8gM# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srnsvTlO8gM#)

It looks like he did some weathering as well. Weathering something would potentially be cool, and if I do go that route, advice would be greatly appreciated, as I have no experience with it. That said, pretty much all of the rest of my armor is basically new looking, so maybe weathering wouldn't be necessary? Or maybe just minimal weathering to give it a more realistic look without being too at-odds with a largely fresh/new looking rest of the outfit?

Yep looking good and a good fit. Glad mostly that it fits right and takes impacts well! I'd leave all the coloring decisions to you since you're good at coordinating those things well. Got to look at MP's video myself now.

I hate all new looking parts as it looks like it was just picked up at galactic mart. Star wars always has a very lived in worn look and each scratch and dent has a story of the character's adventures. FOR ME new looks more costume-y…just my preference

You're not wrong. I guess I just never really thought about it because it's not as much of an issue for CLOTHING as it is for ARMOR, and up until now I've been mostly working with clothing, with the exception of the fencing mask (which I think is a pretty clear exception to the rule) and the forearm/elbow pads, and I'd imagine that black pieces on the limbs would be less obviously "new" visually, especially considering that the forearm pads are already layered and a matte color, which sometimes looks less costumey.

But looking at actual body armor, even Anakin and Obi-Wan's Clone Wars armor had visible wear, so you do have a point there:
(https://starwarsblog.starwars.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/open-uri20150608-27674-n85wj0_1c88f351-e1474478159839.jpeg)

Although Vader was fairly clean and shiny from what I recall of him. But Boba Fett was really worn in the OT. Jango maybe had a little wear? But Mando is super clean and shiny so far.

I saw the weathering and texturing techniques used in Musashi's video, but do you have any suggestions for a simple weathering process?

Well Vader has a serious "can't touch this" kind of vibe... I don't think from Ep3-5/6 people really had much opportunity to "land blows" on him. And I bet the Empire has a pretty good armor replacement ideology/armorer for such a high ranking individual. I mean if the "Might of the Empire" goes around looking all dinged up it looks like rebels are making headway or some such... He's more of a symbol than just a man so similarly he must be all spit and polish in appearance theoretically. Again, the power scale on things, who is going to have much of a chance to scar or ding up his armor in that time period as well...? So Darth Vader's armor may very well be considered an anomaly or exception to the rule in SW universe. I cant comment on Mando since I haven't watched and therefore cannot form a first hand opinion of relating events.

But all other examples fit the wearer in time period and related struggles. Hard jobs, war, combat, these things provide wear and tear on armor for sure. And unless the structural integrity is compromised, most tend not to (or are unable due to supply lines/shortages or not having skilled armorers or smiths available to) replace pieces, whole sets, or even remove damage from armor. Especially if it's specifically crafted to be out of hard to find/work with lightsaber resistant materials or even blaster resistant weaves/finishes. So I could find reason to agree if you want to look "seasoned" a personally preferable amount of weathering wouldn't be a bad bet.

Although I am less helpful in that department because I prefer looking more or less spotless if I can manage it. Possibly counterintuitive toward realism but also stating "none can land a blow upon me" in it's own way. Or so I like my armor to represent at any rate... when purely for show.

It's also like the military ideology of dress uniforms vs combat uniforms. And gear for presentation vs actual deployment. You want to look your best around bases for ceremony, VIP events, and other functions. But when you go to actually wreck shop, blow up things, or just do some training in the mud/sand/forest you break out the "worn in" or dirtier stuff that is more function than form. Since you plan on getting it a little messed up anyway in theory or practice. Anyway that's just my take on it.

the simplest method for some light weathering is some dry brushing. Take a brush and put paint on it then wipe it on a rag to get most off then lightly go over edges where you would expect rubbing and high wear and tear would occur. You can do some chipping using the same technique with a natural sponge and doing some light dabs. Do some scuffing and scratching in areas that might get high battle impacts.

I like adding grime to creases by applying dark browns and black over an entire surface and then wiping most of it away. Let it stick in the cracks, scratches and dents where dirt and gunk would collect.

There are literally hundreds of ways to add some wear to pieces…heck go outside and roll around on various surfaces or just beat it up yourself. Enhance with a little strategic painting and ddon't orget to seal with some clear matte or flat to lock it in.

If you want to go super nuts and put in a blaster hole or a lightsaber gash…well you'd use the same techniques as creating shattering effects on a lightsaber…rotary tools and soldering irons  :-\

Thank you for the suggestions and ideas.

As usual, good thoughts from both DarthProdigal and mrg149. One one hand, a worn look gives pieces, and an outfit, character, and makes it look truer to what it would in-universe on a hardened and experienced warrior. On the other hand, so long as it's done well enough to hopefully not look cheap, a clean piece hopefully wouldn't look costume-y, but just like an unworn, new piece. Maybe for someone who just obtained or made it, or maybe for someone who replaced their old piece for it. Perhaps I can just let actual wear and tear and weathering do its thing from sparring and whatnot. That way it can get its own authentic character and story over time. I know I've dropped my sabers a few times, and gotten a scuff or two on them, which adds actual character in a way. Decisions decisions!

Also, I just ordered these shin and knee guards for under $30. Being designed for catchers, who move a lot, and squat a lot, they should allow for good mobility, while still providing solid protection, as they're meant to take impact from very close-range foul balls and things of that nature. Plus they look pretty armor-like I'd say. I think I'll probably leave them black to match my black forearm and elbow pads. Maybe just do some accents here and there with the main focus of covering up the logo and text by the knee area.
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Xpa3nbjDL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0240/0529/products/CG100_3_322590ce-6dfc-43a7-90f5-cf53805b30ad.jpg?v=1580831851)

LIGHTSABER UPDATES:

After seeing that in some traditional form movements, the blades close to the emitter hit under my arms, which is fine with practice sabers, but would be disastrous with an in-universe lightsaber. So I picked up 2 3" extensions, to add 3" to each side of the hilt, or 6" overall. I took some actual measurements:

Blade (tip to where it meets the emitter, or "exposed blade"): 24"
Single Hilt: From where "exposed blade" ends to where QR coupler begins: 12"
Single Hilt with Extension: 15.25"

Double hilt w/o extensions (using QR coupler): 26"
Full saberstaff (blade tip to blade tip): 69" (or 5'9")

Double hilt w/ 2x extensions (using QR coupler): 32.5"
Full saberstaff w/ 2 extension (tip to tip): 75" (or 6'3")
 
Single hilt with 2x extensions and Yari extension: 34"
Single hilt w/ 2 extension and Yari, pommel to blade tip: 55.5" (or ~4-7")

Single hilt with 1x PVC extension: 33"
Single hilt w/ PVC extension, pommel to blalde tip: 54.4" (or ~4'-6")

I can still spin and maneuver the 6'3" staff well so far, and it solves the underarm blade issue well.

Photos (please excuse my feet in one photo):
(https://i.imgur.com/nT8xbEc.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VJmDrIU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PvUMwS8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Wcgda2o.jpg)

I also practiced some of the two-handed under-arm spin, which Maul (Park) seems to use a lot, particularly when preparing to fight to get into a combat stance, or to change stances with some flourish.

Shorter hilt:
https://i.imgur.com/SLzpQQN.mp4

Longer hilt:
https://i.imgur.com/M1t0O1x.mp4

Ok, I've got to admit blaster impacts or lightsaber scarring sounds pretty epic if placed strategically on armor. Obviously thinking more near sides of torso, on shoulders/arms or even leg/shin armor... like you were fighting so many opponents you couldn't help but get lightly grazed deflecting a flurry of blaster bolts or tactically using the armor to soak up a slash that otherwise could have maimed... Even a good way to sell the "lightsaber resistance" of certain armor by showing it was actively used to directly block/deflect an attack. You make a good case with those nice examples MrG!

And Sir, as always you find some dang cool armor options. It's pretty sleek and stylish, but I really like the partial continuation over the foot for some reason! I respect the idea of letting the armor gain it's own weathering through use, though you'd likely REALLY have to put it through the wringer to achieve terribly noticeable results that way I fear... who knows. You could always just mix it into a training opportunity by having 4-5 opponents attack simultaneously for like 45 minutes. You can practice surviving and retaliating while getting dinged up. Although, I did notice that potentially some of MrG's or other various weathering options may be a dual purpose solution to your "problem" of covering/removing some logos. Depending on the type of surface they occupy? Well, good luck with your decision process and attempts if you don't go the natural route.

As far as the lightsaber extension goes, I couldn't see it at first, I had to look really hard. They did solve your unfavorable situation, and it looks nice/practical. Welcome back to a longer lightsaber lol. You have so much space for gripping and modifying hand positions that it has to be a great feeling. I love falling back on Maul for several movements because, lets be honest he was the double bladed lightsaber "role model" for a generation, but his movements are sometimes so fluid and practical they just feel good too or just look awesome. Also with that much hilt and wider grips you can manage some nasty force in blows and advantage in blade locks.

Thanks. I do also like the partial foot covering. From a martial arts perspective, it's not out of place eithe.

Mrg has some solid options for sure, and his work on the gauntlets is top-notch.  I suppose I could let it weather from practice, or I can just hang it somewhere and beat on it myself with some of my wooden staffs, or even metal nunchucks, like a training dummy to accelerate the process significantly, and also give me a cool improvised target of realistic proportions.

I mean, it's a $40 torso armor, so if I end up eventually finding out I want something different, or more advanced aesthetic improvements, I can always pick up another one, or something different, an then have a backup, or one to lend someone else to spar with. So I think I'll just go with the normal metallic paint, after some scuffing to remove any top-layer on the armor as-is, which maybe will give it a little bit of texture too.

Also, what exactly constitutes "shoulder protection" under Saber Legion's definition for heavy sparring? What I have covers the top of the shoulders from hard downward impact (the bony part of the shoulders), but not the deltoids from lateral strikes, which, while they would still likely hurt like hell, probably wouldn't pose quite the same level of damage to bone. IRC kendo armor sets don't cover the delts either. I'm set for medium sparring, but for heavy I'll need:

1: back of head protection (attaches to fencing mask), like this one:
(https://cdn3.volusion.com/jkxpn.sognc/v/vspfiles/photos/SPES-Head.BackOnly-2T.jpg?v-cache=1584175409)
2: neck protection (gorget), this one gets good reviews:
(https://cdn3.volusion.com/jkxpn.sognc/v/vspfiles/photos/DM-Gorget-2T.jpg?v-cache=1480937144)
3: MAYBE deltoid protection, depending on the rules, but I'd rather not have to wear shoulder armor under my shoulder armor (insert Zzibit "yo dawg, I heard you like shoulder armor, so I put shoulder armor under your shoulder armor so you can wear shoulder armor while you wear shoulder armor.")

I'd suppose shoulder armor by definition should cover what they consider to be a "valid target" if indeed you can strike that zone specifically to score a point. I mean if it's not valid and is only to protect against incidental impacts then maybe it's a bit more flexible in definition? I'd search or inquire for clarification from someone here who has actually had some experience in competition/sparring within some of the competition format rule structures. They'd likely be able to outline what their individual associations define as adequate or recommended under separate conditions. I'd bet the various organizations differ a little but have somewhat similar overall "top tier" standardization.

When I think shoulder armor I tend to think that Jedi looking partial arm coverage, pauldrons or something similar without going full on medieval. But in reality they could just want to make sure your collar bone isn't getting broken and shoulder joint isn't easy to fracture. I'd assume it's more practical than anything else in simply soaking up those downward blows that slide off or miss a helmet more so than worrying about sideways impacts into the region. I mean I could be wrong, but I know from experience how much force the previous category can bring to bear. Man am I surprised I haven't broken bones doing the savage things I've done. If I were less cautious, gifted, or reactive I'd probably look like Darth Sion by now.

