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The S.A.B.E.R. GUILD: Saber Manufacturers => FX-SABERS Graflex Armory & GraflexShop "GRAFLEX FX-SABERS" => Topic started by: Red Five on December 17, 2006, 09:50:37 AM

Title: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Red Five on December 17, 2006, 09:50:37 AM
A Graflex 3-Cell flashgun was the actual prop used by George Lucas
for Luke's lightsabers in A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back.

The Graflex flashgun held the flash bulbs for a vintage
 "Speed Graphic" camera from the 1940's.
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2FUntitled-1.jpg&hash=577a415f7fb26f0ac2c051f3cc235e2983f7e447)

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2FUntitled-2.jpg&hash=3f921a8396b82621925b183b37143e744834584a)

*Note: No modifications or changes beyond the flash pan being removed
have been made to the flashgun in this pic.
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2FUntitled-3.jpg&hash=770c1eb3716d816b0964a66ef4436deb85cccf4e)

There are different versions of the flashgun, but it's a 3-cell flashgun
with patent #2310165 stamped onto the bottom that was used for the film.
(https://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p170/Obi-Juan/Untitled-4.jpg)

The 3 pieces of a disassembled graflex flashgun
(https://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p170/Obi-Juan/Untitled-5.jpg)

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graflex flashgun conversion to Luke's ANH Lightsaber Hilt
-Seven 3 5/8" long black hand grips
- LED calculator 7 bubble display lens slid into the Graflex's mounting clamp
Only two 7 bubble models are known,
Texas Instruments Exactra 19 and Exactra 20 from 1974.
(pic of an Exactra 20 interior)
(https://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p170/Obi-Juan/7bubblelenscopy.jpg)
-D-ring attached with single screw for the belt clip
-Chrome tape -  1/2" wide chrome mylar tape for covering
the word "Graflex" that is stamped into the clamp.

Graflex flashgun conversion to Luke's ESB Lightsaber Hilt
-Six 3 5/8" long black rubber hand grips notched and fasteners added
-A second red button replaced the test light lens
(https://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p170/Obi-Juan/redbutton-1.jpg)
-HP-44 bus type computer card edge connector cut down to 2" long with
13 gold connectors was slid into the Graflex's mounting clamp
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2Fcircboardcopy.jpg&hash=d3930320124b7dcd8a55762157c6ed10e7b27b56)
-D-ring attached with screws or rivets (multiple versions)
(https://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p170/Obi-Juan/dringscrew-1.jpg)(https://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p170/Obi-Juan/dringrivet-1.jpg)
-Chrome tape -  1/2" wide chrome mylar tape for covering
the word "Graflex" that is stamped into the clamp.

For more detailed info on Luke's ANH & ESB hilts click on the following links:
ANH http://www.partsofsw.com/skysab.htm (http://www.partsofsw.com/skysab.htm)
ESB http://www.partsofsw.com/esbsksab.htm (http://www.partsofsw.com/esbsksab.htm)

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Graflex ANH Luke built by Yoda of FX-Sabers.com
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2FUu-2.jpg&hash=0da11e8916dd5d1d1b88c5cb13de2fe86d11b6d1)

Graflex ESB Luke built by Yoda of FX-Sabers.com
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2FUu-3copycopy.jpg&hash=e9050829b0117aa0cb7b1452e771141b45b747ea)

ANH & ESB side-by-side
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2Fesbanhysidebyside.jpg&hash=a6d3be772ae56929745ec9edbeaa55ef87143660)

Yoda's Complete Saber Kit, with interchangeable bottoms ANH & ESB 
All the parts needed to put together both lightsabers.
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2FanhesbKit.jpg&hash=19279d0edeb134cdb7a1466914be3a070cfc6fac)

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2Fmanual.jpg&hash=1abdd78b95cefe107fb637b0b975d6133baba5c6)

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yoda's Graflex ANH and ESB lightsabers feature:

Blue 3watt Luxeon LED
  -Luxeon is evenly lit along the shaft and is brighter at the base
(just like in the original trilogy movie posters) because it's a single
light that is placed into the hilt. The placement of the LED allows for
a removable blade making a Luxeon the best choice for dueling.
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2Fluxbulge-1.jpg&hash=495af144f5124381b91a003110f3ce5b5c93c9bb)

TCSS Aluminum Blade Holder
  -The Custom Saber Shop...http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/ (http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/)
The blade is held in place by a solid aluminum holder.

