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The S.A.B.E.R. GUILD: Saber Manufacturers => FX-SABERS Graflex Armory & GraflexShop "GRAFLEX FX-SABERS" => Graflex Kits (Projects) for Members => Topic started by: Luke S. on February 14, 2007, 12:04:36 PM

Title: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on February 14, 2007, 12:04:36 PM
Thanks to R2 I finally figured out how to post a pic.  I only have had the time to gut it out,  but you will soon see more when the parts arrive...hint hint Ultra (can't wait) :D

The pictures look great but it's even better in person.  I really got lucky on Ebay.  It was better than expected and a little less than a Parks.  I just had to have a vintage look.   Parks' look great but like GL said I wanted that lived in feeling.

Soon to be an ESB Lux V w/ultra's new board and blade with a Corbin for variety.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FGraflex3.jpg&hash=59b2c96ee05cf1d5d38ad55fa558f1e1dd1dc5ef)
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FGraflex2.jpg&hash=e17bd3bc167b56f2a55d91e6961cafd278bca5e9)
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2Fgraflex1.jpg&hash=b9da4aee49668181f03763382c3f4d6442004b3b)

Well I never thought I would get back to this thread but Yoda just emailed pics of my kit that should be here this week.  I'll post a full review next week when I get it all installed.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FTK_Kit.jpg&hash=c07b538ddae6fa1d49cdf214e455dc4603d7941b)

Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: robiwan on February 14, 2007, 12:21:13 PM
Very nice! Ya know, I think I bid on that one!  ;)
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on February 14, 2007, 12:25:13 PM
Sorry about that Robiwon.

It was really a total piece of junk all dented and corroded.  Not!

I know how frustrating it is bidding, this was the third one it bid on.  20 bucks cheaper than a Parks not bad.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Knuckle01 on February 14, 2007, 02:35:55 PM
say cheeeeeeese  ;D
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Aluke123 on February 14, 2007, 03:15:02 PM
and the parks ones aren't perfectly accurate either. he got sued for making unlicensed replicas so now his are slightly different
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on February 14, 2007, 05:21:40 PM
thanks luke123 now i am even happier i went with the vintage
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: BEN KENOBI on February 14, 2007, 05:31:11 PM
Wow Luke S that's going to be one nice saber when you're done man!!DaJoQuim ;D
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Red Five on February 15, 2007, 11:21:06 PM
Sssweeet! You even got one with the flash pan.  8)
Make sure when doing you ESB to take a pic at each step of the way for us.
Sort of an evolution of the lightsaber thing.  ;)
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on February 16, 2007, 04:21:20 PM
Red Five Stand by. ;D

I'll keep you posted.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Red Five on February 16, 2007, 10:03:38 PM
Red Five standing by. Steady boys.  Lock S-foils in attack postition.  :D
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Sora Skywalker on February 16, 2007, 11:19:09 PM
im new on the forum dont know what quite to do so but good luck with making your saber any way lol im thinking of making a saber just dont know how hard or easy it would be......
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: levelnext on February 17, 2007, 01:04:10 AM
Hello Sora Skywalker, welcome to the forums, here you will find a lot of info and a nice environment, people here are really friendly and some know a lot about sabers.  you've come to the correct place.  I hope you enjoy your visits and find all you need to complete your projects.  Welcome!
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on February 17, 2007, 04:14:43 AM
Sora, welocme

Saber buildiing goes from simple to very difficult depending on what you want to do.  I may be wrong but the Graflex coversion is one of the more difficult ones.  I have two years of aviation maintenance to back me up.  Everyone comes with different skills so try to take that into accoutn what is easy for one may be impossible for another.  Master Yoda is by far the king of the Graflex if you are looking for that.  there are plenty here that will help you along the way with any project.  I think ultra makes a good starter Do it yourself kit for the Master Replicas.  That would be a start.  The custom saber shop also has a modular (screw together hilt) that would be easire than say a graflex.

Good Luck with any project,
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Aluke123 on February 17, 2007, 12:44:31 PM
sora, if you don't want sound then the mhs is the way to go. you can make a totally sweet saber for 80$ish and it is really easy. If you want sound but not a MR then the mhs will also work great, once the new modular pommel system comes out.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on February 17, 2007, 02:48:37 PM
Just figured out what MHS stands for.  MAn it stinks to be a padawan.  If you don't already know Sora it stands for modular hilt system, i.e. screw together.  TCSS is one  Dougggghhhh!!!!
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Aluke123 on February 17, 2007, 02:59:20 PM
i'm not even a padawan, it's just that i've been reading around for ages and have acquired a wealth of knowledge  :)
i can't wait for the MPS, it'll be so cool 8)
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: BEN KENOBI on February 17, 2007, 09:05:38 PM
im new on the forum dont know what quite to do so but good luck with making your saber any way lol im thinking of making a saber just dont know how hard or easy it would be......

Hi Sora skywalker!!Welcome to the forum!!I'm building a home made lightsaber;so;if this old man can do it I know you can!!DaJoQuim ;D
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on February 28, 2007, 10:30:19 AM
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2F276439-R1-01-2_002.jpg&hash=8973ec66a0a77ab817522656ba4f29d040fc8f2a) I haven't gotten very far as I am waiting on parts. Here it is after the gutting and disassembly.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Yoda on March 08, 2007, 06:55:06 AM
That Sig picture is a very familiar site Luke S  :D

I spend most of my time with them disassembled :D

Might I suggest a thin layer of grated/perforated rubber matting or even
a thin sheet of bubble wrap between the table and your Graflex.

I find it helps trap screws as well as provide a softer surface
for the project untill it's completed ;)

I always do that to ensure customer graflexs don't get unwanted scratches etc...
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 08, 2007, 07:52:35 AM
I'll one up you Yoda,

I plan on using a gun matt, rubber on the bottom and a felt like mat on the top.  used to work on handguns.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Yoda on March 08, 2007, 08:06:27 AM
Ah yes good Idea :)

I have stuck with the rubber over the electronics work bench because when soldering I
wouldn't want to ruin the felt with burn holes :D
The rubber mat is cheap and comes in rolls so I can use a fresh piece when needed.

