Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club
Mandalorian Armor => Armor Construction => Topic started by: Straka Zulu on Jun 03, 2013, 05:48 PM
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OK, first off, I don't have pics yet, camera's being a pain in the shebs. I hope to post some soon-ish.
Second, I am wondering on the proper spacing for the chest plates. Using the large Jango Fett templates on my 6'5" frame.
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for reference, a direct quote from the CRLs " Good rule of thumb, maximum spacing should equal no more than 1 inch between collar/chest/gut plates. No more than 1/2 inch between diamond and chest plates."
in my opinion, one inch is a huge distance between plates on most people, around a half inch is optimal. however, given your larger frame, more space may be appropriate and properly proportional. best bet would be to throw some pics up here once you get your camera working, and we can see whats up. general rile of thumb is to start with larger plates, they can always be trimmed down to fit
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http://s95.photobucket.com/user/x_so_x/media/0603132113-00.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0 (http://s95.photobucket.com/user/x_so_x/media/0603132113-00.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0)
Having some trouble figuring out just exactly how to post an actual pic on here.
So, here's my paper template mock up, just for sizing. I have them copied onto the panels from a tote bin, as this is my first attempt. Bummed I can't use the CT helmet, but, them's the breaks. Looking forward to finishing this, and going to WizardWorld CC in Columbus, OH.
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This thread helped me with posting pictures: http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=560.0
Hope it helps you.
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Vor'e!
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Not too sure, but it looks like they're a tad small. Try to line up the bottom of the ab plate just above the belly button, then work up from there (that's what I do anyhow). These ones looks far too short.
Good luck with your build, vod!
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00847.jpg)
Is this better, or am I going to need the XL plates? ;D
Thankfully haven't started cutting the plates yet, so I can go and cut the larger size if needed.
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The width looks ok but I think you need to make them longer. Long torso And all.
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They're a little too small for you. Get the next size up and lets see what they're like on you.
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Sounds good, should have that done today.
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You might have to customize the sizing a bit, seeing as you're tall but not large. If you stretch the plates to make them a bit longer I think you'd be golden. I ordered my plates from a seller on here, and gave him my measurements, which he used to make a "one size fits all" set... I am not one size lol Took a lot of working to get it to my frame.
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Vor'e for the tips.
Does anyone know if hand wraps are still approved? Don't have the money to buy or skill (yet) to build a set of gauntlets. If they are, does anyone know of a pic to get ideas from?
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I don't believe hand wraps are allowed, but I do know you can do a hard top gauntlet with a leather bottom or something like that. I made my gaunts out of a toilet bowl brush cleaner kit I got at target. they come in big cups, and all you gotta do is cut the bottom off and cut it in half. http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=49194.15 I just added some toy guns and painted the thing. super simple and cheap
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Going to see if Target still carries something like that, I know Walmart doesn't.
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OK, just tried the XL templates, seemed to be a good fit. Got the plates cut, not formed yet. Will post pics soon-ish.
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Here's an update. Have a bit of news that will affect my build, first of which is I have a new job. Still planning on attending WizardWorld CC in Columbus, though.
Now, on to the pics. Not the best quality, but...
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/0627132217-01.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/0623131627-00.jpg)
And what inspired me to try this:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/829px-XashaFettCatoNeimoidia-TFU2.jpg)
Also, switched to the Boba XL templates. Going to be trying to find some scrubs for the "flightsuit", and just printed up some templates for making a flak jacket. Any suggestions on material?
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That helmet is not going to fly.
Per the CRL's, "No modified Hasbro CLONE HELMETS or modified clone helmets not already approved."
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It's until I can save up for a real bucket.
Other than that, how's the spacing? :D
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As long as your not planning to apply with it. ;)
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Not going to try for an official kit yet, maybe with my MK. II ;)
Need a little more confidence in my build skills, might try metal for my next one, unless I just order them...
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Other than that, how's the spacing? :D
(http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee452/delviangirl/STRAKAZulu_zpsc7afa074.jpg) (http://s1228.photobucket.com/user/delviangirl/media/STRAKAZulu_zpsc7afa074.jpg.html)
Everything needs to be shifted up. Collar needs to be centered over the chest plates, line those outside edges up. Center the diamond in that opening. And a good rule to go by, the bottom edge of the ab plate usually sits right above the belly button. ;)
But, the paper template sizing looks good. Just match the real thing to that after pic and you'll be golden. :D
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Vor'e. Nice job on the photoshop. :)
It's tough centering things when you're doing it yourself.
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What Seugtai said ;D
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OK, been focused so much on getting the chest plates right, I completely forgot about from the waist down. What is acceptable for knee/shin? Not overly fond of the Boba or Jango style knees, is there an approved way to make the lowers a one-piece? And Is having a loincloth still cool? Most of these are just me not being confident in my armor-building skills, yet.
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Shnees is the nonspecific term for it. An yes its CRL. loin cloth and Kama are also acceptable, just make sure it fits with the rest of the kit. A random loincloth would look kinda odd.
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Off the topic a lil, but would a CT bucket fly even if it was from a 501st supplier, and not a Hasbro toy?
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no it wont. CRLs are very strict on no modified Clone helmets.
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Kinda bummed that CT's aren't allowed, but I can live with it. :D Just have to save up for my real buy'ce & a mirrored visor. Thinking either the reflective blue or black.
Any tips on what style kit I should shoot for if I want the loincloth/kama? Was thinking of a cape as well, since I haven't made a back plate, yet. I like the idea of a scout/sniper, or a close-combat specialist. Maybe both...
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If you got a good Mando helmet I believe I've seen them with the clone trooper helmet fin up the middle, would be Mando but with a hint of clone. Why not a sniper with blades? You'd have close and log range covered :D best tip I could say would be sketch out the general shape of the loin cloth and Fidel with it till you find something you like.
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Who's Fidel? :rolleyes:
Gotta love the spellcheck on these supposed "smart" phones....
Does anyone know where I can find a template for shnees?
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I know you said you wanted opinions for kama/loin cloth and cape ....I would go the Kama/ loin cloth( or cod piece ) if you use all three I believe would be cloth heavy and that was from others critiquing my own kit
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Going with a Loincloth and Kama. What fabrics are good for that, and also for the flight suit? I'm going to have to make my own.
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Hey, Straka. I have yet to talk to you on the Mercs. I'll give you a welcome! (Its me , A'tin) Anyway, as far as cloths, I just got some fabric from a Michaels arts store. But if you want higher quality stuff, there is duck cloth, leather or (faux leather). And as for the flightsuit, try this website: http://www.awawork.com/coco.html (http://www.awawork.com/coco.html) I got mine here for $35 and they fit just right. Albiet it can be tough to get in an out of, but it fits once you're in it. Hope that helps! ;D
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Thanks for the advice, A'tin. See you on Live!
Just to mark it down somewhere, I need a 46 Long, maybe a 48 Long. Now, on to the flak jacket...
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Ok. Found a decent flightsuit ( http://www.automotiveworkwear.com/RedKap/CT10/coveralls.html (http://www.automotiveworkwear.com/RedKap/CT10/coveralls.html) ), now on to my next problem.
Is this acceptable?
http://www.airsoftmegastore.com/2319-NCS-CPV2915B-NcStar-MOLLE-PALS-Modular-Tactical-Vest-Black.aspx (http://www.airsoftmegastore.com/2319-NCS-CPV2915B-NcStar-MOLLE-PALS-Modular-Tactical-Vest-Black.aspx)
Was double-checking the CRL's, and it said MOLLE vests are still acceptable, but I'm not sure which style of vest would work.
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I don't think that vest is gonna work... The flak vest should appear like a form fitting leather vest(or a material that resembles leather).
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Think that any of the ones on there would work? Or maybe a pattern I could find for a decent price?
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Most of the air soft gear I've seen people try to use requires a LOT of work to make it not look like earth gear. If you check the sales thread there might be some people who sell patterns. I got mine by finding a leather jacket at a thrift store and removing the sleeves.
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Yeah that sounds like a good idea. Go to a Goodwill or a thrift shop and find a cheap leather jacket. Turn it so that the zipper would be at your back, and just trim off excess around the collar for the new "front". And as Ronin suggested, cut off the sleeves.
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I hadn't even thought about that. And bonus on there being a Salvation Army store not 5min. walking distance from home! :D
Vor'e!
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When it comes to thrifting, check as many as you can, as often as you can, until you find what you need... I have three within 10 minutes of each other, and an army navy store, and I went to them like every other day for a few weeks until I got what I needed. (side note, I actually bought a women's vest, because it was a better fit and didn't require any tailoring, so don't count stuff out until you're sure you can't use it)
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No shame in that. Just don't mention it at any armor parties at Mand'alor's house; he'll start makin fun of ya. :P
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I think he might know now. ;D
Found a padded vest, fits better when worn the right way, but I'll have to sew something over the zipper to hide it.
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Hey, I couldn't buy scrap leather to make a vest for $10 bucks.. but I found the jacket for that. I stand by my decisions... :laugh: :laugh:
I took leather from the collar and made that a flap to cover the zipper, but the sleeves would work for that too(or as pouches.)
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Going to have my sister do a little hunting for me, see if she can find something better. She's the queen of thrift store hunts. Unfortunately, all my local shop had was a polyester fabric... Still, this is only my first build. The next one will be better.
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Don't sell yourself short. The more stuff you do on this one keeps you from having to do more in the long run. Have patience, and take the steps slowly. ;D
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Saw someone's shnee, just a mod of the regular shin plate, think I'm going to go with that. Downside? I need a little over 18" of material (plastic, metal, w/e) to make them.
Can someone find me the link to the MandoMaker? I can't seem to find it, post-site rearrange.
Nevermind, found it.
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What's the best way to bend the plates to what I need? I'll be using a heat gun to soften them up, was just wondering how to get them to the right shape.
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Heat gun, hands, gloves and a sponge of cool water is all I use. Shnees are a good route, I have a set that I bought off another merc that I'm going to be modding soon
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Ronin pretty much covered it right there, it's pretty straight forward.
Worst case, you've got some wrinkles and warps in the plastic. Easy enough to fix though, reheat and reshape til you're satisfied with it. ;)
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Update! :D
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1521.jpg)
Armor still isn't shaped, but it is trimmed down a little. Found this vest at a Salvation Army, need to find some fabric to cover the zipper and make pauldrons for the shoulder armor. Planning on turning the airsoft shotgun into a flachette gun, and the Nerf gun will be a hold-out blaster. Any tips if I want to make a sword, kinda want to be an assassin.
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Nice work so far, man! Can't wait to see how everything turns out.
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Before I start on shaping, I want to run a test of the paint I just got, a can of Krylon Paint+Primer, metallic silver. It says multi-surface, so I'm hoping it will not warp or melt the plastic.
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Before I start on shaping, I want to run a test of the paint I just got, a can of Krylon Paint+Primer, metallic silver. It says multi-surface, so I'm hoping it will not warp or melt the plastic.
Always a good idea to test it on some scrap material before painting all your armor. ;)
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^Listen to Thaxos, he speaks the truth! ;)
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Home Depot has an awesome selection of plastic specific paints.
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Had planned on doing the test today (7/31), but got tickets to see Weird Al. Great show, and my 6yr. old's first concert (outside the womb).
Minor technical glitch aside, a great show. So proud to see my "Mini-Me" singing along to White & Nerdy and Yoda. ;D
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Yeah, I wouldn't paint on the armor before shaping it. Because when you use the heat gun, there's a big chance that it will make the paint run, especially since you are using plastic. I would just get the armor formed, and then worry about paint. ;D
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I believe he's only intending to paint a scrap test piece, and then will shape his armor before painting the actual armor. ;)
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That's the plan. :D
Got some Testors competition orange, Krylon Paint+Primer metallic silver, and Valspar flat black.
Any tips on weathering? I've seen some people talking about mustard...
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Our Mand'alor has a great tutorial on weathering here (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=23514.0).
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There are 2 ways to weather; Additive, and Subtractive.
Additive. Paint a pretty, shiny clean kit with your primary color, then add spots of paint to simulate weathering, ie. scratches, dents burns etc.
Subtractive: Paint your armor in layers, and remove areas where your damage to show. Example:
My final color was white. I painted a grey base coat. then added mustard on areas I wanted scratches and marks of grey to show(don't go crazy with it, less can be more). Then I did a coat of silver. Clean the mustard off my scratches, and I have a silver armor with grey showing through in areas. Then I mustard-ed more and painted the final coat of white.
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There are 2 ways to weather; Additive, and Subtractive.
Additive. Paint a pretty, shiny clean kit with your primary color, then add spots of paint to simulate weathering, ie. scratches, dents burns etc.
Subtractive: Paint your armor in layers, and remove areas where your damage to show. Example:
My final color was white. I painted a grey base coat. then added mustard on areas I wanted scratches and marks of grey to show(don't go crazy with it, less can be more). Then I did a coat of silver. Clean the mustard off my scratches, and I have a silver armor with grey showing through in areas. Then I mustard-ed more and painted the final coat of white.
Well said.
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I guess it's a good thing my new job is in a nursing home's kitchen, mustard packets galore! :D
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Mustard is a godly material when it comes to weathering I've found. I like to apply mine with a paintbrush to have more control as opposed to just squirting it on. The draw back to using it however is if you're using very light colors such as white or chrome it can give the paint a yellow/green tinge. The solution to the yellowish color is leaving it out in the sun for about half an hour after you've wiped it off. It sort of sun bleaches it back to the proper paint color.
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Hmm, I never had any issues with discoloration.. And all my colors were light(to start with at least lol) a tooth pick works really well too for getting in cuts and such.
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Minor update. Tested the paint and primer can, works great. Now I have to see if it'll hold up to my colors.
Second, for those of us who are gamers, the Saint's Row IV Inauguration Station is up, if you want to make your Boss before the game drops on the 20th. It has a suit set called "Ransom Collector" which looks as close to a Fett suit as they can get, without being sued.
Third, made another great find at Salvation Army. Found a leather trench coat for $6. It's sleeves are too small, otherwise I'd keep it intact, but I'm going to cut them off, rip out the liner and make a cloak (cape, w/e) out of it, and use the excess for a loincloth. thinking of making a hidden holster for my hold-out in there, too.
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hahaha i like the holdout-under-the-loincloth idea.
"is that your blaster or are you just happy to see me?"
"uh, well actually, its a blaster..."
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"But I AM happy to see you... Bounty."
Was actually talking about under the cape/cloak, but it is an interesting idea... ;)
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Nice WIP,
For weathering I've started using toothpaste (thanks to a certain Mr. Kelan Ord) and it works very well, it's much easier to control compared to Masking Fluid. Basically apply your primer a few light coats, then apply your bare metal finish, most people use silver (I've been waiting for someone to try bronze or gold...) then using a small paint brush apply the toothpaste where you want to see damage, I try to do corners and raised parts, think of how and where is would get hit, scratched, rubbed and damaged, try not to do big blobs, small chips and lines look good, also less is better than more, I've aways overdone my damage even though I try to hold back.
It you want layered colors jsut apply more toothpaste over the layer then repaint. Once you've got the final layer on, rinse off the toothpaste with water and your hands et voila!
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Tact has excellent advice on the weathering with toothpaste.
(There have been some base metal gold or bronze mandos, FYI)
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Didn't even think about the toothpaste trick. I'd read about it someplace else, and kinda forgot it.
I might try for a different base color on my next kit, been having issues on deciding what pattern I want for my colors. Thinking orange for the main, black for details, but have also been thinking the opposite would look good.
Already set on the suit (grey jumpsuit, black flak/boots/gloves), but the decision on what to do for the armor plates and buy'ce is driving me mad... It's a short trip, but the only way is via backroads... :-\
This is the trench coat:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1527.jpg)
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Try using Mando maker to help you set our color scheme, not sure what your issue for the helmet and armor, are you referring to products/ makers or the style?
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Mostly just the color. I'm doing Modern era plates, and am trying to gather funds for a Night Owl from Skirata Arms.
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Would hot water work for shaping the plates? Getting tired of waiting on getting this kit together, want to show myself how far I am.
Just FYI, I am using tote bin plastic, so it's thin.
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Don't use water. It can crack the armor. Use a heat gun if you have one, or try to find one (whether you buy it or borrow from someone you know has one) You could try using a hairdryer but they might not get the plates hot enough to bend.
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I would strongly recommend getting a heat gun. A cheap one runs about $25-$30 and will save you a lot of time and frustration when shaping your plates. You'll also get much more evenly shaped plates that will ultimately be a better fit.
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Got this idea from cutting the sleeves off that trench coat:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1536.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1535.jpg)
Folded the excess leather (there wasn't that much) into the sleeve, then clamped the shell of my first attempt at a gauntlet over it to hold it in place. I'm pretty sure others have done the same, just looking for feedback. Already have in my head the how's and where's to make the changes.
Off topic: Yes, I play Rock Band; NO, do not ask me to play drums. Vocals/Bass is my thing.
On-topic: How do I best form the plates, once I heat them? Do I just bend by hand, or try to shape them "on body"?
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What you want to do is hat gun 8-12 inches away and go in a circular/ sweeping motion around the inside of the piece. Do this until you feel that the plate is pliable enough to take the shape you want. You'll get a feel for how long it takes to do each plate once you get into it. You'll need gloves for this whole process, especially the actual forming. For my body plates I had my friend help me but you should be able to do it yourself. Take the warm plate and with a towel or other barrier on you so you don't burn yourself gently apply pressure to where it needs to be shaped. For example a thigh plate need pressure on the left and right to wrap around more so than the top or bottom. Remember to use gloves and always have a good insulating barrier between you and the plate to avoid burns.
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Here's the update:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1537.jpg?t=1376340674)
Took the sleeves from the coat, removed the excess, and added a hook & loop for the seam to get them on and off. Will be adding some to the cuff to attach the gloves to, then cutting new gauntlets. Thinking of keeping them smooth, for now, then adding some "tech" for later versions.
Questions, comments?
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You will be putting the hard armour on top won't you?. Because as they are now they'd be considered too soft for approval ;) .
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If you'd look at previous posts, you'd see that as my intent :P
Just have to figure out the Dremel I borrowed, cut the gauntlets I have down.
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Minor update:
Been very busy with work, so I haven't had much time to work on my build. Just got my own "dremel" tool, and a heat gun, so on to the point. Tips and pointers would be appreciated.
I'm also thinking of a slight change to my cape idea. Was thinking of attaching the top to the collar piece of the armor, and making the bottom into a kama. Going to use the front of the jacket's leather as a girth belt.
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Sounds interesting. Lets see some progress with those gaunts though! :P
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Should have some pics for them next Wednesday, it's the next full day I have off, will be working on my kit as much as I can then.
Here's a rough idea (very rough):
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1540.jpg)
Thinking flachette launcher from an old airsoft shotgun, and a hold-out blaster from a modded Nerf Triad EX-3. Need to find either a Nerf sword, or find the foam to make one.
Would have tried for a more "action" pose, but I drew this on a break.
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1546.jpg)
I hate it when the person taking the pic catches me talking...
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1547.jpg)
The cape/kama combo. Still needs a little work, but got some good ideas.
So, got the plates shaped, for the most part. Still needs a little tweaking, here and there, but I'd say a good effort on my first attempt.
I know the spacing is not quite there, but it's tough to judge when you do it yourself.
The "girth belt" will have some work done to hide the velcro back, and still need to fix up a loincloth. Shnees are still in-progress and the hard part of the gauntlets need some trimming done. My diamond went MIA just before I had these taken.
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Another update.
Got plenty comfy with my heat gun skills, so I shaped the plates pictured even better than before. Next up for them is sanding & priming. Finished shaping my shoulder and boot armor, might need an extra boot piece to cover the laces and zipper (Rocky Boots, style 2177).
Need to make a new diamond piece, since I've searched and not found it. Also need to find some fabric to cover the zipper on the flak vest.
Pics to come later. Now, off to work!
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Must admit i'm not a fan of the cape and Kama combo. Honestly stick to one or the other and i'd much rather see a backplate.
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Must admit i'm not a fan of the cape and Kama combo. Honestly stick to one or the other and i'd much rather see a backplate.
Sounds like a plan. Might attempt a back, now that I'm more comfy with my shaping skills. Any other comments and critiques? Spacing, size, what-have-you?
Also, going to make the shnees out of layered shoulder or boot armor pieces, kinda gave up on a 1-piece when I figured that I'd also need to cover the top of my boot, too.
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Your plate size looks OK. If i didn't think so, i would've said so before ;) .
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:P
Thanks, vode. Going to be reshaping a couple of the plates, they flattened out a little in storage, then getting the base coat on today. Also repainted my temporary helmet last night, using a flat black for my primary color, with orange accents/highlights.
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Couple of updates, pics included.
Early days on the gauntlets, need to find a "closure" then prime/paint them.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1552.jpg)
Got the plates shaped as I like them, going to fit them to the flak vest with velcro, then prime & paint.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1551.jpg)
Any pointers on how to best get the fitting to the vest?
And I know that the Clone bucket is a no-go, but it'll have to stand in till I get my real one from Skirata Arms. Gotta give him his props, I only wish I could do half as good as him and Saz.
And, where would I look to find how to make a crest to attach to a buy'ce? Did a search earlier, but couldn't find anything.
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You can make some snazzy gauntlet with two continuous hinges and a little ingenuity.. Condar's easy gaunt base. Can't beat it. What kind of crest are you looking for? Like on the phase 2 clone helmets? Shouldn't be too hard to make. Or even cut off the helmet there when you get your real bucket.
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Cutting this one is a no-go, going to put it on display as a "trophy".
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1553.jpg)
This happened just after test fitting the first one I cut. It cracked along the one side of the cut, leaving a nice little gap. It does give me a little more flexibility in the arm I want to use it on, just doesn't look perfect. Was thinking of getting some webbing, or something like a cut-down belt to attach to the inside as a "closure".
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Does it meet on the other side? It would still be usable. Gauntlets don't have to be full coverage. They just look better that way. If you do them well it could still pass as long as it covers most of your arm.
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The sides don't meet, anymore. Still one piece, but there's the gap. I kinda like the idea of having the "In" side of the gauntlets being open, just need to get it right. Original plan was to not attach anything to them, keep them plain for now.
Have a buy'ce on order from Skirata Arms (Night Owl). Which should I go with, T-Visor, or Seragon's?
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Just get the regular visor...
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MORE PROGRESS!!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1555.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/102_1556.jpg)
Once again, only getting help from family after bribing them, and all they would do was take the pics...