Corbin Components Blade & Film
-The Corbin film is a diffuser that gives the saber a white core
 in the center of the blade (just like in the original trilogy movie posters).
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi128.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp170%2FObi-Juan%2Fcorbinbladecopy.jpg&hash=25881b8b4ae36127bdacc1fd1079cc97b6a23538)

Blast Tech Rubber Grips
ANH version has 7.  ESB version 6.

Including Sound and Battery module w/protective sleeve.
A plastic sleeve is used to center and protect the battery cartridge also allowing the sound to travel back up the saber and out of the holes of the Graflex clamp as well as in conjunction with the multiple holes hidden under the D-Ring. The placement of these holes give you a loud saber without sacrificing the movie accurateness of the hilt. The sound is chambered and resonates through the body giving a slightly different (a more metallic resonance) and deeper tone  from the typical Anakin sounds even though it's the same module. It also does not have the direct harshness of the MR sound at the bottom of the hilt. Do not worry it's not at all muffled sounding...it is Loud guaranteed.

 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
On/ Off
The red push button is the activator for the blade.
Since it's not a switch this reduces accidental turn offs during dueling, spinning, or handling of the saber.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weight
The Graflex's combined weight of hilt and blade is lighter than the MR Anakin ROTS which uses a heavier cast metal. The Graflex has a lighter blade because it's hollow (no LEDs inside) which makes the hilt feel heavier giving the Graflex a better feel than a MR. Also with an aluminum adapter in the top and batteries in the bottom the Graflex's hilt by itself is better balanced than a stock MR.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Note: All Graflex's have a degree of natural weathering from being around for 60 years which is actually more movie prop realistic being that
Luke's sabers were used and weathered from training. So the Graflex looks the part of being a real lightsaber that's served its master well.

------------------------------------------------------------------------


"I can use either an Original Vintage Graflex Flashguns and/or Parks Graflex Replicas. The Vintages usually cost about $50 more
because of their higher cost to obtain as well as the extra labor involved because they need to be throughly cleaned as well as
gutting the parts is more difficult than a Parks Hilt because a Vintage is not necessarily designed to be taken apart."  -Yoda

To order or talk with Yoda simply PM him using this link:
http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?action=pm;sa=send;u=75 (http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?action=pm;sa=send;u=75)

For more info on Yoda's Graflex's click on the following link:
http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?board=47.0 (http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?board=47.0)




------------------------------------------------------------------------
If this post has helped in buying a Graflex from Yoda please mention my name and the post to him.
It is his Graflex that was my inspiration for writing. Thank You. -Red Five
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: darthmaddy on December 17, 2006, 11:17:18 AM
That is an extremely informative thread, well done. ;)
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Knuckle01 on December 17, 2006, 06:20:07 PM
outstanding knowledge!!! good job
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Kyp Durron on December 17, 2006, 06:37:33 PM
A great plug for Yoda's Graflex sabers.  8)

One of my New Year's resolutions is to get another to replace the one I was forced to sell earlier this year.

-Joclad
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: snaggletooth on December 17, 2006, 07:45:50 PM
Interesting to note that (according to the Parts Of Star Wars website) Yoda's ESB version is not an exact copy of any of the known sabers but more of a conglomeration of the most famous/popular features.
I kind of like that.
It is a thing of beauty though, that's for sure.
 :o
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: levelnext on December 18, 2006, 01:45:38 AM
great job, i love this thread!
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: darthmaddy on December 18, 2006, 07:45:30 PM
These are great for dueling too.  My Graflex FX is the lightest saber I have.  And its smaller hilt diameter is very comfortable.  I highly recommend this saber!
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Yoda on January 05, 2007, 01:25:51 AM
Interesting to note that (according to the Parts Of Star Wars website) Yoda's ESB version is not an exact copy of any of the known sabers but more of a conglomeration of the most famous/popular features.
I kind of like that.
It is a thing of beauty though, that's for sure.
 :o

Yes, my ESB version uses the Top end of the Dueling Saber featured in the "failure at the cave" sceen
where the top tab ring is still intact.