I do think I may pick some of that Gun Mat up for my staging/assembly area. 8)

I currently have a Black felt cloth over the staging area but the Gun mat would be nicer
and much easier to move around when I need to ;)

Is it pricey?
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 08, 2007, 09:02:07 AM
i haven't bought it in awhile but walmart maybe 10 dollars?

any news on your blade holder joint effort with TGS?
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: PRINCESS LEIA on March 08, 2007, 09:15:21 AM
Looks great !!! Luke! ;D
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 08, 2007, 09:26:42 AM
Thanks Neeson,

The wait for parts is killing me.  Everything is backordered even the Blast Tech kit DOOUUUGGGHHH!!!!

It's all polished up and ready to go.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: HAN SOLO on March 08, 2007, 10:10:23 AM
"Indeed you are powerful.....as the Emperor has forseen." 8)

One day I'll look at creating a hilt. One day, I'll be a Jedi.... :D
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Aluke123 on March 08, 2007, 03:26:39 PM
looks good so far.
isn't the wait just horrible. i'm in the same boat with a different saber  :-\
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 08, 2007, 03:30:35 PM
yes if i coudl just get the blast tech parts i could do something/stretch it out till the sound board comes.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Yoda on March 14, 2007, 03:50:00 AM
are you still waiting for your blast tech order?
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 14, 2007, 03:57:01 AM
unfortunately yes.  I emailed him last week for an update on the d ring batch and he said he woud send the rest of the kit and when he go tso more d  rings made up send that along later.  so when i get home from my tour on tuesday it should be a go for most of the kit.  I was hoping to at least get the grips on as they are going to be most time demanding.  Any word on the joint new blade holder?
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Yoda on March 14, 2007, 04:15:12 AM
I've got ym Adapters/Blade holders already.

What I've been working on for both my systems and then Ultras are the internal battery chassis
as well as battery selection.

most of it should be worked out this week and I'll be doing prototypes of the chassis to test fit etc...
then I'll get some made up for the Graflexs I have to do and start in on getting something done for
Ultra (though Sidious should be able to help out on this a bit :D)

in anycase it is all coming along, but it takes time to get it to a user friendly set-up that can be
reproduced some what cost effectively :-\
were not MR but we do what we must :D
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 14, 2007, 12:18:05 PM
Sounds great Yoda send me a PM when things are ready.  My hilt should be done less the D ring by this time next week.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: SAESEE TIIN on March 14, 2007, 02:16:20 PM
I just got my graflex in the mail today  ;D  What kit did you pick from Blast-Tech Luke?  Also what is the difference between the 2 different kits that look like ANH?
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 14, 2007, 05:15:01 PM
Refer to Red Five's "Graflex The Real lightsaber", he has a link to a site that is very informative about all the differences in the 3 episodes.

http://www.partsofsw.com/skysab.htm      very imformative  site on actual prop usage and parts.  also go the ESB site they have.

GX-1   Seven rubber grips and a single rivet D-Ring
GX-2   Six rubber grips and a dual rivet D-ring
GX-3   Is the ESB version with six grips with rivets the computer board replaces to led strip and the D-Ring bracket is different.

I believe that the GX-1 is the most ANH accurate.  If you are going to do this yourself don't use the nuts that come with the button head screws. No screws can protrude through the hilt they hilt must be drilled and tapped and the screws cut down so they are flush on the inside.  Protruding screws with prohibit the guts being placed inside the hilt.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 14, 2007, 05:37:00 PM
That websit elink also has the grip spacing template.   Great if you are doing ESB for drilling the holes but would still be a great help with any grip spacing.  I kept increasing the size until it matched the hilt O.D.  I think my printer used 105% to get it sized right.  This template will help keep them straight and evenly spaced when applying them.  I am not sure about the sticky back but I don't wnat to risk not being able to pull one off and reapply it.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 15, 2007, 07:56:48 PM
Saesee,

I am going with the GX-3 which is the ESB version.  That is the one that I rmember most as a kid.  It is a bit harder because you have to put the screws into the grips.  I am tweeking mine a bit as I prefer the glass eye to a second red button but I am also getting the red button so I can swap it out to be more movie accurate.  If you reference the Red Five link above under ESB you will see that they had several different props used and none of them are the same.  Parts missing parts added so I don't feel too bad tweeking it to fit my tastes.

Are you going to do yours by yourself or send it to Yoda.  Either way get some help from Yoda as you go as you can easily wreck your vintage hilt.  I can help a bit as Yoda is instructing me but I don't want to think I can train you as good as Yoda and have you end up pulling an Anakin on me.  Yoad is def the master with the expertise.  But I am glad to offer what I can.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: SAESEE TIIN on March 15, 2007, 08:19:21 PM
Yeah, I figured I'd contact Yoda once I see Ultra's finished board.  I only trust myself with chemicals, not electronics lol.
Title: Re: Finally my Graflex photos
Post by: Luke S. on March 16, 2007, 09:56:18 AM
Probably a wise choice as he is the master.  I have some experience with this sort of thing but I have already seen places where I could have screwed up.  This saber is a mini fortune I don't want to have to buy more parts because I screwed up.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 11, 2007, 08:21:01 AM
All I can say is Wooooooo hoooooooo! My S.T.E.V.E. will be here tomorrow.

UPS Tracking info:

CT,  US  09/17/2007  7:42 P.M.  IN TRANSIT TO  BOZRAH,
HARTFORD,
CT,  US  09/17/2007  7:41 P.M.  DEPARTURE SCAN 
 09/17/2007  9:55 A.M.  ARRIVAL SCAN 
SAN PABLO,
CA,  US  09/12/2007  2:56 A.M.  DEPARTURE SCAN 
 09/12/2007  12:30 A.M.  ARRIVAL SCAN 
WEST SACRAMENTO,
CA,  US  09/11/2007  10:55 P.M.  DEPARTURE SCAN 
 09/11/2007  9:37 P.M.  ARRIVAL SCAN 
ROCKLIN,
CA,  US  09/11/2007  9:36 P.M.  DEPARTURE SCAN 
 09/11/2007  8:03 P.M.  ORIGIN SCAN 
US  09/11/2007  9:39 P.M.  BILLING INFORMATION RECEIVED 
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 17, 2007, 06:27:47 PM
All I can say is Wooooooo hoooooooo! My S.T.E.V.E. will be here tomorrow.