After much debating with myself, and upon Remo Jadd's suggestion, ditching the cape/kama combo. Cape will be attatched to the collar piece, and need to strip out a little of the leather to make a loincloth. Put that scrap there to kinda give myself a little modesty. ;)
Work on finishing the plates and gaunts continues tomorrow!
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The cape kama was a good thing to ditch.. I couldn't see it working out well without a butt load of difficulty... they're better separate :) As for visors, I would say for now get a T-visor. Seragon's are NICE, and as such, you might want to get a training visor like from Tvisor so you don't mess up a good one(i messed my first one up, so I know what it's like :laugh: )
Collar plate looks just a fraction too wide. I can't tell on the other ones because you aren't facing the camera. but it looks good to me. Don't forget to get that flight suit tailored!
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Tailored?
Couldn't find a 1-piece suit, so I went with the scrubs method.
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Legs look a little baggy. Easy fix though.
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:D Yeah, I'm tough to find clothes for...
Having the shnees should cover some of the baggy-ness, and was thinking about tucking the bottoms into my boots. Kinda sucks that we have to hide zippers... And just how is everything that is worn in that galaxy far, far away kept closed?! :rolleyes:
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First, R.I.P. Remo Jadd. :'(
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/RIPRemoJadd.jpg)
Second, trimmed about 1/16th" off each side of the collar piece. Work has gotten hectic to the point of me looking elsewhere for a job.
So little time to do the things I need to... Like finally priming my damn plates!
Picked up a Halloween prop sword to mod as my main melee weapon, and got some basic ideas going for my blasters. Canning the flachette gun, going to change it up to make it a stockless rifle.
Dusted-off an old paintball pod belt, might turn that into a girth belt. Just need to take out the center pod holder, and shorten the others into pouches. Will post pre-mod pics later.
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Update!
Finally got paint to plastic!!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1564.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1570.jpg)
Got the primer coat on last night, toothpaste and base coat today.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1571.jpg)
Here's the pod belt, post-1 mod. Took the middle of the 5 pockets off, and have some really good ideas as to what I'm going to do to make it less "Earthy". Going to rivet the pouch tops to the back, and get a couple of rivets to hold the sides in place.
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Looking through yer build, i would recommend long sleaves. Maybe under the sleaves you have to give the same effect as the Jango look. Imho, bare arms only look good with large arms (Big guns in US speak).
The plates look good mate ;)
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Looking through yer build, i would recommend long sleaves. Maybe under the sleaves you have to give the same effect as the Jango look. Imho, bare arms only look good with large arms (Big guns in US speak).
The plates look good mate ;)
Thanks, vode. Working on the "guns", but with the cooler weather coming up, I can see the advantages in longer sleeves. ;D
Gong to be taping off some of the orange, once it dries, then putting the main color on. Going with a basic black.
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>:( >:( >:(
I hate it when I forget an important step... In my haste to finish yesterday, I forgot to do some light sanding to the plates, and... Well, the paint I had done peeled off when I removed the masking tape. Now I have to either peel it all off, or sand it off, and start over.
:-[ :'( :(
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Is it that bad? Maybe get away with it and call it weathering. I take the masking tape off after paint i dont wait till it dries or that will happen.
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I would post some pics. We might be able to save you! Worse comes to worse just make it look like you lost a hot potato game with a thermal det :laugh:
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It goes all the way down to the base plastic, which is a beige color. Kinda mad at myself for not sanding first. Well, I have this coming weekend to get hot on it, need new cans of paint, and hope to find that my buy'ce is in the mail.
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OK, got a question about the shnees I have planned. I am cutting some Boba Fett shoulder bells to layer down the length of my calves, maybe covering the top of the boot, as well. Should I have them a solid piece, or make it so that it is flexible?
Also, got word from Hondo that my buy'ce will be shipped in about a week or so. Any tips on prepping it for paint & a visor? Getting a Night Owl V.2. Going to be one of the few guys to rock this one, style reminds me of Roman gladiators. Anyplace I could find a Clone Trooper crest?
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Hmm.. I saw make the shin coverings rigid, but give a little flex as it goes to knee.
Prepping the helmet,
Don't cut the visor out till you put the last coat of paint on. If you cut it out too soon, the helmet can warp as it's moving about your house.
Wash the helmet with soap and water and let it dry well before you paint it, and sand it lightly before that.
Clone crest... make one :P
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Thanks, vode.
Was thinking about possibly making the lower part of the shnee wrap around the lower part of my calf, covering the top of the boot. Would that be acceptable?
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I don't see why not. just make sure you can get your foot through it. :laugh:
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Going to add some snaps or velcro to close the side. What use is armor if you can't get into it, right? :D
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Just make sure you can't see the velcro :) sounds like a cool idea, can't wait to see it. How's the gauntlets comings?
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Stalled, the frustration with the main plates has me focusing on my soft parts. Fixing up some parts on my cape, and trying to cut the plates for my shnees.
Also modding my "girth belt".
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/c8ef4c11-a1c1-45a9-bf8c-34a125be55e9.jpg?t=1379566302)
Here's what happened to my paint, when I tried removing the masking tape.
I'm guessing the primer didn't bond with the surface well enough to fight the weak-shebs adhesive on the masking tape.
Maybe the ab plate can be salvaged, but the others I'm pretty sure I can fix. The diamond turned out fine, just need to cover over where the masking tape left a gap. I did some toothpaste weathering on some of the edges, and I think it turned out good. Just need to fix that big splotch of missing paint.
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What kind of plastic is it? Also I assume you sanded it well before the primer coat went on?
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Pretty sure I mentioned that I forgot to do that... :P
It's tote bin plastic, I don't have anything nearby that sells sintra. Most of the damage can be fixed, but the big spot on the ab plate is my main concern. I do have an idea, but going to talk it over with my cousins. They both are big into Warhammer 40k, and do some kick-shebs painting.
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Well it isn't too late to sand it down. Also if there's a a lowes or Home Depot around, look for 4 inch or 6 inch diameter PVC pipes. I found a ten foot long pipe for like 15 bucks. And I can get a whole suit out of it.
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Its probably a mix of the plastic not liking paint and not sanding it :(
best advise is to sand it down, then sand the plastic and try once more, that or get some PVC ;)
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As above, rub it back to plastic then give it a wash in warm soapy water, rinse well and let dry. Get a good self etching primer or one the same brand as the paint you are using. One other tip is keep the paint and plates at the same temp before paint.
Also, light coats and leave 15 mins between. Or just follow the instructions on the can. Leave the paint to fully cure over night before you start masking too, then after masking and paint remove the tape right away being careful as ye do, hope this helps ;)
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Yeah, need to learn to take my time.
Any suggestions as to which visor I should get from T-Visor? Thinking standard, but not sure with the Night Owl if it would fit. And, what would be the best way to fix it into place?
Kinda off topic, any tips on coming up with my Mando name? Looking to do something that is similar to my real name, but really don't like the SW Name Generator's technique: first 3 of last name + first 2 of first name comes up with Strst... Needs a vowel or two... :rolleyes: :laugh:
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I would email the maker of the helmet and ask for visor specifics. Or someone who has a night owl. I don't think t visor has one specific for it yet. Hot glue is the way to go with visors. You can put it as much or as little as you're comfortable with, and can get it off pretty easy should you want to as well.
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Getting it from Skirata Arms, one of Hondo's last before retiring from trooping. :'(
I don't know anyone who has the buy'ce, yet.
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If you want cheap and movie accurate get a #5 welding shield, easy to cut to shape and install. You should get them for under $10.
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Getting it from Skirata Arms, one of Hondo's last before retiring from trooping. :'(
I don't know anyone who has the buy'ce, yet.
I think Reeza Krayt on here has one, shoot her a PM. or you could go with the welding visor and cut it yourself. I never had any luck finishing a blank welding visor...
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If it's cheap enough, and I don't have to wait for shipping, I'll give the welding shield a try. Might be a good learning experience.
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This is what it looks like, but you will need to find a USA supplier.
http://www.weldingsuppliesonline.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=10_159&products_id=759
It looks green but once its installed it looks jet black. To make a template, just get a piece of paper inside the bucket held in place near the T, then draw on the outside where the paper shows. Then add 10mm to that line, then try the template for size till it fits then use that.
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I'm gonna have to look online, neither Home Despot or Lowes had anything I could use.
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try a smaller hardware store, like an ace or harbor freight. they are much more likely to have a welding shield
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Thanks for the tip, vod. :)
There's a couple ACE Hardware's in the neighborhood, I'll see what they have.
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Time for the Weekend Update! ;D
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1578.jpg)
Got first and second coat of primer on my first gauntlet, re-painted the worst of the chest plates. Also have the first 2 coats of primer on the boot armor.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1579.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1581.jpg)
Got some touch-ups done to the other pieces, just need to get some flat black paint to cover up the sparkle from the primer. I hate when the wind takes the vapors everywhere...
Picked up a pair of scrub pants to cut into the second sleeves for the flight suit.
Got an idea for a slicing kit, just need to find a place to mount it and a coil of old headphone cable. Got any ideas to alter an old Motorola Razr keypad, or add lettering to the screen?
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Nice work on the repaint. ;D I think a good blackwash will help make it look better. Not sure what the pad thing is, so can't help you there.
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The weatherin looks good, if you touch up with more scrapes and scratches yer golden ;)
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Nice work on the repaint. ;D I think a good blackwash will help make it look better. Not sure what the pad thing is, so can't help you there.
Thanks. Left my camera behind, otherwise I'd have another pic to show off.
Any other scratches or blast marks will have to be added with a paint-over, liking the minimal damage for now.
The pad is an old Motorola Razr flip phone, figured I'd put it to good use, instead of just taking up space in the bottom of a junk drawer.
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If you could take it apart, you could probably mount the keys on one of your gaunts as a control pad for armor functions. (jetpack, flamethrower, RF, etc etc.) You'd just have to paint over the numbers and letters.
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Here are the main plates together.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/0922131210-00.jpg?t=1379780202)
Resting on a pillow, like a Norwegian Blue parrot, tired and shagged out after a long squawk...
Not putting any icons or stickers, just keeping them plain for the time being.
Maybe after getting my killstripes, I'll add the Rancor Clan sigil...
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Add some scratches and black wash the big spot so it looks like you took a grenade or something. Then you'll be golden :)
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Add some scratches and black wash the big spot so it looks like you took a grenade or something. Then you'll be golden :)
Best way to add scratches? Have some sandpaper, 320 grit, and some cutting tools... Have to be careful, though, as evidenced by earlier posts... :rolleyes: :P
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add scratches using different grit sand paper / wire wool. Do light passes and only one or two passes with each (Max) then hit them with a black brown wash and BOOM. awesome plates ;D
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Where do I find a good black wash?
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for a balckwash mix black acrylic paint with water is about a 1:4 ratio, sponge on, then after a few moments, rub off. repeat with brown for a more matural look
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Any sharp knife, xacto knife and the like or heavier grit sandpaper like 80 or 60. Just a couple quick passes in different directions. Black and brown wash can also be achieved with windex and acrylic(how I did mine) just dip a paper towel in the mixture, then dab on your armor, and wipe what you not want. REPEAT until you've achieved the look you want :)
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for a balckwash mix black acrylic paint with water is about a 1:4 ratio, sponge on, then after a few moments, rub off. repeat with brown for a more natural look
So, 1 part paint to 4 parts water/windex, or other way around? ;D
Got some 60 grit sand paper, thinking of taking it to the edges, add a little "rub-off" from the other plates.
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you want more water than paint ;) get it nice and thin and do lots of thin coats ;) swapping between black and brown ;)
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Cool, thanks. :D
Going to have to go with a brown wash, since most of my armor is black.
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What Niabi said, better to go light than too heavy.
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Gotta go looking for a hobby shop, most of the stores around here don't have anything other than spray paints.
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You need akrylic paint, where I live they sell it at "Dollar stores" cheap, I use black and Burnt umber. And I'll second Niabi lots of light coats are better than heavy coats.
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Acrylic paint it is. Got a couple days off, will be trying to get a test fitting in, and maybe the mounting locations set on the soft parts.
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I always get my paints form Michael's craft stores if you have those around you. I use the testor brand and they run about $1.50 for a quarter ounce bottle.
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Ok, back from an unexpected hospital stay, and sad to say it sidelined my plans for getting work done. I DID get some of what I planned fixed, just nowhere near as much as I had hoped. So, no pics, yet.
First, trimmed the cape a little by getting rid of the wings on the bottom. Got a two-layer loincloth made, soon to be mounted to the paintball "girth belt". Can anyone recommend a place to get rivets?
Got some quick and dirty alterations done to the flight suit, added just one long sleeve to the inside of the short one, giving a nice Jango Fett look. Just need to fix the other one.
Also got half of the zipper cover on the flak vest attached, just need the velcro affixed to the other side.
Just need my buy'ce to show up, and I'll be very close to done.
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So.... Anything?
:rolleyes:
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Patience ;)
Rivets can be acquired at your local hardware store.
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Patience ;)
Rivets can be acquired at your local hardware store.
Getting kinda worried that my buy'ce is stuck in Des Moines or something... Damn not knowing what gov't branches are open with this idiotic shutdown.
Really want to get cracking on my suit, have a few days off for recovering from an infection.
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Pics, my friend, pics. We cannot judge without all teh pics! :P
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Pics, my friend, pics. We cannot judge without all teh pics! :P
They are coming, vod. Just need to retrieve my kit from where I left it before heading to the ER.
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JOYGASM!!!!
My buy'ce finally arrived!!
I'll have pics up by the end of the weekend.
Just curious, about how long between coats should I wait when painting a helmet? ;D
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OK, now I can, hopefully, get some work done this weekend.
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1589.jpg)
It's HERE!
Downside:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1588.jpg)
I might be a Tic-Tac... :rolleyes:
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To be fare, the camera angle is a bit low.
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Yeah, had my 4'2" son (who turns just 7 next month) take it.
Last photo from that camera, as it sadly died after this one.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/100_1590.jpg)
I just tested the hold of the fabric glue I got for this first attempt. Worked out nicely, but will be going for something better on my Mk II.
And, I do know I need a plate on the back of the gloves to hide the logo, but would i have to put plates on the fingers to show that they are crushgaunts?
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Nah, still rough. Need a decent pic from your height, stand yer kiddie on a chair :laugh:
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I would, but then he's be taller than me (6'5") :o 8) :laugh:
Besides, camera's full-on busted. :'(
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Well mate, yer pretty much u'phric'd till then :laugh:
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Sadly, yes. :rolleyes:
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OK, got the excess trimmed off of the buy'ce, and can say I'm gonna love it when it's finished! Plenty of room for my fat head, even with my glasses. Just have to hunt down a Shade 5 visor. Looking like Amazon is my best bet. Leaving the visor fill in until I get that and paint it.
Side note: Never buy a cheap "dremmel" tool. Had to bust out my Dad's Craftsman variable speed model to get the trim off. Mine kept going "nnnno, noooo, no, nnnnnoo, nononono, nno..." :laugh:
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Hope ye remembered to wear a dusk mask, the dust is harmful and leaves a nasty taste in yer mouth for weeks. Like skinnin a rabbit and burstin its -censored- bag.
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Never skinned a rabbit, but I can relate. and yes, I did mask up. ;D
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OK, just curious, would these work as a support for some knee armor?
http://www.lowes.com/pd_76663-47520-2L-318_0+2z8vi__?productId=3825885&Ntt=knee+pads&pl=1¤tURL=%3FNtt%3Dknee%2Bpads%26page%3D1&facetInfo=$1%20-%20$5 (http://www.lowes.com/pd_76663-47520-2L-318_0+2z8vi__?productId=3825885&Ntt=knee+pads&pl=1¤tURL=%3FNtt%3Dknee%2Bpads%26page%3D1&facetInfo=$1%20-%20$5)
And if "yes" what would be the best way to glue them to the armor piece?
After much soul searching, (and some failed attempts) going to go with just some simple knees and boot armor. Just need to make some spats to cover the laces and zipper on my boots. Or find a pair of slip-on boots, cheap.
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You'd have to do some work to them to get the shape you'd need, I think it'd be easier to make knee, then hot glue some foam or something on th back if you're worried about comfort(just so ya know, my knees don't have padding, but I'm not on them constantly. So it's not that uncomfortable[an I have horrible knees from five years as a mechanic]) I believe a big glob of e6000 works as good padding as well. So to sum up;
For those, I would say no. But there are other options, and it's just my opinion.
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My knees are shot, too. 5 years in semi-pro paintball, and a couple warehouse jobs.
Fixing the pads up won't be a problem.
Any painting tips for the SA resin helmets? I was thinking of taping off the visor area, since I want that to remain a "bone" white, but will a paint/primer that says OK for plastic be alright to use?
Still having serious trouble in getting a shade 5 visor, about to break down and get a T-Visor.
Update:
Found a visor; for my NE Ohio vod, the place I got it is Praxair Welding Supplies on W.130th and Huffman, north of Snow Rd. in Cleveland.
Now comes the mad rush to put everything together, before the Cleveland Comic Con on the 19th.
Wish me luck! ;D
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Nothing like having just 2 days free to work on a kit before a con.
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Nothing like having just 2 days free to work on a kit before a con.
In my experience, that's when the majority of the work happens :D
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In my experience, that's when the majority of the work happens :D
Too true. Literally threw together my Halloween costume last year about a half hour before the party my wife and I were expected at. Combination Halloween/Anniversary party. It'll be 14 years of wedded "bliss" this year...
Back to the build:
Scrapped my original vest, found another leather jacket to mod.
Trimming down the knee pads to fit my knee plates onto, maybe hitting them with a little heat to better shape them and my shoulder bells. Just hoping the paint won't bubble.
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Looking forward to seeing the progress. 8)
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Looking forward to seeing the progress. 8)
I'll need to borrow a camera, should post something soon-ish.
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Sorry for double posting, but what glue would be best for attaching the visor?
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Most people use a lot of hot glue, or plastic epoxy. 8)
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Hot glue it is. :D
Update:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/1012132203-01.jpg)
How's it look? Not wearing my flightsuit yet, got a few things to fix on it. Took that pic with my crappy camera/phone....
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The weathering and the colors go really well together.
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Thanks, vod. Kinda worried about the spacing, but have made a few adjustments since that pic. NEED MOAR VELCRO!! :laugh: ;D
Also need to get some blackwash on it, especially on those big "blast marks".
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don't forget to balance the bigger damage with little scratches and nicks. Light passes with varying sandpaper grits will give it a more natural and balanced look. It's definitely getting there vod :D
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Thanks, Ronin. Now to get hot on the buy'ce and weapons.
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size is good ;) but spacing is a bit off.
get the gap between the collar and chest even then get the gut plate sitting nicly in the gap between the plates ;) with an even gap all the way ;)
also your shoulders are not even.
and as for those knees :( dont do it. they would need to be completely covered to use them.
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Thanks for the advice, vode.
For the knees, going to strip out the elastic, and attach it directly to the armor.
As for spacing, going to need help from a friend or family to get them right, my wife is always "too busy" to help. :rolleyes:
There are some small nicks and scratches on the plates, the resolution on that camera is crap.
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Borrowed a camera:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC01002.jpg)
Couple minor adjustments, and I'm golden.
One downside, my hard parts to the gauntlets have vanished. So, I'll try to build something for this weekend, not making any promises. Being worked like a dog the last few weeks, and the foreseeable future.
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Looking Better ;) but your chest diamond is wonky ;)
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The white around the visor throws the color balance off a little bit since there's no white on the rest of the armor. I see the small orange outline, but it seems a little off. Maybe if you reversed the colors there? What if the cheeks were white and around the visor was orange? Just a few suggestions. Good work so far. I'm liking the progress. 8)
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I need a squire to get into this properly. ;)
Got a few little things to fix up, like making a mad rush to make new gauntlets. Searched everywhere at home and at my parents' garage, and no sign of them.
Does anybody sell them?
The helmet needs some touch-ups, and need to get the real orange highlights in. The ones in the pic are from the angle my mother took them at (wheelchair height, recovering from foot surgery).
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Got a few little things to fix up, like making a mad rush to make new gauntlets. Searched everywhere at home and at my parents' garage, and no sign of them.
Does anybody sell them?
Check out the trading station Vode ;) there are loads (well a few)
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Found my gauntlets, but not in time to have them done before the Con. :(
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC01008.jpg)
Public test went well, even got a few pointers from my vode at the MMCC/501st/Rebel table. Gonna have to steal their idea of the hard hat supports for inside my bucket.
Thanks, guys!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/1019131437-00.jpg)
Sorry it's blurry, got bumped by an ad in a Boba costume.
Can someone tell me the brand of the 2-part epoxy gel that would work best to fix my earcaps? The right one fell off right after the con.
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Loctite works well.
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I've used JB Weld with success. I've also used what's called green stuff, which is 2 part epoxy putty and becomes green when you mix it. Don't know specifically what that's called but it works real well. You could find it at any hobby store or tabletop/board gaming store.
If you're having attachment issues, you might consider boring a few small holes in the ear cap and helmet to give more surface area for the putty to hold. It should only take one or two for an ear cap, I used five to attach the center piece on my cod plate and works like a charm. But even if you don't do that, definitely be sure to sand the area of attachment so the putty can better hold
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Thanks, vod. :D
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Found Loctite 5-Minute epoxy, and an inexpensive hard hat at Lowes. Wish me luck.
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Good luck vod ;)
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Vor'e
Seems there's too much flex in my buy'ce, I keep having to redo the hot glue for my visor.
And any tips on attaching that hard hat support inside my helmet?
Update:
Got the earcaps epoxied on, added a short antenna for a coms unit.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/1027131526-00.jpg)
It settled kinda crooked, so just need some bondo to hide it, and make an end piece for the top.
Also epoxied in the visor. THAT was a pain in the shebs...
Got some knee armor, now.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/1027131515-00.jpg)
Just need to get some color on them.
Made some progress on my main blaster, got it here:
http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=67053.0 (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=67053.0)
Just need to finish my knives and sword, but as it stands, I'm ready for Halloween (also my 14th anniversary).
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Been thinking of adding some trophies to my kit, what would people think of some Death Watch colored chest diamonds on some wookie braids?
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That'd be pretty cool. 8)
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Do I go with the black from the comics, or the silver/blue from the Clone Wars?
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Do I go with the black from the comics, or the silver/blue from the Clone Wars?