What you say makes sense. And I did read in one Reddit write-up that said:
This does seem to be talking about downward blows, and strikes to the collarbone and top of the shoulder. I'd imagine the deltoids are valid targets, so would of course ideally also want to be covered up, but I'd imagine that they're not quite as vulnerable to serious damage from a single strike as the collarbone and top of the shoulders are. What you say of pauldrons or spaulders would be optimal for sure though. That said, I probably won't actually be doing "heavy" organized sparring in the immediate future, and I'm more than covered for "medium" sparring, so it is all good for now.

Good stuff, though I'll still eagerly await the day you wear shoulder pads under your shoulder pads. Or even better shoulder pads over your shoulder pads! You can never be too safe.


(http://i.imgur.com/BCfLrgp.jpeg)

So no Shoulder-ception yet, but I did paint the front and back of the armor, but not the shoulders yet. I didn't really weather it, just sort of used a stripping pad to prepare the armor to be painted from whatever they had on it from the factory. I am happy with the results, and I think it matches the rest of my outfit well enough, which is pretty new in appearance. I'll let it gain its own story and wear over time and practice. Would it have looked a bit better right now if I had applied some weathering? Probably, but I am still happy with the results, and I am sure it will continue to evolve over time and gain character. I will likely always be wearing SOMETHING over it, either the long grey robe/cardigan for aesthetic/visual purposes that obscures all but part of the chest, or the dark grey hooded shirt, which covers the entire armor, etc. so it's probably not going to be super noticeable either way a bit of wear and weathering unless I do with the left option where there is nothing over the armor at all.

(https://i.imgur.com/6vz8Ys7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3M5nE2E.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/e979W82.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uqdMo5H.jpg)

The fact that paint is metallic makes it look more like metal plated or coated armor now, it looks more "resistant" now. And it makes sense not wanting to modify it heavily with weathering or scarring if it wont be purely outer-wear styled armor. I get the intent, and yes it does blend into the other grey well; I'm sure it'll now go very well with your helmet too so it's a good outcome in that respect as well.

Thanks. Agreed, if it wasn't a metallic paint, it would probably look too cheap. As you said, it matches the colors I have, and should go very well with the mask, as it's the same exact can of paint I used. You can see a closeup of the paint with light shining on it here:
(https://i.imgur.com/VXio89s.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bFA3ImZ.jpg)

I think that this particular piece works better partially covered. Partially because of the straps and clips and all that, and partially because an over-layer may help keep it perfectly snug and in place better, not that it doesn't fit well standalone.

I ordered a gorget, so I can try to complete my "heavy sparring" outfit. I ordered this one for $27, with lots of good reviews from various sources, and the bib that covers the collarbone/clavicle is something I think will go well with the armor I have, since the chest piece doesn't start at the neckline. I may have to cover the text with some black tape or something though, depending on where it sits I suppose.
(https://www.blackarmoury.com/510-product_largest/gorget-throat-protector-red-dragon.jpg)

This covers the delts, and upper arms, and forearms (inner and outer), and shouldn’t interfere with the torso armor I have at all. It would mean the forearm and elbow protectors I already have would become an alternate pair, perhaps for lighter combat, and the $70 price tag isn’t cheap by any means, but man are they cool. And those shoulder/delt pieces are begging for a Temple Guard logo to be painted on them.
(http://www.supfen.com/uploads/products/hema-protector/hfg5297_pimg2.jpg)

I see that it has 2 sections before you get to the elbow protection, then the forearm.

If you put the Temple Guard symbol on your shoulder, but it still looks barren afterward; you could consider using this in the next section:
(http://i.pinimg.com/originals/e2/4b/4c/e24b4c69751644ad67200ab3439fe6d6.jpg)

It's technically the planetary symbol for Earth, so it would distinguish you as a guardian of this particular planet in essence... Kind of cool for anyone who'd know or basically easily explained in that light. The irony would be if in a psychological warfare aspect it makes opponents tend toward that target zone more because of the subconscious connection to crosshairs... You could always throw your arubesh characters for balance on the forearm if so desired as well. I mean you have tons of possibilities. A lot of blank canvas anyway depending on what you choose. You'll certainly look the part of heavily armored at any rate, and I like the Red Dragon gorget because that signifies some savage imagery. As a Sith I'd leave it! haha

Man, now you're really making me want to pick up the arm armor. What if I put "BALANCE" on the forearm, the Grey Jedi Symbol on the elbows, and the Temple Guard symbol on the shoulders? Almost like an evolution, from Jedi Temple Guard, to nothing (if I leave the upper arm plate blank), to Grey Jedi, to "Balance." Or, if not from my actual background, but having the second stage even be a Sith symbol could illustrate the transition from disillusionment with the Jedi, to swinging to the other extreme of the Sith, then back to the middle with the Grey Jedi, and to balance. I suppose that leaving the second one blank can still work, just going from a Jedi to no affiliation at all, then to a Grey Jedi, but having a symbol on all the parts may be coolest.

Excuse the blurriness of the characters, and the not prefect sizing, but something like this could be pretty cool I'd think.

(https://i.imgur.com/EDvhLER.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kAcfkWq.jpg)

I'm glad to have gotten the gears turning, I like the thought process being like a totem pole in telling a story... You know I enjoy armor or outfits with imbedded meaning so that is a good way to personalize it and elude to the path traveled. A different way to give your armor history, or show the relative separation from a typical knight of the order.

Also if you do incorporate a Sith symbol there are various ones depending on the time period you're associating with (at least according to old lore and EU legends, since obviously I like to incorporate whatever is preferred) though you may have already known that.

Good call on the time period. I suppose that I can always pick a Sith symbol so long as it existed with or before the Temple Guard logo, as it could at least be argued that, if I picked an older Sith symbol, it was because something about that particular era or group of Sith resonated with me. And considering that the Jedi Temple Guards had the logo I'm using as recently as when Anakin was a Jedi, if not more recent than that. So I can pick any ancient Sith symbol if I feel it resonates with me for some reason or another. I guess I should delve into the meaning behind each one.

From what I'm reading:

This one is sometimes said to be the "original" Sith symbol, or from the Banite order:
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/70/9a/4b/709a4b37ebc6c1adfe7438e6ce8d616b.jpg)

This one being the Sith Empire symbol (pre-hyperspace war):
(https://www.clipartmax.com/png/middle/31-315037_sith-star-wars-canon-extended-star-wars-sith-empire-symbol.png)

Revan's symbol, or the Revanchist symbol (updated for the proper logo, which shows the Star Forge shape):
(https://ih1.redbubble.net/image.1400536747.7187/fposter,small,wall_texture,product,750x1000.jpg)

The Sith Empire symbol (post-hyperspace war):
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/Yb8AAOSwq1JZHJTy/s-l400.jpg)

Then of course the Galactic Empire symbol (which was ran by Sith, but not really openly Sith):
(https://starwarsblog.starwars.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/imperialseal.jpg)

I don't want to go with the Galactic Empire symbol, both because I'd prefer a less common symbol, and also because I don't think that it represents what my character would leave the Jedi for. Probably a similar boat with the very similar symbol from the Old Republic era Sith, as I don't think their ideology resonates what what I'm going for either, although I suppose I could be wrong?

The Revanchist symbol is apparently also the symbol of the Rakatan Infinite Empire, which is why Revan adopted it as his own. That could be a good one, as it started out of Revan's desire to act for what he thought was right, against the orders of the Jedi Order. So not a hunger for power initially like some Sith, but action out of felt necessity leading potentially to power and corruption by said power. Before coming back to the Grey Jedi and balance after that.

So I guess it's the Original Sith, the Sith Era after that, or the Revanchist. I don't really know what the first two stand for in as much detail as the Revan symbol though.

The original Sith symbol appears in the Book of Sith at the very start of Sidious' "Absolute Power." Possibly indicative of him wanting to restore the Sith to power and to pull from their long (lost) history?

Thoughts on which one would make the most sense for my character, and also which would look the best with the rest of the arms?

Design with Revan Sith symbol:
(https://i.imgur.com/j9tBbND.jpg)

Design with Original Sith symbol:
(https://i.imgur.com/nWblYFu.jpg)

I'm thinking the more circular design of the Revan symbol may fit the visual theme better, with all three symbols having a predominantly circular design.

And the evolution makes sense. From Jedi Temple Guard to becoming disillusioned with the Order for their inaction, or more accurately, their dogma which often leads to inaction and mis-action, leading to finding a sort of kinship with the legend of Revan and how he abandoned the Jedi to take action when it was necessary, even if it has a cost, before settling into a Grey Jedi role, after learning to better control the dark, and realizing that sometimes it is not possible for one man to save the entire world or galaxy, and that sometimes an "ends justify the means" approach can spiral out of control. And that to conquer oneself and find balance and oneness in the force, not the light side or the dark side, is perhaps a far more challenging endeavor than conquering or saving planets.

Yes, my long laid out plans come to fruition as he descends into Dark Side research... yes yes.

No, I find this an adequate thought process of legitimate considerations. It's a good inquiry. I would ask you how/why in detail or specifically would lead you to disagree with the order fundamentally and there you would have your answer... but I feel I know enough of this from previous conversations and comments. Also in part you eluded to aspects already.

In my estimation you don't simply crave power, nor are you of a tendency to adopt or bow to pure cruelty or tyranny. You'd be less prone to "be evil for the sake of evil", corrupt your ideals, or sow destruction simply walking some dark path on a whim or light urging. Thus I'd rule out Ancient Sith, the Empire (of ep 4-7), or anything like original/banite order in their implications. You don't really embody the "might makes right" or ruling through an iron fist seeking the greater good. You're not conceptually "my might gives the authority for rule" kind of person.

The Pre hyperspace war Sith could be argued for since they became influenced by Dark Jedi outcasts/exiles from the order especially since they held heretical views, similarly the post hyperspace war logo also fits to an extent since they were more cautious and less likely/willing to engage in "full on conflict" to destroy the order having learned from the most recent ordeal... It would be up to you if these imply manifest destiny or consolidation of power toward self serving ends too greatly for your tastes, though they are more recognizably Sith. Although to a certain extent they did value seeking more rounded views of the Force, by not ignoring the Dark Side. And seeking greater depths of ability than pure light side ideological adherence allowed. Your desire to seek out and learn various weapon styles, or train in ways/to extremes the Order might find unsettling or potentially too combative for their tastes does fall similarly/allowably into shades of their thinking perhaps... similar in respects to Dooku.

Though you may have stated it best yourself and I'm almost prone to agree, if anything you'd have fallen more ideologically in line with Revanchist thinking... Chafing against the order for seemingly understandable reasons and potentially philosophically noble pursuits. Torn between guarding the order physically or more so ideologically, standing for something you believe in... I could see you being swayed by such logic, and not being "afraid" to take up a lightsaber for a cause, even willing to engage in savage combat for the greater good of the galaxy or republic. Even if not a true participant, then simply wearing it as an ideological stance/statement (although being a war survivor would explain the spear) finding out about that history could simply have influenced you nearer to the way of thinking that "Jedi inaction" is too similar to apathy or allowing events to be worse without intervention. It's slightly less recognizable as Sith, and I have no clue where it falls in canon currently; but I'd probably call it the best fit for any persona you'd choose (since you could always cosplay different era grey jedi). The Revanchist was polarizing, not to mention admirable in nature, so a good reason to be more grey in response or after learning it's history.

I'd say those are the best options for you philosophically, and falling in line with your Grey Jedi leanings. But ultimately whatever resonates with you most, calls to you thematically, or is your best rationalization will fall in line with your persona best. It's your story, path, and thought process to play out. You'll be the one who really sells the concept in the end, so the decision is ultimately yours to make.

You're comfortable enough with aspects of the Dark Side, so now it's more about defining that comfort zone... If you go into a cave revealing your darkest self, which order of Sith will the one facing you belong to? Then how far from his shadow would you return to the light, if at all?