UPS Tracking info:

CT,  US  09/17/2007  7:42 P.M.  IN TRANSIT TO  BOZRAH,
HARTFORD,
CT,  US  09/17/2007  7:41 P.M.  DEPARTURE SCAN 
 09/17/2007  9:55 A.M.  ARRIVAL SCAN 
SAN PABLO,
CA,  US  09/12/2007  2:56 A.M.  DEPARTURE SCAN 
 09/12/2007  12:30 A.M.  ARRIVAL SCAN 
WEST SACRAMENTO,
CA,  US  09/11/2007  10:55 P.M.  DEPARTURE SCAN 
 09/11/2007  9:37 P.M.  ARRIVAL SCAN 
ROCKLIN,
CA,  US  09/11/2007  9:36 P.M.  DEPARTURE SCAN 
 09/11/2007  8:03 P.M.  ORIGIN SCAN 
US  09/11/2007  9:39 P.M.  BILLING INFORMATION RECEIVED 


Bump
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Red Five on September 17, 2007, 09:37:35 PM
What happened? Did you receive it yet? ???
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Yoda on September 17, 2007, 11:23:14 PM
Yes TK 421...

...was the mail man at His post :D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: darthmorbius on September 17, 2007, 11:35:05 PM
Or did he ninja style ya with an Orange Card like they ALWAYS do to me *At least with sabers* :D

Now if it's a set of batteries or a Buckpuck... they just throw those in between my storm door and the front door... ::)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 18, 2007, 02:42:21 AM
As the quote said STEVE comes tomorrow which is today.  I get home around 8 pm and will install it all wednesday morning.  Mrs. TK did all her running around monday and has strict instructions to stay at her post all day.  She is armed with a stock OBI and an Ultra kiddie so there is no way old UPS is getting past her. lol  :D  Trust me.  She wants this thing here more than I do, I think.  ;) :D

Seriously though our UPS guy is awesome.  He actually saw me in town on day which is about 7 miles form my house.  He followed me 3/4 mile while I was running errands and gave me a package.   Now he really rocks.

Anyway prepare for a full review w/hopefully video on thursday at the latest.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Jedi Farmboy on September 18, 2007, 03:25:46 AM
Im excited for you man! Hope the delivery is on time and the build goes well! Your gonna love this saber like your own child!
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 18, 2007, 03:33:26 AM
I am going to love it.  but how could I love anything more than this little padawan?


(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FDSC00221.jpg&hash=4a353be1c4e48f218e69ed721a01eff9a71238fd)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Jedi Farmboy on September 18, 2007, 03:37:24 AM
Haha of course I didnt mean litterally. Your son is adorable TK he looks about my little sisters age :)

Im sure he'll enjoy seeing your new graflex too, especially the blade flicker effect! :D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: darthmorbius on September 18, 2007, 03:50:14 AM
Aww Stormie Jr. ;) "Look out! He's got a HOSE!" I love kids... ;D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 18, 2007, 07:08:56 AM
Oh I know Farmboy, it is just my sarcastic self.  :D  He is 14 months and can wield an MR Obi already.  It is a bit tough for him but he loves it.  When we go to other people's houses he looks for long things like yardsticks and vacuum hoses.  He grabs them and walks around the house going  "zhooooom zhoooooom zhooooom"  Just wait till he's 2.  :D

And yes DT armed with a hose, thinks it's a blaster, watch out.  We all got a little wet that day. 

Graflex KIT is in the UPS truck as we speak.   Muuuuuaahhhhhaaaaahhaaaaa!!!!!!  Like I am not going to stay up till midnight putting it together.  lol  :D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Jedi Farmboy on September 19, 2007, 04:39:04 PM
Do you have it now? Is it built? Comon TK dont leave us hanging! :P :D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 19, 2007, 04:47:00 PM
I was waiting for someone to get on my case.  My padawan is sick with a cold so today has been rough.  I did go through the kit last night and assembled it the first thing after breakfast.  Played with it all day, wrote a review and was waiting till dark to shoot some vids and pics.  I will give you a starter and update it once I get the other pics.  Stayed tuned it will be up in 10 under a new post.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Jedi Farmboy on September 19, 2007, 04:51:58 PM
Awesome :) Hope the padawan gets well soon, and Im lookin forward to your review!
Title: Review on Yoda's Graflex "KIT" with Ultrasound
Post by: Luke S. on September 19, 2007, 05:38:32 PM
Review on Yoda’s Graflex “KIT” with UltraSound.


Well as all of you I never thought this day would come but it finally is here.  The sound I have been waiting 7 months to hear.  Snap hiss…vroom vroooom vroooooom.  I just can’t seem to stop playing with my new saber.  If I ignite and retract the blade one more time I think my wife might kick me outside to play.  LOL Seriously though she loves it.

I was brought back to that theater in my hometown when I first saw ESB.  For me this is the saber that stood out.  These were the days before VCRs, so when ESB came out I had only seen ANH once.  I carried all the memories with me for 3 years and I was primed and ready to see ESB.  Watching Luke FORCE pull his saber out of the snow in the Wampa cave blew my mind and left a lasting impression.  I still remember dressing up for Halloween with my flashlight and plastic golf tube.  I never dreamed that one day I would be holding the actual ESB saber that I had built.  There is just no other way to get closer to the real thing than a Vintage Graflex conversion with S.T.E.V.E. and Yoda’s chassis with Crystal Core.

Here is my review of the first “test trial kit” by our own master Yoda and also my review of the Ultrasound.

First let me start out by giving Yoda his credit and a great many thanks.  I joined the forum in February and immediately started my first saber DIY with a vintage graflex.  Let me first say that Yoda is by far the most knowledgeable man on the planet regarding this conversion.  He was also the best as he answered all of my padawan and repetitive questions. I think it was somewhere in the neighborhood of 70 PMs, (sorry I kept filling your inbox Yoda) lol   He gave a great explanation of just where to go to get the right items and how to do the best install.  Thanks also for hearing my installation debrief at 8 am.  You would think an airline pilot would have remembered a thing or two about time zones.  Ooops, sorry about that, and hope you’re feeling better.  Thank you master Yoda.  

I also need to give a huge thank you to ULTRA for making the best soundboard out there for the money.  This board is great for those of us that want a great sounding board but can’t afford to pay for all of the bells and whistles of  a plecter.  We now have another option as we build our sabers.  If you remember that first sound file we got, that would be about a 3 compared to hearing it in person. UltraSound is just spectacular.   His directions are very clear and once you get the hang of it, it is a cinch.  To me the sound was right on.  I loved the combinations Alex put together to try to make a board that fit into everyone’s idea of what it should be.  Just had to have that ROTJ ignition, man is that sweet.  And the bit deeper tone for the hum ( a bit sithier) is just perfect.  The sounds flow evenly from one to the other without the breaks so common to the MR line. The swings are timed perfectly to start and stop with the motion.   It just seems like you are wielding a real saber.  I have been regretting my decision to give away my MR Ani but now that I have my US I can’t imagine ever going back.  If I could change one thing it would be the delay in shutoff.  Personally I would eliminate it, but cutting the time in half would certainly be a good option too.