Yes. (Why not do both???)
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Go with death watch hair braids. It's the only completed part of my kit. Join the club! :laugh:
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Why not? ;D
A Death Watch commander plays a part in the short story I'm writing. Started as a list of things in my character's backstory, but kinda took a life of it's own. I might post it, once it's closer to being done.
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Happy Halloween, vode!! :D
Also Happy 14th Anniversary to me and my wife.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00006.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00009.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00005.jpg)
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Yeah :D
How's your kit coming along?
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Happy 14th anniversary!!!
My buire just had theirs.
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Happy anniversary! I dunno what it is, but something about the look of yer armour plates makes me think that its been cut straight from a sign. Maybe its the lines or the weathering, dunno. Maybe try more thinner scratches to break it up and a throw some dirt on it?
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Still working on weathering it. Quite a ways away from sending in app pics.
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looking forward to seeing more mate.
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And more is coming. This is becoming an addiction... Already have ideas for my next kit.
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Its coming along vod ;)
a few placement issues ;) and some light scratches with diff grit and papers would be cool ;) maybe a black wash ?
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Does anyone have experience with magnets? Thinking of switching out the velcro with them, might solve some issues with placement.
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Some post-Halloween updates:
Forgot to unpack the cape and leather part of the gauntlets, had a little mold. Cape was cleanable, but gauntlets are goners.
Looking for some better boots, any suggestions are welcomed.
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Does anyone have experience with magnets? Thinking of switching out the velcro with them, might solve some issues with placement.
I use rare earth (neodymium) magnets for all my upper body plates. Love them! I attached them to the plates with 2 part plastic weld, then use heavy duty duct tape (yes, duct tape) on the inside of my leather vest. Only had to adjust them one time in 22 troops...and that was just redoing the duct tape on about 3 of them. I know some folks sew the magnets in, but the tape has worked so far. And the best part is that I don't need anyone to help me kit up!
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Thanks for the info, now to hunt them down! :D
I hope to find them fast, my job situation is getting shaky. Besoms want to hold me at fault for my getting hospitalized for almost a week.
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Minor paint update:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00035.jpg?t=1384446474)
Just got the basic part done of the highlights I planned, now to get a fine brush to it, sharpen the edges.
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NICE!! That really makes the helmet look better! Good job man! ;D
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Hey I met you briefly at cleveland comic con. Really like what you did to your helmet. Keep plugging away and you will be official in no time
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Thanks, vode. Kinda slowing down for a bit, just fine tuning. Working on a short story, and just came up with it's cover art. Also, planning on a back plate upgrade, turn the cape into a kama.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00041.jpg)
Trying to talk the wife into letting me build her that armor. Honestly, neither of us is built like the drawing, but I think it would be something fun for the whole family to get into.
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Nice drawing. You have some art skillz, vod. Maybe make an art thread, ;)
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Where would I put it? Already have 2 topics, this one and one for my weapons ;)
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You could start a new one... :P
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The hard part would be getting all my good stuff out of storage to be scanned or photographed. :P
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...in the fan art section vod. :P
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Have to get my stuff out of storage, now. My art has kinda taken a backseat to this build. ;D
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WOOT WOOT!
Over 4k Views!
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cool stuff vod ;)
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Lookin' good, It takes a real man to rock a night owl.
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Vor'e, ner vod. Having a little trouble finding a big enough piece of plastic to do my back plate, any suggestions?
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6 inch diameter PVC pipe, or a trash can. Or you could always do segmented.
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You could always get a big plastic bin from walmart. They are around ten bucks.
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Check if you have any local plastics companies around. I apparently lived within one mile of one my entire life and never realized it :laugh:
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Thanks for the tips, vode. :D
I'd like to see what a segmented back plate looks like.
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Check kalyns wip http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=55899.30
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Borrowing from Kalyn:
(http://i1253.photobucket.com/albums/hh595/KalynSolari/back_zps51ac810c.jpg)
Looks cool, but not sure how well it would work on me. I'll see about making some out of paper or something, first.
Thinking of getting a trash bin and seeing if the regular will work on it.
Story Update:
Have written in a partner/love interest and the main villain. Now to see where that will take the rest of the story.
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Most people who do segmented have a more simplistic look, on or two side pieces and chest diamond sized pieces in a line to form the spine. Alternatively you could try something like this guy. http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=69244.0
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Also look at Reapwinds WIP. He's got a great segmented back piece.
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I just checked it out, and I think that could work for me. Going to try it in cardboard first.
Would anyone want to be part of my story? Part of the current chapter involves meeting with a more experienced Bounty Hunter, and was about to give the honors to Remo, but not sure if I'd be doing him justice with a cameo.
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I just checked it out, and I think that could work for me. Going to try it in cardboard first.
Would anyone want to be part of my story? Part of the current chapter involves meeting with a more experienced Bounty Hunter, and was about to give the honors to Remo, but not sure if I'd be doing him justice with a cameo.
if the timeline fits and you need a little crazy.... ;)
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Now, are we talking goofball or Hawkbat-osik?
The story is set in the post-Clone Wars period. Have just had a run-in with a Death Watch shabuir who interfered with my hunt, and tried to kill me and my partner. Just contacted my Guild handler to meet with a hunter who's been at it longer.
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Looked through your whole thread! Gotta say, inspirational! You had a few rough moments, but you kept going and now it's all coming together swimmingly! And it looks great on top of that! Insipres me to make my kit!
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Glad to be an inspiration, and good luck in making your kit, vod!
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After careful consideration (and a short conversation with PJ, a.k.a Hondo), I am planning on opening up the visor a bit on the Night Owl I have, Legacy-style.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/cfcaaf02-4094-4fed-a81a-c3645869f086.jpg?t=1387826926)
The lines are where I was thinking of chopping, but am looking for other input.
In other news, the back plate is on hold for now, since I am now the only one employed in my household. Still looking to do a segmented back, though.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all my vode. K'oyacii.
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I opened my bucket up and vision was drastically improved, I don't know if I could have survived otherwise. I say go for it but make absolutely sure you like where your lines are and be super accurate with your measurements
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hmmmmm ??? im not convinced its a great idea :rolleyes: but its your bucket and id be interested to see what you do with it / what it looks like in the end ;)
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Personally, I'm not a fan. I'm not much of a fan of the legacy visors though.. maybe a less gradual cut?
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Personally, I'm not a fan. I'm not much of a fan of the legacy visors though.. maybe a less gradual cut?
Gotta agree with Ronin here. The best-looking part of the Night Owl is the visor, and it'd be a shame to chop it up. Maybe elect to replace it with a new helmet, one with a wider visor.
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Gotta agree with Ronin here. The best-looking part of the Night Owl is the visor, and it'd be a shame to chop it up. Maybe elect to replace it with a new helmet, one with a wider visor.
I'd like to get another buy'ce, but with money getting tight, that is gonna be a while. Might see about a less severe cut.
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I see what you mean, the thinnest part would be right were your eyes are.
I have two styles you might like.
Style one is a less severe cut, but should give you that much more vissiblility.
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3742/11544363446_3ed63ac641.jpg)
Style two has a more severe cut, but would really open up your field of view.
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3782/11544272344_fc7c3cc18e.jpg)
The first doesn't change the helmet to much, but the second one really changes the expression your helmet makes. And trust me, they make an expression.
In the end this is just food for thought, more cut out, or less. You can probably guesse were my vote lies though :P.
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Liking the first one more, keeps with the flavor of the Night Owl.
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One looks pretty good. It's about what I had in mind. 2 looks like batmando. :laugh:
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Yuuuuup one is the best ;)
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One looks pretty good. It's about what I had in mind. 2 looks like batmando. :laugh:
HAH! Batmando.
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/d6011e41-ffc1-4dbf-ad14-fe05a00261f3.jpg?t=1388070668)
I'm BatMANDO!
Damnit, now I want to build that as my next unofficial kit... Blast you, Svik...
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All in a days work.
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OK, getting behind a bit on my kit, but here's the latest:
Ditching the current gauntlets, have an idea for how to replace them. Keeping with the simple style, but for sturdiness I'm going to be stacking the brush cups within each other, and having a segmented look.
The eye expansion is on hold for now, saving up for a good Dremel (or asking the missus to get it for me for my birthday). Going to just trim about 1/16th inch off the bottom.
Taking my original diamond off my kit to send in as a show of support to Cando, and making a new one.
And looking for an old recurve bow and quiver of arrows.
Story update:
Kinda stalled, having a bit of trouble transitioning from being on a hunt to the "off-season". :-\
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Some small paint updates:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00080.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00081.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00082.jpg)
Did some touch-ups, getting a light coat over some spots that still showed the base through the black. Added some "burnt" paint around the slash on the left eye. Still need to sharpen the edges of the orange highlights, and Dremel the eyes just a smidge larger.
Also fixed my gloves, replaced the ruined leather "under gauntlet" part.
Also, can anyone point me to a way to install a hard hat style insert for the helmet? The foam I have in there isn't really cutting it.
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I like the pattern vod ;)
Needs a little bit of clean up on the orange ;) but you could hide it with weathering :rolleyes:
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Still kicking around a few things on it, one of which is painting the raised part around the back. :-\
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Got some minor news.
Going to scrap my original gauntlets, mostly because the brush holder plastic is REALLY weak. Any tips on making them out of PVC? Still want to keep the smooth look I had going, maybe greeb-up the left one a little, small dart launcher and a poison holder, maybe.
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If you can get PVC guttering ;) I find that it is pretty easy to shape a nice set out of it ;)
I like to get some squire Guttering for the top and some Round guttering for the bottom ;)
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Thanks. :D
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Well I got some 4 inch pvc pipe and made my gaunts, they pretty streamline, pm me if you want the template.
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It's slow going, but I have come up with an idea for my back plate(s). I have printed out the Jango XL collar, and will be using that as the starting point for a set of scaled back plates. The cape is getting cut down to make a kama (I might have mentioned that before :rolleyes: ), but had an idea for a codpiece. Would making a flat version to attach to a loincloth work?
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Doing a loincloth with armor on it? It's worked before. It can very easily look really odd though, so make a few templates an see what works best. If you're scaling the back you could try scaling the cod too.
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Hadn't even thought about that...
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How are those gauntlets coming along?
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Been busy with work, so it's slow going. Getting the PVC for it soon-ish.
So sick of my job... :rolleyes:
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Paint Update!:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00104.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00108.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00107.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00106.jpg)
Did some touch-ups, covered some spots I wasn't satisfied with, and did some dry brushing to make some spots look burnt. Made a new diamond, have to mail out the original to Cando soon.
Also adjusted the plates a little, had to stuff the vest with a pillow to get it to "proper proportions". The collar was just a little offset to one side.
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weathering is looking good! could use a bit of dirt and grime imo, but the scorching looks great
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Personaly It could use a few smaller dents and dings here and there, but it's a lot better than my first paint job.
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Still practicing my wash methods, and figured that since it's beskar, it would be really hard to dent.
Going to try a 4-to-1 water/paint mix, then try it on a scrap of the plastic I'm using.
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Well yes, beskar is nearly impossible to dent, what I meant is you don't have many small scratches.
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Working on those.
Story Update:
Have my character and his Mandokarla partner are getting close to a target at the Cloud City Casino sabacc tournament. Just had him knock out the Muun target's bodyguard, while she's at the table facing off against him in the second day's last hand.
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Took advantage of the snow. Not exactly what I had in mind, but the missus was complaining about the cold. :laugh: ;D
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/9d490661-af5e-4c78-994b-5afcc027b799.jpg?t=1391053756)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/97823165-6944-4ce3-b059-954a64196c5c.jpg?t=1391053671)
Thinking of doing one next time by the aliit's fire pit...
And yes, they were taken at slightly different times.
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Went and read through your thread, you have made some really nice progress, thumbs up to you Vode!
Keep up the good work.
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Vor'e, vod. :D
List of "Still Needs:"
Gauntlets- Going to be getting PVC for those, soon.
Boot Armor- Need to cover the laces, or just get a set of pull on boots with my taxes...
Kama
Loincloth and Cod piece- Need better leather/pleather, maybe use leftovers to make a holster.
Bow and Quiver
Hand wraps- Since I'd like to go Assassin at some point.
I now have 2 suits to wear under the armor, the grey and now white.
And now, I need to get new gloves. Lost one of them somewhere...
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As far as a bow, I would look at trying to make something futuristic. Not that many con-goers would know that bows exist in the Star Wars universe, and seeing a plain wooden one for example probably wouldn't make sense to them. The wookieepedia article says that there had been bows made out of wood that had stone or metal enhancements, but that was closer to the beginning of the Star Wars timeline. Anything used in the Modern Era would have been of composite materials. (other than what the Ewoks used)
As far as handwraps, it is your preference, but I would suggest using streamlined pvc gaunts as you had mentioned. Too often I see hand/foot wraps being used to cut effort out of kit. In my opinion, if you are going to put the effort in to starting a kit, you should make it the best you can. I guess I just don't like wraps, but that's just my opinion.
Also, if you are wanting to go Spec Ops and keep your kit light, I have a few ideas for you. You could make some spats (instead of boot armor) that are 1) the color of your flightsuit or 2) the color of your boots. Either should probably work fine. Here's a link to a spat tutorial (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfxGVQ3WpSc&feature=player_embedded). Using some nice pleather/leather would look good. You could also have maybe a shin holster for a knife or some type of weapon. And you could have thigh pouches. Not the Boba style ones, but something that sits on the outside of your leg(s).
And for an assassin route, I would stick to the grey probably since it is more muted than white. Anyway, this is all my two cents, and I hope I have helped. I look forward to seeing your progress.
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That tutorial helps! :D
Going to go for that, maybe make it much taller than the boots, with a couple armor plates on it. Nothing too fancy. The gauntlets are coming, just need to get off my lead shebs.
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Found some new paint to try on those gaunts I'm procrastinating on, a gunmetal grey metallic acrylic.
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Unless you plan to have the gray on another part of the kit that compliments the design, I would suggest sticking to the colors you've already chosen. You don't want to have too many colors that it makes your kit too "busy". 8)
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Going to use it for the base coat, then put my black and orange over it. Also going to be using it for the base on some extra diamonds, taken as trophies from Death Watch opponents.
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Oh okay. Makes sense. 8)
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Metallic base coats ftw. :)
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Quick question: I saw someone mention a kneepad mount, using neoprene knee supports. Is this still kosher?
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No I don't think it is. It kind of falls under the sports armor/swat gear category. Your best bet for knees is to just Velcro your cut out pattern to the flightsuit, and use straps going around the back of the leg for support.
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Ok, minor update.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00140.jpg)
Have the base coat of gunmetal grey on it. Now for the tough part: Do I paint it a solid color Black or Orange, or do I paint it in a two-tone?
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Ok, minor update.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00140.jpg)
Have the base coat of gunmetal grey on it. Now for the tough part: Do I paint it a solid color Black or Orange, or do I paint it in a two-tone?
Depends on the look you're going for. Solid color shoulder bells tend to look good, but it's very much a personal choice.
Honestly, when it comes to paint schemes, I tend to not have recommendations, aside from appraising weathering techniques. The color of one's kit is the most obvious expression of one's own self.
That said, orange, to make the bells more obvious. Two-tone would also work, with a focus on the orange for the outside/ border colors.
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That's actually the knee, but I did use the Boba shoulders for them. Not a big fan of the Boba-style knees, and not enough skill yet to make Katarn shnees.
Will most likely go with a black front, with the sides done in orange.
No progress on the back plates, yet. Need to get to a Rancor clan armor party, run some ideas past them.
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That's actually the knee, but I did use the Boba shoulders for them.
You might want to modify them some more... Unmodified shoulder plates as knee wont pass.
There are some "easier" alternatives.
- Galactic Marine style
- Star Wars Galaxies style
- Death Watch style
And any custom look really. Just not unmodified shoulders... Sorry.
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So... Any tips on turning those into the GM-style?
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If they'r sintra then you just get it hot and try and introduce a bend at the top.
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Tote bin plastic. Does take heat rather well, just have to figure the angles.
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I finally have a Dremel I can call my own! Time to start the minor adjustment to the visor!
P.S.: A big Thank You to my mother-in-law for the late B-Day present. ;D
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Helmet Update:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00156.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00157.jpg)
Got the widening of the visor area started, just need to straighten out the corners.
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Looking good.
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I would actually leave the visor's shape as it is now. It has a subtle difference to it that makes it look cool. Your choice though. 8)
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I do kinda like it... ;D
Maybe just sharpen the edges a smidge.
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I think you just sharpen up the edges and leave it as it is. It's just different enough to stand out but small enough to not be a completely different helmet.
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i agree :)
how's the rest coming along?
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Had to put off getting the PVC for the gaunts till after my taxes come in, mostly due to trying to get a new apartment.
After much consideration, will be making a 1-piece back plate, Jango-style. Sterilite garbage can, here I come.
Gauntlets will be simple, streamlined. Going to try making Galactic Marine knees, and will be getting Jedi-style boots, and adding an armor piece to the top of the foot.
Cape has been cut into the kama, just need to get it onto a belt, and make a codpiece. Have the plate cut for it, but it looks kinda uneven. Will post a pic later.
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If you're looking for cheap streamline gauntlets 4" PVC pipe is a great material, just cut it to shape, slice down the middle so you can get your arm in it, a minimal bit of forming and boom, cheap and easy gauntlet. Svik can probably send you some templates and better instructions if you're interested.
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He sent me them a little bit ago. :D
It's what I'm going to get, have to get the green PVC.
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And out of curiousity, what should the measurements be, from a centerline, on a Large Jango codpiece?
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00158.jpg)
Added some names to the buy'ce. My brother Art just passed away this morning.
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Nice touch. My deepest condolences ner vod.
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Man that sucks. My sympathies vod.
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So very sorry to hear that, my condolences.
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Sorry about your loss. My condolences.
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I'm sorry to hear that Straka. My deepest of condolences. It's a very touching addition.
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Thanks, vode. I'll never be able to watch Roger Rabbit without hearing my brother with the "PBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBLLLLLLLEASE".
He was the only person I know that could do it perfectly.
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I'm very sorry for your loss. The loss of a brother must be incredibly devastating.
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It's also a kick in the shebs, in more ways than one. FINALLY got the PVC for the gauntlets, and will be starting an exercise program.
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00160.jpg)
FINALLY!! Cut the back plate! ;D
Now to smooth the edges, get it sanded and primed.
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Still got some forming to do there! :P 8)
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Not as much as you'd think, but yeah. Does the back need the flat section? Not planning on a jetpack or anything.
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You can have it flat, yeah, but I meant the tabs at the top have to be formed so they meet with the collar plate.
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it would also be pretty difficult to strap on not mention uncomfortable in its current shape wouldn't it?
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That's happening soon. ;D
Ever wonder just how intimidating a Wookiee Mando would be?
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There's one of those...somewhere in star wars lore. I forget where he/she popped up.
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it would also be pretty difficult to strap on not mention uncomfortable in its current shape wouldn't it?
Lol wut?
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Might get int the way of shoulder blades.
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Here's it after the first attack with the heat gun.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00161.jpg)
Still feels way off, but it's much better than it was when originally cut.
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Also, when I try for the Assassin's Brigade, would a Bes'bev count as an exotic weapon? Going to be carrying a blaster and a vibrosword, might just turn that into a beskad, though. My bow and quiver will be put on hold for a little bit.
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Lol I have no idea if a besbev would count. You'd have to hit up the brigade team for that one.
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After two attacks with the heat gun, the back plate is still curling in on itself, trying to return to it's original shape. Would reinforcement with some flat pieces help?
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After two attacks with the heat gun, the back plate is still curling in on itself, trying to return to it's original shape. Would reinforcement with some flat pieces help?
I'm sorry to say I've missed quite a Bit of your Build ..... :(
But As Far as the Backplate ,You Should Heat it A lot , then Press it as Flat as you Can with Something of Substantial Weight ,
then Subject it to Cold Water or Just let it Cool on it's Own While being Flattened .
Then Re-add the Curves back in as you Go .. IMO ... :rolleyes:
Good luck ner'vod ... ;)
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Looks like I'll need someone's car to flatten this out. Being a total pain in the shebs.
You haven't really missed much, vod. :D
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Can't find if I posted these here yet.
http://www.discountstarwarscostumes.com/mens-anakin-boots.html (http://www.discountstarwarscostumes.com/mens-anakin-boots.html)
Like the style of these, and if I'm going Assassin, I won't need any more armor that cod and knees.
Has anyone purchased items from this site? Just curious of quality and reliability.
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I believe this is the site that I bought my rubie's jango helmet from. I can attest that they are legit and I received the expected goods. Just remember to take their products with a grain of salt, look for actual examples of the boot instead of just their marketing images. i.e. the deluxe jango helmet looks NO WHERE as good as the photo but was still a reliable base bucket.
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T'is good news. I'll be ordering those relatively soon.
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they apparently don't know their star wars though.. a kids boba fett costume's write up is; The only genetic, un-cloned son of famed bounty hunter Jango Fett... much fail. :laugh:
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Like I said, they're a legitimate company but just take everything with a grain of salt and know what you're getting into before you make your purchase.
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Did some searching online, and it seems every costume shop sells these exact same boot for Anakin, right down to the SKU. Guess I'll just have to chance it. :-\
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Some progress, but camera is MIA, so I'll have to post some pics when I find it.
Got the back plate flattened out somewhat. Still needs a little work, but I should have it ready soon.
Got the cod shaped, just need to attach it to the belt and make a Boba-thong for it.
Also, been waiting for better weather to work on the gauntlets. Any advice if I want to try making the Clone Wars style Jedi gaunts?
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Just use pvc pipes. Cut out the "tabs" on either end of the gaunt, and you're good to go.
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Photo Dump!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00165.jpg)
Back plate, after heat attack #4
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00166.jpg)
Cod plate. Still seems a little lopsided. :-\
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00167.jpg)
New gloves. I know I'll have to get the Kobalt logos off of it, just digging the pre-armored aspect. ;D
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00163.jpg?t=1396063241)
And a possible fuel tank for a flamethrower upgrade. Design of the bottle reminded me of the RC's backpacks.
As always, any tips, comments or critiques welcome. :)
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Very ingenuitive idea with the water jug! I can totally see where you're coming from ner vod :D
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It's amazing what greebs you can find working at a nursing home. Have a full pack of those thermometer covers for possible darts. Either need to fill them with something to harden them, or leave them empty to keep their flexibility (and safety).
