If you’ve seen the Star Wars films and are now ready to feel the Force like your favourite characters from the franchise, getting yourself a replica lightsaber is an excellent way to do so. However, you’d be surprised to find out that you are not the only one who feels this way. Whether it’s for display, cosplay, duelling, or just feeling the Force, there is a very large number of Star Wars fans out there who wish to own one of these iconic movie weapons.
Thankfully there is a huge market for replica lightsabers to meet the demands of fans. Below are some of the ways you can go about getting a replica lightsaber that you can show off.
Features to Look out for
In order to get one that you’ll be happy with, you need to know what features to look for. Ideally, a good-quality lightsaber should have the following features;
Quality Design
The major concern here is the design of the saber’s hilt. Since the hilt houses the majority of the saber’s electronics, it is important that it is made from a strong and durable material, preferably metal. If you decide to go for a plastic hilt, make sure that it is strong and sturdy enough to withstand intense combat conditions. The hilt’s design should also allow for a good grip, and it should look and feel like a real weapon.
Blade Quality and Blade Lights
Depending on the intended purpose of your replica lightsaber, you can choose to go for either a high-impact, heavy-grade polycarbonate blade (for dueling) or a mid-grade blade (for display and cosplaying). In addition to quality, the blade of a replica lightsaber should have aesthetic effects (an LED strip for colour and brightness). These effects should also allow for a smooth colour transition (typically blue to red and vice-versa) during use.
Sound Effects
The buzzing and sparkling sounds that lightsabers make on impact are one the things that make them so appealing, so it is important that a replica lightsaber comes equipped with movie-accurate and motion-sensitive sound effects.
Power Options
In order to perform basic functions, a replica lightsaber needs a power source and a majority of the replicas on the market use batteries. These batteries (AA batteries) may be included in the package or bought separately. Make sure to check the power-saving abilities of a replica lightsaber before making a purchase.
Check out one of the most expensive replica lightsabers that there is on the market!
Where to buy Replica Lightsabers
In addition to knowing what to look for, it is also important to know where to look. Some of the places where you can procure the best quality lightsaber replicas include;
Star Wars Shop
When in doubt, always go directly to the source. The official Star Wars shop is one of the best places to get a quality replica lightsaber. However, the prices here may be a little on the high side when a particular saber is not in stock.
Online Stores
There is a huge online market for them, so it is quite easy for you to find a vendor that sells the lightsaber you are looking for. Do make sure to verify the legitimacy of an online store before making any purchases from them. Any legitimate lightsaber store like Padawan Outpost will make sure that you receive high-quality replicas.
Buy it Second-Hand
Another way to get a quality and affordable replica lightsaber is to buy it second-hand from other Star Wars fans. However, be sure to check that the saber is in good condition before making a purchase.
Comic Book Stores
Most comic book stores usually carry a wide range of Star Wars collectibles, and replica lightsabers are included.
Custom Lightsaber Shops
One of the best ways to ensure that it meets your unique needs is to build it yourself. There are several lightsaber customization workshops where you get to pick and choose the parts of your lightsaber and also put it together yourself. Many online lightsaber stores also offer customization services, so you can pick the parts and leave the building to them.
How to Care for a Replica Lightsaber
Once you have a replica Star Wars lightsaber, it’s important to take the proper steps to make sure it lasts as long as possible. To ensure that it stays in its best condition, here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Keep your saber away from water and high heat. Prolonged exposure to either can damage the delicate elements of it.
- Store your saber box in a secure place without direct sunlight or high humidity levels. Sunlight and moisture can cause discoloration or rust to the blade, hilts and connectors.
- Clean your saber with a soft cloth using mild soap and warm water after each use. If needed, use mineral spirits on the metal parts of your saber when necessary. Doing so will prevent build up of dirt and debris that can affect its performance over time.
- Perform regular maintenance checks such as visual inspections, checking battery connections and ensuring no loose parts as these may cause malfunction of the lightsaber during battle or show offs!
- Take extra care when transporting it from one location to another, wrapping it tightly in bubble wrap so it is secure for travel during transport. Avoid jostling it or banging it against other objects to prevent damage on transit!
Conclusion
At the end of the day, getting a replica Star Wars lightsaber isn’t just about collecting a cool prop—it’s about finding something that you can proudly display and be proud to show off.
While it takes some forethought and research, there are high-quality replicas on the market that match up with whatever your style and standards may be. Start by researching high-quality vendors specializing in lightsabers, read reviews querying other users’ experiences with specific models, and make sure to find out what kind of extras you get in the boxes.
If you follow these steps, you’ll be well on your way to finding a replica Star Wars lightsaber that looks great and matches your tastes perfectly.