This board and keeping the price low will def put Ultra on the map for the saber building crowd.  Thank you Alex for taking the time to get this board right and for putting up with all of us impatient Jedi asking “are we there yet?”.  This board manufacture certainly didn’t break any Kessel run records but the end result was nothing less than spectacular.  “She may not look like much but she’s got it where it counts.”
-Han Solo ANH                                  Thank you Alex.


Also thank you to Red Five for his very informative post on the graflex.  There is a link on this thread that has great screen shots and info especially regarding the ESB.

 (https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2F197776_graphic1.jpg&hash=c572f7e31499a959310258f02681cbfeaf81d93c)

http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?topic=5996.0

If you are looking to save money over Yoda’s completed ones think again.  He is charging very little for his services and one little mistake here or there and you will be equal to or more than his sabers. Also unless you have all of the tools you will easily go over just purchasing the required items to do the job.  I chose to do my own because I am a DIYer and also wanted my Jedi skills to be complete, so I had to build my own.

Here she is off of Ebay

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2Fgraflex1.jpg&hash=b9da4aee49668181f03763382c3f4d6442004b3b)
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FGraflex3.jpg&hash=59b2c96ee05cf1d5d38ad55fa558f1e1dd1dc5ef)
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2F276439-R1-01-2_002.jpg&hash=8973ec66a0a77ab817522656ba4f29d040fc8f2a)

For this review I am going to stick to S.T.E.V.E. and Yoda’s Graflex kit with Crystal Core.  I will post another review on the Graflex conversion to ESB in the Graflex member’s projects.  This will only be based on the hilt conversion for those of you that wish to build your own Graflex.  It will be my own experience combined with some of the advice of Master Yoda.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2F737738-R1-18-19_019.jpg&hash=34b09aee0cd0fb806ea396594db911ec87255729)


Finally on to the good stuff, Yoda’s kit.  Yoda set me up with a trial run DIY Graflex saber kit.  I was the guinea pig to see if this is something he will offer in the future. This is just a work of art.  It really does look like the inside of a real saber.  You could easily fool friends by telling them it was real.  Kit’s C4 vid as good as it was just doesn’t do the Crystal core justice.  It just ROCKS.  Yoda’s kit is self explanatory. Yoda’s kit came presoldered so all of the hard work was already completed.  Simply assemble everything into Yoda’s super cool chassis system, slide it up the hilt, shim the chassis just a bit so it’s snug and you’re good to go. It  took me about  4 hours to install everything and make the necessary adjustments.  I had a few minor adjustments here and there because not all vintage Graflex are the same. I ended up going with Yoda’s Lux V with the Crystal Core, with a Lithium Ion battery pack.  The lux V is more than bright enough for me and blows my MR Ani Rots out of the water and this is a blue, one of the dimmest luxeons.   I did a test run and came up with a continuous runtime of a little over an hour. But haven’t done a full test yet.
I hardly notice the lack of scrolling effect.  In my opinion the benefits vs the loss of the scrolling effect is a no brainer.

“Great kid now don’t get cocky.”

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FDSC00262.jpg&hash=79f068b70d2716a206f03a19bb604715fb9945cb)
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FTK_Kit.jpg&hash=c07b538ddae6fa1d49cdf214e455dc4603d7941b)

I think my saber came out great and would hold its own next to Yoda’s, but this only came through patience and a lot of help with our Jedi master.  Without him I would probably have a $400 pile of junk still sitting on my workbench.  As I look at it, there is nothing that I would change, no oops, no I wish that could have come out better.  I have Yoda to thank for that.  Overall the job was easier than expected, but I also spent 2 years learning aviation maintenance so I have a good working knowledge of how to fabricate things.  Anyone could do this with the proper guidance.  I STRESS AGAIN JUST TAKE YOUR TIME AND ASK FOR HELP.

Comparison to Stock Obi w/fresh batteries no flash.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FDSC00263.jpg&hash=420ceb9fa0476993f14cb9b07e2a3502b5c67b0a)

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FDSC00266.jpg&hash=1e5cca234e097580a3fbc603cbdcf6e715d89abe)

Overall both Yoda and Ultra’s products are nothing less than perfection. Their commitment to their customers is spectacular.  They were both a pleasure to deal with and I can’t wait to get into my next project.

I was on the fence all the way until I actually viewed the Crystal Chamber.  Crystal Core vs extra 20 minutes run time.  It was a tough one.  But now that I have held it and seen it for myself that Crystal chamber is just plain sweet.  The Gralfex being the only saber that comes apart in a way that you could display the internal workings of a saber.  IMO there is only one choice here.  You must get the Crystal Chamber.  Yoda did a fantastic job at making it as authentic as possible.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2Fth_MOV00268.jpg&hash=7e5aa0f6d31930b01b79d9604d032d6252abcd3f) (http://s160.photobucket.com/albums/t200/laspiess/?action=view&current=MOV00268.flv)

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2Fth_MOV00269.jpg&hash=ee8ca812b6687403fe49d7c2fd8c2ed7c1129749) (http://s160.photobucket.com/albums/t200/laspiess/?action=view&current=MOV00269.flv)

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2Fth_MOV00271.jpg&hash=9586e6bf1c39108c055293c8928c48fef187f3a7) (http://s160.photobucket.com/albums/t200/laspiess/?action=view&current=MOV00271.flv)

And before any of you smart alecs mouth off.  I paid Ultra a little extra to throw in the cricket sound fx you hear in the background.   :D :D :D :D :D


Yoda and Ultra your Chassis with Crystal Core and soundboard ROCK!!!!!!


Yoda, I will think of you every time I use my saber.  This is definitely going to become a family heirloom that I will someday pass down to my son.  He isn’t old enough to watch Star Wars yet but when he does I am sure he will be awed when I whip out the exact saber he just saw on screen.

 Yoda again thank you for bringing back my childhood.  





Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Vosk on September 19, 2007, 05:41:52 PM
Very nice TK. :)  Can't wait for that video clip....well I can but you know what I mean. ;)


Man those Luxeon blades sure put the MR blades to shame, don't they???
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Kyp Durron on September 19, 2007, 05:51:15 PM
CONGRATULATIONS!!! 8)

I must also agree that the swing effects are dead on and the idle hum is awesome. Glad to see you finally have your saber in hand! ;D




-Joclad
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: robiwan on September 19, 2007, 05:53:33 PM
Great review TK! Yoda's chassis kit looks awesome. I hope he does do these as kits in the future. It would sure make building a Graflex so much easier! You are now  part of an elite group on several counts, Yoda Graflex owner, first DIY kit owner, and the owner of a saber that you built! Congratulations!
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 19, 2007, 06:30:21 PM
Video added.   In the last video seems to miss a few times on the sound and there also seems to be a delay in the sound during retraction vs the actual blade retraction.  This is just the camera speed not picking it up properly.  They are both dead on.  Every now and then I do get a double swing wound and I am waaaaaay over compensating to get the clash and deflect sounds.  I can really make much less motion to get them to go off.  Over all I give STEVE a 9.5  only because I don't like waiting sooooo long to hold the button on the retraction.  Hint hint for 2.0.  ;) :D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Kyp Durron on September 19, 2007, 06:39:07 PM
My only complaint with the system is that on mine, it's hard to make the blade clashes go off from impacts with the blade. If it were just a little more sensitive, it would be perfect.

Maybe Alex can address this on version 2.0.




-Joclad
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 19, 2007, 06:44:59 PM
^^^ I totally agree with you.  I ay have been mistaken earlier.  I was under the impression that you could not get a clash with a strike on a stationary object like you do on an MR.  DT mentioned that you need to pull back a bit before you connect and I thought that was the way it was.  So no I have yet to get a clash like an MR when you hit an object.  I always get one when I stike like using a bull whip. 

I agree totally though a better clash on impact not a whip and remove or lessen the retraction delay and it would be great.

Sorry gotta sign off, the padawan is going to be up all night with his cold so I need to get all the rest I can.  I'll be back at my "post" in the am.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Vosk on September 19, 2007, 07:01:48 PM
Very nice videos there TK, that saber looks awesome.

I definitely can't wait to get mine converted by Master Yoda. :)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: robiwan on September 19, 2007, 07:23:23 PM
Great video TK! I am going to send my board back to Alex to have him add the crickets, that's a nice touch........lol! I have made a small discovery with my board. I orginaly had it mounted on a foam block, then hard mounted it inside my frame. When I did that I could not for the life of me get the blade to make impact sounds when smacked. I took it apart and remounted my board on the foam block. I can now get impact sounds when I hit the blade, quite easily too. It seems the board needs to be able to "move" a little when the blade is hit for the sounds to registor.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: BEN KENOBI on September 19, 2007, 07:30:31 PM
 ;D
wow what a beauty of a saber you have there!! :o :o
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: HAN SOLO on September 19, 2007, 08:12:00 PM
That is a very impressive saber. Correct me if I am wrong, but it is more difficult to get clash noises than the "faux" blaster deflection?
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: darthmorbius on September 19, 2007, 09:33:32 PM
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi157.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft45%2FDarthMorbius1977%2Fwas.gif&hash=042036e863e88b3bae175798d06896d3dd2e3172)




That is just AWESOME!!! Boy, I'm going to be BROKE! :D Must...have...Graflex V.... :)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Vosk on September 19, 2007, 09:37:02 PM
DT you should try and hunt down a vintage graflex from ebay and get one and have Yoda convert it. :) 

I seriously can't wait to get mine converted ....I'm just dying over here from seeing all the reviews and such.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: darthmorbius on September 19, 2007, 09:56:45 PM
DT you should try and hunt down a vintage graflex from ebay and get one and have Yoda convert it. :) 

I seriously can't wait to get mine converted ....I'm just dying over here from seeing all the reviews and such.

I have a Vintage that as given to me by my grandfather. He made me promise NOT to turn it into a lightsaber, So I will be getting the next best thing! Replica done by Master Yoda. Around the same time as yours. March 08! ;D Maybe sooner though!
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT" ***UPDATE 9/19 page 4***
Post by: Luke S. on September 20, 2007, 03:53:15 AM
Yes I have to say clashes don't go off at all unless you stike like you are snapping a bull whip.  Interesting on the floating board I will have to consult Yoda on that one.  The problem with the Graflex is limited space with Yoda's chassis. 

I am not sure if I have ever heard a clash but only blaster deflects.  Either way though I still love the board and am very happy it didn't break the bank.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Baena on September 20, 2007, 11:52:26 AM
Congrats TK! Thanks for the PM, that's one AMAZING Saber you've got there!!!

I sooooo can't wait to finish mine!!!  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: darthmorbius on September 20, 2007, 02:58:48 PM
Yes I have to say clashes don't go off at all unless you stike like you are snapping a bull whip.  Interesting on the floating board I will have to consult Yoda on that one.  The problem with the Graflex is limited space with Yoda's chassis. 

I am not sure if I have ever heard a clash but only blaster deflects.  Either way though I still love the board and am very happy it didn't break the bank.

After a bit of experimenting, I have found that it depends what you are hitting....in a way.  Another polycarbonate blade actually gives enough recoil to set off a clash nicely.

With this board, you CAN hit pillows or a heavy bag, and the clashes go off without a hitch.

I have also noticed that (TK you're gonna love this reference! ;D) pitch, yaw, and roll of the hilt determine how hard the hits have to be, depending on the velocity of the strike. ;D

I have been putting the S.T.E.V.E. through all kinds of trials, and I have came to a VERY interesting discovery.

If you make a chassis, give it a little taper toward the pommel end of your hilt. (Chassis wider near the emitter, thinner at the base) This gives the board a little wiggle room in the hilt to help set off clashes, but not so much as to mekw them continuous.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 20, 2007, 04:12:07 PM
Interesting testing and theory there DT.  I think Owen? had come up with a similar idea with not having the board tight but giving it a little wiggle room.  I have done lots and lots of testing today as well and am now getting some clashes against my hand, carpet etc. 

The board is not perfect but leaps and bounds above an MR.  Especially when you factor in the affordability.

Yaw pithc and roll, hmmmm I'll have to test that out tonight.  ;)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: robiwan on September 20, 2007, 04:57:37 PM
I am now going to mount my tray that my board sits in on its side. Right now the board is horizontal to the lenghth of the Graflex. I will turn the tray so it's on its side and see if I get different results with impacts. I think with the board using accelerometers the actual position of the board will effect its function. With the theory of the board wiggling and creating easier impact sounds, if the board is allowed to wiggle while in a different position (on its side) we may get different results for impact sounds. Man, this is so much fun!  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 21, 2007, 03:30:11 AM
^^^ With Yoda's chassis I don't have the luxury of side mounting.  But I have tried holding the saber in diff positions so that would simulate a side mount.  I don't see a difference.  I haven't tried any wiggle room yet.