And the Bottom is basically the "wampa cave" with a 1/2 band and K-bold Ring and extra grip screws.

And the Shiny silver look of the screws that MR implied with it's LE and EE versions for the lower grip
screws it just adds more visual appeal with everything in place. :)

( owners can then modify as they see fit ;) )

HOWEVER if I do a Vintage ESB I can remove the Tab ring as I did on my Hyperdyne unit.
On the replicas if I remove it, there is a scar left behind from it being assembled by the Manufacturer
due to the way they press it in and it doesn't look right.


So for Vintage ESB units if requested I'll do an exact screen version which can best be seen hanging from
Lukes belt right after Boba Fett takes a few shots at him in the Cloud City hallway ;)
This Saber from that sceen looks Identical to my Hyperdyne unit...

But my Personal ESB I use for dueling and shows etc... is like the ones I sell with the button ring and silver
grip screws...


FYI:
for all those wondering :D
The 1 inch band only appears in the Museum Hilt on Display with Lucas and is never seen in the movie ;)
trust me I've looked for it.
And the band is actually just slightly larger than 1/2 inch in the dagobah scenes but it's not a full inch
by any means like the image over at page top of POSW.

The correct size looks to be aproximately 9/16th to 5/8th depending on flat chrome strip or textured.
and depending on sceen.


I'm really glad those who got the ESB versions like the combined version I do and see it for everything
it's meant to be... 8)

They do take a bit more work than an ANH because of all the grip screws and installing them so, I do charge
more for the ESB's but it's worth it to make them look the best they can ;D

MTFBWY
always
YODA

Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Darth Raijlin on January 05, 2007, 08:08:01 PM
Yoda, with the new Ultra Saber fiber optic blade, are you still using the Corbin film or have you switched over?

Man, I thought your sabers were more expensive.  I just happened to be surfing around, because I've always been amazed by your masterpieces, and I saw they are $365!  Oh man...now more Dark Jedi Mind Tricks to be performed on my wife.

And we have our third little youngling due any day    :o

*Turns to wife*  This IS the saber you are looking for.  This IS the saber you are looking for.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Knuckle01 on January 06, 2007, 09:56:58 AM
lmao....outstanding DR....you cracked me up bro. hey let us know about your new younging when he/she arrives.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Yoda on January 06, 2007, 08:53:23 PM
Yoda, with the new Ultra Saber fiber optic blade, are you still using the Corbin film or have you switched over?

Man, I thought your sabers were more expensive.  I just happened to be surfing around, because I've always been amazed by your masterpieces, and I saw they are $365!  Oh man...now more Dark Jedi Mind Tricks to be performed on my wife.

And we have our third little youngling due any day    :o

*Turns to wife*  This IS the saber you are looking for.  This IS the saber you are looking for.

I like to sell them with the Corbin Filmed Blade because of the Original Trilogy Look to it.
But when I start doing the next Run for 2007 I may give people the chioce of an Ultra or
Corbin Blade or no blade and it would just be the hilt in a case...

Not sure yet because I'm waiting on some things, but I'll let everyone know once I'm ready to start taking orders ;)
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Dark Helmet on February 03, 2007, 03:14:07 AM
Master Yoda, your sabers are nothing less than awesome.
I'm looking forward to order you one in a month or two.
Can you let me know how much will cost with an international expedition to Italy?
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Yoda on February 08, 2007, 10:36:35 PM
Master Yoda, your sabers are nothing less than awesome.
I'm looking forward to order you one in a month or two.
Can you let me know how much will cost with an international expedition to Italy?

Hello there Dark Helmet

When your ready just send me a PM message with your prefered model type and I'll help you out.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Andymac84 on June 11, 2009, 09:31:22 AM
Very informative. Thank u.
I love this thread.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Firedrops on June 24, 2009, 09:50:11 AM
Hmm... i don't get it. how do these graphlex things help or enhance a lightsaber? are there differences in the lighting system in the blade if the graphlex things were removed? so in short, the graphlex is the 7 little beady things?
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Luke S. on June 24, 2009, 10:08:02 AM
Hmm... i don't get it. how do these graphlex things help or enhance a lightsaber? are there differences in the lighting system in the blade if the graphlex things were removed? so in short, the graphlex is the 7 little beady things?