Thinking of using those gloves as crushgaunts, think they'll pass muster?
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Well, theres not crls defining crushgaunt specs. Its all in backstory. But.crushgaunts are bulky. They would be akin to power fists from fallout.
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Saw a set on the wookiee that looked thin enough, and I figured in the Post-CW modern era they'd have figured out how to thin them down a bit.
In backstory news, figured out my character's name: Anton Strix.
Using my middle for his first name, and the name of a local owl species, Strix Varia. Having him and his aliit (wife and son) infiltrate a cloning facility aboard an Arc Hammer-class factory ship, in pursuit of a crazy clone of a former Death Watch leader and her benefactor, a disgraced former Moff.
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Well, its all ambiguous because they had been banned.until boba became mandalor, and I dont think any pics.have surfaced.from that.era for crushgaunts
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There are several pictures that are commonly accepted as crushgaunts but no definitive "this is what it has to look like" In general I believe it has to be an obviously metal plated gauntlet that is a medium - heavy glove. Other than that it's all personal preference as far as I know
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Lets see those plates on you vod ;)
as for the Crush Gaunt
(http://img1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20070713090947/starwars/images/7/75/Mandalorian_Crush_Gaunts.JPG)
They dont looks to heavy / bulky to me :rolleyes:
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There are several pictures that are commonly accepted as crushgaunts but no definitive "this is what it has to look like" In general I believe it has to be an obviously metal plated gauntlet that is a medium - heavy glove. Other than that it's all personal preference as far as I know
Largely personal, yes. Niabi's shot is the one image accepted as canon, but there have been many variations...
(http://i1265.photobucket.com/albums/jj513/Ian_Crash_Tarr/Weapons_zpsadedf9c7.jpg) (http://s1265.photobucket.com/user/Ian_Crash_Tarr/media/Weapons_zpsadedf9c7.jpg.html)
Mine...
(http://i448.photobucket.com/albums/qq208/TracynOrdo/Tracyn%20Ordo%20Custom%20Mando%20v1/IMG_1627-2.jpg) (http://s448.photobucket.com/user/TracynOrdo/media/Tracyn%20Ordo%20Custom%20Mando%20v1/IMG_1627-2.jpg.html)
Tracyn Ordo's...
(http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m210/Mandalore987/Force%20Hunter%20Album/DSC_0495_zpsa83da42d.jpg)
Je'karta Kad Verda, clearly going over the top with his... :D
(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k201/PJR_76/Armor/IMG_0676.jpg)
Hondo Karr/ Head Shot Props' crushgaunt, back from when he was in his Falin Skirata days...
Most of us here do ours big. Subtlety just doesn't cut it for a Mandalorian. The lack of real canon references basically means you can stick with the little ones in the pic, or you can make a skull-crushing monstrosity like most of us prefer.
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Theres also "Ironman" type gloves like mine....you see Dresdon doesnt have real hands so Im going with these being kinda like super battle droid inspired...
(http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af246/DresdonAcacin/10008419_597371887022508_508935093_n_zps2fe868ca.jpg) (http://s1012.photobucket.com/user/DresdonAcacin/media/10008419_597371887022508_508935093_n_zps2fe868ca.jpg.html)
(http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af246/DresdonAcacin/10009562_597371890355841_1465129697_n2_zps7489d557.jpg) (http://s1012.photobucket.com/user/DresdonAcacin/media/10009562_597371890355841_1465129697_n2_zps7489d557.jpg.html)
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Trying to avoid the "Big 'n Bulky" look, but it's something to consider for my Mk. II. ;D
Trimmed the old knees, still need to do a little shaping.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00187.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00188.jpg)
Tightened up the text on the buy'ce
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00191.jpg)
And added killstripes
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00189.jpg)
Nevermind the mess, we're packing for a move.
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IRL News, just got my MMCC Trading Cards!!
What, no love for Rancor Clan? :rolleyes: :P :laugh:
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OK, having some serious doubts about the back plate. Thinking of making a poncho, but am wondering if there are any tips, pros and cons, etc. Also scrapping the kama, it interferes with where I am putting my holster.
Main reason for osik-canning the back piece? It WILL NOT cooperate with me, and keeps returning to it's original shape, even after four heat attacks. Even tried weighting it on the reverse of the curve with a 5-gallon bucket of ice-cold water. >:( :'( ???
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what material is the back plate? and have you gotten the piece wet with cold water, or just placed a very cold bucket on it?
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Both. It's kinda frustrating. I'll be giving it another try, as soon as this crazy-shebs weather gets better.
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I wouldn't worry about the backplate too much. If you are evening thinking of going with a poncho or cape, just do that for now. You can always come back and work on the back plate later.
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Backplates can be a pain ... Keep at it .. You'll get it ... ;)
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To be honest...find someone in your clan who can do metal work and make one out of metal. At least you don't have to worry about it bending back! :laugh: Or just buy a rounded trash can or plastic bin (what I did) and cut the backplate out so the shoulder area is on the curve, and BAM instant armor shaping! :P
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I plan on keeping at it. It WILL bow to my will! Just not right now.
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Did you try giving it the evil eye? Always worked for me.
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Doing that as we speak. :P
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Keep at it vod: it will be so much better to have persevered and accomplished something that drove you insane trying to figure out than to jsut start over.
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Thanks, vode.
Going to keep trying, but still doing the poncho for the time being, see if I can get approved with it for now.
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Aaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrggggggggghhhhhh >:(
PVC, why doest thou hate me?!
Looks like I'm going back to the scrub brush gaunts. The PVC I got burns instead of becoming flexible.
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140419_18_38_14_Pro1.jpg)
Issues I can see:
Spacing on rt. chest plate
Can barely see cod plate
Knees need paint
Going to be changing "girth belt"
Need to tailor "undergaunts" to hide glove logo
Need new hard gauntlets.
I do like the short sleeve look, if I can get some henna ink and a few stencils, I'll have a reason to show off the arms. :D
Will be hunting down a bow, since I failed miserably with flattening out a PVC pipe to make one. But, I was able to make my bes'bev. will post a pic later.
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Keep at it man. Yeah pretty much everything you mentioned is what I see so far.
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Anything on the boots? Just got them, so they're still VERY shiny :rolleyes:
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I'm not a fan of the belt system thing you have going there. I feel the pouches could be positioned farther apart and have a better look.
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i agree on the spacing of the pouches.
move them to the sides. leave the middle(cod) exposed
also to me the flight suit seems to stand out.
maybe try darkening it a bit.
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Got some ideas for the pouches, going to try a couple things soon. The flightsuit is another thing I'm looking into. Might pick up a darker set of scrubs, if I can sneak them past the wife...
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you could try dyeing them.
I have the same colour scrubs and that’s what my plan is.
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Saw a charcoal grey set at a Kmart a week ago, the missus saw me drooling over them. :P
Was trying to have a little contrast in the flight suit, but starting to think it's too light. Going to hang on to them, maybe use them in my MK. II or something. :rolleyes:
Just did a minor edit to the undergaunts. Made a thumb hole, hides the logo and the strap, and will hopefully keep the gaunts in place when I remake them.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00198.jpg)
Note the battlecat enjoying an evening repast.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00199.jpg)
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Love to see it coming together! I'm not a fan of exposed skin. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. But you really can't judge that until it is all together. But I'm sure you can pull it off ;D
Also, a note on henna, that stuff stays on for a long time. I may have agreed to let some ladies draw on me, back in the day. Did not expect to have a horse on me for a week.
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Oh, I know about that. Had an arm done in a traditional design for my brother's wedding. ;D
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Finally broke the back plate's will!!!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00201.jpg)
Even have a slugthrower dent, to remind it who's boss. Now to get the base coat, and figure out a pattern for my colors.
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Very well done! Sometimes a back piece just needs to be shown who runs the show, ya know?
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Actually I kind of saw something that could be argued as semantics but I thought I'd point it out. It is the big gun shot weathering on the gut plate. You said your character was an assassin and I just figured that an assassin would most likely be able to avoid those kinds of hits, and wouldn't be in the line of fire to receive that caliber of damage. It may be something you want to repaint. Horribly nit-picky, I know, but I just needed to voice my opinion.
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Actually I kind of saw something that could be argued as semantics but I thought I'd point it out. It is the big gun shot weathering on the gut plate. You said your character was an assassin and I just figured that an assassin would most likely be able to avoid those kinds of hits, and wouldn't be in the line of fire to receive that caliber of damage. It may be something you want to repaint. Horribly nit-picky, I know, but I just needed to voice my opinion.
;) I love opinions like this, makes me realize I'm not the only person out there with crazed, specific, ideas. This is totally just an opinion though. Maybe he got shot in the gut, under a table, at a bar... while on the job.
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Or he keeps it as a Reminder to "Keep his Distance" now ... ;)
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Or he keeps it as a Reminder to "Keep his Distance" now ... ;)
It's more of a "I got to see the lights go out, but the target was defiant to the last."
A souvenir of my first up-close job. ;D
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hopefully it will also be your last "souvenir" as well :P
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Yup. ;D
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Hoping for good weather this weekend, going to be making the gaunts again, and trying to paint and attach the back, cod and knees.
Going back to the scrub brusk holders for now, had to get a new set, since the last ones shattered. Gotta love sub-zero temps... :rolleyes:
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one or two up close shots wouldnt be unheard of.. I have one lined up with the heart on the back of my assassin build.. I thought the job was over, the bounty turned in.. looks like someone had placed a bigger price on me... so I decided to paint the room red, if you catch my drift....
but for real, one assassin weapon is close quarters, so a big direct hit or two might happen.
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Got to get my shebs in gear, need to get things cut and painted befor we finish the move. Also, I am in need of a much bigger bin for my kit.
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Got to get my shebs in gear, need to get things cut and painted befor we finish the move. Also, I am in need of a much bigger bin for my kit.
My wife didn't appreciate my suggestion of a mannequin for my kit... So maybe I need a big box myself.
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My wife didn't appreciate my suggestion of a mannequin for my kit... So maybe I need a big box myself.
Oh, I can relate. Everytime I mention one, I get :rolleyes: from her.
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Just Make one ... ;D
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Just Make one ... ;D
I was going to! With PVC from work. She still did not seem to appreciate it >:( Maybe I'll do it anyways... Ha. No. We all know that's a mistake ;)
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I was going to! With PVC from work. She still did not seem to appreciate it >:( Maybe I'll do it anyways... Ha. No. We all know that's a mistake ;)
That largely depends on how comfy a couch you have. :D
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It's pretty simple actually .... Would like some details ? PM me ... ;)
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I know my couch is comfy, been sleeping there for a couple years. :rolleyes:
Long story short, my son was afraid of his bedroom, kept saying he saw someone standing in one corner of the room, so for the last few years I'd sleep in the living room with him.
Got a near 100k Gamerscore that way. :P
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OK, slight delay in getting things finsihed. Seems I got so caught up in finishing this build that I almost forgot something important, like the fact I only have a week to pack everything for a move ??? :rolleyes:
So, I'm putting this on hold for the moment, our regularly scheduled programming will resume shortly. ;D
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Ok, still unpacking from the move. Looking for info on a speaker/mic kit, similar to the ones our TK brethren use. Kinda partial to the static click they have.
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For the static click thatd be like an Icomm board.as for a voice amp pm me I possibly might be able to hook you up with one set up for a helmet.
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For the static click thatd be like an Icomm board.as for a voice amp pm me I possibly might be able to hook you up with one set up for a helmet.
Thanks for the info, vod. And I might have to take you up on he amp.
Currently in the unpacking stages of the move, but picked up some black military style belts, was thinking of mounting the pouches on those. Will try to post pics of them later.
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Some minor progress, I have the gaunts cut and primed, along with the back plate.
Just for shiggles, I'm hoping to take it for a test run at Race for the Place Cancer Walk/Run tomorrow. It's a 1k run, 1 mile walk for cancer research. Will be a good test of it's durability... And mine. Will post pics soon, can't find the cable to upload my camera...
Update: Due to A Series of Unfortunate Events, I was unable to kit-up today.
I DO have the back attached, though, and as soon as I can make sure it's in place correctly, I'll post pics. Still have to hunt down that blasted cable...
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Back plate pic:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140601_22_08_18_Pro1.jpg)
Issues:
Shoulder section seems too long and sticks too far off the shoulder.
Left shoulder is just a hair too wide, when compared to the collar piece.
Anyone see something I'm missing?
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Worste case scenario if you cant make the tweaks work you can just put a mini-pauldron over one side...
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I think I'd like that...
Where's the pauldron WIP? ;D
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hows it look from the side? i at all possible I would trim some off the shoulders. it is a bit wide.
pauldrons also arent that difficult.. scour some pics from clone wars and grab a ruler and free hand some pieces outta card board and viola; easy cheap pauldron.
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I floats on the side, not enough of a curve to it. I will be trimming some down.
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This is how bad the shoulders turned out on the back plate:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140608_01_24_45_Pro1.jpg?t=1402319002)
The right side isn't as bad, but it's close.
Also, feeling the need for a simple girth belt. Have the Easy Girth tutorial bookmarked, just debating on the colors.
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Heat that corner up super hot and roll and pull the shoulder forward. The bend is too extreme for the curve of the shoulder. If necessary cut some darts in it to help the curve.
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Was about to do just that today, but the weather turned to osik. So, going to get to working on my girth belt.
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Ok, having a "fun" time trying to find grey dye, so here's a question: Would a dark Denim Blue go with my colors? Would use Navy Blue, but if it dyes to dark, it looks black.
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Ok, got it heated and bent a bit more, will see just how much of a trim it needs. Also got some paint to it, the orange for the accents. Will be taping and spraying the black later. Have a line on a hip pouch, about the size of Chewie's, for my belt. Will post pics later, having camera issues again. Grrrrrrrrrr.... >:( ;D
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Not really sure...I'm trying to picture the blue in my head and it looks good for what *I* can visualize, but you never know until it's actually in front of you. I do think the gray looks good though. it's your call. 8)
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Ok, having a "fun" time trying to find grey dye, so here's a question: Would a dark Denim Blue go with my colors? Would use Navy Blue, but if it dyes to dark, it looks black.
DO NOT get Rit Liquid Dye in Pearl Gray. I dyed my vest in it and it came out in a purple-grey color.
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DO NOT get Rit Liquid Dye in Pearl Gray. I dyed my vest in it and it came out in a purple-grey color.
Saw it on the shelf, said "That ain't dark enough", and left it there.
My other option for the blue is my wife's old scrubs, she's got some in a dark blue.
Back plate pics!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140622_19_29_50_Pro1.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140622_20_46_53_Pro1.jpg)
Got the shoulders evened out, will see how much needs trimmed later this week. Also got them painted for the markings, will be taping it off for the final black coat. that big blue-ish blob is the main point of damage, a lucky shot to the back as I ran from the scene. 8)
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Nice looking back plate! Love this kit how it's progressing!
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That back plate is looking good 8) Also like your choice of helmet 8)
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Thanks, fell in love with it when I first saw it on Clone Wars. Still looking to get a Boba style one, though. Maybe next kit... ;D
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Glad to see you finally wrestled the back plate into shape :)
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It has submitted to my will! >:( ;D :rolleyes:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140623_23_46_24_Pro1.jpg)
Final paint app, had the same damn problem with my blue painter's tape as with the ab plate. Not as bad this time, though. Going to hit it with some silver paint to make it look like wear and tear. Still need to check and see how much off the shoulders needs trimming. Other than that, pretty pleased with it. ;)
Now, on to the gauntlets!
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Nice work, man! It turned out great! Once you get the smaller weather on, it'll be superb. 8) I like how you did the orange accents too, by the way.
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Thanks. The gauntlets are next, thinking straight black, with some "raised" orange accents to hide the closure method I'm using.
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GAUNTLETS!! ...And some other parts... :rolleyes:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140625_19_33_45_Pro1.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140625_19_33_53_Pro1.jpg)
After some shaping and a repaint, got my gauntlets, the closure pieces, and my cod plate close to finished.
Just need a new can of the orange paint to finish them off.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140625_20_51_08_Pro1.jpg)
Here's a closer-to-finished product.
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Just looked through a bunch of this forum, can't wait to see the final product! :D
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Slow but sure, it's getting there. Got the gauntlets their base coat of black, need to find some rattle-cans of my orange.
Needing some tips on attaching the codpiece. I have a couple belts I can attach it to, just trying to figure out a couple ways to do it.
Option A) Glue the clasp of the belt (military style, picked up from a Army/Navy surplus store) to the back of the plate.
Option B) Make slots in the piece for the belt to slide through.
Option C) Make "belt loops" out of spare plastic, and attach those to plate.
Side Note: Been kicking around the idea to become a Wookiee-lorian.
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I just velcroed my codpiece to my flightsuit 8)
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Slow but sure, it's getting there. Got the gauntlets their base coat of black, need to find some rattle-cans of my orange.
Needing some tips on attaching the codpiece. I have a couple belts I can attach it to, just trying to figure out a couple ways to do it.
Option A) Glue the clasp of the belt (military style, picked up from a Army/Navy surplus store) to the back of the plate.
Option B) Make slots in the piece for the belt to slide through.
Option C) Make "belt loops" out of spare plastic, and attach those to plate.
Scuff up the back of the cod and e6000 the belt right to it. It worked great to me.
Side Note: Been kicking around the idea to become a Wookiee-lorian.
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e6000 to a belt works wonders. its how I do.
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Going to be painting the cod and knees today.
Any suggestions on weathering the cod? Already have plans on how to do the knees. Will post pics later.
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id say mostly edges of the co, maybe a couple scrapes in random areas on it.
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Going to be painting the cod and knees today.
Any suggestions on weathering the cod? Already have plans on how to do the knees. Will post pics later.
I would say weather any edges, and any prominent raised areas if you have a Fett-style one. Just be careful not to overdo it. It coul give off the site that you've been hit in the jewels far too many times. :P
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Here they are:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140703_00_15_29_Pro1.jpg)
Going to leave the cod orange, kicking aroound the possibility of the knees being black/orange. Weathering to happen once I settle on it.
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Looks good.
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Looking great so far vod!
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Doing a very nice job vod! 8)
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OK, got some Good News/Bad News.
It has been brought to my attention that my flak vest won't pass muster. Visible pockets, and the front keeps shifting, knocking the plates out of whack. >:(
Other than that, I'm in decent shape. ;D
Any recommendations on ways to make a vest? Have a couple bookmarked, but not sure which to try.
Side note: The heavy "chipped" sections on the gaunts are the bottom, so it kinda goes along with blocking a weapon or two with that part of the forearm. I have some knife scrapes on them (made with my actual knife) and will be crawling on the pavement to simulate just that... :rolleyes:
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pavement is exquisite for that kinda weathering
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That is a bummer about the vest! There's Ori Cabur's tutorial on his thread, it's simple and easy to follow. http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=20379.285
Like how you're using various methods for weathering. 8)
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Thanks! I'll keep this in mind. ;D
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Can anyone recommend a cloth for the vest? Duck cloth is $12 a yard, and I just got his with a $400 repair to my van... :'( :'( ???
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well you only need like 2 yards tp make a vest, perhaps black denim might work? idk the cost of it though.
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Thats a lot more than i paid for it. I think it was ~4 dollars a yard. Where were you try to buy it from?
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I managed to make my vest with less than a yard of duck cloth that was 59 inches wide, so I would get 2 yards for safety. And Walmart has duck cloth for $6.99 a yard, and in multiple colors. :)
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Gonna have to look; the one closest to me, their fabric section is a shambles.
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Yeah I had no help from then when I got mine. My wife happened to see it. Both of the walmarts I have seen it in it was next to the poly filling/ pillow stuffing.
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Ok, I'll have to look when I go to pick up "Weird Al" Yankovic's new album, Mandatory Fun.
HUGE fan. ;D
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well hobby lobby if you have one has duck cloth for pretty cheap. and they have a 40% off coupon on their site...
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well hobby lobby if you have one has duck cloth for pretty cheap. and they have a 40% off coupon on their site...
You could also check Michael's or Joann Fabric for duck canvas. Those two, including Hobby Lobby, seem to always have pretty similar pricing.
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found some @ JoAnn, but it was $11 a yard. going to keep looking.
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found some @ JoAnn, but it was $11 a yard. going to keep looking.
Your best bet is probably Walmart then. Do what I did: suffer through the absolutely horrid fabric section, buy some white duck cloth, and dye it yourself. UNLESS you like/want one of the other colors they have. When I went they had natural, white, black, blue, red, and brown.
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Got 2 yards at Walmart, white. Might just have to get a new bucket to dye all the parts that need it.
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Got 2 yards at Walmart, white. Might just have to get a new bucket to dye all the parts that need it.
I would HIGHLY suggest getting a new, clean bucket from Home Depot or the like, because you don't want any leftover residue to affect your dyeing.
If you need tips or have questions, feel free to PM me, as I have just done what you're about to do. :)
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140718_00_36_02_Pro1.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140718_00_35_51_Pro1.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140718_00_35_40_Pro1.jpg)
So... What do y'all see here? ;D :P :rolleyes:
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I See Tons and Tons of possibilities here bud ... :o
Now I'm anxious to See what you Do with it .. ;)
I'm sorry that I haven't Commented on your build more.
I read it often and watch for new posts , but you have been getting
some great Advice and I really like how your kit is Shaping up.
Keep up the Fine Work ... ;)
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Oxegen/flame thrower tank. That's what I'd do with it.
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Oxegen/flame thrower tank. That's what I'd do with it.
Well, it WAS the oxygen sensor/filter for my wife's car...
I was thinking of making them into macrobinoculars, with a regular and a "telephoto" lens. Kind of a shame I'll have to clean them it up to mod it, has some great real weathering.
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Well, it WAS the oxygen sensor/filter for my wife's car...
I was thinking of making them into macrobinoculars, with a regular and a "telephoto" lens. Kind of a shame I'll have to clean them it up to mod it, has some great real weathering.
Macros. Make macros. for the love of all that is good in the world make macros.
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I almost said macros, but I feel like there are better bases out there for macros, and the lopsided nature of this thing might make that hard.
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That lopsided look is what I wanted. ;D
Picked up a NAVY flightsuit, will post pics later.
Update: Scratch that, I am NOT a 42L... I could have done it, but I need to bend and breathe... ??? :rolleyes:
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Ok, was able to return the WAY too small suit, and got another. Will post a pic as soon as my wife wakes up. I hate taking "selfies"...
