Newbie here, requires a start-up

[Hotfix]

Hi! I'm new on these forums, but I've always had an interest in prop-making. I've made some props before, like swords out of certain anime, and currently I'm making a Halo 2 Assault Rifle for a friend.

However, I really want to up my game, and what is a better place to learn than on a forum like this? I'm not really sure if it belongs in this sub-forum, so If not please redirect me to the appropriate forum.

My interests lie in weapon replica's (swords, guns), but I would also like to get into suit- and armormaking someday.
I'd like to know what kind of tools one must have to make accurate, detailed replica's of weapons. I would also know of techniques that makes making them easier, but that is probably much to general of a question. I know these are basic questions, but again, I don't quite know where to start.

Thanks a bunch!

 

[thd9791]

I would make sure you have simple things like sandpaper screwdrivers, a drill, hacksaw, etc. Honestly, what would make your life a heck of a lot easier would be picking up some good rotary tool, (Dremel, Black and Decker) with a diamond cut off wheel for metal, a saw blade for wood, and sanding drums.

 

[NormanF]

http://www.therpf.com/f9/prop-making-panel-pax-east-video-144638/
Check out the videos on that page and go through the pdf. It's kind of a quicky guide to getting started.

 

[Hotfix]

Amazing. Thanks, I'm looking into it!
As far as materials go, I have drills, sandpaper (always enough sandpaper), a precision and rough hacksaw and a cheap-ass dremel. I was thinking of buying a belt sander, or preferably one of those smallband sanders (around 3/4 of an inch wide sanding surface). Is that a good idea for a starter?

 

[BornKilr]

Amazing. Thanks, I'm looking into it!
As far as materials go, I have drills, sandpaper (always enough sandpaper), a precision and rough hacksaw and a cheap-ass dremel. I was thinking of buying a belt sander, or preferably one of those smallband sanders (around 3/4 of an inch wide sanding surface). Is that a good idea for a starter?

One of the best investments I made last year was a belt/rotary sander combo. It saves me a ton of time taking off lots of material in a hurry. If you can afford the larger 10-12" diameter one, get it. I've already kinda outgrown the 6" on some projects