Response bolded in quote:
I think I will go with the Revanchist, both because it seems to resonate the most with me and my character, and also because I think the symbol goes well with the other two. And I could always even hypothetically embrace a darker role at times if I am saying that my character is still seeking that balance, as I am not quite so arrogant to think that I would already have achieved true enlightenment and balance with the force. So it would still be a line to walk, in seeking to discern when to act, and not to immediately always try to save the galaxy, as it may not always be in my power. Or even to try to conquer oneself would perhaps require one to not constantly seek out people to help by destroying those that oppress them. There is always chaos in the galaxy, so if one has power, they can fight a ceaseless stream of battles to save people and bring justice until they die. Doing good, yes, but perhaps taking the easy path to defeating external enemies instead of attempting to conquer internal ones.

It seems possible that there could be a struggle between acting to save people whenever possible by any means necessary for the greater good (but becoming obsessed with battle, which can bring one closer to darkness, especially if sacrifices have to be made), and helping no one while seeking to win the inner war where you happen to be. Or the middle path of letting the force guide your actions, helping those you feel it brought to you, or you to them, and leaving when the force wills it. Detached from the results of the actions, but doing the actions themselves to the best of your ability. So a lighter path of only acting with as little force or violence as necessary to resolve a situation when it is a small-scale issue (perhaps a thief or a local thug), or a darker path of a preemptive strike on a tyrant hellbent on enslaving planets.

In the words of the Stoic philosopher, Epictetus:
So one could argue that a Grey Jedi could, at times, decide that the force is guiding them to be peaceful and resolve a conflict without violence, and at other times can guide them to lead an army on the battlefield. But to do either one to the best of one's ability, and to be free and at peace during both, is perhaps one form of balance.

how about a vicious lightsaber burn through the jedi symbol to mark a literal break with the order?


Also, look how I incorporated the Sith symbol in my "Dark Apprentice" saber build (linked below)

I wouldn't go too crazy with the symbols on each plate like that (just my preference). Less is more and "just because you can, doesn't mean you should" are my watch phrases in designing. I think you would wear your current affiliation…however defaced logos speak volumes as well

lots of paths to consider

Lol like the Akatsuki headbands
(http://i.pinimg.com/originals/37/a3/69/37a369c3f67864aa969d656d67e25500.jpg)

That's a very nice design (and implementation) of the Sith symbol in your saber. A lightsaber burn though the Jedi symbol would be a unique take, visually and thematically. And it would really only need to be on the Jedi symbol, as if my character moved beyond or abandoned any future affiliations, that initial anger and disillusionment probably wouldn't have been quite so severe as to physically deface the symbol like the first time. I suppose the Revanchist symbol may not be necessary then on the second plate, as a strike though the Jedi symbol would itself illustrate a similar history or path as the Revan symbol (leaving the order after becoming disillusioned with it, but not actually becoming evil out of the desire for power).

Thank you for the input and insights, as usual. If I do end up getting that arm armor, I think I'd print some stencils to see what the various designs would look like on it before actually applying them. It's possible some will look or fit better on certain pieces in person, and maybe one layout will just feel "right." Time will tell I suppose.

Put the painted torso armor on top of the grey hooded shirt, and then with or without the long grey cardigan over it. I also got the Red Dragon gorget, which seems to be comfortable and fit with the outfit. I put on the gorget, then the hooded shirt over it, then the torso armor, and then the mask (since the armor wouldn't fit over the mask), which tucked into the hood. With the option of the cardigan over it all with the belt.

(https://i.imgur.com/XO6fskF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2JHpGlE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/leocXUx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LPBBwTm.jpg)

I also actually think I like the look of the gorget when I take the mask off. It gives a nice "armor" look I'd say.
(https://i.imgur.com/NsLCksh.jpg)

Just waiting on the knee/shin armor to arrive and I'm set, aside from perhaps the full-arm armor to cover the delts. But I'm not really sure that's even necessary.

I suppose back-of-head armor (to attach to the back of the fencing helmet) for HEAVY sparring, but that's getting ahead of myself a little bit.

not too shabby at all! That looks splendid SirL

How do you get the deep blue of the blade to show up so well in these pics?  When I take photos of a blue/purple blade, it shows up as either dim and deep, or bright and washed-out.

The most recent photos are actually with relatively low battery. This is what it looks like in the lighting I have with fresher batteries:
(https://preview.redd.it/vv26tdkc8zb61.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=31136fd3385333982796f02eac44059fe35be0b0)

As for the exacts of the photos, I put my iPhone resting on a shelf or something, and set it to video with the normal camera (not the one for selfies) and record a video. Then I pull screenshots from the video. I’m probably 6-8 feet from the camera, with the light source (a ~6’ tall LED lamp thing) being probably a few feet away from the camera/phone, against the same wall the phone is, if that makes any sense.

Yes, that does make sense, and thanks!

I was almost tempted to reply "Using the Force" or harmonizing with his crystal, or some such obvious joking. But I was more tempted to hear the legit response first. So, low batteries for more interesting color capture from the lightsaber blade... interesting, I mean it makes sense that less "glare" produced from the blade could let the richness of color be captured more vividly. Very cool discovery possibly. Might have to keep some of the old half dead batteries around for some photo shoots to test the theory myself now, under various conditions and blade colors. Nice one.

Took some photos with the standard robe setup, and also the same outfit with the torso armor. Still waiting on the shin/knee guards to complete the sparring setup for now:
(https://i.imgur.com/FkhAW11.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/19J0wYh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gosR8IZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kN83WBe.jpg)

I am happy with it! Also nice that I have multiple options for the undershirt (hooded long-sleeve black compression shirt, turtleneck long-sleeve compression shirt, and hooded dark grey sleeveless shirt), pants (two variations of Thai fisherman pants), forearms (canvas wraps and Century forearm/elbow pads), and gloves (fingerless lifting gloves and padded motorcycle gloves).

love all of it. This has been fun to watch the evolution and I look forward to the next layers. You have chosen wisely (no melting of face!)

Excuse the non-arm parts of today’s outfit. Decided to cover the “CENTURY” text on the forearm/elbow pads with some gaffer tape and write “BALANCE” in Galactic Basic with silver Sharpie on the tape. I decided to have the text face opposite directions from one forearm to the other, that way one is always legible and facing the proper direction. If my arms are at my side, one has the text aligned properly. If I raise my arms in a combat stance, then the other arm is now in balance. I think it’s fairly symbolic.
(https://i.imgur.com/kJtIxEh.jpg)

And gaffer tape is easily removable, so I can always take it off and replace it if I want to wash it, or make it look cleaner.

Too awesome, even from a distance they're visible and noticeable to someone who is familiar. I feel it's pretty clever still as a concept, and good added reinforcement of ideology with the orientation of each section mirroring the other.

really nice touch! I love a simple and well thought out detail like that

Thanks guys!

Got the shin/knee guards. They seem to fit well, and I am more limited by my flexibility than by them so far for moving and kicking (hip flexibility is there, but not the hamstring flexibility). I will have to test them out with more extended moving and footwork, but so far so good. So the sparring outfit is read, with the possible exception of something to cover the delts.

(https://i.imgur.com/Q1vNPx4.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/qPkjdNA.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/eqZ2kkz.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/2HAvKR9.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/XhKSUJr.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/LRl8yBp.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/bqj2Sse.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/gF7kbih.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/MDYx5mx.png)

And I didn't have enough space to practice with the saberstaff indoors, but I did get a chance to use the nunchucks in the full outfit. Nothing too much, just some nice easy practice. Still able to move and have full range of motion with all the pads/armor/mask, etc:

https://i.imgur.com/c89RukT.mp4

I do like how those shin guards finish the overall look as far as being lightly armored, they compliment the other pieces of armor well and streamline the look. These are my 2 favorite shots, they captured the look I'd think of when wandering through a game and running across a battle that's about to happen or like an event trigger. Just that "yep, s***'s about to go down" vibe. Some pieces of it all reminded me of some Revan fan art I'd seen too, which is always a good thing.

Bah du bup bup bahhh.....I'm lovin' it!

You need to now go and find a dramatic location for a sweet "on-set" photo!

The only thing that "I" would consider is maybe a set of pauldrons for over the shoulder joints....but that's just me.

Thanks. Those are my two favorite photos too I think. Agreed on Revan as well; can't go wrong with Revan.
Thanks! My community has a small beach and a pier, so if the weather is good and I don't mind walking there in costume, I think that would work well.

As for pauldrons or whatever you call deltoid armor, agreed, although they would have to be fairly non-bulky, as to not interfere with the top-of-shoulder armor I already have, since mobility is important. I suppose the fencing arms that cover all the way from the delts to the forearms would be ideal, considering they look great and are slim, but $70, plus shipping perhaps, is more than I'd like to spend for something that should really just be a "finishing touch."

If you, or anyone, has ideas for delt armor that would be functional and not super pricey, it would be greatly appreciated.

honestly if you got a pattern from evil ted or kamui cosplay, Eva foam would work just fine. I know you'd like combaat friendly armor but even a quick cosmetic item like that would do the trick and still have some protective function

Thanks for the idea. I know basically nothing about EVA foam. Any protection is better than none, but how does it handle repeated impacts? Is it likely to distort after being hit? I was almost thinking of just getting sufficiently large PVC pipe and cutting it to a proper shape, attaching some straps, and painting the whole thing the same silver as the armor and then adding the Grey Jedi symbol to it. But I'd definitely have to experiment a good bit to see if that would look halfway decent and not inhibit mobility.

I'd looked at some Samurai shoulder armor and leather options a bit for your problem, but they were either expensive or impractical. Your idea sounds like a good starting point potentially. If only life came with a Halo Spartan armor customization engine you can just engage...

Thanks. Yeah, I saw some like that, but they all seemed to either be too much/bulky to work with the torso armor I have, or were pretty close to the $70 the other arm armor would be, at which point I’d just get those. An option to test out armor visually like in a video game would be sweet. I’m sure VR will be there one day.

"Nope, nope, not that one either... oh bulletproof, water resistant, and one size fits all! Even in my fav color, done deal!"   *scans sub dermal chip in wrist*

"Order confirmed, railgun fired capsule containing the fully automated delivery drone will be in flight to you within 15 minutes or it's free."

Proof-of-concept for a thigh holster for the nunchucks, so I can keep them with me while also using the saberstaff. Using the nuncuck case I got when I bought the nunchucks, and two large dog collars for the straps. They're just taped on for now, but I'll have to come up with a better way to adhere them for a final design. It does not seem to conflict with the knee/shin armor, or with the lightsaber in the belt clip on the same side.
(https://i.imgur.com/F3lhKLR.jpg)

The little paws on the clips should probably be covered/sanded/replaced though haha. Not really a very Temple Guard or Grey Jedi symbol I suppose.

Upgraded the nunchuck thigh rig. I knocked out the clips and replaced them with the same style circular carabiners. I still found that it tended to slip down a bit over time, so I added a loop on the top to attach to the belt, which would serve to keep it from falling down, even if the two thigh straps became loose. It worked very well, but then I realized if I had the belt over the robe as I normally do, I couldn't have that configuration, as the robe would be in the way of the attachment point. So I switched the attachment point on the belt to be more towards the front than the side, and used one of the extra ring-type things on the upper thigh strap as the attachment point. It serves essentially the same purpose now, but it is slightly suboptimal, as the holster can slightly rotate now if the thigh straps come loose. But it's still fully functional, it's more of a minor aesthetic nagging point I suppose. All points are adjustable; the two thigh straps and the strap that connects the rig to the belt. That said, I do have to play around with the adjustments and sizing a bit, as the thigh ones are a bit loose, and the connector is a bit tight, as I now see it sort of pulled the belt down a bit. I don't have to wear it all the time, and I probably wouldn't wear it when sparring, as I don't think people would appreciate me sparring with nunchucks, but I think it's a cool and fun addition to the overall outfit and versatility.