The first post explains it better than I can with pics included.

The graflex as seen in the opening post is the entire hilt.  Graflex is simply the name of the company that made the flash tube.  It makes no difference in electronics at all.  Only Yoda can make a huge difference with a graflex.  ;D
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: jay dee on June 24, 2009, 10:51:11 AM
Necro post FTW!
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: darth_call on June 24, 2009, 01:00:04 PM
Firedrops, meet graflex, ......Graflex, meet Firedrops.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi528.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fdd328%2Fdarth_call%2FGraflex%2520ESB%2FOriginalGraflex.jpg&hash=2c217b6c1108c81def4e3ec1dd39e5a1d2d4e204)
I'll leave this here so you two can get acquainted.

Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: DevilGuy on June 24, 2009, 03:17:39 PM
Hmm... i don't get it. how do these graphlex things help or enhance a lightsaber? are there differences in the lighting system in the blade if the graphlex things were removed? so in short, the graphlex is the 7 little beady things?
http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc85/Elmo_the_Emo_Emperor/housefacepalm.jpg (http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc85/Elmo_the_Emo_Emperor/housefacepalm.jpg)

when words cannot describe the fail, there is always facepalm...
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Firedrops on June 25, 2009, 12:14:49 AM
Hmm... i don't get it. how do these graphlex things help or enhance a lightsaber? are there differences in the lighting system in the blade if the graphlex things were removed? so in short, the graphlex is the 7 little beady things?

The first post explains it better than I can with pics included.

The graflex as seen in the opening post is the entire hilt.  Graflex is simply the name of the company that made the flash tube.  It makes no difference in electronics at all.  Only Yoda can make a huge difference with a graflex.  ;D

oooh so the whole hilt is made by this company called graflex and therefore we call the hilt graflex? oh and, what did yoda do with the graflex?
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Luke S. on June 25, 2009, 04:02:57 AM
oooh so the whole hilt is made by this company called graflex and therefore we call the hilt graflex? oh and, what did yoda do with the graflex?

I don't think this really needs an answer.  Please attempt a search and I am convinced you will find what you are looking for.   ;)   The word you are seeking is most obviously "graflex".

We are happy to help out when you can't find the answers yourself.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Firedrops on June 25, 2009, 06:04:03 AM
yes i tried searching, but i just see loads of posts with people mentioning their graflex sabers and stuff, not informative threads, i read the things on fxsaber and this thread, but i seriously don't get it. are all the saber hilts called "graflex"s? or are there just certain types which are graflex, and the rest aren't? to make this easier why not someone just show me a drawn diagram or picture of a cross section of a lightsaber and point to the graflex?
sorry for being a noob :-\
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Watto on June 25, 2009, 06:19:09 AM
The other guys said it well so I really don't know how else to explain it.  The Graflex is the flash gun body itself - ie the entire metal 3-cell pipe which is made up of the top section, the bottom section and the clamp (also commonly referred to as the hilt of the lightsaber the main body).  It's called a Graflex because thats the company that used to make them.  I suggest you read over the start of this thread through all the posts again.   ;) 
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Wolfen on June 25, 2009, 09:11:00 AM
Check this out

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graflex
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Luke S. on June 25, 2009, 10:42:56 AM

to make this easier why not someone just show me a drawn diagram or picture of a cross section of a lightsaber and point to the graflex?
sorry for being a noob :-\


Firedrops, meet graflex, ......Graflex, meet Firedrops.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi528.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fdd328%2Fdarth_call%2FGraflex%2520ESB%2FOriginalGraflex.jpg&hash=2c217b6c1108c81def4e3ec1dd39e5a1d2d4e204)
I'll leave this here so you two can get acquainted.


Someone did.  Only 4 posts above the post where you asked the question again after you replied to me that you understood my explanation.  ???

We can't be any more clearer.  The "HILT" like you said two posts up is made by the "GRAFLEX COMPANY".  You even answered this question in your previous post.  I'm at a loss.

We all start our as noobs and we are patient with that as we were once noobs too.  But you have to start sometime.  IF you RE-read the first post in this thread it will tell you all you need.  If you go to the main page on the forum and scroll down you will see the graflex section.  They posts by Yoda will explain what he has done with an empty graflex shell.  IF you read my post in the member build sections you will also see what can be done as with the many other builds in that section.