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As promised:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140720_08_50_11_Pro1.jpg)
No pockets on the arms, so bonus there.
Plan to put a tab of velcro on the collar, have that covering my neck.
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As promised:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140720_08_50_11_Pro1.jpg)
No pockets on the arms, so bonus there.
Plan to put a tab of velcro on the collar, have that covering my neck.
Looks to be fitting pretty good. I think I may be upgrading to a new jumpsuit as well. :P
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And this is where I'd like to be:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140720_21_38_31_Pro__highres1.jpg?t=1405821139)
I know placement is bad, but this is my temp vest. ;D
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Those colors go well together. Something you should do with the vest though is trim a good bit off the bottom. It doesn't need to be below your belt line.
As for macros.. (which is what I saw in them too) nothing wrong with being lopsided... (http://i1144.photobucket.com/albums/o497/mervdaninja/Mobile%20Uploads/20140722_105204_zpsn96lqdfq.jpg) (http://s1144.photobucket.com/user/mervdaninja/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20140722_105204_zpsn96lqdfq.jpg.html)
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I like the vest. Other than what ronin said, you should stick with it. 8)
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I'd like to keep it, but got a heads-up from one of my clan's pre-app guys. I'd be getting sent back for visible pockets on the vest. I'm also not too keen on the seam on the front. Keeps shifting, throwing off my placement.
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I'd like to keep it, but got a heads-up from one of my clan's pre-app guys. I'd be getting sent back for visible pockets on the vest. I'm also not too keen on the seam on the front. Keeps shifting, throwing off my placement.
You are Correct on all Counts I'm afraid to Say . ...... Now Before Someone
Says Just turn it Around and Wear it Backwards ... Don't ...just saying.
For more Reasons than I'd care to go into ... plan and Simple , You Won't be Comfortable .. ;)
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You are Correct on all Counts I'm afraid to Say . ...... Now Before Someone
Says Just turn it Around and Wear it Backwards ... Don't ...just saying.
For more Reasons than I'd care to go into ... plan and Simple , You Won't be Comfortable .. ;)
Believe me, I know... :rolleyes:
Besides, it still has the liner. :o :-\
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Oh, I didn't see the pockets. That might be due to me being on my phone as of late on the mercs.
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Looking great vod, love the heavy yet subtle damage
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Yeah, it's cool when an accident can inspire. :D
The two big spots were from the masking tape. I liked the way the ab plate peeled, so it turned into a double shot. I figured my character is like me; clean, but likes his scars.
Having trouble with the "easy" girth belt, need to find my glue gun.
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Well, some progress:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140727_19_15_46_Pro1.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140727_20_05_34_Pro1.jpg)
Got my girth belt made, thinking of either dying it brown or leaving it white.
Also, got a gloss coat on my bes'bev, and a leather belt loop for it.
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I'd dye it. you got lots of darks, i'd keep things that way.
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I'd dye it. you got lots of darks, i'd keep things that way.
Agreed .... But may be a Complementary Color instead of Dark Muddy Color .. IMO .. :rolleyes:
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Was thinking of dying it the same as my vest, a denim blue. Think brand new jeans... ;D
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Was thinking of dying it the same as my vest, a denim blue. Think brand new jeans... ;D
Maybe dye it a similar orange to what's on your armor?
-
Worth thinking about...
Thanks ;D
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OK... Having some issues with the "Easy vest tut". Mainly that I can't cut a straight line in the t-shirt template to save myself. ???
Also, what materials would be acceptable for a kama? I got some burlap to line the back of the girth with, but it didn't work out. So I have a little over 2 yards of material, and nothing to do with it. Kicking around a cape, an Eastwood-style cloak, kama... Help... ??? :P
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Burlap probably isn't the best choice; after all, kamas are designed to protect from shrapnel and fire blasts and the like, and burlap doesn't really have the look of a material that would offer that kind of protection.
Generally kamas are made from leather or pleather. There may be a way to incorporate burlap though, assuming it fits with the whole aesthetic of your kit. Hope this helps!
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Going for the aesthetic, might have to mock it up in the different ways I'm thinking of. Pics to come, I guess...:P
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GAAAAAAH!! How could I be so stupid... ??? :rolleyes:
With the focus on my soft parts, I've completely forgotten my Cod and Knees. :facepalm:
Have to get some e6000 to attach a belt to the cod plate, and some elastic to the knees. Will be covering them with some fabric that matches the flightsuit. Was wondering, would a single strap be enough, or should I use two?
Now for an unofficial poll:
Which is better?
A: (http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140821_15_25_22_Pro1.jpg?t=1408672301)
OR
B: (http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140822_21_37_06_Pro1.jpg)
Had to take a pic of my print from MandoMaker 3.0, since it won't let me screencap it.
-
I have to go with option B. I'm not much on for kamas. As well as the second one just looking outright better in my opinion :D
-
Forgot to add in color choices for the parts:
Either a "denim blue" like the vest, or navy blue like the flightsuit.
-
yeah im feeling b here.
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That settles it. Cape it is. Between you guys, and my Rancor vode, B is the most popular.
Thanks! :D
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Gaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh!!! >:( ??? :-\ :-[
Got majorly sidetracked, seriously need to take a week away from work to get moving forward on this build. Found a Halloween short sword, can use it for a placeholder weapon, untill I get a better.
REALLY need some help with this vest, and am glad I shave my head, or I'd be pulling my hair out, trying to get my cod and knees attached.
/rant
:blank:
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What material were you wanting to use again?
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I have duck cloth for the vest, and burlap for the cape.
-
Hmm. You said you've already tried some tutorials? Is there anyone local in your clan that has a sewing machine? Or you could try taking it to a local seamstress and just tell them where to sew.
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Going to have to talk to a couple people.
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I hope those ideas help. I know trying to get soft parts sorted out can be a pain. If those don't work, i think there are a few new vest makers popping up. Might be worth checking out 8)
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Really have to kick this in gear, have the Cincinnati Comic Expo later in September. I would love to be OM by then.
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Just gave my plates a good cleaning, got kinda dusty waiting for progress.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140829_12_17_19_Pro.jpg)
Going to do the 1-shoulder cape, ala Uncle Boba:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140829_12_06_25_Pro1.jpg)
I HATE doing these pics...
Infalte-A-Mando!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140829_12_24_17_Pro.jpg)
Still need to get the knees sorted (have some elastic and some navy blue cloth to cover that), and need to get the cod mounted to the belt.
Backplate:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140829_12_27_43_Pro.jpg)
Need to fix the chipped spots on the bottom.
I HAZ CLOTH!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140829_12_31_21_Pro1.jpg)
Duck cloth, burlap and the cover for any elastic.
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Looking real good vod. really liking the colors and how the masking tape accident turned damage/weathering came out.
-
Thanks, vod.
Getting kinda frustrated; having trouble with the vest, and almost broke my ankle at work.
Made some progress on my knees, going with an asymmetric look, added an extra plate to the right knee for protection or offense in melee.
Will post pics later.
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Sounds cool man. I always thought it was weirdly cool that stormtroopers had the asymmetrical knees. It's interesting to see that on a mando. 8) What if you made an off-set shoulder piece to go on the same side of the body as your knee plate?
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Going with a cape, for now.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140913_22_36_12_Pro1.jpg)
Need to get it and the girth belt dyed.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140908_12_47_34_Pro1.jpg)
Belt needs work...
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140908_12_46_46_Pro1.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140908_12_47_05_Pro1.jpg)
Not the best shots of the knees, but it's what I have to work with.
Unfortunately, I will not be Official by Cincinnati Comic Expo, mostly due to being couch-bound by a nearly broken ankle two weeks ago.
-
Sorry about your ankle :( And how are you dong to attach your straps to your knees? Are you going to leave the duct tape or replace it cause im not sure how I want to do mine yet
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The duck tape is temporary, need to get some e6000 or something. It's just to get me through the coming con, then it's a full-on charge to fix things to become official.
-
Not the photo people want to see of me, but...
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140914_17_20_52_Pro1.jpg)
So, here they are, codpiece and knees, with the temp attachments.
Dye-job fail. >:(
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140914_17_37_58_Pro1.jpg)
I know it looks white still, but it came out a pale blue, with those darker spots. Not going to work... :rolleyes:
The cape is behind it, took the color MUCH better. ;D
That is the color I am planning for the vest, once I get it completed. I will most likely be working on it right up to the day before the con, then finishing it up after.
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What material is the girth belt? There may still be ways of dyeing it. :)
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It's a $4 clothesline, as suggested in the "Easy Girth Tutorial". Might just break down and buy a real one at some point.
Thinking of using a black "sash" with a leather belt for the time being, don't have time for a full-on rebuild before the con season.
-
My advice: spraypaint. My clothesline didn't take the dye either.
-
yuuup spray paint can work well on gurth belts ;)
-
yuuup spray paint can work well on gurth belts ;)
You could always try stain, but that stuff runs around $40 a gallon.
-
Will give the spray paint a try, couldn't hurt, right?
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Will give the spray paint a try, couldn't hurt, right?
Yeah I would try it. Just bear in mind, that after you spray it, it'll seal the clothesline. That MAY effect later treatments.
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Kinda figured as much. It's my first attempt at the girth, so it's not going to be perfect, or around for very long... :P :rolleyes:
-
Kinda figured as much. It's my first attempt at the girth, so it's not going to be perfect, or around for very long... :P :rolleyes:
Yepp.... Everything needs an upgrade eventually. :D
-
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140916_09_51_18_Pro1.jpg)
Well, here it is. :rolleyes:
And, NEW pointy thing!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140916_09_58_42_Pro1.jpg)
Decided to leave the chipped sections, make it look like the blade has seen a lifetime or two of use. Obviously not beskar, but still a family heirloom. ;D
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Belt is looking good vod! I would clear coat it before you wear it to keep the paint from bleeding onto your suit.
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Is that....a lawnmower blade..?
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Is that....a lawnmower blade..?
Cutting board.
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Critique Time!!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140917_20_48_30_Pro1.jpg)
Did a test fit the other day, and want the input of my vode. I know the vest is a major problem, so the placement is one of the things I am aware of.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140917_20_49_04_Pro1.jpg)
Didn't attach either of my holsters or the Bes'bev to the kit.
The right knee is a double-plate deal, trying an asymmetric look. Might extend it up further, add an extra plate to the shoulder, and an elbow piece to the right gauntlet.
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My advice: if you're going asymmetric, play it up. If you only do one piece, it can look unbalanced... but the more unbalanced you make it the better it looks :laugh: Funny how that works, no?
Super jealous of your boots, by the way.
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Yeah, found them on Amazon. Look for Dark Jedi/Sith boots.
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OK Vod this is what i'm seeing ;) BUT app style pics would help :P
apart from the wonky chest plates :rolleyes: your knees are not even.
also you cod does look a bit high ???
your close vod ;) only small things and they are mainly placement ;)
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OK Vod this is what i'm seeing ;) BUT app style pics would help :P
apart from the wonky chest plates :rolleyes: your knees are not even.
also you cod does look a bit high ???
your close vod ;) only small things and they are mainly placement ;)
All good in pointing out, Niabi. ;D Thank you.
The knees look offset, but there is a black secondary plate on the right knee, so they are aligned. Might have to add some color to show that.
Cod was high in this pic, adjusted it a bit lower for the troop I just went on.
As is always the case, wearing for an extended period will show exactly what you need to fix:
-Said knees need better attachments, elastic pulled loose.
-Helmet could use better ventilation and padding.
-NEED some insoles for the boots.
-Need to get better fixtures for the chest/ab plates.
-Shoulders of the backplate need better bends, float way too high off the shoulder... STILL... >:(
Other than that, had a blast! Pics to come!
-
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20140920_15_04_12_Pro1.jpg)
Action Figure Pose!
Need to fix so much...
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NICE! Very good, vod! :)
-
OK, some minor updates:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20141003_11_33_31_Pro1.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20141003_11_33_45_Pro1.jpg)
So, fixed up a couple paint spots that had been bothering me, and added some ventilation to the bucket. Next, might drill some small holes to the sides, in the groove of the earcaps, to be able to hear better.
-
Looks good vod-only thing I'd change is it looks like the botom keyslot is fully opened while the rest are just cut with slits? it might be cool to cut them all full andthen put a perforate metal grill behind it like the metal that covers speakers or something
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Yeah, was figuring on that. ;D
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So close I can taste it... Although, it could just be paint fumes. :rolleyes:
Got some ideas for taking up some real estate between my ab plate and girth belt, main one being one of the web belts I have, and hanging my pouches off of that.
Also, need to get some sticky-back Velcro for my knees, have to sew some of the regular kind to my elastic for that.
Need either a better Dremel tool, or a thin saw to open my keyholes further. Current tool isn't keeping a charge.
Pics to come, as I take them.
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So close I can taste it... Although, it could just be paint fumes. :rolleyes:
Got some ideas for taking up some real estate between my ab plate and girth belt, main one being one of the web belts I have, and hanging my pouches off of that.
Also, need to get some sticky-back Velcro for my knees, have to sew some of the regular kind to my elastic for that.
Need either a better Dremel tool, or a thin saw to open my keyholes further. Current tool isn't keeping a charge.
Pics to come, as I take them.
Check harbor freight or Menard's for their brand of rotary tools. They only rune about $15-20.
-
Had one, but it kept telling me "Nnnnnnooooo, nnnnnno, nnnnnnooo...." as I tried to cut.
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Had one, but it kept telling me "Nnnnnnooooo, nnnnnno, nnnnnnooo...." as I tried to cut.
Does it still run? If so, you should pick up some cutoff wheels, as they do a great job cutting anything. :)
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That was with the cutoff wheels :'(
Going to borrow one, a Craftsman, from my buir. It's what I used to finish my visor.
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That was with the cutoff wheels :'(
Going to borrow one, a Craftsman, from my buir. It's what I used to finish my visor.
That's really odd. At least you have someone to borrow from! :)
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So tired of getting stuck with a 4-day on, 1-day off schedule at work. Leaves me zero time to plan or work on my kit. Anywhoo... Going to try a few things out, see if I like where the ideas I'm coming up with take me. Pics to come.
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Looking for input. The black pouches were what I was using at Cincy, but they were on the belt holding my cod plate on. The other is a handbag that I found lying around in a bin of Ren Faire stuff that belonged to my sister's ex. Any chance I could use either of these (maybe both?) on a belt above the girth?
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00308.jpg)
Painted the knees, so it's a little more apparent that I have an offset piece. I want to continue this further up the kit, add a elbow guard to the right gauntlet, maybe an extra plate at the shoulder.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00309.jpg)
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Seems like a good idea. The pouches should be fine. I would just dirty up the ten faire pouch though.
-
Are the zippers a problem, or is it OK for pouches?
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Are the zippers a problem, or is it OK for pouches?
From what I have seen and heard from the App Team, I would say that zippers, as well as velcro, need to be hidden on pouches. Wait for input from others.
-
I'll be taking some pre-app pics soon, so I'll find out then.
-
Some pre-pre-app pics are up on the Rancor boards, and it got me thinking...
Should I add some Jaig eyes to the bucket?
-
After some consideration, I've decided to hold off on adding things to the current buy'ce. Makes it to busy.
I fixed a couple issues I had with the current vest, and will be getting a few pics on Halloween for your viewing pleasure. ;D
Fixes: Re-Velcro'd the chest and ab plates, more securely Velcro'd the front of the vest. Trying to find some more pouches for the belt, and was wondering if I should have the clasp at the back or at the front.
-
After some consideration, I've decided to hold off on adding things to the current buy'ce. Makes it to busy.
I fixed a couple issues I had with the current vest, and will be getting a few pics on Halloween for your viewing pleasure. ;D
Fixes: Re-Velcro'd the chest and ab plates, more securely Velcro'd the front of the vest. Trying to find some more pouches for the belt, and was wondering if I should have the clasp at the back or at the front.
You can place the belt clasp at the front of the back. Personally I like seeing the belt closure. :)
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And having it in the front makes it 1000x easier to put on... :rolleyes: :P
-
Halloween pics!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00328.jpg?t=1414728633)
Got called a Stormtrooper a couple times, Bob-A the Hutt (WTF??), a Transformer, and Boba Fett.
-
I heard every single one of those when I was out tonight. :P
-
I got Joba Fett. Eh, close enough. Got a surprising amount of "Oh look a mandalorian" though. That's always nice.
-
Had a little kid say "A Mandalorian!", so that made my night. ;D
-
Hope to have some pics up soon, just picked up an ammo satchel to add to my belts. Feel ready to apply.
Also, adding a canteen, figured it would actually be useful. Went through about 6 bottles of water at Cincy, and a bunch more on Halloween.
-
Take some good quality pictures outside (provides better lighting) and post those here before sending them in. We'll be able to examine everything before it goes to the App team. 8)
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Here we go, Be gentle... :rolleyes: :P
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00346.jpg?t=1416414354)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00347.jpg?t=1416414404)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00348.jpg?t=1416414454)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00349.jpg?t=1416414508)
And "Q-ing it" for my blasters!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/DSC00351.jpg?t=1416328194)
What I see:
Need to darken and damage the cape, make it show that I actually DO have a backplate.
Plates still feel wonky to me, maybe the new vest I might be asking Kraam to make might solve that.
Critique time!
Lemme have it.
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I agree with ya pal. The cape needs dyed darker. To match your flight suit and blend and contrast to the kit itself. Your right leg knee pad is off slightly. And something I see as well, your right chest piece or what we are seeing is the left is it is slightly off by a smudge. Like literally tiny. Just needs rotated clockwise a pinch. Other than that, that is all I see. But I am untrained, so that's all I see. Really looks great pal! Really like how its going and that your staying strong! Rancor is proud!
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Thanks, vod, for seeing what I see. :D
-
http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=77065.90 (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=77065.90)
Got some updated pics up over on the Rancor boards, just need to get some real good shots to apply with.
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Ok, state of the build, 2014.
Trying to free up some time to get some minor fixes done. Need to straighten out the chest diamond, keeps shifting while I move.
Shoulders on the backplate still being a pain in my shebs, keep wanting to float off.
Looking for advice on mounting my myriad weapon choices.
Pics to come, or sneak a peek over on the Rancor boards.
-
Update:
Got a matching pair of ammo satchels hanging off the main belt (above the girth belt).
Re-dyed the cape I had, now is a darker blue with some black mottled spots.
Still need advice on how best to mount the myriad blasters I have, along with my Bes'bev. Will post pics to refresh people's memories.
Maybe even submit some pics, too... ;D
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Pics are always the best way to go vod. I don't know if your clan happens to have a pre app thread but mine has been absolutely indispensable to me. Besides, a pictures worth a thousand bounties ;)
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Here's the cape:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20150118_22_04_24_Pro2.jpg)
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Sorry the pics haven't been forthcoming, Photobucket has been a pain.
Been thinking about a cape or duster, since the back plate has once again proven defiant. I'll be keeping it on the kit, just covering it.
-
Well worste-case scenario you could just get a Boba backplate from IOA lol
-
Maybe for my next kit. ;D
Might also be ordering a set of gauntlets from you.
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Ok, before I get to cutting, I'd like to get people's opinions.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/84f10664-7583-4ca6-9c3d-b1dbf4824efd.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/b423a6f4-8f73-48ea-9654-b3826006446b.jpg)
Would like to take the sides of the collar and backplate, combine them as a shoulder plate similar to a Sabine concept I saw. Essentially, make a 3-piece collar, extending the shoulder section towards the back, and removing the shoulder tabs from that plate.
-
There's no doubt it can be done, just run it past the App Team to see what they have to say. :)
-
OK, going to go back to the cloak idea. The half-cape just isn't my style (I'm not Lando, after all... :rolleyes: :P ).
The trenchcoat I picked up is just a little to small in the shoulders (I usually wear a 46-48L, this is a 42L), so, OFF WITH THEIR SLEEVES!! I hope to get some work done on this to show y'all soon. Just have to free up time when I'm not working.
-
Your idea for your collar and backplate should work fine. I'm quite interested to see how it turns out if you go through with it.
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Thanks, vod. HAVE to get some work done to it today.
-
OSIK!! >:( :'( :-\
So... Tried the segmented shoulder "fix", and well... Need to replace the backplate. Didn't segment the collar, thankfully.
Time to hack-up the coat, hide this piece of osik backplate.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20150228_21_15_56_Pro1.jpg)
Half-cape:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20150228_21_13_15_Pro1.jpg)
Duster:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20150228_21_14_27_Pro1.jpg)
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what exactly happened to the backplate?
-
The shoulder tabs would not keep their curve. I've been trying to get them to cooperate for almost a year, and have finally given up on them. Cut them off to make a flat backplate, thought about welding the pieces to the collar tabs.
-
Scrapped the extended look on the collar, going with a duster. Just got the sleeves cut off, and did a test fit last night. Took a rare bathroom "selfie" (hard to do with the gloves I have :rolleyes: ). Will update this post once I'm at a computer.
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Sorry to hear about that. I feel your pain when it comes to back plates.
-
Here it is:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20150307_00_11_26_Pro1.jpg)
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I saw this while I was at work today. I really dig that helmet.
-
Thanks. Slightly modified Nite Owl from Skirata Arms, his last run before his switchover to Head Shot Props.
-
Going to be posting my app pics soon. Have to get this in before the cuttoff date.
-
Going to be posting my app pics soon. Have to get this in before the cuttoff date.
Yeah, I know what you mean! I am waiting for them to hopefully approve mine, I also need to finish getting my wife's sent in and approved too.
-
Need to start my wife and son's kits, waiting on my OM to do that. Pics are up in the Rancor boards pre-app section.
-
App submitted, fingers crossed. ;D
-
Good luck man!
-
I have high hopes for you lol
-
Good luck bud!
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Good luck!
-
So, yeah, this just happened.
Hello Straka Zulu
Real Name: Stephen Straka,
This is Ulrik Kanteer, Mandalorian Mercs Personnel Officer. Thank you for your application to the Mandalorian Mercs Costuming Club! After review of your application and conferring with the Applicant Approval Team, we have determined that your armor submission meets our standards for approval! On behalf of Mandalore the Uniter and the MMCC Command Council, I would like to welcome you to the Mercs!
If you’re not already acquainted with our forums, please make your way around and get to know the other members of your Clan and our community. We look forward to meeting you in person at many future trooping events!