A work in progress, always evolving:

(https://i.imgur.com/dRbFob6.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/LzmEx36.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/xxlP9Y3.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/SV5hlF2.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/LbnZ3XP.png)

looks good. Its interesting to see the small tweaks  as you continue .

Thanks. It’s more of a situational thing than anything I suppose, as I don’t think I’d actually wear it when sparring, both because it may still be a little bit restricting, and because I’d rather not have them risk getting hit, even though they’re made out of the same materials as the lightsaber is, but perhaps not heavy grade to take repeated dueling impacts.

Bu if I were to go to a convention or event in the future, I think it would be pretty cool to be able to keep the staff and nunchucks on my person without having to hold them or anything and while still remaining totally in-costume, not having to put them in the carrying case I have. Although the case does fit them both very well.

I suppose it’s just another fun little project, and more options is generally something I enjoy having.

Decided to practice some basic flourishes and stance changes inspired by Maul in his fight with Ahsoka in The Clone Wars. Practiced with a wooden staff first the other day, and today for the first time with the saberstaff. The next step is to try too add in some Maul-inspired strikes after it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frFwdvWLnqI&feature=youtu.be# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frFwdvWLnqI&feature=youtu.be#)

But the real highlight is when the one-handed spinning activated the quick release coupler and sent one of the blades flying with some respectable hang time. Not really sure what the remedy to that is for times when there's a good deal of one-handed spinning with the sole grip exactly on the coupler in the center of the staff.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTQbOnnE_uI&feature=youtu.be# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTQbOnnE_uI&feature=youtu.be#)

Been a little while, so I figured an update is in order. Been practicing spinning, forms, and pell training since I last posted.

QR coupler needed a good cleaning, not sure if I mentioned that here, although I know I discussed it somewhere. It was getting rather difficult to separate, and impossible to join together without activating the coupler. So put a few drops of lubricant into the four little nubs/balls, and let it sit. Fixed it right up, good as new at the least. Easy to separate, and simple to re-join without activating the coupler first. It did create some nasty black/grey residue on the internal parts of the coupler that would rub off on anything the male end touched when it was separated, likely due to the lubricant dislodging accumulated gunk if I had to guess (?), but nothing a little cleaning didn't fix. Should be good as new in all regards now.

That said, as much as I love the o-rings, they do like to shift a bit after some spinning. This is really not an issue with the QR coupler on, as it really limits how far any ring can actually slide. But if I'm using the standard flush coupler, they can shift a lot further, which can mess with my grip a little bit. Replacing them every so often as they get loose has worked, and they're pretty cheap, but I don't know if that's the best idea to have to continually replace. Again, it's not a terrible issue with the QR coupler, but it can get a little bit irksome. Perhaps some form of leather-wrapping would be in order? I'll have to think it over, look for some inspiration and see what options are out there.

Still thinking about what to do for deltoid armor. There's always the fencing full deltoid/upper-arm/elbow/forearm fencing ones for $70, but considering I already have elbow/forearm pads, this is a bit pricey. This neck and shoulder armor is under $30, but they currently don't have the padded part in black (only beige with black armor portions), and not in my size in either color. I also probably don't need more neck padding given that I have an actual fencing gorget too.

I guess I could try to find some similar smaller shoulder armor pads and adhere them to the torso armor I already have?
(https://26r1162iqrnz10wquy34bg3o-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/MCI-3075.jpg)

Finally put up the wall mounts for the sabers, and improvised something for the fencing mask:
(https://i.imgur.com/WPx5EDh.jpg)

Got a better photo by using my camera's flash with the sabers lit up, to make the mask design more visable:
(https://i.imgur.com/NFAzwof.jpg)

Nice wall display! Point.

Removed the o-rings and added some leather wrap. The adhesive seems to be doing its job, but I'm not going to test them out until tomorrow.

 I ordered one black and one white wrap to see which one I liked better, and decided to go with one of each, for a yin-yang look. The black one isn't perfect in that it starts a tad far from the coupler and isn't totally flush at the top edge by the button, but I'd still say I'm quite pleased with how the finished products look given my experience working with leather, that is to say none.

(https://i.imgur.com/8EueofM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/d8MQHjl.jpg)

Look at how busy you've been! Pretty dang impressive overall. I really like that leather wrap! I hope it works out functionally well, in addition to looking great. I know you (like me) pride you lightsaber's combat functionality over sheer appearance. It's been a pleasure watching them evolve as you customize and personalize them little by little.

Interesting holster rig for the saberchucks that also functions for your staff when split. Good idea for convention going and such. Your need/desire for those shoulder pads is something I'd struggled with providing any ideas on for sure. Everything is either expensive or conflicts with other item zones needlessly. It's hard to find something that fills that particular gap in your armor setup.

Anyway, glad to see you got that wall mount done! It looks pretty dang good, and I'm sure you're pleased with it. It's ironic there is a bit of balance present between the blue and red blades as well. Like you're arguably more light aligned, but there is a bit of darkness in there too. You've for sure accomplished a pretty great overall outfit and armor setup since your first lightsaber(s) arrived. Well done good Sir. Needless to say, a point is on the way.

Thanks! So unfortunately it looks like the lightsabers aren't done being modified and tweaked. I forgot that I like to put a bit of tape on the bottom of the hilts where the pommel/coupler attaches to keep it from spinning loose (half the tape on the coupler/pommel and half on the hilt), so some of that tape will have to be on the leather. Not the biggest deal in the world, as the gaffer tape is meant not to leave residue when taken off. And also the end parts of the leather wrap (towards the emitters) pulled itself loose after some spinning. I think my fingers sort of pushed it up and wore out the adhesive. So my current solution, as I already tried more contact adhesive, is yet again another strip of gaffer tape around the top to hold it in place. This tape will also have to be removed every so often if it comes loose, but hopefully it should allow the leather wraps to do their job. I don't want to use super glue because then it would never be removable really.

Also, the white leather wrap has already started to get pretty dirty, I suppose it will become grey soon. Apparently my saber doesn't want to remain entirely on the light side.

You can see here the greying of the white leather, as well as the additional tape strips on either end of either leather wrap.

(https://i.imgur.com/koETWNI.jpg)

On a side note, I found a nice area in my community that I can use as a good backdrop for filming. Maybe I'll do a little test footage there.

Your saber should look dirty…unless you are a space chicken who ddoesn't fight but just looks pretty?!? :P

That's actually quite reassuring. Oh, trust me, there's some "imperfections." A few scuffs on the metal here and there from dropping it, some greying of the white leather, etc. But it does give it some character, character that will continue to evolve and adapt over time to better suit my needs.

Or a master of the Force, whom can crush opponents without using a lightsaber...


Yeah, I was going to say something but figured done was done, or you'd use them enough that you'd find out soon enough anyway. Rigorous training leads to sweat, and it's a catalyst for natural transfer of dirt from the hands or "staining". Part of why you have to rewrap sword hilts periodically in addition to them just getting looser over time.

Luckily since it's a seemingly "easily" replaceable wrap you could just trade the white out (if desired) the day before a convention style event. Then they'd look more pristine, and clean gloves help to reduce dirt transfer some.

Good points. The wraps are a hair under $10 each, including shipping, and they should be able to provide two wraps. That is, each one should be good for the initial application and a subsequent replacement. I'd imagine I'd perhaps have to clean any residual adhesive off the hilts before reapplying the wraps, but it's a pretty simple process. So it's really $5 to replace the white leather wrap. And good point on the gloves. I do have the fingerless gloves, which would be half a solution, and then the motorcycle gloves which are full gloves and can help. But I have dropped the saber more than once in grass/dirt, so some level of it getting some discoloration is inevitable. But good call on perhaps replacing it before an event if I want it to look pristine. But it does seem to be achieving the intended purpose of being more "stable" than the o-rings, after the addition of some tape that is. I just ordered some white gaffer tape as well, so I'll see if that looks better than the black tape on the white leather.

I also have another fun little project I think I'll give an update on soon. Stay tuned!

Got in some practice with some scenery. Excuse the sloppy form on some of the spins, it was late, and I was tired. My best (first) run wasn't recorded as my camera fell down halfway through, so this was the best I actually have recorded. Full costume here would be nice I'd say!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2HwATAbq8M# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2HwATAbq8M#)

Picked up a NERF Galaxy's Edge Bounty Hunter Blaster (the same as the Qi'Ra one, but with different colors). Of course the first thing I did (after testing it out with a single on-target shot, but more on that later) was paint it using the black and silver spray paint I already had on hand.

From this:
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/KR0AAOSwFdRgOb7a/s-l1600.jpg)

To this, making sure to leave plenty of orange tip, as not to have it be confused with an actual gun. This also helped to allow the front of the "barrels" to still light up properly:
(https://i.imgur.com/a748RdB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GJrNSgA.jpg)

I taped over the small strip where you can see some blue, as the strip between the two blue portions lights up red when the trigger is pulled, and I wanted to retain that feature.

Here you can see the light, as well as the blaster sound it makes, which has decent speed, much faster than you can shoot it, considering it only holds two darts and has to be cocked before each shot:

https://i.imgur.com/JnpS8mC.mp4

The darts it came with (4) sort of glow in the dark, which is cool, but their accuracy was hit or miss. The first shot I took was good on a person-sized target from 20', but from after that, it was "only" good for torso-sized accuracy from 10-15', with very variable results from 20-25'. I thought I had messed something up with the paint, since I had only fired a single shot first, and it happened to be perfect. But after picking up a pack of 200 Adventure Force darts for $10, the accuracy has been vastly improved. 15' is essentially a lock on a torso-sized target, and 20' is also impressively accurate. Pushing out to 25' brings the impact lower than the point of aim, but still pretty impressively on-point laterally. I have read that these darts sacrifice some range for accuracy, which seems consistent with my experience. See the video below for a ~20' shot on a torso sized target. Note the sound effect, s well as the front of the barrel having a light when it's cocked that does off after shooting, a nice little feature.

https://i.imgur.com/gqONiuW.mp4

For $20 (with 4 darts that are hit or miss but glow in the dark a bit), after painting I'd say it's quite impressive. And 200 improved darts for an extra $10, and it's a really fun item/prop for $30. A review I read said it's ~45-50 MPH out of the barrel, so a bit slower out to 15-20', so the next thing is to see if I can BLOCK BLASTER BOLTS WITH A LIGHTSABER!

Hi SirLiftaLot,

Yes it does seem as if great minds think alike! That S-195 does make a nice looking prop, especially with the dulled silver grey barrel colour.

Regards darts and accuracy, there are modifications you can do to NERFs such as spring replacements (improve range) You can see a short tutorial here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYOUZRJs-1Q# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYOUZRJs-1Q#)

The accuracy problems are the darts themselves - upgrading to Adventure Force brand was a pretty wise move. Another thing to remember with this pistol is that it has twin barrels that operate off one plunger tube using a Smart Air Restrictor to channel the airflow to each barrel in turn - and I think the second barrel may shoot decidedly weaker than the primary.

I have yet to modify/paint mine yet but this is the model I chose - Firestrike (with "Laser" targetting system)
(https://ftsabersite.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/for-firestrike.jpg)

I'll keep you updated as and when I make progress (I have to wait for better weather so I can spray paint outdoors as I live in a tower bock!)
point incoming.

Sweet. I'll check out that video, and I'll have to check out if the second barrel is weaker than the first. Looking forward to seeing your customizations. I'm really thinking about seeing how lightsaber sparring would work with NERF guns added into the mix. One that have to be cocked or pumped before each shot, to keep it fair, that way you can try to dodge or block darts, and the reload time leaves you vulnerable to being rushed.

I don't know how easy it would be to get hold of one but NERF did make a motorised tank that could fire off rounds almost like a Terminator Hunter Killer. You might find one in a Goodwill or similar thrift store but one with the remote control might be rare.