Still very happy with the board though as a whole.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Yoda on September 21, 2007, 04:24:02 AM
I'm glad you are having fun with it TK-421

There is a little room for the board to move but even with the boards looser it still takes a good whack to make the
board "whip" inside the hilt just enough but with out putting excess strain on the wires over time. ;)

To loose and it registers things you don't want :D

I'm sure clash sensitivity will be addressed some how in the software for a V2 like people have suggested

I Personally really like the way they sound (but the shut down is a little to loud compared to the other sounds) :D


By the way TK

Don't throw away any of your original Graflex parts from your disassembly yet.
Those parts like the glass eye with spring and inner plastic and metal tip etc...
(I have a little some thing I've done with my parts I'm finalizing and I'll show you how to do it with your leftover
parts as well when I'm done with it ;) )
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 21, 2007, 04:42:57 AM
^^^ I knew I should have kept them all.  Rrrrr. Actually the origianl plastic insert was so brittle it broke apart when I took it out.  I am curious to what you have concocted though.  I am sure it will be cool.  ;)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Yoda on September 21, 2007, 04:58:13 AM
^^^ I knew I should have kept them all.  Rrrrr. Actually the origianl plastic insert was so brittle it broke apart when I took it out.  I am curious to what you have concocted though.  I am sure it will be cool.  ;)

Actually the plastic isn't the parts I'm using... it's a few metal pieces and the glass eye with the spring on it.
Do you still have your original Glass eye at least?

I don't want to give it away until I take picts of what I've done because it looks cool and I still need to figure
out a couple interchangeable  ;)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 21, 2007, 05:00:26 AM
Let's see: glass eye, red button, spring, pins, flash pan I think.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: MoonDragn on September 16, 2008, 08:33:38 PM
I'm obviously a year late and a few hundred dollars short, so I don't know the whole story. Whatever happened to these Yoda Graflex kits? Is he still making them?

I finally got some vintage Graflex Flashes and am looking at doing my own conversions. I looked at some of Yoda's Graflex sabers and he's got a neat little setup in there with the screw post supports and the black plastic dividers.

I got so many ideas to make this a unique saber, so I hope nobody minds if I steal some ideas here and there. There will be some very original ideas from me incorporated in the design as well.

Anyway,  If his kits are no longer available, where can I get those dividers?
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 17, 2008, 07:27:09 PM
Well the kits have never really been available yet.  I bought one a year ago under a beta test with the STEVE 1.0.  He uses these chassis in all his sabers now and they rock.  Last I heard he was planning to start selling them.  I know he has been very busy getting the STEVE 2.0 up and running so maybe when they start mailing next month you will see the kits as well.  You won't save much by buying a kit Yoda doesn't charge a lot for the install.  I would talk to him and see what his pricing will be.  Unless of course you want to make your own like me and then it is totally worth it.  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: MoonDragn on September 18, 2008, 07:49:05 AM
Yeah, I looked online and found some nice clear acrylic disks that would work perfectly. Was thinking with brass screw posts, it would make a nice chassis.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on September 18, 2008, 09:16:11 AM
Someone here, I think it may have been beggars, used poker chips.  :D  Anything will work if the dimensions are right.  Some may work better than others.  IMO Yoda has the best setup though.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: JANGO FETT on September 18, 2008, 09:39:48 AM
Those disc are cut with a freakin' lazor.

really.

Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Jedi-Diah on October 03, 2008, 11:51:00 AM
I also hope to someday get one of Yoda's chassis kits.

Well the kits have never really been available yet.  I bought one a year ago under a beta test with the STEVE 1.0.  He uses these chassis in all his sabers now and they rock.  Last I heard he was planning to start selling them.  I know he has been very busy getting the STEVE 2.0 up and running so maybe when they start mailing next month you will see the kits as well.  You won't save much by buying a kit Yoda doesn't charge a lot for the install.  I would talk to him and see what his pricing will be.  Unless of course you want to make your own like me and then it is totally worth it.  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: daddyezee on October 08, 2008, 10:54:08 AM
how much is the DIY kit i just got my graflex from parks sabers and now tryin to do my own.please reply back
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 08, 2008, 11:52:56 AM
how much is the DIY kit i just got my graflex from parks sabers and now tryin to do my own.please reply back

Well I just got off the phone with Yoda a few days ago and he is not quite yet ready to sell them yet and is still working on all the details.  You just missed my graflex chassis sale by about 12 hours.  It went for what I think is a very good price at $175.  Yoda's chassis take a lot of detailed work to complete whatever he ends up charging I am sure will be less than what they are worth.  His time and devotion to them is nothing more than amazing.  He is a true artist.  You will see a nice review of his latest work in a week or two when I get my graflex back with the new crystal chamber.  ;)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: MoonDragn on October 11, 2008, 01:33:50 PM
Well the kits have never really been available yet.  I bought one a year ago under a beta test with the STEVE 1.0.  He uses these chassis in all his sabers now and they rock.  Last I heard he was planning to start selling them.  I know he has been very busy getting the STEVE 2.0 up and running so maybe when they start mailing next month you will see the kits as well.  You won't save much by buying a kit Yoda doesn't charge a lot for the install.  I would talk to him and see what his pricing will be.  Unless of course you want to make your own like me and then it is totally worth it.  ;D

I think it will really depend on how much he charges for the kit. I rather do my own conversions as I can add anything I want to it and make it unique. At this point I'm still thinking about making my own chassis and the poker chip idea is great too.

Also, I see that he has a super long waiting list, god knows when he'll ever get through all of them.

Btw, anyone know where to get round battery holders? I'm trying to decide whether to use a ultrafire battery setup or just regular AAA batteries.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Keiran Halcyon on October 14, 2008, 01:36:20 PM
does yoda have plans or blueprints to the chassis? if does i would buy the plans and make the chassis myself
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Anceem Llevik on October 14, 2008, 01:53:23 PM
does yoda have plans or blueprints to the chassis? if does i would buy the plans and make the chassis myself

The blueprints were stolen, loaded onto an R2 unit and sent in an escape pod to a desert planet. There's a good movie that explains it out there somewhere. Ask at your local video store.
 ;D

Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Keiran Halcyon on October 14, 2008, 02:32:10 PM
does yoda have plans or blueprints to the chassis? if does i would buy the plans and make the chassis myself

The blueprints were stolen, loaded onto an R2 unit and sent in an escape pod to a desert planet. There's a good movie that explains it out there somewhere. Ask at your local video store.
 ;D


  lol  :oi think i have heard about that movie they say it really good.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 15, 2008, 04:56:35 AM
Colonel Sanders never gave out his recipe for hsi secret chicken recipe.  I doubt Yoda is going to do the same for his chassis but that is just MO.