Ulrik Kanteer
Mandalorian Mercs Personnel Officer
Head Applicant Approval Team
Mandalorian Mercs Costuming Club
www.mandalorianmercs.com
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Let me be the first to say, CONGRATS MAN! I've been watching your thread since I've been on this forum, and man has it been a journey. You've earned it! :D
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Thanks, vod! :D
-
Congrats ner'vod ... 8)
-
I turn away for 2 seconds and you go and get official! Congrats vod!
-
Thanks, ner'vode! ;D
-
About damn time. :laugh:
Congrats, vod!
-
w00t well done man
-
Up next? Upgrades and kits for the aliit!
-
OK, here's a couple possibilities for upgrades:
(http://d31snyb1jsf9xb.cloudfront.net/services/image.aspx/media/images-product/Bullseye-shoulder-Holster-attachment-44450-10.jpg-250x)
(http://d31snyb1jsf9xb.cloudfront.net/services/image.aspx/media/images-product/Bullseye-Holster-Kit-Automatic-Large-44450-07.jpg-x250)
(http://d31snyb1jsf9xb.cloudfront.net/services/image.aspx/media/images-product/Bullseye-Holster-Belt-Kit-44448-01.jpg-250x)
Thinking, dye it all black, weather it a little. The question comes to, do I hide it under the coat, or do I keep it on the outside?
Here's the kit, at the moment:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/ecfd16c7-0bb2-4c01-b00e-d7a8ad6131ba.jpg)
I also could use a better knife and sheath for it.
-
And OSIK! SO kriffing upset at not being able to go to C VII, especially after seeing the posting for the LAMP. Would have LOVED to be in the cantina playing sabacc...
Well, there's always C VIII, if it goes back to Florida... :P
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Sorry to hear about that mate. I would have liked to see you there.
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Yeah, I would have loved to go. Never been any further west than the Mississippi River, and would love to finally put real faces and names to the armor. :D
Being a responsible adult, and fixing my cars, sucks. :P
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Yeah, I would have loved to go. Never been any further west than the Mississippi River, and would love to finally put real faces and names to the armor. :D
Being a responsible adult, and fixing my cars, sucks. :P
I feel you man. My the spark plug coil sensor in my car just bit the dust.
-
Yeah, spent about $1500 on just my wife's car in November and December, and my van is disintegrating out from under me... :rolleyes:
-
"No disintegrations!"
Must be a mando thing :laugh:
-
Yup.
The wipers sweep from the center, so it gives the windshield a T-visor look to it in winter. ;)
So, a couple minor updates. I put the mythosaur vinyl I had on one of my gauntlets (too big for the shoulder, wrong color for the chest), and painted "Wrong Side of Heaven" in aurebesh on the inside of one, "Righteous Side of Hell" in Mando'a on the other. Not a HUGE fan of FFDP, but that song touches a nerve.
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(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20150328_16_13_00_Pro1.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/WP_20150406_22_24_04_Pro1.jpg)
I'm working on a thing...
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/Project%20Verpine%20Inverted%20CQB.jpg)
And, I'm hoping to improve the quality of my current kit. My costume boots will not hold up in a parade, so I'm planning to make a set of slip-on spats for my real boots, maybe get a little armor on them to weigh them down. I'd also like to make a leather girth belt, if not just make another clothesline one, with a duck cloth backing to keep it together.
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Ok, been kinda busy with the new job, so not much to update. BUT, I did get started on my wife's kit.
The question I now pose, do I continue that here, or make a new topic for her?
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Personally I'd make a new topic, since it's a new kit.
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Thread. REVIVE!!
OK, couple updates and I'll add photos later. The original girth belt finally gave up the ghost, so I built one more in line with the "easy girth belt tutorial" topic. Have to get some elastic straps and parachute clips for the closure. Did manage to debut it on December 17/18 for the premier of TFA, and even got some air time on the local Fox affiliate that morning, along with some of the 501st, RL, and Droid Builders guys.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_122.jpg)
While under the blaster ban, I built an electrostaff, which debuted that same night. I also got the majority of my Verpine Shatter Rifle built, trooped that at a charity event.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_86.jpg)
Looking at going Gunslinger, just need to upgrade my holsters and a couple belts. Have a mock-up of a possible shield emitter for one of the BRL's:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_93.jpg)
I still want a bow and quiver, maybe for my MK.II...
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Looking really awesome, ner'vod.
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Thanks, vod.
I will say, I am my own harshest critic, I see so much I could do better or different... Need new knees, those gauntlets slide and rotate, really want to get rid of those glossy boots, and my cod kinda tries to cut of circulation to my legs if I sit for too long.
But, seems I do look good in pics, according to others...
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_89.jpg)
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Upgrades happened...
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_142.jpg)
Hoping to be accepted to someone's merry band of brigands in the Privateer Brigade.
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I like the Detail Upgrades ... Well Actually I like any Upgrades ...lol :laugh:
But I'm mean specifically on an OM.
It means We're increasing our skills and adding Depth. By Creating a new Dimension of our Character ,
you inch closer in that seemingly Never Ever Ending journeys Finnish line for that Just off the Set look.
But you Were , Just Off the Set in that pic ... literally .. ;)
Looks good ... 8)
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I like the Detail Upgrades ... Well Actually I like any Upgrades ...lol :laugh:
But I'm mean specifically on an OM.
It means We're increasing our skills and adding Depth. By Creating a new Dimension of our Character ,
you inch closer in that seemingly Never Ever Ending journeys Finnish line for that Just off the Set look.
But you Were , Just Off the Set in that pic ... literally .. ;)
Looks good ... 8)
This made my day, coming from you. ;D
Only thing that sucks about some of the upgrades? The list of names on the back of my bucket has grown longer. It now reads:
Art B.
Sal
Jim M.
Remo
Tina
Eddie
Col. W.
D.F. (Daniel Fleetwood)
Aiden
Terri
Dane
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Pics to come, but the boots are finally gone! Swapped them out for a pair of work boots that are actually comfortable to stand in, with some leather spats to cover the laces.
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I look Forward To it ner'vod ... 8)
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New spats:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_59.jpg)
And at MCCC, a photographer got my good (read: badshebs) side.
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_57.jpg)
I also came up with a better temporary closure for my girth belt. Had some scrap leather from a belt, just used that and a couple sections of velcro to keep it together.
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Sweet ... Very Nice... 8)
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So, I found this:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary.png)
Battlefront's EE-4 blaster rifle.
Now I NEED to build one!
And I am going to try for Support Brigades, Assassin.
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looks Cool .. 8) No problem .. ;) Build it up ner'vod !
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So, I found this:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary.png)
Battlefront's EE-4 blaster rifle.
Now I NEED to build one!
And I am going to try for Support Brigades, Assassin.
Back end and grip look like that of an MP-40. You might start there as a base.
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Back end and grip look like that of an MP-40. You might start there as a base.
:D Thanks, vod! ;D
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It's been a while...
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_1.png)
I need to get the full video of this Click360 thing...
I've gone through a few changes since I last posted.
Those spats worked out, for a bit, but I have to go back to the Sith boots, till I can get a new pair of work boots. Had to troop the Cincinnati Comic Expo in those brown boots, and doing my statue shtick was painful. Might just stick with them, since I can fit my ankle aircast in them... :'(
I did a repaint of my Verpine Shatter Rifle. She's now a slick satin black!
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_72.jpg)
Also painted the vibrobeskad, but don't have a pic of that yet. Made a half-sheath for that, worked out VERY nicely!
I'm in the process of sewing up a new vest. Just dyed it black, but it came out a charcoal color. :-\ Picked up some rare earth magnets (pill-battery sized, 2000 gauss), plan is to use these to attach the plates to the vest, and move the shoulder plates to the flightsuit shoulders. Will be a bit better, heat-wise, for summer troops, since I just swapped the original NAVY trenchvest for a longer leather one.
I need to build a new back plate, maybe even recycle the old one to build a segmented back...
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Been looking around various airsoft places, comparing the in-game EE-4 model to several different pistols and rifles, and cannot come up with anything even close. It's such an amalgam of parts, I'd be better off just custom making the thing out of wood. >:(
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Couple small updates:
Will post up pics when I can, but I altered the look of the paint on the bucket. Added a set of "horns" around a large cartouche. Not sure if I'll be adding lettering to it, though. I did add in some new names to my tribute panels, the notable one being Carrie Fisher.
Stole my wife's spats, since we are quite a ways from being done with her kit, ATM, and have no work space to finish, either... :'(
Work is also on hold for a new bullpup Verp rifle, and I am starting to collect parts for an E-11D build.
So, even with the delays and sub-zero temps, I am getting ready to app-in for Assassins Brigade. Will try to get pics up and sent in soon.
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Back end and grip look like that of an MP-40. You might start there as a base.
The front grip is a Soviet RPG-7 grip
Lookin good Sir!
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So, here I am, during the first half of the Rogue One troop:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_81.jpg)
I swapped out the boots about an hour in, those things have absolutely NO arch support or padding... :'( >:( :'(
Not sure if I posted these, but here are Thing One and Thing Two
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_118.jpg)
And the latest additions to the tribute panel:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_84.jpg)
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_83.jpg)
And the new "face"
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_85.jpg)
And now the beginning of my E-11D build:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_151.jpg)
Let me know what you think.
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I personally really like the paint job for the helmet, the names on the back add a lot to it too!
Verp looks very nice too, how long did it take for you to get that staff assembled?
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My staves maybe took me five minutes to assemble, but about a day or so to paint. I just found parts I liked at Lowes/Home Despot, and went from there. ;)
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I shall have to see what pieces I can find :laugh:
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The plumbing section will be your best friend. ;D
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Minor update:
Since I have no space to build in, ATM, I am dipping my toes into the 3D printing pool. My local library has a couple of small to medium size printers, and are running classes in how to use them. Does anyone have files they would recommend? I would like to print a couple of thermal detonators, maybe the flash hider for a DL-44. I think they charge $0.10 an ounce, so it doesn't sound too expensive.
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I dont have the file but perhaps a westar 34 or a knife.
Lol dipping your toes :laugh:
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I dont have the file but perhaps a westar 34 or a knife.
Lol dipping your toes :laugh:
Just what I need, another gun... :P ;D
Might just give that a try.
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If someone tells you that you have to many guns, disintegrate them..you don't need that negativity in life. :laugh:
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Wish me luck, folks, I just submitted for Assassin.
Here I am, in action, at the Akron Home & Garden Show:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_165.jpg)
Appropriated this vehicle from one of the locals to chase down my target.
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Wish me luck, folks, I just submitted for Assassin.
Here I am, in action, at the Akron Home & Garden Show:
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l122/x_so_x/temporary_165.jpg)
Appropriated this vehicle from one of the locals to chase down my target.
Please tell me this was an official invasion. :D
Good luck on the Brigade app.
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It was, yes. ;D
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So, got kicked back for not showing my back plate. That one is on me, and a super easy fix. One pic, and I'm back in the running! ;D
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Fingers crossed Vod!! 8)
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Really like your kit and color scheme.
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Really like your kit and color scheme.
Thanks, vod! ;D
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So, as soon as I can, I should be posting up some pics from Wizard World Cleveland. Met Jewel Staite, heckled Kato Kaelin, and listened to storytime being read by Barry Bostwick and Lou Ferigno. Also picked up a resin cast Jyn Erso blaster. Got some new shots taken for my brigade app, just going to recycle the weapons pics, though.
Wish me luck.
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You don't need luck, vod. You're good. I'm sure you'll pass your App no sweat - as long as you're showing your back plate. hehe
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Second attempt is in.
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Jate'kara, ner'vod. *fingers crossed!*
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Still waiting on my app, but have to say Celebration was amazing!!
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Agreed, vod. Very much so!
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Still waiting on my app, but have to say Celebration was amazing!!
Agreed!!! I'm still riding that high from meeting everyone. But dang, I wish I were back. The PCD is starting to hit
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Yeah, having withdrawals from hanging out with my vode. The only known cure? Building stuff! Just cut a set of shoulder armor, similar in style to the Death Watch ones. And I'm scouring the web for images of the Special Forces Imperial logo, I want to put that someplace on my kit.
For those that are reading my story, Straka Zulu used to train SpecOps clones.
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Sad news... I dropped my bucket at a recent troop, cracked the corners of the visor. But I was told my the helmet maker to use a good super glue for a temporary fix. I'll get some fiberglass and resin to truly fix it later.
Still waiting on my Assassin app, but heard they are going through some restructuring in the Brigades. Hope something happens soon, this suspense is driving me mad! ??? :P :laugh: :'( :o :-\
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I guess it's. '...or Bust"... This just happened:
Good Morning STRAKAZulu,
Upon review, the marshals have concluded that your kit does not meet the quality standard enforced by the brigade team. While your armor thickness meets the minimum standards required by the CRLs, the brigades team would like to see your armor plates have more depth and curvature. We encourage you to stay in contact with your marshal, and continue to upgrade your armor and the rest of your current assassin build.
Dha Bral
Brigade Team XO
MMCC
Looks like I'm shelving any upgrades for the time being. :( :rolleyes:
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Looking for opinions. While looking for voice amps, I came across this:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00L1E6NR8/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1501261084&sr=8-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=voice+amplifier&dpPl=1&dpID=41qrH4MJ5wL&ref=plSrch (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00L1E6NR8/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1501261084&sr=8-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=voice+amplifier&dpPl=1&dpID=41qrH4MJ5wL&ref=plSrch)
Does anyone use these? I'm wondering if it's worth the money.
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For a similar price, I recommend getting an Aker from TK Products. Or, if you want something more compact, Eternal Armories makes a small voice amp that mounts in your bucket, and you can use audio transducers to turn your helmet into a speaker. Not overly loud, but it does work, and it's pretty cheap.
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Just checked out TK, and what I need would be WAY out of budget. :o :o
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other options:
http://eternalarmory.com/product/kate-voice-amp/
http://eternalarmory.com/product/voice-amp/
I have the 2nd one in my steel bucket. if you get 1 of the larger transducers (another 14 bucks) it does a decent job of turning your bucket into a speaker. Cheaper then an aker (though less loud), more expensive then the one you were looking at (though not by a lot), and far more compact then either (also not as loud, but it's better then yelling to be heard all the time).
That said, the one you're looking at will probably work fine for a while. I just try to stick with places like TK or EA because they troop (EA is run by some Mercs), but that's personal preferance.
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I'll check those out. Thanks ;D
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Are half-shell vambraces acceptable?
(https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/fr/cp0/e15/q65/20776430_10154924653086482_1693440586024547946_o.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=d82b66f202ae8cf6eecdad7dd3a7f3b4&oe=5A27B048)
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They are, but remember that the 1/2 is minimum. If the Ruus questions it they tell you it's not enough. Always err on the side of more
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So, work continues.
Looking to add some fans to my wife's helmet as well as mine, and came across this:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EL938E6/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1503250163&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=helmet+fan&dpPl=1&dpID=51HDcPCtA9L&ref=plSrch (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EL938E6/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1503250163&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=helmet+fan&dpPl=1&dpID=51HDcPCtA9L&ref=plSrch)
Has anyone used these? How big are they, and do they push air good enough to survive a troop?
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Those are what I use in my bucket. They're about 1.5"x1.5"x0.5", and put out a decent puff. They say 5v, but I use mine with a 9v and haven't had any issues.
My only comment would be that they're fairly loud, but that's going to be an issue with any fan that pushes a meaningful amount of air.
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Cool, thanks! ;D
Does it interfere with using a mic?
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Cool, thanks! ;D
Does it interfere with using a mic?
No, but depending on placement the fan nice might get transmitted through the mic. As long as you keep your head between your fans and your mic that shouldn't be an issue though
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Good to know. Thanks ;D
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Looking like I'm headed for a rebuild. My wife is giving up on her current set of torso armor, and she likes the look of the Clan Wren set. So, in the spirit of consistency, I'm going to build a male set to compliment hers. Still keeping our paint schemes, though.
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*pops popcorn*
I shall follow your rebuild with great interest. 8)
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Still going to keep it pretty streamlined, since I'm still shooting for Assassin Brigade.
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(https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/fr/cp0/e15/q65/21739948_10155009260221482_3179102036558633531_n.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=259b6ae034aff8abb5ff130575b1732a&oe=5A56C304)
Had a bit of fun last weekend, a joint troop with the RL & 501st.
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*pops popcorn*
I got soda's... And pizza is coming. I'm here to stay and watch that show as well! ;)
I'd love to see how it goes!
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(https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/fr/cp0/e15/q65/21751378_1526147844098597_28102047129933733_n.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=53bdeec469d65d42e7ee46e95e127cbd&oe=5A13A80B)
Parma Touch-A-Truck, was cited for a weapons violation. Carrying a disruptor without a license.
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(https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/fr/cp0/e15/q65/21751378_1526147844098597_28102047129933733_n.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9&oh=53bdeec469d65d42e7ee46e95e127cbd&oe=5A13A80B)
Parma Touch-A-Truck, was cited for a weapons violation. Carrying a disruptor without a license.
"Its in my other helmet officer I swear" :laugh:
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I left it back in my ship, let me go get it.
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I left it back in my ship, let me go get it.
:laugh: Thats a good one ;D have you decided on a new helmet yet Vod?
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Got a lead on one from a friend of mine.
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Excellent!!
Patiently waiting for new helmet thread to appear :laugh:
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Nothing new yet, but I came across an idea whilst I was browsing through the Shadow controllers for the XbOne. I REALLY like the Copper Shadow one, and it got me thinking.
The new idea is to do a similar scheme to my current kit, but with both the fade from Black-to-Orange, and in the black sections, do a really faint hex pattern, like scales.
Anyone know how I could pull that off?
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I believ Haran Cuyan (sorry if misspelled!) pulled of what you think of. Check his bucket and armor and rifle WIP below. He also explains how he did that.
http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=100131.0 (http://mandalorianmercs.org/forum/index.php?topic=100131.0)
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As a matter of fact, that's EXACTLY what I was looking for! Vor'e, ner vod! ;D
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Really wishing I could move... Sick of the osik'la way things are going at my current domicile.
Anyways, that's neither here nor there. What I desperately need is a workshop. I have a new vest (was supposed to be my wife's, but somehow the thing fits me, not her. Can't complain about Kraam Xyrati's craftsmanship, though! ;D )
Need to dye it my color, and get to work on a new set of plates, in Clan Wren's style, but my color pattern. I DO like Clan Eldar, though. I'll try to post pics when I can.
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(https://i.imgur.com/5CxeJRr.jpg)
The new vest.
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Aaahh! My eyes! It's so...bright!
Looks great vod
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Aaahh! My eyes! It's so...bright!
Looks great vod
Looking to dye it, either dark blue or black.
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Just curious, where do you guys source the metal for armor?
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I nabbed mine from a local sheet metal supplier... I'd do a search for any around you. Some shops have scraps left over from orders that you can pick up cheap. I nabbed 4 16" x 22" sheets of 18 gauge steel for $12 total. Cheaper than sintra in my case!
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Just curious, where do you guys source the metal for armor?
McMaster Carr or Amazon, depending on what exwctly i'm looking for. Amazon is cheaper, but McMaster has a much larger selection. My dad also gave me 4sq ft of aluminum he had left over from a job. However, many people also get old car hoods from junk yards and cut their plates out of that (i know that's where Kra'am sources his metal)
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So, decided to take a look back at my kit. When I got my approval, March 22 2015, to now, there have been a lot of little changes, but they really added up. Something I'm proud of, yet still see the flaws that I desperately want to fix.
(https://i.imgur.com/Z18l5ZG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/birYfCS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nHlVnYT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gZtO8F1.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/nQvF8JZ.jpg)
Coming up on Straka Zulu's third anniversary as an official kit, and hoping for many more.
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OK, just curious, would this be too thin for making armor?
https://www.homedepot.com/p/M-D-Building-Products-36-in-x-36-in-Plain-Aluminum-Sheet-in-Silver-57000/100351161 (https://www.homedepot.com/p/M-D-Building-Products-36-in-x-36-in-Plain-Aluminum-Sheet-in-Silver-57000/100351161)
Or would this be better?
https://www.homedepot.com/p/M-D-Building-Products-12-in-x-24-in-28-Gauge-Galvanized-Sheet-56020/100282523 (https://www.homedepot.com/p/M-D-Building-Products-12-in-x-24-in-28-Gauge-Galvanized-Sheet-56020/100282523)
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That aluminum is going to be way too thin, ner vod. I don't know enough about steel to be able to tell you anything about the 28 gauge sheet, but I do know that the aluminum you've linked is thin enough that it can be bent into a pretzel without much effort.
For aluminum, the minimum thickness I'd go would be .063" to allow it some chance of actually holding its shape in case of an accidental drop. For reference, your standard stop sign on a street corner is .080" aluminum, if the municipality is following USDOT regulations.
If I had to pick between the two you linked, though, steel hands down.
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Sounds good. Means I can use magnets! :laugh: ;D
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I use .08" thick aluminum for my metal kit and love it. It's pretty easy to work, but not so easy that you really have to worry about messing it up on accident
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Thanks for the advice!
Oh, and as a bonus, one of my favorite shots from C8:
(https://i.imgur.com/yiX9xZH.jpg)
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(https://i.imgur.com/wUySSDF.jpg)
From the Battlefront II prerelease "party" at my local GameStop.
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Well, I've been talking to the boss, Mandalore, and he suggested using 20gu steel. Not sure how I'll be able to cut it, since all I have are yellow-handled snips. I wouldn't trust my Dremel to do it.
Oh, here's my latest.
(https://i.imgur.com/U3JLIn3.jpg)
Had to do my Remo Lean.
Miss ya, vod.
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Dremel will cut 20ga steel just fine. Make sure you buy the reinforced blades, or they make a 'life time' grit blade that does a decent job as well. Your aviation snips should cut it fine as well, but it will be a literal pain. At the very least, you'll want to rough your plates out with the dremel to make cutting woth the snips a little easier
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Thanks for the tips, Vod! ;D
My main concerns about using a Dremel are mostly about noise and sparks, since I have to do this indoors.
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So, picked up some 22ga. steel for my rebuild. Hope to have some shots to show once I have it cut.
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So, got a bit impatient; printed and used a set of WoF Jango Fett templates.
(https://i.imgur.com/I7evWte.jpg)
Collar should be cut tonight, and have a lot of cleanup to do.
And a size comparison with my originals:
(https://i.imgur.com/d5PmlIe.jpg)
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Nice! Love seeing progress, vod.
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*heavy Breathing in Mando*
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YEESSSSSSS!!!!! MORE METAL!