It might have a bit too high a rate of fire for your training purposes but it would be interesting. Non motorised, "Springer" blasters would be the best choice and fair.

So you CAN block them! I had someone shoot some darts from the painted Bounty Hunter at 15-20', and I managed to block a few with my saber. I got hit the same number of times as I blocked them, but still, pretty cool to see that it's doable. I think the stock spring is perfect for this application. It's fast and accurate enough to reliably hit a person from 20 feet away, but still slow enough to have a reasonable (if not easy) chance to deflect or dodge it. I feel like a kid again. Probably the closest to a Jedi I've felt.

Ok…now y'all are making me want to go NERF shopping…

Dew it! I'm reading that the Adventure Force Aeon Pro is $25 and shoots ~135 FPS with the Adventure Force darts. It also doesn't look half bad:
(https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/c2238978-00d6-41a8-b5a8-7fbcdb9c55a0.d69f86ec094053f4671a34288d79f087.jpeg)

But I'm still glad my first purchase was a Star Wars design with lights and sound, and a speed that's a good compromise between short-medium range accuracy and still being able to block with a saber. Still tempted to pick one of these up though. Having longer range accuracy means I can try to block the darts from farther away without having to lob them in an arc, which means more time to try to track them in the air to deflect.

I like the look of this blaster but at 50 Euros ($60 or £43) it is a bit more than I can probably justify spending. However I have had my eye on the Nerf Rival Kronos and the Zuru X-Shot Meteor (round ball ammo) blasters which I have seen priced at $16 and $22 respectively.

The Kronos probably looks more "in-universe" and would fit a holster better but the Meteor has a cool "knuckleduster" handgrip like a beefier Biker Scout blaster with the magazine built in the foregrip.

Man, I really seem to have fallen to the Darkside and embraced these uncivilised blasters!

Those both look pretty nice, and I can totally see both of them looking like they’d belong in-universe with the right paint job.

It looks like the balls are intended to be faster/harder than the darts? I’m reading that the one I have is ~70 FPS, while the Aeon is around 135 FPS. While the Kronos and X-Shot are 90-100 FPS with the balls. Are the balls a lot heavier to the point where a ball at 90 FPS would have a lot more force behind it than a dart at 90 FPS? From what I read, people were really surprised that the Aeon was shooting 135+ FPS stock. I guess the balls would last longer and be more durable than the darts?

I think the idea was that Ball Ammo would be more dense than a dart so theoretically fly more accurately and further but I'm no ballistics expert so am not sure. I do know that the Ball Ammo had higher FPS than regular NERF Elite darts but the numbers vary so much (I have seen a stock Firestrike hit 100fps).

It's a case of win some/lose some with the Ball Ammo (they are easier to lose apparently) and only in the past fortnight or so Hasbro announced a new range/generation of Ball blasters called the HYPER range. This has fps around the 90-100 fps range but the ammo is around two thirds the size of a current NERF Rival ball (meaning you can have 4x as much ammo in a magazine hopper). And some numbers that have been calculated for rate of fire are around 30-40 rounds per minute - from a motorised flywheel blaster!

But the Adventure Force Aeon did surprise a lot of the experts online. I think (though not 100% certain) the improved FPS might be down to the Aeon having a brass barrel as it comes with replacement  O-Ring seals for the breech.
And finally, I think Ball Ammo would keep their shape better over time than a dart would but as with all things this could vary depending on how you treat/store and how often you use them.

Yes, more training or focus certainly required... though I guess it's very Jedi to not be able to block them all.

That sounds like great fun, all kidding aside. I think, from a bit of experience, if I remember properly then the ball style do last better over time. And should be better suited to deflection without damage over time. Though this was all soooo many years ago, idk if they fire much faster in comparison these days. Getting plenty of training in deflecting shots sounds like a super good time. I'm wondering if you used the full staff or with it separated? I hope you used a blindfold...and of course the Force.

I do agree the balls would likely hold up better over time to impact, but at $10 per 200 darts (5 cents each), it’s not the end of the world if a few get messed up by being blocked.

I used just one single blade, as it was indoors due to it being dark out at the time. I’d prefer to use the staff, due to having more blade area, and I also want to see if some spins can block the darts effectively or not.

This is awesome, SLL!  Wonderful form  :)

Thank you for the kind words!

Just picked up the Aeon Pro. Sometimes the magazine seems like it doesn't want to come out, but other than that, which is probably some level of operator error, the thing is an absolute monster. Using the stock half-length darts, at 25' (the farthest straight line I have available indoors), it's absolutely insane. Completely flat trajectory as far as I can tell, but that's only based on point of impact, since I can't see the dart traveling at all. If you can block a dart from this blaster at that distance, you'd have me convinced you're actually an adept Jedi or Sith.

The Bounty Hunter blaster proved good to hit a 1 liter bottle at 15-20' pretty reliably, which is very pleasing to me. Very curious to see how far the Aeon Pro can reliably reach. Very pleased with both of them. The Bounty Hunter is $20 for a Star Wars licensed product with sounds and lights, good out to 20', and the Aeon Pro has a 12 round magazine and is an absolute beast in terms of speed for $25.

Some people may have the following thought going from one blade to two:
(https://i.imgflip.com/1yyrdh.jpg)

However:
(https://i.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/001/740/081/caa.jpg)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9qfRoAz-jM# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9qfRoAz-jM#)

And this isn't even my final form. Four blades anyone?

HA, oh the Frieza quote ftw! Well done on both accounts. Being able to stare down Grievous and say "oh, how many arms do you need for 4 blades? Should have been training more instead of upgrading." Nice one...

Thanks! Still waiting on the fourth blade, but I did manage to make an adapter that will allow the use of US/MHSv1 parts with VHC parts, so I can use my US pike extension and PVC pike extension with VHC hilts, and also use the US QR coupler with VHC hilts.

I'm also playing around with the idea of making a saber three-section staff that converts into a saberstaff. So it would be a hollow 15-24" center portion, with 10-12" hilts and 12" blades on each side. And the nunuchuck-style chains will store into the center portion, and the "pommels/couplers" will allow the hilts to screw into the center portion, creating a 5' to 6' (depending on the total lengths) staff. So it can function as a three-section staff, a saberstaff (with a LONG hilt and SHORT blades), or even a flail type weapon with one side screwed into the center piece and one not. I just have to figure out the design that will make it all work. It will be similar in function to some nunchucks I have that collapse/screw together into a baton. I'm sure TCSS has some pieces that will get the job done!

That would be pretty dang cool to see...

Good job on the mods to the couplers as well, sounds rather versatile.

Thank you. Someone already made an awesome saberstaff that converts to a three section staff. Here’s a picture of how it works. It’s actually an ingenious design, where the thumb screws allow the end pommels to secure into the notches in the center grip.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRT6ENw_ueY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRT6ENw_ueY)

I think I’d be able to do something similar if I used US/MHSv1 MPS pommels with a D-ring and a quick link attached to chain, and a thumb screw attached to the pommel. I’d then need an 18-24” length of MHS v1 sleeve, so the diameter is sufficient enough to fit over the ends, and then cut some “L” notches into either end to allow the thumb screw to pass through and secure the blades. I know TCSS offers services to add screw holes to parts for a good price, but I’m not aware of them offering cutting into pieces to make the “L” cuts, although I suppose anyone who works with legal could do that in about 2 minutes with basic tools haha.

So that would need:

2x: MPS Pommel (with drilled hole) & D-ring insert & thumb screw & quick link
1x: 18-24” MHSv1 sleeve (with “L” slits)
2x: nunchuck style chain links with sufficient length to run from center of center grip to quick link on either pommel, with two screws running through center grip to hold them in center.

The other option, which is what I’ll be attempting first, is to just use the 15” US pike extension I already have, and attempt to attach the two hilts I have to that. Using MHSv1 to MHSv2 adapters, I can hipefillu create a bottleneck that will allow me to place a ring inside the thicker v1 part that will keep it from passing through the v2 hole, and attach my links and chains to those, which would mean I can screw the 3 sections together like any staff coupler normally would, and the rings would still be able to slide within the thicker MHSv1 center pike extension, allowing for the chains to rest in the center price when joined as a staff. This, if it works, requires:

2x: MHSv1 male to MHSv2 female adapters, MHSv1 male to MHSv2 male adapters

4x: quick links (very cheap)

4x: SOMETHING to serve as the ring that will prevent the chain from leaving the thin v2 end, but allow it to move within the thicker v1 end.

I also have another idea or two I’m considering. But the three section staff would need ~12” blades, so that’s another thing I’d need.

Nice =] Where did you get the grey surcoat/tabbard bit from again? I might have to get me one but in a different color :P

Thanks. If it’s the long grey one, it’s from Amazon:

“Men's Lightweight Ruffle Shawl Collar Cardigan Open Front Long Length Drape Cape Overcoat”

I cut off the sleeves. Size large. I’m 5’10” 150lbs for reference.

You can find them on Amazon or sometimes super-cheap on AliExpress. I got me one in BLACK!

Which Ripper Blades spearhead do you all like the look of better. Ignore the color differences, it's just about the design of the spearhead itself:

Option A: 8"
(https://i.etsystatic.com/21432110/r/il/8f2052/2669670821/il_794xN.2669670821_1wd9.jpg)

Option B: 10"
(https://i.etsystatic.com/21432110/r/il/b280f6/2621990612/il_794xN.2621990612_os34.jpg)

It's $30 for A or $40 for B, so not a terrible difference in price. Option A is a bit shorter, but more aggressive looking, while Option B is a bit longer and more traditional looking. Thoughts?

"A" for me…looks wicked with either

A kinda screams kill-tastic to me, so I vote for extra dangerous. It looks like it'd leave the more savage wound channel, thus makes me happier.

Thank you both for the input.

Here's my best Pong Krell impression:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n5HHrdLT6E# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n5HHrdLT6E#)

And here's a sneak preview of what is right now an unwieldy convertible nunchuck/pike saber that will become a convertible three-section-staff/bo-staff/flail(?) once I have two more adapters for the other end of the center pike extension. The blade plug is, of course, too short, and the 24" blade is, of course, too long. So some 8-12" blades would probably be a good balance.

https://i.imgur.com/lzAF7ap.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/lzAF7ap.mp4)
https://i.imgur.com/8lLIX1a.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/8lLIX1a.mp4)
https://i.imgur.com/MLfMrkl.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/MLfMrkl.mp4)
https://i.imgur.com/JxRM3ci.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/JxRM3ci.mp4)

It functions essentially the same way the nunchuck/baton I have does, where the chain functions as a typical nunchuck chain when separated, but can collapse into one of the grips when the ends screw together, with a piece inside preventing the chain from leaving the center grip. That is, it can go into the center grip entirely, but cannot detach from it, only extend fully from it.

Some preliminary testing for my saber design that allows for switching from nunchucks to a staff/baton simply by screwing and unscrewing the two ends. Needs longer blades (but not full-length blades), and I plan on adding a center pike extension between the two (and one more chain) allowing conversion between a three-section staff, a bo staff, and a flail thing with one end attached and one with the chain.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OInJ4FpFQI# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OInJ4FpFQI#)

Testing the Converta-Saber out with actual decent length blades this time:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TyDiOsbfTYI&t=27s# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TyDiOsbfTYI&t=27s#)

Man, that's some death defying near dismemberment if I'm thinking of those plasma blades swirling around on that chain. Experience and focus seem to keep them well under control, but my eyes were just following them and waiting (like I'm going to hear flesh sizzle and you cry out in agony at the slightest mistake! lol)... but it's interesting to see with the longer blades now. Kinda cool concept so far in my mind, can't wait to see it's final evolutions along the design path. Keep up the good work.

Thanks. I trimmed the blades down in that video relative to how I had them before, which helped a lot to avoid what would be a few dismemberments. I'm happy with the blade length now.