Besides it is not a real secret.  Get some rods make some disks that fit in the graflex and screw them altogether.  It has been done by several of our members using things like washers and poker chips.  Yoda of course has his disks laser cut to the perfect size.

Patience padawans, Yoda will start giving more kit info when he has the time and is ready.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: MoonDragn on October 15, 2008, 07:15:31 AM
Colonel Sanders never gave out his recipe for hsi secret chicken recipe.  I doubt Yoda is going to do the same for his chassis but that is just MO.

Besides it is not a real secret.  Get some rods make some disks that fit in the graflex and screw them altogether.  It has been done by several of our members using things like washers and poker chips.  Yoda of course has his disks laser cut to the perfect size.

Patience padawans, Yoda will start giving more kit info when he has the time and is ready.

Exactly. Its not like it is rocket science. Just some screw posts and disks that fit in the hilt. Yoda just makes his precise and nice looking. I'm gonna make use of some of the existing graflex parts for some of the disks, and clear acrylic disks for the rest.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 15, 2008, 07:41:43 AM
Not rocket science but Yoda adds those extra special touches to make his absolute perfection and worth every cent.  You can also use those nylon washers found at the hardware store.  They are easy to drill through and fabricate plus they are nice and fat so they won't bend at all.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: MoonDragn on October 15, 2008, 08:01:49 AM
Well I thought clear acrylic would add a nice look to the chassis. But I'll have to see how they look once I drill holes in them.

Its not gonna be anywhere close to Yoda's work but it'll be mine.

Maybe when yoda finally starts selling his chassis I may consider one. Though I already brought alot of disks and screw posts and they weren't cheap.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Keiran Halcyon on October 15, 2008, 12:29:54 PM
i plan on get one of Yoda's chassis but i think it would be fun to make it myself
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 23, 2008, 10:00:55 AM
Well I have a little update and review coming from my old graflex build thread.  I just got a call from my wife and I have a certain package she just picked up at the PO that came from Dagobah.

Yes I could not resist.  When I saw Yoda's updated version of his crystal core I thought it was time for an upgrade.  Plus the fact that it had a DOA US 1.0 that has been sitting in there since last winter.  Thanks to several members here that bought my parts to help fund my upgrade.  With money a bit tight it would not have been possible without the sales of my leftover graflex chassis parts.

So my graflex is now a CF 3.0 with Lux V blue in my vintage ESB Graflex.  Of course it also has Yoda's new crystal chamber with flashing leds.  I also had Yoda go the extra mile and he managed to make my glass eye the aux button. I always liked the glass eye over having 2 red buttons and since the bespin hand cutoff scene has the glass eye I am going with that look.  Hey it's cannon.  I also go this cool emitter plug as well.

I don't get home for 5 more days so you will all have to agonize with me over the long wait but get ready for my review next week.

Until then I will leave you with a teaser pic Mike sent me after my saber was done.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FP1010015.jpg&hash=9ca983f5ffe58c3ad3f69ee6db4d649fc899fcaf) (http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t200/laspiess/P1010015.jpg)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Anceem Llevik on October 23, 2008, 11:38:07 AM
Who's killing who with the photos now?!  :o  Five days for a full review? C'mon man! Congrats, though, that is one SWEET crystal chamber.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 23, 2008, 11:47:23 AM
Dude trust me on this.  I have been without a saber since last winter when my US died.  I now have to get through this week knowing that I have the best saber out there sitting in an unopened box at my house.  This week is going to go by so slow. 
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Jedi-Diah on October 23, 2008, 12:28:26 PM
How did he make the glass eye the aux button? Is the screw above the glass eye the blade retaining screw?

That one pic looks so awesome. I really want to make one myself but every time I see Yoda's work it makes me want to just give up and get his kit.

Maybe I'll do both! It gives me something to do while I wait for his kit and I could have two different setups. Ultrasound on mine and future CF on the Yoda kit... Of coures mine will probably become obsolete once I get Yoda's but...

Man, you're like a kid waiting for Christmas to come. You're going to be so stoked with that Crystal Focus sound and motion sensitivity. I'm waiting for CF 4.1.


Well I have a little update and review coming from my old graflex build thread.  I just got a call from my wife and I have a certain package she just picked up at the PO that came from Dagobah.

Yes I could not resist.  When I saw Yoda's updated version of his crystal core I thought it was time for an upgrade.  Plus the fact that it had a DOA US 1.0 that has been sitting in there since last winter.  Thanks to several members here that bought my parts to help fund my upgrade.  With money a bit tight it would not have been possible without the sales of my leftover graflex chassis parts.

So my graflex is now a CF 3.0 with Lux V blue in my vintage ESB Graflex.  Of course it also has Yoda's new crystal chamber with flashing leds.  I also had Yoda go the extra mile and he managed to make my glass eye the aux button. I always liked the glass eye over having 2 red buttons and since the bespin hand cutoff scene has the glass eye I am going with that look.  Hey it's cannon.  I also go this cool emitter plug as well.

I don't get home for 5 more days so you will all have to agonize with me over the long wait but get ready for my review next week.

Until then I will leave you with a teaser pic Mike sent me after my saber was done.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FP1010015.jpg&hash=9ca983f5ffe58c3ad3f69ee6db4d649fc899fcaf)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 23, 2008, 12:47:37 PM
Jedi-diah you have no idea.  That pic is junk compared to the other ones he sent.  I can blow them up so clearly I can see the wires and gold pins clearly.  This saber rocks!!!!

For the glass eye I know he grinds down the glass to size.  I believe he somehow uses it as the plunger with maybe a rubber bumper on the bottom to hit the real switch. 
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Jedi-Diah on October 23, 2008, 01:12:34 PM
So the glass must be spring loaded somehow - but there is hardly any room under it for a spring.

Jedi-diah you have no idea.  That pic is junk compared to the other ones he sent.  I can blow them up so clearly I can see the wires and gold pins clearly.  This saber rocks!!!!

