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I personally prefer the angle cuts on top of rear of calves and bottom of rear thighs its a nicer finish and blend in better and of course more comfortable when walking

Hi all, Whilst recently helping a trooper with his build I noticed a discrepancy with the below Billgram. Many troopers follow this guide and leave approx 20mm between the main plastic ammo belt and the first holster fixing. As below, I believe that the reference images from the movie troopers confirms that this should be more like 40mm. I would suggest that we suggest this approx distance for any future builds. Please sticky if deemed appropriate. Best wishes Dan

Hello troopers! My name is Jeremy, but everyone calls me by my last name “Biddle”. I have recently started work on my first kit ever and I am loving every second of It so far. I have a jsin/kb props jet trooper kit(yeah, we fly now!) that I am planning to goto the 501st with. So far I have the helmet near complete and the armor should be coming in sometime within the next couple months. I know the jet trooper is really new and no CRL is in place for it yet, but I was referred here from a Carolina Garrison member to hopefully help with that! I really look forward to getting to know some if you and to learn as much as I can along the way! Cheers and MTFBWY! EDIT: Photos added!

Afterthought: once I realised that the recess was supposed to be black, I don’t think what I just did is the best solution. So I’m going to rework both forearms: Remove the same area from both forearms, build up flat with styrene, cut the pillbox hole through, stick a piece of black styrene from the back.

The CRL states 'latex or latex-like' so I also don't have a problem with EVA foam, but like Joseph said it may be a little hard to keep the paint sticking to them. I know a lot of foam costumers will seal EVA foam with plastidip before painting.

I think I'm close to finished. (Please ignore the crotch strap in one photo!) Have moved the shoulder bell straps forward to stop the bells rotating back, raised the belt, got a holster from Darman which is great, fitted blowers in the helmet, painted screws and buttons, and added elastic to pull down the shins. Having read advice on here, I've also got a Plano box to transport everything but the helmet. Hopefully now ready for LFCC next weekend. Will it hold together for Cadet Eds first outing.... possibly.

Just a note, JRS has "Rogue One" and "Solo" TIE Pilot rolled into a single CRL.