Back to traditional saberstaff use, here's a cool new move, or combination of two moves, I picked up. It's the two-handed underarm spin I've been practicing, leading into the inverse or opposite of that spin facing the other direction. So the first part is spinning downwards, and then turning and spinning upwards. This can be done standing still and rotating the body, or by stepping into the direction switch. Both spins can also each be continued stationary or moving forwards or backwards themselves, so they lend themselves well to advancing, retreating, changing direction, striking, and just general flow.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l97lB3FSLA# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l97lB3FSLA#)

Converta-Saber, now in three sections. Also with one end being a Ripper Clone mini spearhead. Balance is fine with that blade on one end as a single solid staff so far. No idea about as a three-section-staff yet though.(https://i.imgur.com/WoaDXrv.jpg)

That 3 section saber looks cool, pretty dang interesting. And I do like the spearhead as well, pretty unique.

Skills +1

LEVEL UP x+1

YOU HAVE UNLOCKED: JEDI TORNADO, SCRUFFY NERF HERDER & BIB FORTUNA'S MYNOCK  LASAGNA RECIPE

I'm both intrigued to see that move in action, and my mouth waters at the thought of such an exotic dish.

And now I want a saber with pike extensions and that spear blade...

Ikr, half of me screams "just walk away, maybe even walk quickly" and the rest just ignites my own lightsaber thinking "come on, if you live you walk away with prizes. Yes tempting fun with rewards, what's a hand or leg..."
They do inspire a good mix of intimidation and envy. Weapons exuding fear and respect are my cup of tea for sure. If 95% of beings will see it and just go NOPE and run you've got the right theme going. But of course in SW people always think "oh, I got this". Heck, I don't even want to think about what it'd feel like gazing myself with that spear head in training. Looks like you'd feel it (bare minimum) if it was spinning with some speed and clips you. Walking into a table style of pain.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tjed5LuCU9M# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tjed5LuCU9M#)

First time practicing with my saberstaff in-costume. I had forgotten that it had rained for three days, so the ground was pretty slick and muddy. Almost fell a few times, but managed to stay on my feet, so I decided to cut the session short before that changed. Palm frond also got in the way pretty frequently. Florida problems I suppose. Better weather and awareness of local flora should make for an improved future session.

you showed that plant who is the boss in those parts!  nice share!

wowsers!
 :o

Not bad, looks good. Though yes, it would have been tragic to muck up your outfit on the 1st run through. Looks like you're getting pretty comfortable with that there weapon... and we know what that means, if you get comfortable it's time to train harder! Kidding (sort of), good work.

That would have been rather unfortunate, although I suppose that's one way to add some "authentic weathering" to an outfit!

Tank you. There is always room to learn, improve, and dial up the training a notch or two!

Now that I have a Ripper Blade spearhead, I can really pull off the Jedi Mortal Kombat look off I'd say:

(https://i.imgur.com/Ikm8I2W.png)

Deadliest corss-over ever. I mean the possibilities for Fatalities are endless and horrifying.

I do kind of like the thought of that spear head with a lightsaber blade on the back end. Held spear pointing forward and longer blade in a reverse grip, it'd be interesting in a fight.

Love it. When I'll go for the US yari pike, I know I'll get one of those ripper blades to go with it.

Man, every time I see it, that unintentional MK vibe is getting closer and closer to the epic win category. Especially with the movie on the horizon... a well done photo with a good backdrop (like where you were training) might get a ton of hits on Imgur. This just makes me smile, especially since it's borderline sinister with those added connotations. I can just hear the MK theme playing in my head while watching you kick some butt. It keeps on reminding me of the Soul Caliber games featuring Vader and Yoda. And I know people in the MK universe wouldn't flinch at a lightsaber, it wouldn't be the craziest thing they'd seen so I'm thinking they'd shrug it off and still try and fight. It's just too much fun.

Cyrax did use a laser sword thingy in MK Deadly Alliance ^^'

Hi there, yeah something like this...
(https://ftsabersite.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/liftalot-mortal-kombat-2.jpg)

But done by a professional photographer of course!
Your outfit has certainly developed since we chatted about body armour!
point incoming.

This is insane xD I love it.

OMG FT, I have tears in my eyes now... Thank you for that, you're truly priceless. It's scary how well this fits with the level of BA that Sir can pull off... Now he has his own poster. We needed to make this happen before the most recent movie was filmed so he could have been cast as an extra in the background or getting pummeled by one of the main cast. Either way I've had my laugh for the day now so I thank all involved. This is so cool I want to print out a copy and use it as a sleeve/insert on the videogame case next time I pick up a MK game. This is probably the coolest yet satisfyingly humorous thing I've witnessed in weeks. Bravo, point for you FT.

This is awesome! Straight out of a Mortal Combat character selection screen! Well done with the edit.

Glad you like it, I just had a few minutes spare and wondered how you'd look as a video game star! It was a quick edit but it does feature a proper Industrial Light and Magic blade effect.

Thanks to you guys too. I like to keep my photo editing skills sharpened (I started out doing edits like this before moving onto 3D modelling)

ROUND 1…FIGHT!!!

That all looks amaze-balls!

Hi SirLiftaLot,

Darth Prodigal brought to my attention a small error I made with the original backdrop image so I have rectified it. There was a small protrusion coming off your shoulder that was part of the shelving behind you and I missed erasing part of it (then as I looked at the image I thought it was a piece of your armour showing so didn't remove the part I missed  ::) )
All fixed now though, here's the corrected version:

(https://ftsabersite.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/liftalot-mortal-kombat-2-1.jpg)

Thank you for your dedication to the craft! Way to go above and beyond. I truly do appreciate it!

Well, for such a magnificent costume I had to put in equal effort  ;D but to be honest it was fun doing this image. I have done a bit of "art" for other members in the past and when I saw your portraits and the words "Mortal Kombat" I just had a flash of inspiration to do this.
Let me know if you want a larger copy or one without my watermark and we'll work something out.

Thank you. Yeah, a larger copy would be sweet. Without the watermark would be nice was well, but the way you added the watermark, it's very subtle and doesn't detract from the design, and you're more than deserving of the recognition. The only thing I'd be worried about is if cropping the image to make it fit somewhere hypothetically clipped out the watermark, so if there's something you want to work out, I'd be MORE than happy to talk about it to not have to worry about unintentionally doing you wrong in any way! I'll message you now.

Hi there SirLiftaLot,

Thanks for the consideration and politeness! I have replied to your PM and included a few more resized versions for you without watermarks - should make nice desktop backgrounds  ;D

Ok, that'd be a bit funny for sure. Someone who didn't know about his "hobby" seeing a desktop background or screensaver and doing a double take... Thinking it's mortal kombat at first glance, and then upon further inspection thinking perhaps he's living a double life fighting crime (or perhaps perpetrating it). I mean the full outfit makes him almost unrecognizable with the mask added but I'm thinking an acquaintance or family might recognize the biceps lol. Sorry I take such joy in something so simple... too many years of "create a character" games makes this just too good. I now wanna download your persona as an NPC to assist me with quests, missions, and fights. SirLiftaLot has joined your party, +5 to party member strength stats!

It has been done! I now have deltoid armor! Picked up a pair of lacrosse bicep pads on Amazon Prime for under $20 shipped, thinking they'd look like this:
(https://www.lax.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-lax-products/default/dw2e2bac58/spike-folder/Warrior/2021/Box/FB%20Bicep/warrior-fatboy-box-bicep-pad-1.jpg)
Which would be fine, if not optimally color-coordinated with my outfit, but they ended up being these:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0327/6272/4490/products/media_3110436d-d9d9-4247-9682-38ba906a5bef_1920x.jpg?v=1606112998)
Which fit my grey/black theme much better.

So here's the full sparring outfit, without any robe/cardigan, both to better show off exactly what parts are covered, as well as because a full-length robe/cardigan could be a bit cumbersome while sparring. A similar grey sleeveless cardigan that doesn't drop down past the knees may be a nice alternative here though.
(https://i.imgur.com/wrbsflb.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/W3irv1G.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/FatjnIS.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/aHhU9Ak.png)

And a quick movement test, where the limited indoor space was the limiting factor much more than any of the sparring gear, which is a good sign:

https://i.imgur.com/PuprFS0.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/PuprFS0.mp4)

There's also a Red Dragon gorget under all the layers for additional neck protection, and I have some padded football girdles that have integrated thigh, hip, and tailbone pads for some more protection.

I suppose the only thing that can be added for full heavy protection would be a piece to add to the back of the fencing mask for back-of-head protection, and some lacrosse gloves if I want maximum hand protection.

Picked up a shorter grey sleeveless robe/cardigan so I can have one to wear with my sparring outfit and not have it all the way down by my feet. Not a bad look if I say so myself, and is doesn't have any major limitations on movement and mobility.
(https://i.imgur.com/RcUdG9v.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/K1LT4FE.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/RhWN1GI.png)

Not bad, great find on the pads.

Looking good, and sounds like these are actual pads that should be sparring wearable

Thanks! They’re pretty solid and thick. If they’re good enough to get hit by a lacrosse ball or stick, they should suffice.

Here’s the rundown on the sparring gear:

Head: Fencing Mask (pretty much the default recommendation for lightsaber combat)

Neck: Red Dragon Gorget (not visible, came highly recommended for fencing use)

Torso: Motorycle Armor (I’ve seen multiple people use and recommend this one for lightsaber dueling)

Biceps: Hard Lacrosse Pads (discussed above, seems very sturdy)

Lower Arms: Century Martial Arts Forearm and Elbow Pads (if they’re good enough to take full force kicks, they should suffice for at least medium saber sparring)

Hands: Hard-knuckled motorcycle gloves with some light finger padding (should be sufficient, although some people recommend larger lacrosse gloves, but I want mobility for staff use)

Upper Legs: Hard padded football girdle with thigh, hip, and tailbone pads (not visible, just a little extra protection for good measure)

Lower Legs: Catcher knee/shin/foot guards (if it can take a 90 MPH fastball, it’s good enough for me)

Should be solid for medium to heavy sparring, with the only thing left I see on various organization websites being a metal forget for tournament sparring, and back of head protection, as well as perhaps lacrosse gloves as mentioned above. But I’d imagine those would only be necessary for actual tournament use.

Picked up a 3D-printed Imperial tsuba for my Sentinel V4 (when it's separated from being a staff). Slides onto the blade and secures to the blade itself, so it can be used with hilts that don't have removable emitters and/or have different threading. Now I just need to pick up a longer blade to use it like a sword, since a 24" staff blade on it leaves only ~19.5" of actual "blade" between the emitter and tsuba. A 34" blade should give me a ~29.5" "usable" blade length, which is good for a katana length I'd say.
(https://i.imgur.com/0TVcyna.jpg)

Also put together some extra pieces and a crossguard emitter with my Ripper Clone spearhead to make a light-dagger. The hilt is too short for a full core and battery from any company I've seen, and I didn't want to buy another core, so I just put a small but strong rechargeable flashlight into the stem of the spearhead. Black gaffer tape for wrap:
(https://i.imgur.com/fHBZbjn.jpg)

Epic. I hope that tsuba has durability, but either way its gorgeous.

Thanks! It's not solid aluminum or anything, so I don't know how it would stand up to repeated full-force impacts from other sabers, but it seems like it should handle being dropped and that sort of thing. I'm planning on mostly using it as a katana for some Taekwondo sword forms for now.

I'd also love to use it for some sparring, since a handguard is a definite plus for that, so maybe we'll eventually see how it holds up to that. That said, I would not use the tsuba with a saberstaff, as it can hit the arms/body when doing some under-arm spins and that sort of thing. I'll likely keep the tsuba attached to a 34 "blade when I get it, and just swap out the standard 24" blade for the 34"+tsuba when I want to use it like a sword and not a staff.

No doubt, it'd be crazy awkward to try and use them on a staff I bet. Though it may not stand up to repeated impacts in the long run, it could serve it's purpose at deflection for several passes/exchanges hopefully.