We're happy to help you out and answer your questions if they are not readily available on the site.  ;)
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: OBI-WAN KENOBI on June 25, 2009, 11:49:53 AM
Go take a look at the newly established Fx-Sabers Graflex Armory on the main page.  There's a very informative section there regarding the Graflex, including its history.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Gabywan on June 25, 2009, 09:21:31 PM
Hi Firedrops  :D

There was once a film director so-called George lucas that did a movie so-called star wars.  ;D
The principal heroes of the movies are cabelleros knight jedi, his weapon particular are the lightsabers. ;D
Our friend George and company wondered:' who can we do the lightsaber for the movie? '  :o
then someone happened to extract of the camera called graflex the part of the flash called "Graflex flash gun 3 cell"
and to add him certain adornments/details to make it look like something different. :D
 
In the fantasy SW the lightsaber type remained established graflex, with a number of patent as it shows it in the begin of
the post.

At present replicas of this one sell to themselves 3cell flash gun so that fanatics as we could recreate the old lightsaber
created for the movie. If you are lucky you will find in Ebay some Graflex 3cell called 'vintage' that they are not replicas
of flashgun, they are flashes of 60 years old as that George used for the first time. ;)

At present the fans we equip the graflex with electronics to be able to recreate the sound and the light of the lightsaber,
the master of this art is our dear Master Yoda, Administrator of the fxsabers.

You do not worry, I was late more than you in understanding all this hahahaha ... my language is Spanish...  ;D

Gaby!
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Firedrops on June 25, 2009, 10:37:57 PM
Ok thank you everyone i geddit now  :D
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Jasher Kain on June 25, 2009, 10:41:20 PM
There was once a film director so-called George lucas that did a movie so-called star wars.  ;D
ROFL!!  :D :D ;D
Great job, Gaby!
*sings* "Let's start at the very beginning..." :D
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: PelPix on July 29, 2009, 05:34:12 PM
Keep your eyes peeled for graflex-specific services I may be offering in the near future.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: s28400 on November 28, 2009, 04:19:36 PM
Learn something new every day.  ;D
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: BrakVador on January 10, 2011, 02:13:20 PM
hi everyone,
is there someone who can help me ?
i have a true graflex and my glass eye is not knurl around , it' slick (i hope you will understand, excuse my english, i'm french).
So is there someone who knows how to remove it.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Luke S. on January 11, 2011, 04:33:37 AM
Never saw a smooth edge glass eye.  If you want to go accurate you'll want to replace it anyway. I'd start by carefully attempting to remove it with pliers. If you want to salvage it put something on the eye to protect it. Was there a lot of rust on it when you got it?  Might be hard to get off.  Just remember to take care with the tube. You dont want to scratch it all up.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: BrakVador on January 15, 2011, 06:20:07 AM
What is this graflex i've received ?
if nobody have ever seen a glass eye with a smooth edge, it seems not new so i think it's not a replica and i've the big reflector with it.
there is not a lot of rust on it .
You want me to post a picture?
Is there anyone who has a tuto to dismantle the graflex?
Thanks by advance.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Luke S. on January 15, 2011, 07:58:43 AM
Pictures are ALWAYS good.  ;)

Help you disassemble it we will.  I'd like to see some pics first but for starters you could work on the clamp.  Undo the lever on the side.  Both halves can be removed from the clamp.  The clamp has little tabs that fit into slots on the flash tube.  It's a bit to master at first no understanding how it goes.  You need to hold the clamp body with one and and either the top or bottom of the flash tube with the other.  You have to push it in and twist it until you hit the stop.  Once you hit the stop you can then pull them apart.

NEVER EVER force anything.  Unless you're using THE FORCE.  :D

Next remove the easy stuff like the red button glass eye and screws.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: cfman2 on February 05, 2011, 07:52:10 PM
Hey Yoda can i buy one of ur graflex V's with cf
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Michael_Acurantes on March 25, 2011, 06:56:32 PM
just for curiosity can do sabers made by yoda durable enough to be dueled?
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Luke S. on March 25, 2011, 07:13:19 PM
Yoda has told me, light spirited sword play.  He wants them to be used.  As his sabers continue to go up in quality, fragility and cost the need to properly care for them goes up too.  The newer crystal chambers have a quartz crystal that is suspended by fiber optics threaded through thin brass pipe.  It is possible to jar the saber enough to loosen or dislodge the crystal.