For the glass eye I know he grinds down the glass to size.  I believe he somehow uses it as the plunger with maybe a rubber bumper on the bottom to hit the real switch. 
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 23, 2008, 01:17:44 PM
Yeah not sure exactly how but I do know the switches he uses have about 1/64" plunger depth.  You can barely feel the switch even move it is so tight.  It is a great setup.  The best IMO.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: KI-ADI-MUNDI on October 23, 2008, 01:35:47 PM
ooooh....man that is sweeet....I don't have an ESB yet....uh..I might have to get in line again...... 8)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: H@rry89 on October 23, 2008, 08:32:25 PM
Well I have a little update and review coming from my old graflex build thread.  I just got a call from my wife and I have a certain package she just picked up at the PO that came from Dagobah.

Yes I could not resist.  When I saw Yoda's updated version of his crystal core I thought it was time for an upgrade.  Plus the fact that it had a DOA US 1.0 that has been sitting in there since last winter.  Thanks to several members here that bought my parts to help fund my upgrade.  With money a bit tight it would not have been possible without the sales of my leftover graflex chassis parts.

So my graflex is now a CF 3.0 with Lux V blue in my vintage ESB Graflex.  Of course it also has Yoda's new crystal chamber with flashing leds.  I also had Yoda go the extra mile and he managed to make my glass eye the aux button. I always liked the glass eye over having 2 red buttons and since the bespin hand cutoff scene has the glass eye I am going with that look.  Hey it's cannon.  I also go this cool emitter plug as well.

I don't get home for 5 more days so you will all have to agonize with me over the long wait but get ready for my review next week.

Until then I will leave you with a teaser pic Mike sent me after my saber was done.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi160.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft200%2Flaspiess%2FP1010015.jpg&hash=9ca983f5ffe58c3ad3f69ee6db4d649fc899fcaf)

Ohhhhh WoW!!! Luke!

I'm veeeery tempted to send my graflex back to Yoda and get this done to mine...
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 23, 2008, 08:50:34 PM
I'm too lazy to post more pics and make them clickable but man you would go nuts if you saw the detail in the crystal chamber.  IMO if you have the money and love this saber it is worth the upgrade.  There are a few guys here building graflex now and looking for the chassis. I sold mine to fund this upgrade project.  FYI  ;)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Baena on October 27, 2008, 12:27:15 PM
That new chassis is outstanding!  :o
Congrats Luke!
I've yet to get my chassis... I've gotta find out how much this one will set me back!  :D
I quite like the look of the raw crystal in there... Brilliant!
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on October 27, 2008, 08:50:49 PM
Good to see you back Baena, it's been a while.  My full review will be up in a day or two.  I haven't even seen it yet.  I get home tomorrow though.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Baena on October 29, 2008, 10:17:07 AM
Thanks Luke, I do stop in more regularly than I post.  :D
I can't stop staring at that new chassis!
I see good use of old graflex parts that get replaced by the adapter!  ;)  Brilliant!

I can't wait for your write up!  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Jedi-Diah on October 29, 2008, 11:01:48 AM
Baena,

I cliked on your blog. Truly amazing artwork!



Thanks Luke, I do stop in more regularly than I post.  :D
I can't stop staring at that new chassis!
I see good use of old graflex parts that get replaced by the adapter!  ;)  Brilliant!

I can't wait for your write up!  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Gabywan on March 09, 2009, 06:37:27 PM
Hi Luke!!
I had not seen your post!! :(
It is a good source of information. ;)
I congratulate you, your graflex is a work of art. :)
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on March 10, 2009, 10:31:03 AM
Haaahaaa.  That ain't nothing Gaby.  I did the upgrade a few months back when yoda came out with his special edition crystal chamber.  Mine now sports a real crystal suspended in the chamber with 2 green accent leds and the blue led.  It is now all run off of a CF 3.0 and it ROCKS.  IF you ever get the chance, grab one they are worth every penny IMO.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Gabywan on March 10, 2009, 03:48:19 PM
wow!! is awesome luke!!!  ;)
My mother telephoned me today!! she said to me that the parts of GS came today ;D ;D, of to little I am completing my chassis, thanks to you and all the guys who are helping me in the forum. :)
I will post in my project updated images, look for them friend ;D

Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on March 11, 2009, 01:45:24 PM
That's what we're here for Gaby.  ;)  OF course payday comes when it is time for you to give us all a nice review of your completed saber.  ;)

Doouuggghhh!!!  You just reminded me.  I forgot to get my Hoth Graflex in snow wampa cave pic.  All our snow melted last week and we probably won't get anymore this year.  :'(  Guess I'll have to try for next year.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Gabywan on March 12, 2009, 08:26:50 AM
Hi friends!!! :D
I have a question, ???I have seen in some chassis and in those of the master Yoda that to fix the heatsink with the chassis they use screws with an element that I do not know, it is indicated in the image:

(https://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu89/Gabywan/Dibujo-1.jpg)

can anybody help me? is it necessary that this element resists the temperature?

Thank you guys!
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Gabywan on March 12, 2009, 09:14:46 AM
I'm sorry, ::) to fix the heatsink with the blade holder :P ;D
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Gil Gamesh on March 12, 2009, 09:18:46 AM
I think those are made of plastic, but I couldn't be positive.  Don't think they have much to do with the heat dissipation, though I could be wrong
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on March 12, 2009, 10:48:32 AM
Those look like plastic spacers.   Most likely used to space the rods etc with the heat sink.  Look at a complete pic to see if they are there.  I would think Gaby you would want to get long threaded set screws in place of those screws.  Screw one end into the chassis rod you made then screw the remaining threads into the heatsink and blade holder.  Now your chassis will be connected to your blade holder.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Gabywan on March 15, 2009, 12:33:06 AM
Gil Gamesh and luke,
Thanks for his advices, finally change these parts of plastic, I used three courts small of the same pipe that I used in the chassis. these provide to me a distance and they will not be damaged by the heat. I do not know all the heat it is capable of generating a luxeon V.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Luke S. on March 15, 2009, 05:40:40 AM
They definitely get hot Gaby.  I am overdriving my Lux V blue.  I never feel heat on the hilt.  A lot depends on how you use it too.  Most sabersmiths recommend no more than abotu 30 minutes continuous use without a little break for cooling.
Title: Re: DIY Graflex with Yoda's "KIT"
Post by: Gabywan on March 16, 2009, 12:05:51 AM
ahh!! thanks, it is the good info!!! I did not know it :)