Hopefully. It was I think $23 total, between the item itself and shipping, so if it breaks during sparring, I'll probably order a different model from the seller that has the Imperial emblem embossed on the tsuba instead of cut out, so it's a solid piece of 3D-printed plastic. A little less ornate, but likely a bit more durable. The seller has a lot of very cool 3D-printed emitters. There's the two I described, and a hexagonal Imperial tsuba. Also a sword-style crossguard not terribly unlike the one on my dagger, some clawed emitters, and a Fallen Order style emitter, and some others as well. I really like them in that they can attach to my Sentinel hilts, since they don't have removable emitters. So long as your hilt has a flat emitter/body, they should fit.

Yeah, you could always use the solid one for clashing and a ornate one for display purposes. Still, a pretty sweet acquisition.

Question for anyone knowledgeable in this sort of thing:

I picked up a 34" TCSS green photon blade (with Corbin style quad wrap blade film) that I’m using with my blue US Sentinel V4. It seems to do what it’s supposed to for the most part, turning blue light into bright green light, but it looks like the tip is a different shade of green than the blade, I’d assume due to it having no wrap compared to the blade. I tried taking out the film entirely, but that resulted in the blade itself seeming to be a bit too “see-through.” Not ideal.

I know there’s going to be some diminished brightness towards the end of the blade relative to the base given it’s a base-lit saber and that happens with longer blade lengths (one reason I like saberstaffs with shorter blades), but would a non-Corbin film give off a more similar green color to the tip? Would cutting some of the Corbin wrap to make it double instead of quadruple help? Any other suggestions to help make this photon blade look as good as possible here?

Thanks in advance!

Photon Blade on Sentinel V4 shown next to Sentinel V4 with heavy-grade blade.
(https://i.imgur.com/D57O7uZ.jpg)

34" Photon Blade with quad-Corbin wrap turned on:
(https://i.imgur.com/0fyhLKe.jpg)

34 "Photon blade on next to 24" Heavy-grade blade for comparison:
(https://i.imgur.com/JFNVtm0.jpg)

Jedi Consular vs Jedi Guardian problems... lol

But the irony in the blade attached to the Imperial seal giving you your problems, that's kinda cracking me up.  :D

You know what, that gives me the idea to try to figure out some headcanon that the blade is so abnormal due to the hilt being strong in dark side energy (with the Imperial tsuba and all), yet the crystal seeking a more light side or neutral orientation, resulting in a blade that is in some level of conflict. It probably makes no sense and is likely contradicted by a bunch of in-universe canon explanations, but I need to make it work somehow in my head.

On a different note, the light whip came in:

(https://i.imgur.com/c2L4edH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BLtZ0C2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RFq4hFJ.jpg)

https://i.imgur.com/6VdBUrU.mp4

Interestingly enough, this whip/blade also has a gradient color, but it's a much more consistent gradient, so I rather like it actually. Shown here is a white blade color. I also remember seeing green to blue or blue to green when cycling through other colors, as well as other color gradients.

Disclaimer: eye protection is a must with this thing. Scratch that, full facial protection should be s minimum. Hand and arm protection is also advisable. I didn’t even notice, but I drew a little bit of blood on my wrist without even moving it fast at all. This thing is honestly dangerous if you’re not careful. I also have zero idea how to use a whip, and had it on my ~27” staff hilt, so YMMV. But be careful!

This is with white color. The end is red. The base color by the emitter seems to be the natural color of your saber light, and it transitions to a different color towards the tip of the whip. Not always red. Brightness is quite good, but some light from the saber shines through the base of the whip, as you can see in some photos here. It’s not blindly bright to look at it, so I don’t think it’s a major deal, and it doesn’t seem to detract from the whip’s actual brightness. The base that goes into the emitter is black, so if you’re running a window emitter like I am, it’s more or less just black in the windows, with maybe some different color lights shining through the corners.

Got it… I need to admire this from a distance, because I am almost GUARANTEED to hurt myself with it.

I appreciate the warning, and I look forward to seeing your videos when you feel like sharing them.

I have zero idea how to use a whip, so it will be a leaning experience. But with full-body protection, it should be quite fun.

There's probably videos :)  Back in my day, we had to make a whip and then figure it out...but nobody lost an eye

Truth be told, using it like a bull whip would probably wreck it pretty quick.  Might be healthier to think of it like a twirling streamer instead, which also makes sense as it is a light show device.

Which gives me an idea...

Have you ever seen one of those wooden snakes they make in craft markets.  Basically a dowel, with cuts on opposing sides so it squiggles snakelike.

Imagine cutting a length of pipe that way (PVC, polycarbonate?).  Then run a flexible LED strip up the center.  Perhaps double sided (or fold it back on itself at the tip).  If it's long enough it will flex and undulate and you'll have control from the hilt.  As individual LEDs it wouldn't look like a saber whip (solid light worm), but could look cool.

Nobody lost an eye said the man pictured with dark glasses…What is he REALLY trying to hide!?! Ask yourself this question.

Maybe… the fact that somebody lost BOTH eyes?

Working on making a smaller, lighter-weight pair of saberchucks using MHSv1 parts and 250 lumen flashlights sitting into the blades within the hilt. Only have enough parts to complete one of the sides, but initial testing seems promising. These things move much faster and more akin to standard nunchucks than the saberchucks I made using my standard hilts.

TEST VIDEO:
https://i.imgur.com/0uAkqkP.mp4

(https://i.imgur.com/ph63s24.jpg)

Though I just watched a Shadiversity video debunking nunchuks as weapons the other day, I want to see these work. 

Ok. I LOVE Shad (I was actually watching his most recent video at the time I saw your comment!), and he has some solid points.

First, let me explain my background. I practiced Taekwondo (specifically Ko Am Mu Do) for close to a decade, although I am a little rusty with several years away from formal training. I have a black belt certified by Kukkiwon World Taekwondo Headquarters (although my financial situation at the time prevented me from testing for second dan), and, in my youth, I competed, and placed in, (mostly in traditional forms, but also some point sparring) in the Sunshine State Games and U.S. Open World Martial Arts Championships. I've used bo staffs and nunchucks for probably closer to 10 years than 5.

Nunchucks are objectively NOT a great weapon compared to even much simpler and more readily available options. If you give me the option of having a 4' or taller stick/staff/cane/walking-stick, I'll take that in a heartbeat.

I'll attempt to list out some pros and cons of nunchucks vs various sticks, addressing one point and talking about if I view it as a pro or a con:

Point 1: essentially "folds" in half, making it more concealable and portable.

Response: yes, this is true, but in modern times, concealing nunchucks is often considered to be concealing a weapon. If you have a concealed carry permit, a firearm is pretty much going to be a much more effective self defense tool, no doubt. Even a collapsible baton is likely better as I'll explain soon. If you have a walking stick or cane, you don't even need to conceal it, and it's generally allowed everywhere without being considered a weapon. People may consider you a little bit eccentric though.

Verdict: if nunchucks are legally classified as concealed weapons, there are much better options with that same level of legality. Plus a walking staff doesn't need to be concealed.

Point 2: it moves faster due to the chain.

Response: that depends. If you're swinging it like you'd swing a stick, then meh. The "advantage" is that you can rely on more rapid movements of the arm/wrist to flick the nunchuck that you can't do with a stick. As Shad explained, when you strike with a nunchuck, you lose at least some follow-through momentum (think what you'd have with a baseball bat), since the nunchuck will deflect off the object as opposed to allowing your momentum and force to carry through it. You're losing that follow through power. What the real advantage of the nunchuck is here is the unpredictability, especially to someone who isn't trained to defend against it. I knife or stick typically doesn't switch hands very quickly, while nunchucks, despite being a one-handed weapon, lend themselves quite well to switching hands and striking from unpredictable angles, with feints possible from one hand while striking with the other.

In short, nunchucks lose that follow-through power in exchange for more unpredictability in terms of offensive options. Not to mention there is always that inherent unpredictability of where the nunchuck will bounce after striking a moving target. This, however, is not the good uncertainty, but the bad one for the wielder, as it can throw off your timing and positioning for subsequent strikes, or even hit your own arm.

That said, nunchucks have essentially ZERO defensive capability. Not that a short knife has much more defensive potential, but it has some. You can't block anything with a nunchuck unless you're in a Bruce Lee movie or an actual Jedi. You only option to defend with nunchucks is to strike them before they can strike you, or use rapid and unpredictable movements to keep an opponent at bay and from striking you. But give them a weapon with longer reach than you and you're SOL, since you have no way to defend against their attacks except moving out of the way.

A jo or bo staff (or a long cane or walking stick) would serve much better for practical defensive use. Longer range for striking, more follow-through power, and MUCH more defensive potential.

Verdict: you're losing a lot of power and defensive potential to gain some unpredictability in striking options.

ALL OF THAT SAID, just as Shad said that, in a fantasy setting, the double-sided-sword-staff (or saberstaff) was surprisingly effective, I'd wager that saber-chucks would also serve a pretty nifty niche in a fantasy setting.

As explained above, nunchucks lose some follow-through power due to the chain, but they pick up some nice movement options for rapid and unpredictable striking angles. With a blunt object (nunchucks) that loss of force is a severe hinderance, as blunt objects rely essentially exclusively on power generation and transfer of said power into what they hit. Bladed nunchucks (sword-chucks?) would be hindered less, but would still be wildly impractical, as proper edge alignment with nunchucks would be a disaster. But with saber-chucks, you have not "edge" to worry about, and if your saber blade comes in contact with something, even with little force behind it, it's going to cut right through it. Unless it strikes a lightsaber resistant blade/material or another lightsaber, but if we're talking about a successful hit doing massive damage, you don't need some insanely brutally powerful strikes. See Dooku's fencing style saber combat for reference. He's not muscling insanely powerful strikes, because a lightsaber doesn't need to do that to inflict massive damage.

Saber-chucks can also, in-universe, still likely deflect blaster bolts successfully. They become decent hyper-offensive option for athletic force users in-universe I'd wager. You still lose a fair bit of range compared to a standard saber, or even compared to dual shoto sabers. And you still have no defensive potential against an opposing lightsaber. But I have a potential solution for a few of these remaining problems:

BESKAR GAUNTLETS!

As described above, the primary deficiencies (besides range) of saber-chucks is no defensive options to block, and the potential for deflected strikes to bounce back and chop off your own hand/arm. What mitigates both of these problems? Beskar guantlets like Mando wears. In his fight against Ahsoka, we see him block multiple forceful strikes from Ahskoka's sabers. So wearing Beskar gauntlets would both protect saber-chuck wielders from errant deflections severing their own limbs, and also provide them with options to block opponent's saber strikes, perhaps with the off-hand that isn't holding the nunchucks.

Summary of how saber-chucks would work in-universe:

1: Lack of power transfer from nunchucks due to the chain is mitigated with lightsaber blades. You don't need blunt-weapon levels of power when striking when you have laser blades that cut through most things like butter

2: lack of defensive potential and risk to the user's hands/arms is mitigated by wearing Beskar gauntlets.

And these also work nicely in-universe for a light/grey force user. You can simply turn off the blades and use the hilts as standard short nunchucks for less-lethal options.

Thanks for the write-up, and thanks for laying out your qualifications to speak on the matter.

pretty much summed up what Shad said in an hour and a half (he over did it on the 3rd video).  And you covered what I figured would make saberchuks fun anyway.

For a SW cosplay, your chucks are going to nail the mission, impressing people.

Thanks. I think after a little while Shad just wanted to capitalize on the memes and views beating a dead horse generated for his channel. Which good for him, if you can monetize entertaining people while providing some useful information, more power to you.

As for the execution of the saber-chucks, there's surprisingly more to getting it right than I initially would have thought.