I have the latest version and have lightly dueled with my son and other kids.  I would never go all out with it though.

So the answer is yes and no.  ;D
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Scorpion on March 26, 2011, 02:38:12 PM
while you probly can duel with it the risk is far to high in damaging it
i mean anything could happen from dropping it to like LS said loosening the crystals etc

i have had 3 of yodas graflexes an us 2.0 version 2.5 and currently a cf4.2 and it wouldnt even cross my mine to even think of duelling with them
its far too expensive to damage
the best use mine gets is light swinging and grining at that chassis  :D

seriously tho these ones built by yoda are probly more for the "collector" not dueller

my advise,, get a cheaply built mhs based saber strictly for dueling and keep the graflex in a safe lol
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Ursus Siara on April 03, 2011, 05:28:48 AM
Hello to all.
I am new to the site, but right off the bat I want to say thank you for all of the great information. By way of introduction, my name is Hal, but I go by Ursus. I recently got the chance to buy a couple of reasonably priced second hand light sabers. I stumbled upon the forum while trying to identify them via google. (and I liked it so much, I decided to join!) Both had pretty scuffed up blades.  My idea ay the time was to keep the better of two and sell the other off to pay for parts. The first was a hasbro Vader FX, easy enough. But the second one wasn't matching up with anything, It was a 2007 MR. Originally I thought it was an Anikan, but there was something not quite right about the handle. Well after combing the archives, I appear to have a Graflex conversion (unless MR made one their last year). Well at least it looks like a Graflex. The only difference I see after reading up on the conversion process is as follows. The insides seem to be unaffected. For instance, the on/off switch is still on the handle instead of being altered to use a button. There is no calculator lense on the switch cover either, just smooth metal. And while the D-ring looks properly proportioned and is made of aluminum, the battery cover has inside threads ( that is it threads into, instead of onto, the hilt. And the cover is ventilated and labeled Master Replicas 2007. There are 7 "grips" on the handle, but they feel "short" ( they are actually a 1/4" shorter than those on the Hasbro Vader. And last but not least, the guts appear to be stock Master Replica. It has the standard battery holder, etc.

So now  am back to wondering exactly what I have. Any Ideas?

I would appreciate any additional information.

Thank You.
Sincerely,
Ursus

p.s. I can post pictures if my descriptions don't cut it.

P.P.S. Those new sabers that Yoda is making KICK A**! I know what I want for Christmas.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Lord Xeno on April 03, 2011, 10:42:45 AM
Hmmm...this is almost like charades...name that hilt.  If you can post pics it could be easily identified.  If it's converted, does the blade detach?  If it has 2007 on the pommel it is most likely a Luke ANH, esp since you said it has the d-ring.  You might also try looking through these boards to determine it for yourself:

http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?board=81.0

http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?board=25.0

Good luck and welcome to FX-Sabers!

[Mods might want to move this over to the appropriate Hasbro/MR forum.... ;D]
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Luke S. on April 03, 2011, 12:07:53 PM
the battery cover has inside threads ( that is it threads into, instead of onto, the hilt. And the cover is ventilated and labeled Master Replicas 2007.
So now  am back to wondering exactly what I have. Any Ideas?

I would appreciate any additional information.

Thank You.
Sincerely,
Ursus

p.s. I can post pictures if my descriptions don't cut it.

P.P.S. Those new sabers that Yoda is making are KICKing! I know what I want for Christmas.