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(https://i.imgur.com/yoL3gkU.jpg)
So, I didn't post this here for some reason.
I also picked up a Mystery Box from UltraSabers... Nice milled aluminum with a red blade.
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Nicely done, ner'vod. :)
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So, having spent a grand total of fourteen hours in kit this weekend, I have come to two realizations:
1) I need to find a way tp keep my knees and vambraces from biting me.
2) I am really looking forward to getting my metal plates done.
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So, having spent a grand total of fourteen hours in kit this weekend, I have come to two realizations:
1) I need to find a way tp keep my knees and vambraces from biting me.
2) I am really looking forward to getting my metal plates done.
Perhaps stick a small chunk of eva foam on the inside? Small enough to provide cushion but not large enough to be seen.
I did that with my gauntlets and while there is cushion, they don't chaffe (chaff? rub against) my forearms, then again I haven't ever been in a full kit so my credibility on that subject is hazy :rolleyes:
Your metal plates will be very very interesting to see how they end up fitting and being shaped :P
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Had a bit of fun yesterday, tried to trim down the plates again. Gave up after winding up with more than a few sparks hitting me in the face while I was trying to use a cutting wheel.
(https://i.imgur.com/sC8YOWZ.jpg)
I also printed an April Storm DW vambrace, left. Got the halves epoxied, and a bit of wire in the hinge.
(https://i.imgur.com/AoFFpWy.jpg)
Now comes my dilemma... I'm shooting for the Striker Brigade, Assassin Profession. The PRL's say a streamlined gauntlet, so I'm wondering just how far to go in adding the bits and bobs to this.
EDIT: Is this too small? It closes just fine, but was wondering if I need to adjust the length.
(https://i.imgur.com/tjJVYBe.jpg)
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Nicely begun my friend :). Metal armor is the best armor, but I might be just a touch prejudiced there :P. You'll want to take a hammer to the edges just to flatten out where your dremel chewed a bit, but I'll admit I only actually read this page and skimmed the last few so you might already know that. For gaunts and knees, a bit of the thinnest eva foam (2mm, I believe) will serve to stop pinching, and you can always go a little thicker if you need the padding.
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As long as it can still close over a flightsuit I don't see any issue with it :laugh:
It seems pretty well streamlined to me, but i'm not in the Brigade so i'm not sure if it will work. Have you tried asking in the brigades directly?
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I've got a thread on the Striker boards, just waiting for feedback. :D
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I've got a thread on the Striker boards, just waiting for feedback. :D
Fair enough :laugh: I’m gunning for Privateer myself pretty much the second I get OM, though I don’t plan to put anything in that brigade board until I at least have concept art for the plates down
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(https://i.imgur.com/NGdL2B5.jpg)
CURSE YOU, THOR!!!
-
Ugh... Kit work has stalled. A combination of needing a place to DO the work, and my housemates being a bunch of di'kutla besom.
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Hey, you aren’t the only one with a stalled kit vod. Hope things get better, I know what crap roommates are like
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If it's not one thing, it's another... :rolleyes: :'(
So, any of you that follow me on FB know, but I got T-boned coming home from work by some punk kids on 4 July. Car is possibly totalled, and I am SORE... Thankfully nothing broken, and I was by myself in the car.
Really hoping to be back 100% by the 21st, as my clan is finally having an armor party close enough for us Northeast Ohio folk! ;D
The plan is to get my plates better shaped, make a segmented back plate, and get my wife's kit done, while doing all I can to help all our new recruits. Wish me luck.
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Good luck, with everything, ner vod. Eager to see more progress.
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Glad you’re ok vod. Looking forward to the next set of updates
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Not much to report on the upgrades. Spent all my time at the recent AP working on the finishing touches to my wife's kit.
But, have some new shots from last weekend...
(https://i.imgur.com/V6fwC6S.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fXji9n9.jpg)
Photo Credit to Diana Rodriguez.
And thanks to that shoot, I think I need to build a few new parts. Namely boot plates, shoulders, and cod. Nothing broke, but the shoulders are too light, kept getting blown into my helmet (sounded like getting hit by Nerf darts), and the cod was stabbing me in the thigh as I knelt down. Boot plates were MIA.
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Sorry to hear about that, vod. Good luck, and eager to see more progress.
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So, got some work done.
(https://i.imgur.com/7gfACL8.jpg)
Now comes the 60,000cr question: Do I dye the vest black? Or leave it as the cream color it currently is?
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Hmmmm .... lets see it ... :rolleyes:
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Hmmmm .... lets see it ... :rolleyes:
This is before paint:
(https://i.imgur.com/sC8YOWZ.jpg)
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That's a tough one. If I could see what it looks like with your flight suit it would probably be easier to decide. I'd like to see if it works, but then I also want to see black since that's what I'm used to... And yes, I know this probably doesn't help, but it's my opinion. :P
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I like the light Color as a contrast personally :rolleyes:
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I think I'm with ConDar on this. Kinda digging the vest as-is.
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Yay! One less project for me!
-
(https://i.imgur.com/vL0eVN3.jpg)
Hello there!
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Looking awesome, ner vod! Love the slight changes on your classic look. :like:
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(https://i.imgur.com/vL0eVN3.jpg)
Hello there!
"GENERAL KENOBI!"
Had to haha, Like others have said the contrast is very very nice!
-
Anyone have tips for removing caked on gel toothpaste? Tried removing it with a towel like I usually do, but a lot of it wound up sticking. Even tried using a credit card to chip some of it off, to no avail.
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Pocket knife?
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Looking at it, I might be better off leaving it, coating it with a clear coat. Adds an interesting layer, and since it's a light blue, it can hint at part of my backstory: having pieced it together after taking out the shabiir that killed my family.
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Well there you go, then. :P
-
I just use the cheapest white only toothpaste I can find for masking.
-
Well, after some gentle scrubbing with vinegar to remove some more rust that developed, the rest of the masking came off. I also did some light weathering to those spots with a color shifting acrylic. Gold to purple, to kinda imitate the discoloration metal takes when heated.
(https://i.imgur.com/mABHeBK.jpg)
The little gold flecks on the edge of the black were a happy little accident. ;D
I also now have a voice amp!
(https://i.imgur.com/HriQ7KT.jpg)
Got good volume, and sound quality isn't bad. I get nasty feedback if I go full volume, though.
Now, to the meat of this post. I am in need of advice about my shoulders and shnees. I was planning on making them out of steel as well, but I am kinda worried about the way the shoulders stick out with the new vest. Last thing I need is to poke someone in the eye with a shoulder plate, as that is about where it would be. Being a Shade Provider has it's drawbacks...
I am also concerned about the shnees. Where would I find some good examples of designs? And would having certain designs keep me out of the Assassin Brigade?
Still working on a design for my backplate.
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My shnees can be seen in this photo -- my kama is in the way of them in my kitted up photos. I like them a lot.
(https://i.imgur.com/EcCv8Fm.jpg)
The assassin brigade question will get a better answer if you ask it in the sub forum for that brigade.
As for the shoulders, that's a tough one, but you could look at something more bell shaped as opposed to the corner plates you currently have.
I'd hit up the costume gallery to look for some inspiration, or check out some other in universe kits -- shoretrooper etc. for both shnees and shoulders.
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When I did my Shknees I measured from the bend of my ankle to the center of my knee to get total length and the determined how far I wanted my shknees to wrap around my leg and went by that at the widest part and tapered to the knee and to the ankle to get a tapered look on them. Built mine up with a trans plate in the center which on mine looks like a upside down neck tie lol. Hope the picture of mine will inspire some. I know when I made mine I just went for it and started drawing on paper then cut it out and liked the way it fit and just went with it. (https://i.imgur.com/Jkp8HrK.jpg)
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Thank you both. Those pics got a couple ideas knocked loose for me. ;D :like:
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I don't normally like shnees but you've converted me. Those look awesome vod.... great design and fantastic fit. :8):
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Got a test run coming up in a couple days, see how the torso parts work. Going to talk with my clanmates about what to do for shnees, shoulders and backplate.
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Test run was a success. I found I'm going to have to swap the magnets for Velcro. They kept trying to attach to each other. I also figured that making shnees is not very feasible, ATM.
-
Good news! I have not one, but TWO new helmets incoming! Just ordered a B-pull from Dha Bral (ComMando, squeeeeeeeeeee!!!), and in two weeks I will be ordering an Executioner from Lonewolf.
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Grats, vod!
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Thanks! They are kinda anniversary presents to myself.
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Okay... bit of a delay in getting my ComMando, and it has me thinking, what should I do for the visor? I'm debating a couple of variants, but was also thinking of just going with the standard "T". Also looking into a mirrored tinted, maybe a green.
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Two days till I get my new helmet!! :porg2: :porg2: :porg2:
And, in other news, I just got the Velcro temporarily attached, and am going to use magnets to act as support.
-
*T-Minus 24 Hours 25 minutes 55 seconds till new helmet arrival*
Always exciting to get a new helmet!! Same paint scheme for it?
-
One of MANY things I'm still very undecided about. Was thinking of keeping the same colors: black, orange accents, and white face. Just not sure if I'll keep it in the same pattern.
It all really comes down to whether or not it actually will fit on my melon.
-
(https://i.imgur.com/7eIAfSa.jpg)
IT HAS ARRIVED!!
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Grats, vod!
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Nice!
-
(https://i.imgur.com/WKoVNjJ.jpg)
I wasn't able to get the visor the way I wanted, but I still am happy with the end result.
(https://i.imgur.com/b0tN9Nt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KdHJyzI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/BadpKpp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CsHzPKY.jpg)
Just tooling around with my phone's edit options.
Also, guess who won his workplace's costume contest?
(https://i.imgur.com/91Apjns.jpg)
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How did you want the visor?
-
I'd like to get a mirrored visor. Just picked up a couple of clear face shields, now to find some mirrored tint.
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Nice work! :like:
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We are officially bucket buddies :D
Also I can't believe I just now found this wip! Prepare for more positive reinforcement!
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Took ya long enough, vod! :laugh: :laugh:
Looking forward to it!
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Awesome work! I like the color scheme!
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Thanks, vod. :like:
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So, for those that don't know, my father became one with the Force on the 15th of November. It's taken me this long to come back to some semblance of normal.
(https://i.imgur.com/f7GLkhc.jpg)
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I’m glad you’re feeling at least a little better. Your helmet looks great! :like: :D
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Briikasse evaar'la simir, ner vode! That whole "new year, new me" osik only applies to my armor builds.
As for them, I have come to a couple of different crossroads. The first is my lower half. I would like to rebuild my cod, knees and boot plates out of the steel, but am unsure on if I should keep them as their current design, or go with something more traditional. I am also swapping out my work boots for the ones I got approved with, maybe adding in an armor plate behind the straps.
My next thought is on if I should keep the current style (Modern, Jango) for my chest plates, or make a set of Rebels Wren grunt. I am still working on the design for the back plate(s), and really am torn on the rest.
I am also looking to get some new weapons, more in line with my character's story. He's currently in the New Trilogy era, and has stolen some First Order tech (a TIE Silencer prototype, some blasters, that kind of thing...). Anyone have 3-d files for the blasters?
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Been awful quiet, lately. As is typical in the winter, the build has stalled. Got some things in the planning stages, though. Will update when I have more to show for it.
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I'm still waiting for your 4 page comic strip. ;)
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Still working on that. Might be a while, as Darth Writer's Block has been kicking my shebs.
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(https://i.imgur.com/Lgdum8Z.jpg)
My new "Face". Rest assured, though, that I WILL be getting a new Nite Owl.
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(https://i.imgur.com/Lgdum8Z.jpg)
My new "Face". Rest assured, though, that I WILL be getting a new Nite Owl.
I just love the orange visor. This is the second one I’ve seen! It looks amazing.
-
(https://i.imgur.com/ggAJvbv.jpg)
So, with the new helmet, comes new problems.
First, I either need contacts or LASIK in order to properly wear this. The helmet is awesome, aside from that.
I need new vambraces and gloves. Found a set of rose pruning gloves on Amazon that might work, and have the files for some new vambraces.
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Cool, though I'm still partial to the old helmet.
-
(https://i.imgur.com/NeCslcz.jpg)
So, I learned something about the WoF Jango templates. If you're not careful, the center point will be WAY offset.
New one made with my original Boba Fett style from my OG kit.
(https://i.imgur.com/5vVukX9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oinedys.jpg)
And made a few alterations to the helmet.
(https://i.imgur.com/GHIJS78.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/V7jZXl4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9ggcZpF.jpg)
Also got to meet Joonas Suotamo. A great guy, and worthy successor to Peter.
(https://i.imgur.com/pcsjMgB.jpg)
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It's almost scary that he's not that much taller than you. :P
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Yeah, the WOF Jango templates are a little janky here and there. Great work, though! I've heard nothing but good things about Joonas :)
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Got into a conversation with him about Peter Mayhew. First thing he said was "Sorry for your loss." I had to say "I'm sorry for your loss." Probably talked for a good 5 minutes about how cool he was.
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Yeah, Peter was pretty freaking awesome. I only got to meet him two or three times, but he was amazing
-
(https://i.imgur.com/LsKPokN.jpg)
Work continues. Just need to weather it a bit.
Weapon loadout is in flux, as I'm torn between building the "energy bow" and the Sith Trooper carbine from RotSw. Still deciding on what Brigade to join, or if I should cross-class Assassin and Gunslinger.
-
(https://i.imgur.com/FvTMKLk.jpg)
Test fit of the new collar.
(https://i.imgur.com/hKP5ic0.jpg)
Since a lot of people keep saying that they don't recognize me in the new helmet, I made a crest. The comm unit will be getting added onto...
(https://i.imgur.com/cfWp5OQ.jpg)
...the new gauntlets I'm making.
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Keep up the good work, ner vod! :D
-
(https://i.imgur.com/dmU509r.jpg)
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:like: :like: :like:
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Some minor progress.
New Vambraces:
(https://i.imgur.com/cfWp5OQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LidwVZw.jpg)
New Knife:
(https://i.imgur.com/uyQhu4u.jpg)
Needs another coat of paint, but the edge has been worked on to even it out better than in this pic.
New Blaster:
(https://i.imgur.com/n2D5VSl.jpg)
SE-44c variant, still early days on it's WiP. Hope what I learn from this goes into its mate.
And the march towards the Brigades continues.
Oh, almost forgot:
(https://i.imgur.com/jFAPWqn.jpg)
Did a repaint of my old Heavy Blaster, was trying out a red chrome paint.
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New shoulders.
(https://i.imgur.com/oQziCUe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KmiXkD6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0thFC80.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Hi0ec5F.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ak3yxzH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oz0ilkB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ar3QQQm.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iZWpOGb.jpg)
And upgrades to the new gauntlets. Made a comms/holoprojector unit.
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Awesome! As always.
-
(https://i.imgur.com/MjRW2IR.jpg)
March 11th, 2015 to May the 4th, 2019. A LOT can change in just 4 years. And it ain't over yet. Will post updates after CCE.
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(https://i.imgur.com/AqrmNuA.jpg)
New weapon incoming!
Just need to carefully sand off the logos, and repaint the arms.
(https://i.imgur.com/TrrQvnh.jpg)
Cincinnati reminds me of home, of Sundari.
Did a test run with the backplates, need to figure out something better, shape-wise.
(https://i.imgur.com/CEjti0e.jpg)
And just keeping it warm for my buddy Sheeve...
(https://i.imgur.com/qgPBoh0.jpg)
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:laugh: :like:
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Still debating on what to do with the bow.
But, I now have no original parts left.
(https://i.imgur.com/7MvIMKv.jpg)
New boot plates.
(https://i.imgur.com/NqnqyMg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iZZPD4q.jpg)
And new cod armor.
And having a bit of a dilemma. I love my current Verpine rifle, but had a weird notion to skeletonize it. Another option would be to build a new one from scratch, but lighter in construction.
(https://i.imgur.com/M5XBTaI.jpg)
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Nice progress! :like:
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I've been neglecting this thread...
(https://i.imgur.com/ncwnznV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gjdwkQQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/77EWeum.jpg)
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Well, Christmas kinda sucked. About a half hour before my last post, my uncle passed away. So, yet another name on my tribute panels.
But, work continues. More changes to the kit are happening in 2020, so stay tuned.
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Minor update:
No progress to report, ATM, but plans are underway for some upgrades.
Need to replace my belts with leather, but will be painting the clip on my current belt to keep with the updated CRL's. I'm also looking to fine-tune my girth belt.
Need to come up with a mount for my bow, and a secure quiver with fake arrows. I like Jannah's setup, and thankfully her bow isn't an energy bow. Don't get me wrong, I love the Nightsister's bows, but they're not financially practical for me to build.
I need to order and mod a Sith Trooper blaster from the Disney Store. I loved it at first sight, and just saw a WiP in one of my FB groups that was amazing.
And lastly... the potential return of an old friend, in a new model Nite Owl. I also have another secret helmet being commissioned, more on that one after it's in my hands.
As always, "Work Continues"!
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Tease!
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PHOTO DUMP!! Oh, and some minor updates.
(https://i.imgur.com/jC1rxaN.jpg)
Once again, BIG thanks to Colin, aka Ashen Kelborn.
(https://i.imgur.com/vQy56Zb.jpg)
Temporary fix for the belt clip.
Got to meet The Armorer.
(https://i.imgur.com/LRWBDcN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/O6j8kIb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dkfm8w0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PNVKUa6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/g5mqVBH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/EK5NvQT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jxIXrDI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hOkvL3k.jpg)
Bumped into an old friend, Tyno Krast. Here's hoping he can suit up again soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/zCbunqa.jpg)
And seven of the 8 Rancors present, two of which were out of uniform... :laugh:
And my favorite of the batch.
(https://i.imgur.com/yaQBDIN.jpg)
Foundlings are the Way! This mini-Mando had an awesome kit!
(https://i.imgur.com/TSAg18a.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SRwM21D.jpg)
Tried something new, went without the duster. Felt weird.
(https://i.imgur.com/JvVejzi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SSLD80b.jpg)
Repainted the gauntlets, and finally added the phrase back onto them. Tried using an "Ultra-Black" paint, but it felt like I put 300 grit sandpaper on it. So this is the result of painting over it with a flat black, and a matte jet black.
I also found a side of black leather, going to try replacing my belts, holsters, etc... with it. And found a tutorial on making sintra pouches on the Builder's Page, so going to try that, too.
#WorkContinues
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Awesome as always, ner vod! Keep up the good work, Strak! :like:
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Some weapons work:
(https://i.imgur.com/Z40C2xt.jpg)
"Scavenged blaster parts" as described in thr TRoS Visual Dictionary.
Stabby Stuff!!
(https://i.imgur.com/0hfq1bw.jpg)
Repaints and minor repairs to my main pistol options.
(https://i.imgur.com/bhXUUNd.jpg)
And some sanding to the thermal detonators. Still needs work.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZbtYbEh.jpg)
And made a new gun belt, recycled the hardware from the old one. Now I truly have nothing original left.
(https://i.imgur.com/QL3gqza.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/uqfd2fZ.jpg)
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Nice work. :like: Nite Owl!!!
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I'm hoping to have it repaired soon. A friend of mine wants to try that Japanese technique that they used in TRoS on Kylo Ren's helmet.
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So, just to give you guys a heads up, there's a new build incoming. Few know about this, because I was waiting on the Post-Imperial CRL's to drop, and to get word on a helmet I had ordered.
Now that 1.5 of those have happened, here it is:
A HIM-Inspired Medic! Actually, more like "him", but...
(https://i.imgur.com/RN9gRNN.jpg)
With a totally out-of-the-box paint inspiration:
(https://i.imgur.com/FFVx5Dg.png)
Doing this in honor of my late father, who was a CPD Detective for 32 years in the second worst district. And also to honor all our first responders, who have been busting their shebs long before the lockdown.
So, here's where I am: At present, the helmets are still being perfected by Bowfanny. Very limited run, I think I lucked out in getting the funds for it when I did!
(https://i.imgur.com/x9BXKX9.jpg)
And someone shared a template for the standard P/I chest plates, so I'm going to try modding them for the Heavy style.
If it doesn't pan out, I'll try ... something.
(https://i.imgur.com/mTnR12T.jpg)
As for my Mk.II, I'm looking to swap out the duster for this, at least for the times I don't feel up to all the leather weight.
(https://i.imgur.com/mPrcNDW.jpg)
Also, it'll be for when my Nite Owl gets repaired.
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Nice! I dig it, looks like a solid concept and plan.
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Wow... Really been neglecting these.
Weapons update!
Started with the Nerf Poe Dameron blaster (aka Glie-44).
(https://i.imgur.com/iPY2RDu.jpg)
Sanded off the logos and nubs from the top rail.
(https://i.imgur.com/HFKDwYX.jpg)
Screw holes filled, and first layer of metallic primer.
(https://i.imgur.com/1AOrNjD.jpg)
Masked, and pearl white applied to grips.
(https://i.imgur.com/1dA7ine.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iAenIKX.jpg)
Pre-weathering finished product!
(https://i.imgur.com/ozGfkBm.jpg)
I'll probably have to replace the filler in the pump handle, but for now, it's troopable.
Hope to see you all soon!
(https://i.imgur.com/XW6vql9.jpg)
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Was just given something rather special:
(https://i.imgur.com/WpgisM7.jpg)
According to a friend of mine, this is a WWII-era British ammo belt. "Rare as hen's teeth," as he said. Not sure if this will go on my current kit, or on the Medic I was planning.
And, time for you to shut off your trackers, vode. I have acquired the bounty.
(https://i.imgur.com/qBfFP1g.jpg)
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Good on you, Strak!
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Thanks, Jennari.
Minor update:
(https://i.imgur.com/pmXa0N3.jpg)
Trimmed the corners off the bottom plate for the backplates, and I'm hoping this helps solve the problem of it popping off of the vest when I move.
And I think that this set of belts will be for this kit. While I think that making a Heavy-inspired Medic would be cool, I'm going to put it on the back burner, for now.
(https://i.imgur.com/WWFqyBv.jpg)
#WorkContinues
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Hi Vod,
That ammo belt looks more like a WWII American standard web belt with M1 carbine ammo pouches, The Holster is newer issue. The M1 was a small .30 cal carbine that used 15 round straight mags that size. The Brits used the venerable .303 Enfield rifle which was used for the Jawa droid stun gun.That used a much larger cartridge than the pouches shown, or they used light machine guns. If you do a quick internet search for M1 Carbine mag pouches and .303 Enfield Mag Pouches, you will see what I mean.
