Okay, got mine in the mail yesterday. This is my favorite saber and I've lusted for one for years. The CE version didn't disappoint.
First of all, I snagged it for 140.00 shipped, but I wouldn't have minded paying more. Don't pay 199, you can find it for much cheaper.
Second, the packaging is great. I really like the box with the prop story inside, and it's easy to get the saber out to 'play'. One strange nitpick...the saber is wrapped in tissue, not bagged. This is a pain for me because I like to 'peek' at my props and this makes it inconvenient. Once I have my display case built for all my sabers it won't be an issue.
Third, the stand. Goofy. I'd rather just a bare bones black plastic horizontal stand (think Roman's) than this. And it wouldn't be any more expensive, I'm sure. Maybe the vertical stand is to further distinguish the CE from the LE?
Fourth, paperwork. It does come with a miniscule cert. of authenticity, but mine was for a 'Scaled Replica.' I don't know if that's an accident or what. I personally don't care in the slightest, but it might ire some people.
Fifth, the saber seems pretty durable. I was worried about the paint but it seems to be fairly tough. I mean, I'm just displaying it...does anyone costume with these things? The saber is heavy and that contributes to the illusion of quality.
Sixth, the button is apparently anodized, and mine actually looks like a very coppery red. I don't know if it's just mine, but it looks different than in pictures I've seen. Truth be told, I like it better than the plain red, so I'm not going to worry about it.
All in all, I couldn't be more satisfied. I love it. I know this is a simple saber to do as a CE--time will tell if they can keep quality/cost with more complex sabers like the Obi ANH or the Mundi, but I will continue to be a supporter of this line based on the first offering. I've had a number of LEs, fan-made sabers, and real flashguns, etc., and I have no qualms about proudly displaying this CE with the rest of my collection. Bravo MR.