A picture says a thousand words. the fact that your pommel or "battery cover" threads into the hilt and is stamped master replicas tells me it is a master replicas.  If it was a real graflex or a good replica it would state graflex fohlmer New York etc etc on the pommel end where yours states MR 2007.  A true graflex comes apart in the middle by releasing the lever on the clamp.  A real graflex also has tape on the clamp which covers the word graflex.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Ursus Siara on April 03, 2011, 03:56:16 PM
Luke and Todd,
Thanks for getting back to me. I haven't had the chance to take it apart yet (No room on the bench!). I will post some pictures after I break it down. And thank you for the links. I looked through a couple dozen before posting, but I may have missed those. Not hard to do when there are this many. Good Stuff!
Thanks,
Ursus.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: QUI-GON JINN on April 03, 2011, 04:17:52 PM
Does your saber look like this:
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2F100_4394.jpg&hash=99505504f463a3e8a1ad4cb21ca1e532906f40ee) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/100_4394.jpg)  (https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2F100_4395.jpg&hash=083f3c141536141be74afb2ccee2acc6e318d845) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/100_4395.jpg)

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2F100_4399.jpg&hash=3c65508eed2bab2cf116cab29fd7966cc74f5eee) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/100_4399.jpg)  (https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2F100_4400.jpg&hash=151562a8dcd8b9f888c3f8055f4692fc84482c4c) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/100_4400.jpg)

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2F100_4401.jpg&hash=31f8626ad988944bb6bef6857c87a0f36784b8cb) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/100_4401.jpg)
If yes,  then you have a 2007 Master Replicas Luke Skywalker A New Hope FX lightsaber,  not a real Graflex.

A real/replica Graflex looks like this:
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2FFX-Sabers%2520Yoda%2520ANH%2520Graflex%2Fee0b7d8b.jpg&hash=524f80015c6742e529fa3d6ac13911c082767678) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/FX-Sabers%20Yoda%20ANH%20Graflex/ee0b7d8b.jpg)  (https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2FFX-Sabers%2520Yoda%2520ANH%2520Graflex%2F88ecd048.jpg&hash=25533e8e35649e9057fcfd051c7e09cb812b085b) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/FX-Sabers%20Yoda%20ANH%20Graflex/88ecd048.jpg)

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2FFX-Sabers%2520Yoda%2520ANH%2520Graflex%2F63bf7ad0.jpg&hash=f14710a9b69df1e364f18311571daa90d4258334) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/FX-Sabers%20Yoda%20ANH%20Graflex/63bf7ad0.jpg)  (https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2FFX-Sabers%2520Yoda%2520ANH%2520Graflex%2F91793569.jpg&hash=46748743e1b0885956a323327e744d6ef6aaf9a0) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/FX-Sabers%20Yoda%20ANH%20Graflex/91793569.jpg)

As Luke stated above,  a real Graflex can be separated into two pieces by loosening the clamp,  and most people that build them as lightsabers nowadays do something like add a crystal chamber and inner workings to them kind of like this:
(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo141%2FJay-gon_Jinn%2FFX-Sabers%2520Yoda%2520ANH%2520Graflex%2F3ae37221.jpg&hash=a47f93e7aa267a1bf7e084578ec7ea74a48bf54b) (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o141/Jay-gon_Jinn/FX-Sabers%20Yoda%20ANH%20Graflex/3ae37221.jpg)
The Master replicas version cannot separate in the center,  as the hilt is a one-piece tube.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: DarkRob on July 16, 2014, 09:31:23 PM
Hello all, I have a question about the graflex and Im hoping someone can help me out. Years ago I purchased one of these graflex sabers on ebay. Im thinking it must have been someone from this site I bought it from because the ebay members name was FX-Sabers, so here I am hoping to find the person who originally made this thing.
Im trying to find out what kind of batteries it uses. I haven't fired it up in years and have long since lost the batteries(ironically I still have the charger though) Recently Ive gotten the urge to fire it back up and so I wanted to get some new batteries for it. I remember they were called ultrafires li-ion and they were blue and they were AA size, but that's all I remember. I don't know what the voltages or mah or any of that stuff is, but I don't want to buy the wrong battery and fry my saber.
I don't have a camera to post pics of the saber. I remember it uses an ultrasound 2.5 sound board and it has a blue crystal in it you can see when you remove the bottom portion. It was a combo saber to in that it came with the bottom portions for both the ep4 and ep5 versions as well as a front glass eye and red button. It was around I guess 4 or 5 years ago that I got it.

Does anyone know what kind of batteries it uses? Are they still made? If not is there another battery that will work in it?