-
The pouches are for a 1911, will hold 2 mags each.
The holster is a Bianchi #UM84. It will not be on the kit, as it also is for a 1911, and my blasters are a little bit more bulkier than that.
-
:like:
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Work has been slow, IRL stuff naturally took priority. Was able to scrounge up some more stuff for my kit from my uncle’s estate, like a set of motorcycle gloves (and possibly some leather duty holsters, if I ask the executor nicely enough...).
Will post pics once I can. Still learning how to use an iPhone. I’m used to Android.
Anywho... here’s what’s been done. Got the visor trimmed out, and am putting a piece of sintra to reinforce the bottom of the “T”. I’ll be leaving a slim gap at the bottom, to slide the visor material into. This Nite Owl will be getting the new color scheme, the copper and black.
Was finally able to meet up with Tyno Krast, and he is working to repair my original buy’ce. He didn’t even have it for an hour, and sent me progress pics. The guy is awesome. I can’t wait to troop with that bucket again!!
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Woo-hoo! Can't wait to see your classic Nite Owl back. I've missed that bucket like you wouldn't believe!
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Woo-hoo! Can't wait to see your classic Nite Owl back. I've missed that bucket like you wouldn't believe!
:<3:
Thanks, vod.
Update: As promised...
(https://i.imgur.com/RCXJLTw.jpg)
This is why I need it fixed. The green lines are where it cracked falling from a table at a con. The peak of the visor was starting to curl in, while the cheeks started pulling away.
And thanks to Tyno...
(https://i.imgur.com/KWqYnsM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0zMQROK.jpg)
It's back in shape. And thankfully the repair isn't as drastic as I feared.
Now, on to the new buy'ce.
Here it is, fresh out of the box.
(https://i.imgur.com/8kzFMEf.jpg)
Trimmed out the visor, and am going to add a reinforcement to the bottom of the "T".
(https://i.imgur.com/R2lgt9U.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/neunFZt.jpg)
Grey Goblin Workshop does a killer job on their helmets!
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Update:
Had an epiphany while talking to a friend about the kits.
I tried on the vest to see how things fit, and found the vest was still well-fit, but the plates (while comforting, weight wise) were uncomfortable. I’d forgotten how the corners of the collar stabbed me in the shoulders, and the ab plate was cut cockeyed. So, new plan.
Mk.III is going to be a Post Imperial version of Zulu. And, to comply with the CRL’s, the duster will be hung up, till such time as they allow it. I will still be working towards Assassin and Pistoleer brigades with this kit, and this is where my OG Nite Owl and ComMando will live.
As for the second Nite Owl, that will now be for a second build, possibly for Medic brigade. If anyone has ever seen the Cleveland EMS vehicles, they’ll know the color scheme.
Pics to come.
Update: Pics are here.
(https://i.imgur.com/KlmRUxa.jpg)
The rare Straka Selfie has appeared!
(https://i.imgur.com/eLitdye.jpg)
This is what happens when steel and magnets are left alone for years.
(https://i.imgur.com/YrLhYMJ.jpg)
Sketch of the chest plates I'd like to build. Still to be in my classic black and orange.
(https://i.imgur.com/wvDwny1.jpg)
Now, this is what I've done so far.
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Mini photo dump!
The coolness!
(https://i.imgur.com/vlWemi8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XTSt0lS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/svXjMhD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/quuuo9g.jpg)
And the disappointment...
(https://i.imgur.com/VoKSWXX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4iY8cCW.jpg)
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Are those bubbles in the visor? You can sometimes get rid of bubbles in adhesive film by puncturing them (preferably in a hidden spot) with a pin and then shrinking the film with a hair dryer.
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Yeah. Going to try a couple things before I go cutting on it.
Switched back to my original vest. At least until I can make its replacement.
(https://i.imgur.com/73UHmdI.jpg)
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Yeah. Going to try a couple things before I go cutting on it.
Switched back to my original vest. At least until I can make its replacement.
(https://i.imgur.com/73UHmdI.jpg)
your looking good love the colors XD and the vest looks great keep it up :like:
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Looking good mate, I like that blue . A deep dark blue always reminds me of the bespin security gaurd figure....the good ol days 🤔
Keep it up
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Looking good mate, I like that blue . A deep dark blue always reminds me of the bespin security gaurd figure....the good ol days 🤔
Keep it up
Thanks. The Bespin guards were one of my favorites as a kid.
Backplate Update!
(https://i.imgur.com/VwpjRzB.jpg)
Had to space the plates out to cover damage from removing the original set. Waiting on word from the Brigades to see if I can let it be, or need a plate in the middle.
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(https://i.imgur.com/SVzHVkp.jpg)
So, here's a taste of what I would like to do for my Mk.III. Maybe with, maybe without the cape.
Mk.II, like most of our kits, is still evolving. Still working towards Assassin, possibly with Pistoleer as a cross-class.
(https://i.imgur.com/GhCd5Sj.jpg)
Cleaning up Rebel scum.
Finally got some real pouches, and some "reloads" for them. Need to figure out a greeblie to replace the follower and spring in the .45 mags I'm using.
(https://i.imgur.com/ysMUkg9.jpg)
And a more complete shot of my loadout.
(https://i.imgur.com/DQucTRZ.jpg)
A quick sketch of the vest I want to make.
(https://i.imgur.com/JIwhM6c.jpg)
And a bit of fun with the Child.
(https://i.imgur.com/1jl6fcW.jpg)
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(https://i.imgur.com/AH6opDL.jpg)
State of the Build, 2021
As with most things, #workcontinues
Still evolving what I want to do with my builds. But I found something that might kick this into overdrive.
(https://i.imgur.com/PjFdbHz.jpg)
A friend in my clan has been acting as an enabler for most of us, with him having just built an Ironsides buy'ce. So, I checked out where he got the file, and fell in love with the Shrike.
Most things I'd like to do (building the Mk.III and second kits, any painting) are on hold, since it's the winter. I hope to have more to add to this, soon.
I hope you all have a great year, and...
Good Luck, and Good Hunting!
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That Shrike is a beauty!
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Mail Call!
My Kalevala Visors came in, along with the chest display from Fi.
A HUGE thank you to Echota for being the go-between and enabler!
First, my secondary kit finally has it's eyes!
(https://i.imgur.com/vJSXRNh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/D6tZETv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/antBPzW.jpg)
The knee darts, courtesy of Matchstick. Once again, thank you.
(https://i.imgur.com/q7UAwkN.jpg)
And a bag of stuff I have no idea how to put together, but am sure I will have a blast figuring out.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZuXt1zG.jpg)
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The visors I got in, aside from the chrome for my Medic.
(https://i.imgur.com/KfyRXsR.jpg)
The Sky blue one is for my son's build, using the Paz buy'ce that's a little too small for me.
(https://i.imgur.com/FKLe1pM.jpg)
The thought is for me to use the Emerald one in my original Nite Owl, once I get it back from Tyno.
Got the credit chit and knee darts weathered and polished.
(https://i.imgur.com/WRmULbY.jpg)
Now to build a new set of knees to attach the darts to.
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(https://i.imgur.com/mHFX72p.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9ARlRB9.jpg)
Did a little tightening up of the details. Right Gauntlet reads "Wrong Side of Heaven", Left reads "Righteous Side of Hell".
Some repainting of the letters on the Tribute Panel, need to finish the ones on the second panel.
(https://i.imgur.com/plTtvjV.jpg)
And added a sixth killstripe for my 6th Merc-iversary, which is coming up on the 22nd of March.
(https://i.imgur.com/vDV31dr.jpg)
And a bit of copper to the Scarlet "A", marking off my second year as a member of App Team.
And it was finally nice enough to do some outdoors work! Painted the boot armor.
(https://i.imgur.com/qNVydpu.jpg)
In other news, I should be getting back my original Nite Owl. I hope to have it ready for some new pics very soon!
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Yay! Good progress, Strak, and I look forward to seeing your original buy'ce again.
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HE’S HOME!!
(https://i.imgur.com/ipC5Zis.jpg)
Needs some Chicago Screws to secure in the visor, and make sure it doesn’t deform again. I also need to clean up the seams of the ear caps, and refill the gaps with some bondo.
And finally painted the boot armor.
(https://i.imgur.com/qxAV5UJ.jpg)
Edit: I’m going to try working on the helmet tomorrow, since it’s my 6th Merc-iversary, maybe even get the vest roughed out in Duck.
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Great job! SO glad to see the buy'ce back, and the boots and plates look great! And congrats on your Merc-iversary. :like:
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Great job! SO glad to see the buy'ce back, and the boots and plates look great! And congrats on your Merc-iversary. :like:
Be’gedet’ye, ner vod.
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The gang's all here!
(https://i.imgur.com/my3t3w3.jpg)
Used Chicago screws (aka: Binder Posts) and some leather straps to tighten up the space, and not have any play in the screws.
(https://i.imgur.com/IEq0EdQ.jpg)
First attempt at a leather holster:
(https://i.imgur.com/09KsACL.jpg)
It's not pretty, but it'll get the job done for now.
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Holster V.2:
(https://i.imgur.com/5pLmXzh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QGbSF1X.jpg)
Friction Fit, with a leather strap for extra security. All attachments are “antique” copper Chicago Screws, and I’m using a D-ring closure for the thigh strap.
(https://i.imgur.com/GHfrbA2.jpg)
Probably going to flip that one screw over, depends on how it falls when I’m wearing it.
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(https://i.imgur.com/LRmJ2Lw.jpg)
More to come from this weekend. ;D
Post-Troop repairs and upgrades in progress. Most likely going to be retiring the Mk.II plates and vest. Doing that will give me motivation to get cracking on my P.Imp set.
Replacing the boot plates, both of the Sintra ones I made didn't survive the troop. One cracked off a corner, the other broke in half. I also am replacing the closures to the vambraces. Ditching the plate covering the gap, swapping them for leather strips. Have also finally put a tab of Velcro on the leather gauntlets to prevent them from blousing out of the gap.
(https://i.imgur.com/maVx0lt.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/9jig26V.png)
In need of templates to make some gaiters. The ones I've been using the last five years are wearing out.
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Photo Dump!
(https://i.imgur.com/5YWk85H.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ps3Igp1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Fre03RT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WM1fnWc.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/65fwm5K.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GBGrndz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nk8t9pQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tbraIMB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vC9xsF2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ljjuIHz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kYXI2hQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RYueIsR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UeJnMIJ.jpg)
Photo Credit: Johnny Darthwish
Had a blast of a time with these crazy folks! Also found JUST how out of shape I am! :laugh:
I have a better grasp of what exactly I need to do when building my Mk.III, as well.
Boot Plates: NEED to be metal. The 3mm Sintra ones I had cracked and shattered while climbing all over this site.
Shin Plates: Also, metal.
Gaiters: In Progress. I have the leather for them, I just need accurate measurements and new templates.
Knee Plates: Replace PVC with metal, add a nub to the outer edge to attach knee darts to (thanks Match! :D).
Cod: P.Imp doesn't require one, unless you have less than the required 4 Lower Body parts. With the knees/shins/boots, I'll have that number covered. Still *MIGHT* replace it with a metal one.
Waist Items: I like the idea of the cummerbund, so I'll have to make a couple to test how well that works with my planned build. The belt I made worked very well, so it will remain as part of this set of upgrades. I need to make new pouches for my "reloads" and electronics (more on that later). The holster worked flawlessly. I need to fine tune the attachments when I change up the blasters I carry. A leather Kama will be needed, as well.
Gauntlets and Vambraces: The Mk.II Ver.3 Vambraces will remain with this build, until I get the Sabine S3 ones printed. Replaced the panel closure with leather straps. The motorcycle gloves will also remain. The gauntlet leather should also stay, until I completely replace the Vambraces.
Shoulder Plates: Picked up a set of hard armored kneepads (Thanks for the inspiration, Jeremy and Lucas), and removed the canvas and foam pads. Need to figure out how to best attach them to the new Vest (also, more on that later).
Torso Plates: Paz Viszla style "light" chest plates are in design phase. Still need to make a template for the final version, and am still debating on if I'll stick with the steel, or if I should switch back to Sintra (See: Out Of Shape comment earlier :laugh: ). Will probably make the backplate as well, just to get through my Assassin Brigade app.
Upper Body Soft Parts: New Vest is in the works. Need to pick up some more leather when it goes on sale. Leather main body, with a duck canvas collar, neckseal, and shoulder bells. Will also make a cape, since the duster is not allowed for Post Imperial builds (a bummer, I know. For a set jokingly called P.Imp, they sure cut back on what a playa can use... :laugh: ). Although a Nite Owl poncho WOULD be... ;)
Helmet: Until I can get the Shrike printed and finished, I will continue to use my original Nite Owl. MAYBE switch it with the ComMando 2.0 every now and then.
Loadout: Still in flux. The Bow is still my go-to for the Assassin build, but can get awkward to carry around for long periods. Need to figure out a way to "holster" it. I also need to build a quiver and mock up some arrows. The vibrosword needs a guard and some new greeblies, and will need a sheath, since the location I used to mount it will go when I stop using the duster. The dagger will remain, as it fits with the sword. Blaster pistols... I have the A180 I love, but I should have a couple pairs of SE-14c's and SE-44c's (Imperial and First Order sidearms, respectively) that will be getting finished soon. Working on getting some of the Secondary Items for the BRL's, like the "Code Breaker's Keys" or a scomp link. Need to replace the grenades I've had stashed, possibly with some made from the Plumbing Department at HD :laugh:.
Electronics: Picking up a set of Baofeng 888's to link into the planned "Comms Network" for troops. Need to find a way to mount a Bluetooth PTT button someplace on a gauntlet. A Chest Display from ElectriFi is being soldered together, to be mounted inside the new chestplate. I already have the power banks for it. And I need a new pouch for the voice amp I have.
I think this covers the basics. Any tips, tricks, etc... would be appreciated.
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Beautiful photos! And I can't wait to see your kit progress. :like:
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Happy #MandoMonday vode!
So, things happened...
(https://i.imgur.com/okTAgB2.jpg)
Had an absolute blast at an ACTUAL IN PERSON Armor Party!!
Got started of a new set of gaiters, thanks to Matchstick. Made the second one at home.
(https://i.imgur.com/W1Z8tLY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/T51xsNk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TNyfAGe.jpg)
Picked up a new knife, courtesy of Druj. Started sanding it yesterday.
(https://i.imgur.com/Nm5MYkM.jpg)
And finally added in a grating I liked to the vents on my Nite Owl.
(https://i.imgur.com/madur9a.jpg)
Still a lot to do before September. Was hoping to have at least the chest plate done for my Mk.III, but... Life happens. As always, Work Continues.
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Great job, Strak. :like: I'm so jealous!
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Photo Dump!
Half of my arms shipment arrived, and I started work on them.
SE-14c:
(https://i.imgur.com/lrKuHFQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Szqw3OK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9IjyYGI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rold54z.jpg)
SE-44c:
(https://i.imgur.com/L0TOCEv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ybhGwuR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WAB8F0u.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7F4cUzh.jpg)
TMS VibroDagger:
(https://i.imgur.com/Nm5MYkM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/f81PWeO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kJN9w6H.jpg)
Sanding and priming the knife and F/O blaster, the hand cannon needs some love before I start.
The bow build is on hold, while I try to get my Mk.III off the ground. I might go for Pistoleer first, then go for Assassin.
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Your kit was (and still is) a huge inspiration for me. It was your build that made me realize that yeah, I can do this too. Thanks for being an inspiration and keep up the good work. BTW love the bow and it's always encouraging to see how you improve and change your kit. :)
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Your kit was (and still is) a huge inspiration for me. It was your build that made me realize that yeah, I can do this too. Thanks for being an inspiration and keep up the good work. BTW love the bow and it's always encouraging to see how you improve and change your kit. :)
Thank you. Hearing that I inspired people really encourages me to keep at it.
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Update:
Vibrodagger is finished.
(https://i.imgur.com/GprOqMY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wxRM0pj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Xm0IpNl.jpg)
SE-44c is getting close.
(https://i.imgur.com/1M1mAaZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/w8lKkqC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TXLzPa5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tdfDOq1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cNPEPby.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/u5QZ9Ex.jpg)
Letting the paint cure for a bit, then going to mask it, and add the secondary color.
SE-14c... Still needs love.
(https://i.imgur.com/VWjJ2C1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/byyhxEG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Tq4bZns.jpg)
Might need to hit the center with a dremel or something to take down the high point where the halves are joined.
And Pistoleer is off the table. I'd need an RF for it.
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One down, three to go...
(https://i.imgur.com/oBw1zlF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mbZYZec.jpg)
Need to get some high grit paper, and some bottles of the enamels to fix some details, but this is just about ready to troop.
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Started making modifications to the vest.
Mock-ups:
(https://i.imgur.com/SgyY59S.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wGuqWVK.jpg)
Just a rough estimate of what I'm looking to do.
Then, I started the painstaking (and frankly painful) task of saddle stitching the front panel on.
(https://i.imgur.com/XZrVIlx.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6LkuA0G.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yoVX7KW.jpg)
Still need to sew down the sides, folding the canvas over double for extra strength.
Now, I need to lock in how I'm fixing the back, and what method to use for the side closures.
More mock-ups...
(https://i.imgur.com/IyZ4UbA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ep4byd1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mn5Xs1D.jpg)
The current plan is for chicago screws to affix the straps to the back, either over top, or under the vest, then use snaps for the closure on the front. I just need to make sure that having the snaps visible is either allowed or not. I know it's not a problem for the gaiters, but no word about on the vest.
(https://i.imgur.com/2ywhZfl.jpg)
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Work Continues!
Been creating new calluses on my hands, learning how to saddle stitch, and tried the lock stitch using a sewing awl. I think the hand stitching is a little easier, at least for certain sections.
Back panel is attached at the top, still need to get the sides done.
(https://i.imgur.com/xqeAwIy.jpg)
And still roughing out the closures.
Front bottom mock-up:
(https://i.imgur.com/0tWOOvz.jpg)
Back and side mock-up. Plan is to reinforce the side with a hem, with that section of leather as a backer. Chicago screws, saddle stitches, and snaps for the hardware.
(https://i.imgur.com/ckX5N78.jpg)
Thankful for the DTD, helps a lot when test setting the plates from Mk.II for spacing. I'll be rocking these at Cincinnati Comic Expo, unless by some miracle I get the HIM plates done.
(https://i.imgur.com/uQC6Lei.jpg)
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That's so cool! Leather work is so freaking impressive.
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CCE Test Fit!
(https://i.imgur.com/7xVy9fM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DYvaDHG.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2RjwW2G.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/R4ALPcy.jpg)
And I'm not happy with the results.
Let's start from the bottom, and work our way up:
Lower Body: Fabric bunched up between the knees and gaiters. Need to add stirrups to the pant legs, so they'll stay pulled taut in the boots. Need new knee armor, shin plates, and boot plates to be compliant with P.Imp CRL's. Need new holsters, pouches, and need to add more chicago screws to the belt and kama.
Midsection: Need to make a cummerbund to hold in that blasted muffintop. Not happy with how the girth belt rolled up as I moved.
Torso: Need to finally get the new chestplates made. AlterEgo Armory made a set that I fell in love with, just need to decide which ab set to use with it. I also need to order the replacement ToughBuilt knee shells, to make the new shoulders from. A backplate is in the works, but need to wait till the chest is measured and made. I also need to add in the second set of side closure straps.
Head: Might have to pull the trigger on getting the Shrike printed. While I absolutely LOVE my OG Nite Owl, I think it's time to retire her. She's getting uncomfortable to wear for long periods. My other option would be to repaint my green and blue N/O. I'm not ready to give up on that kit, just yet.
I like this set for the chest. I think this will be the one I choose.
(https://i.imgur.com/R4g3GLV.jpg)
I also picked up a Rubies Mando blaster. For a Rubies, this is pretty close to actual scale.
(https://i.imgur.com/Sj02Isg.jpg)
And now, for where I'd like this to end up:
(https://i.imgur.com/mdK7iGj.jpg)
I hate how hard it is to color-match on these programs...
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Lighting isn't great, but I fixed a couple problems.
Second closures added:
(https://i.imgur.com/bfFh8v2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/aF8wynH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XJXVbql.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dAAsKFx.jpg)
Still bulges a little near the top of the leather panel, but that should be taken care of by the armor.
Thinned down the dome padding, so the OG N/O sits lower, and is more comfortable.
(https://i.imgur.com/TnhzgGj.jpg)
Downside is I'll look like Aang when I take it off. :laugh:
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I see no downsides here, only benefits.
Maybe it will imbue youe helmet with a little airbending, that would be great for ventilation. :laugh:
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That would be REALLY nice.
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MOAR PROGRESS!!
(https://i.imgur.com/6yQTdGe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HeHhD4L.jpg)
Used the Large Auto holster template from Tandy, and made a custom rig to attach it to the belt for the kama. Now, I need to make some pouches.
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And now have a rig to swap out when the mood catches:
(https://i.imgur.com/3vMrHhP.jpg)
and good grief... That SE-14c is a BEAST!!
(https://i.imgur.com/Ge01yb2.jpg)
I also have ordered the new chestplates. Fingers crossed that it shows up on one of my days off.
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Me: What's in the box?
(https://i.imgur.com/8xSXlIH.jpg)
Bene Jesserit: Pain.
(https://i.imgur.com/F6eG7UK.jpg)
So, lots of sanding, aligning, and painting in my future. Going to try a new technique I was told about by Matchstick. Spray with the Textured paints from Rustoleum, then hit with filler primer. Sand, then it should be done.
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So, a little bit of #mandomonday update.
Mocked up the plates:
(https://i.imgur.com/hsykVbt.jpg)
A quick edit for example:
(https://i.imgur.com/LnQHo5R.jpg)
And mocked up with my helmet options:
(https://i.imgur.com/x27oNFX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Qgz4unq.jpg)
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(https://i.imgur.com/fKmfd5Q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P7cC8Xd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Z6zrmX0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/konw1KV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yEXsnwA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZZViPD5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/3gBFdkk.jpg)
Been rather busy the last couple days. Figured I might as well kill the time I'm not at MercsCon with something constructive.
And, I was a bad boy yesterday...
I saw that 3Dprinttoys had a sale on the Westar-35M, and bought the last one he had in stock. I'll post pics when it comes in.