From a nice-looking pair on the market like these, the obvious problem is you can't grab the blades from an in-universe perspective:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0466/0421/products/image_91684570-c639-46e1-98ac-7907db076413_1024x1024@2x.jpg?v=1504067836)

To just adding long blades to the end of standard hilt/nunchuck length resulting in the blades hitting the body in standard nunchuck movements as seen here in a video where someone added lightsaber blades to the end of Bruce Lee's nunchucks (around the 18-20 second mark or so is one example of this):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JeYEmrNVlw&t=19s# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JeYEmrNVlw&t=19s#)

So the hilt has to be long enough to grab and hold reliably between transitions and switches, and also long enough to tuck under the arm, but not so long that it makes the nunchucks themselves too long, or requires the use of tiny blades to achieve a reasonable overall length. So there's a fairly delicate balance of blade and hilt length to best mimic standard nunchucks in terms of functionality. You can have long hilts and blades, but it sacrifices some mobility options, and you can have tiny blades, but it cuts down on visual appeal. Not to mention using standard full-size hilts and electronics can be pretty heavy, which also slows down speed, particularly when paired with longer overall lengths.

So it's a work in progress to try to fine-tune various aspects of the design. What I'm currently going for should do the trick well, but the only negative I see so far is no super easy/fast way to quickly turn on the light in the blades, but if that's the trade-off for being able to do some faster and more complex demonstrations with them, that's coo.

Would you want a tailcap-clicky light, or a head-twist switch for the light source?

For a 300-lumen light source that runs on a 1xAA cell and has a tailcap-clicky switch, and weighs 2.12 oz, you can look at this light (https://www.olightstore.com/i5t-eos-bk-1.html).

Thanks for the link.I definitely wouldn't want a head-twist, since I'm putting the flashlight a few inches into the blade, which is hidden by the emitter. I'm using tailcap-click ones now, but they're a bit recessed into the hilts, so what I have to do is sort of push the chain at the right angle to click the button. It really only takes a few seconds, but it's not as quick as your standard saber buttons on the side of the hilt.

I'm actually running these 250 lumen rechargeable lights now:

https://www.amazon.com/Streamlight-66608-Flashlight-Micro-Stream/dp/B07DLZXZV1 (https://www.amazon.com/Streamlight-66608-Flashlight-Micro-Stream/dp/B07DLZXZV1)

I tried going down to listed 150 lumen (from a AAA battery), which was really cheap ($10 for 2), and its not bad since the blades are so short, but there's a big increase in brightness to the 250 rechargeable light mentioned above:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F29YC8R/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F29YC8R/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

I just ordered, but have not yet received, an even smaller 650 lumen rechargeable light, but after 90 seconds on the highest mode, it drops down to 100 lumens to keep it from overheating. Don't want it melting itself and the blade I suppose. But for those 90 seconds, it should be INSANELY bright, which would make for some very cool brief demonstrations, if not prolonged use:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CP6CFX9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CP6CFX9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

But the 250 lumen ones I have don't seem to have a step-down with the 250 setting, so I'd imagine those would be the standard ones for prolonged cosplay use.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CP6CFX9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CP6CFX9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

The 250 lumen light with my Ripper Clone spearhead is INSANELY bright though. To the point of actually starting to hurt the eyes if you look at the tip/top of the spearhead for too long. So the 650 in that would probably be some Biblical-level flaming sword that can't even be directly looked at haha.

The SOG Dark Energy DE-06 might quite be the best handheld led, if you can find one. The Gerber Cortex is a very durable light though not quite as bright as the SOG lights. They both have strobe mode, low light mode, and bright light mode, if you can find one. Good luck.

Thanks for the recommendations, but $80+ is too rich for my blood for this application. I also want to keep the lights as small as possible for this application, both in terms of diameter (to allow it to fit inside the blade) and length (to keep the overall length needed for the hilts down).

I can pick up a core from other guys for $30 that has RGB colors and cool effects, but it's over 7 inches long (and I've yet to see anyone make a standard hilt shorter than ~8"), while right now, since my lights sit into the blades, not juts up against them, my hilts for the saber-chucks are a good bit shorter, at just under 5.5" from the tip of the emitter to the portion where the chain begins. Since a standard core needs probably 2" for the emitter to hold the blade, we're looking at over 9" long hilts, which is probably a good 4" longer than my current hilts from a functional perspective. And I'm already using pretty short blades, so I'd pretty much have to increase the length of the overall chucks by a good bit to use those cores. Plus they're a bit heavier than small flashlights as well.

I juts got my 650 lumen mini-light, so once it's charged I'll see how bright it is. This one only stays that bright for 90 seconds, so I guess if it's THAT insanely bright, maybe I'll hace to consider something that can maintain that level of brightness. But considering my blades are only ~6-8" or so pat the emitter, it doesn't take a ton of light to make them look pretty bright and uniform, as opposed to trying to evenly light a 36" blade.

650 lumen light charged and tested. It's small. Very small. And it's bright. Very bright.

IMAGE 1: in normally lit room
TOP: 250 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
MIDDLE: Other guy's RBG core in 26.5" blade
BOTTOM: 650 lumen light in nunchuck blade
(https://i.imgur.com/kTbC98M.jpg)

IMAGE 2: in totally dark room
TOP: 250 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
MIDDLE: Other guy's RBG core in 26.5" blade
BOTTOM: 650 lumen light in nunchuck blade
(https://i.imgur.com/TbO9bmm.jpg)

IMAGE 3: in normally lit room
TOP: 250 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
MIDDLE: Other guy's RBG core in 26.5" blade
BOTTOM: 650 lumen light in 26.5" blade
(https://i.imgur.com/MLwrRMp.jpg)

IMAGE 4: in totally dark room
TOP: 250 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
MIDDLE: Other guy's RBG core in 26.5" blade
BOTTOM: 650 lumen light in 26.5" blade
(https://i.imgur.com/iXWnror.jpg)

IMAGE 5: in normally lit room
TOP: 250 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
BOTTOM: 650 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
(https://i.imgur.com/7Pf2IoR.jpg)

IMAGE 6: in totally dark room
TOP: 250 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
BOTTOM: 650 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
(https://i.imgur.com/Wcls3LZ.jpg)

IMAGE 7: in normally lit room
TOP: 250 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
BOTTOM: 650 lumen light in nunchuck-blade (ramped down to 100 lumens after 90 seconds)
(https://i.imgur.com/6d5mIiW.jpg)

IMAGE 8: in totally dark room
TOP: 250 lumen light in nunchuck-blade
BOTTOM: 650 lumen light in nunchuck-blade (ramped down to 100 lumens after 90 seconds)
(https://i.imgur.com/jnBGpDo.jpg)

NOTES:

The differences are more clear in person than in photos. The 100 to 250 lumens in the nunchuck blades is pretty noticeable. The 100 is a bit dim, while the 250 is pretty perfect. The 650 almost actually hurts to look at for more than a few seconds in the nunchuck blade. But in the 26.5" blade, the 650 lumen light is very nice. The flashlight-lit blades also don't appear quite as slightly-yellow-tinted as they do in the photos. They're more of a harsh white, and the RBG core-lit blade is more of a blue-white.

But look how SMALL the 650 lumen light is. There is a key-ring that can go on it that is the perfect size to keep it from sliding totally into and up the blade, but still fitting in a hilt/emitter. You can see the length of the light by where the illumination in the base of the blade starts. The whole flashlight is 2.38" long. That's insane. The 250 lumen light I have is still a very small 3.87" itself. But we're talking over 1.5" shorter here. But the button is on the side, not the tail-cap like the 250 is, so the 250 is an overall easier setup to turn on and off, as you don't have to remove it from the blade to turn it on. And given that the 650 ramps down to 100 lumens after 90 seconds, the 250 seems to be the perfect option for a dagger or short bladed weapon where you want to keep a very small hilt length and still be able to keep it bright for longer periods of time. A 650 lumen option that doesn't need to ramp down would be bigger, which would mean it likely wouldn't fit into the blade, and would be longer, so not suited for short-hilted options, but then again, I don't really see the need for a sub-6" hilt with a 24" or longer blade, so probably just stick to standard saber cores for standard sabers.

EDIT: "RBG" should be "RGB" but I'm not going back and changing every instance of that. No, they're not some special cores named after the former Supreme Court Justice (RIP).

Aside from how difficult it would be to turn on and off (you'd have to separate the two halves any time you wanted to turn it on or off), you could make a really cool Exar Kun style one-handed saberstaff. The Dominicide looks amazing, but 17" hilt to hilt may be a little bit longer than someone may want for something that's a TRUE one-handed staff, that is a staff that you can't really even use well with two hands if you wanted to. You could literally just attach two MHS emitters to a small extension-coupler in the middle that's as wide as you hand an call it a day. Not sure how practical it would be, but if you're trying to pass some wonky saber setup that satisfies Saber Legion's rules, you could actually run a staff and a single bladed saber. They say no single hilt >16" for dual-wielding, but that's no problem here with a well under 12" hilt. Total 84" maximum length between the two sabers (blade tip to pommel) means you can have 24" blade lengths with a 6" hilt on the staff providing 54", and then another 6" hilt for a shoto with 24" blade lengths. Exactly 84" between the two. Now you have the staff for defensive use and the shoto for offensive use. You'd have to get up close and personal, but with two blades for protecting yourself, perhaps it could work.

https://coastportland.com/collections/led-flashlights

Coast lights.

So apparently MHSv1 female couplers fit almost perfectly over my 1.25" OD 6' hardwood bo staff, so I had to throw my light-dagger onto the end of it to make a saber-spear. Or a saberyari, since it does seem pretty similar to jumonji yari if I'm not mistaken due to the slightly angled crossguard on the dagger that now serves as the spearhead.

From butt to blade-tip, it's around 7'6". And I'm thinking of adding another, shorter female/female MHSv1 piece on the butt end with a spiked pommel to replicate the metal buttcap that a lot of spears have.
(https://i.imgur.com/ehO46IW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9f5Ihpb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8aDvOb4.jpg)

Actual Yari spears shown below:
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a2/Jumonji_yari_2.jpg)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e2/Estampe-p1000685.jpg/220px-Estampe-p1000685.jpg)
(https://ctl.s6img.com/society6/img/tb6iKGRqQCKsQ2zYQ6XGKQc1R2M/w_1500/prints/~artwork/s6-original-art-uploads/society6/uploads/misc/84965c96c0ef443b8f9fda2369b2f4e5/~~/samurai-with-yari-prints.jpg)

Also tested out what the light-dagger would look like with a 24-26" blade:
(https://i.imgur.com/V16N5np.jpg)

And here's a photo giving some context to the length of the hilt of the dagger. It's just about as short as you'd want for true one-handed design.
(https://i.imgur.com/mZI3RJR.jpg)

that's pretty cool.  And you could get a closet rod or PVC pipe that fits the same diameter (allowing you to chop it down to size) if needed be.

Thanks. Yeah, I could use PVC or a rod and cut it down, and then just add some counterweight to the butt end to balance things out. The hardwood staff is pretty solid/heavy, so I don’t think it needs as much counterweight to have a decent balance. Plus hardwood looks rich IMO. This will be a demonstration setup only, no sparring. The Ripper blade isn’t for sparring, the metal crossguard so close to the tip also isn’t good for sparring, and the overall super long length is pretty much out of the rules for any sparring/dueling group I’ve seen. Plus anything with that long of a lever and that much mass at the tip is going to probably hit too hard at any decent speed for anything short of full heavy armored sparring I’d think.

Cool idea for the short sword like saber :P That one definitely needs more of a medieval looking style blade made

Thanks! A nice short-medium length Ripper blade would look very nice with it I think. There's some nice Ripper Clones that are between 26" and 28" long, which would probably be decent for a one-handed sword, priced at $75 to $85, and there's also a Spartan Ripper that's 18" long for $90, which would make for a very controllable true one-hander, since the hilt isn't long enough for a two-handed grip.