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help me.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: JANGO FETT on July 16, 2014, 09:48:25 PM
It is most likely made by the site owner. yoda  http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=75 (http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=75)

If the battery holder in the saber looks like it will hold a AA battery, it most likely will use 2 14500 protected li-ion batteries.
http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/TrustFire-Protected-37V-900mAh-14500-Lithium-Battery-2-Pack-P342.aspx (http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/TrustFire-Protected-37V-900mAh-14500-Lithium-Battery-2-Pack-P342.aspx)

I would strongly urge you to post some pictures of the holder, so that we may confirm.
Or you could try contacting yoda via email or PM, and see if he was your seller, and may still have the specs for the saber in his records.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: DarkRob on July 16, 2014, 09:55:10 PM
It is most likely made by the site owner. yoda  http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=75 (http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=75)

If the battery holder in the saber looks like it will hold a AA battery, it most likely will use 2 14500 protected li-ion batteries.
http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/TrustFire-Protected-37V-900mAh-14500-Lithium-Battery-2-Pack-P342.aspx (http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/TrustFire-Protected-37V-900mAh-14500-Lithium-Battery-2-Pack-P342.aspx)

I would strongly urge you to post some pictures of the holder, so that we may confirm.
Or you could try contacting yoda via email or PM, and see if he was your seller, and may still have the specs for the saber in his records.

Thank you for responding Jango! I will try and post some pictures of it. I have to use my iphone camera because that's all I have so hopefully the quality is good enough for you determine what I have here. Il post them in a few minutes.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: DarkRob on July 16, 2014, 10:07:33 PM
Its a little blurry, but hopefully you recognize it.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi57.tinypic.com%2Fizrgk0.jpg&hash=6ac48f07e9b35d477535ff5b79ddfb9e3e166cf9)
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Darthlwin on July 16, 2014, 11:14:59 PM
That definitely looks like a 14500 battery holder to me.

Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: DarkRob on July 18, 2014, 06:31:56 PM
It is most likely made by the site owner. yoda  http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=75 (http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=75)

If the battery holder in the saber looks like it will hold a AA battery, it most likely will use 2 14500 protected li-ion batteries.
http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/TrustFire-Protected-37V-900mAh-14500-Lithium-Battery-2-Pack-P342.aspx (http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/TrustFire-Protected-37V-900mAh-14500-Lithium-Battery-2-Pack-P342.aspx)

I ordered these batteries and got them today. They are indeed the right batteries. Thanks for the help on that.

One more question if I may. The blade that came with this saber is now years old and somewhat beat up and I would like to replace it with a new one. However, the blade appears to be made specifically for the graflex in that the bottom portion(the part that fits into the blade holder of the saber) is of a smaller diameter than the rest of the blade( I guess you could say its tapered, or recessed) so that it fits in the graflex. None of my other ultrasabers blades will fit in it.
Is there a place I can order a blade made specifically to fit a graflex?
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: JANGO FETT on July 18, 2014, 08:03:02 PM
I make blades, my prices are here Kilsythe Customs (Jango's) & Build Blog Blades and Kill Keys (http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?topic=21413.msg318774#msg318774)

Or you can order from TCSS http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/Complete-Blades-C13.aspx (http://www.thecustomsabershop.com/Complete-Blades-C13.aspx)
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: Yoda on August 04, 2014, 03:02:47 PM
Its a little blurry, but hopefully you recognize it.

(https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi57.tinypic.com%2Fizrgk0.jpg&hash=6ac48f07e9b35d477535ff5b79ddfb9e3e166cf9)

That is one of the systems I made many years ago and Jango and Darthlwin are correct
it uses the 14500 size lithium ion batteries. ;)

If you need any assistance with it feel free to PM message me here in the forum as well.

MTFBWY
always
YODA

Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: bw216 on October 11, 2016, 02:39:04 PM
Hi all,

I sent a pm to Master Yoda in July and also this afternoon regarding the Graflex saber.  Are you still accepting send ins or doing builds for the Graflex series?  I have one that I wish to convert, and wanted to find out more.
Title: Re: Graflex: The Real Lightsaber
Post by: LUKE SKYWALKER on October 11, 2016, 11:46:12 PM
Hi all,

I sent a pm to Master Yoda in July and also this afternoon regarding the Graflex saber.  Are you still accepting send ins or doing builds for the Graflex series?  I have one that I wish to convert, and wanted to find out more.

This thread may answer your question Hello from YODA updates (some good and bad news) (http://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?topic=50299.0)