Accurate Vader ROTJ Saber?

mvmagic

Well-Known Member
I’m looking to get a Vader ROTJ saber which I’d like to be fairly accurate, but I can live with less accurate as long as its not way off. Is this a good choice:


Or would I be better of with Roy’s set and a Graflex?
 
That one is not that bad if you're looking for an idealized version.
If you want something closer to the real deal then Roy's kit is the way to go.
 
Roy's kit and either a real G R A F L E X 3 Cell or replica parts from i.e. romanprops (D-Battery/3-Cell bottom and Gen.1 Top Shell < $100) ... you can even ask Shane Craig/ 3251bimmer for a commission if you dread the drilling/work ;) He does display some of his commissions at 'Props of the Original Trilogy' on Fb and here : ROTJ Darth Vader Graflex Stunt (MoM)(a.k.a. DV6) – by WannaWanga ;)

Chaïm

 
Last edited:
Thanks for the replies! I dont have a drill press so drilling is the scary part. Its just such a beautiful saber. And my next 501st costume will be ROTJ Vader…
 
Thanks for the replies! I dont have a drill press so drilling is the scary part. Its just such a beautiful saber. And my next 501st costume will be ROTJ Vader…
I used a cordless drill for mine. Just make sure to use a vice and work your way up in bit size as to not chew up the brass.
 
Thanks for the replies! I dont have a drill press so drilling is the scary part. Its just such a beautiful saber. And my next 501st costume will be ROTJ Vader…

I used Roy’s WannaWanga Kit and the cheapest Wen brand drill press from Amazon for mine. Drill press was $85 with a small vice (I think it’s $100 now), but no complaints from me.

IMG_9508.jpeg

IMG_9506.jpeg
 
If you want to actually match the countersunk holes in Roy’s kit do not use a stepped bit! You have to drill a little smaller and use a countersinking bit to make the chamfer.

Getting a really cheap drill press is so cool if you have the space!!! They can really do a lot.
 
mvmagic have you considered the hero lightsaber, mentioned by the 501st CRL for Vader ROTJ?


Regarding the lightsaber, the CRL states:

Lightsaber
  • The lightsaber should be a Master Replicas or custom build based on the MPP Microflash or the Heiland Synchronar 3-Cell flash handle to match the hilt used in ESB/ROTJ.
  • The metal has a chrome appearance.
  • The grips extend all the way to the middle section.
  • A lever is not present on the box on the middle section.
  • The side bars of the box on the middle section are black.
  • There are connecting wires towards the top of the lightsaber.
  • The lightsaber should only be required as long as it’s in compliance with the applicant’s local laws.
OPTIONAL Level two certification (if applicable):
  • The lightsaber should be capable of being belt worn with the emitter facing upwards (detachable blade or no blade).
  • The lightsaber should be a 1:1 scale of the lightsaber used in the film.
  • Additional note: The lightsaber in the film was slightly weathered.

The lightsaber you referenced in your first post is a Vader ROTJ saber, but actually a “stunt” lightsaber based on a Graflex flashgun. Vader used this stunt saber during ROTJ stunt scenes, most famously when dueling versus Luke in the Emperor’s Throne Room.

The Vader ROTJ “hero” (belt hanger) lightsaber is actually the same hero lightsaber carried over from ESB. As the CRL mentions, this lightsaber was built on a Micro Precision Products (MPP) flashgun. There are wonderful and extremely accurate MPP replicas available through Roman Props (Romans Empire here on the RPF).


In summary, the MPP replica is also an option for your 501st Vader ROTJ costume. Please post photos of your final approval! MTFBWY.
 
I havent considered the hero, as the stunt is just so beautiful and to me has more character. And as the CRL states stunt being acceptable, I’m happy as a clam! Our garrison has ESB Vaders but no ROTJ. First SW I saw in the cinema, opening night 1983…10 year old me was forever impressed… also fell in love with royal guards-and that became my first approved 501st costume. Got a deep connection to ROTJ
 
Back
Top