WHAT THIS PROGRAM IS: A dedicated forum where members can submit their completed stormtrooper costume for peer review prior to formal submission to their GML. Your armor will be reviewed and suggestions made by the FISD Staff and Imperial Attaché team, but detachment members can also provide peer review on any submission. All feedback provided will be specific, constructive, respectful, and helpful. Any feedback that is deemed negative, derogatory, inflammatory, or otherwise offensive will be deleted, and the poster can be subject to account suspension for repeated offenses. You may also be provided suggestions for attaining the rank of EI (Expert Infantry) and Centurion levels should you wish to pursue higher levels of screen accuracy. WHAT THIS PROGRAM IS NOT: This program is not a replacement for the GML approval process, as Detachments are not charted to approve costumes for membership. While a costume that passes Detachment peer review should be in a state to be accepted by a GML, Detachments cannot override a GMLs decision, nor are GMLs bound to accept the ruling of a detachment costume approval. That said, as a general rule the goal is that any costume that passes peer-review approval should be accepted by a 501st GML. WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO SUBMIT: You will need to post up various high quality photos of your armor/accessories on the list below, as well as the basic information listed next to it. We realize that this is more information than normally required for basic approval, but we want you to look your best! Also, please include the name(s) of any approved Trooper(s) who have significantly helped you with your build. Yes, we are asking for more photos and information than are normally needed for basic approval. The reason being is that we feel it gives us a better overall view, and we can catch things that may be missed should the recruit want to move to level 2. PHOTOS: INFORMATION: 1. Front view (arms down) 1. First/last name 2. Back view (arms down) 2. Future Garrison/Squad/Outpost or local area 3. Left side (arms raised) 3. Armor maker 4. Right side (arms raised) 4. Helmet maker 5. Ab plate close-up 5. Cloth belt maker 6. Helmet close-up (front, left and right sides) 6. Neck seal maker 7. Detail photos of any parts you have questions on 7. Boot maker 8. Interior strapping (optional) 9. Blaster maker (if applicable 10. Gasket maker (if applicable) 11. Height (optional) 12. weight (optional) 13. TK type (ANH Stunt/Hero. ESB, ROTJ. TFA etc.) 14. Name(s) of any Trooper(s) who significantly helped with your build. INSTRUCTIONS FOR POSTING YOUR REVIEW REQUEST: 1. Go to the Request Pre Approval thread: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/forum/193-request-tk-pre-approval/ 2. Click on Start New Topic. This is located on the left of the blue "Reply to this Topic" option near the top of the page. 3. In the Title area, post the following information: (Fisd screen name) Requesting Pre Approval Review, followed by the armorer who made your kit in parentheses. Example: MegaTrooper123 Requesting Pre Approval Review (Anovos) 4. Post all required photos/information (as listed above). HELPFUL LINKS: 1. Where can I get in touch with my GML/Garrison? http://www.501st.com/members/displayUnits.php 2. Where can I choose my official TK number? http://www.501st.com/members/search_avail_ids.php 3. How do I join the 501st Legion? http://www.501st.com/members/join_form.php 4. What do I do once I am approved? https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/16-501st-trooper-status-requests-include-link-to-your-501st-profile-in-your-request/ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ WHY WE ARE DOING THIS: Not every garrison has responsive GMLs, and even those that do are not always experts in the stormtrooper costumes. Costume peer review provides members with a supplemental feedback on items that need to be fixed prior to approval, as well as other feedback that will help the overall fit and finish. Catching errors earlier will result in increased confidence a build will pass GML review and thus save GMLs time. It will also provide GMLs insight in to a sounding board beyond the GML peer review area on the 501st boards. Additionally it provides non-GML forum members the opportunity to learn about and gain experience in the costume judging process. This is valuable because it can provide people considering being a GML real-world experience before accepting the role, and provides GCOs a potential pool of people experienced in costume judging who may not have yet served as a GML. ADDITIONAL INFO: 1. Any feedback that is negative, derogatory, inflammatory, or otherwise offensive should be reported immediately, will be deleted, and the poster may be subject to account suspension for repeated offenses. 2. Feedback should follow the same format that Deployment Officers use, e.g. for each item to fix they will be marked as “must fix”, “should fix”, “could fix”. 3. “Approval” only covers base 501st acceptance (aka L1). Expert Infantryman (L2) and Centurion (L3) standards can be cited only for “could fix” items and are never “must fix”. 4. For GMLs, this is intended to catch errors early to make your lives easier. This is not a replacement for what you do. Additionally, since detachments can't approve costumes, there is no concern that a Detachment will override a GML decision. 5. For GCOs, an advantage is that a 501st member in their garrison can gain experience in the costume review part of being a GML before they take on the role officially, and this may also for their Garrison provide an outlet for people considering being a GML, and a pool of experienced members should they need to fill that role. 6. For FB users, other TK Facebook pages can offer advice on their site that may or may not be correct. FISD is the official Detachment run by experienced 501st costume approvers the world over, and this is a service we can provide prospective and current 501st members that a FB group cannot.

Way ahead of you guys I just didn't want to post the ugly No Parking sign I used as a backer... This was last night.

If you use a hosting site like Imgur you can upload all you want

As per the CRL states : Any mobility cuts on back of piece do not go past raised ridges. I think the red line you marked is ok. Here's a reference picture . Cheers

It doesn't seem like it's nearly as common as even the Low-Profile (which isn't common haha). I found it on https://www.fastenation.com/ if that helps anyone. The armor party yesterday went great and @Oztrooper and I were able to help get several new recruits up and running, plus it seemed like everyone had a great time! I'm unsure whose shoulder bell upset me so much... hahaha More sanding this week but I'll report back soon!

The paste is cosmetic - you will need additional ABS backing behind the entire patch or it would fail spectacularly. That said, smaller gaps will be less noticeable but in my experience anything thinner than a couple of mm makes it hard to get the paste in the gaps.

I had good luck using the hot water method on my Anovos ANH build. Here is my build thread: https://imgur.com/VLfUU7r

I just emailed them to myself and it gave me the option to resize! I’m I over at spec ops now too.

Hey Jeremy and welcome to FISD Really looking forward seeing the build and what the kit looks like and the helmet almost complete eh? Well then PICS please Also be sure to start a build thread as that will help greatly in making this a 501st costume

Looking Good Trooper !!

Looking sharp, Robert, and thank you for your Expert Infantry submission! As Mario mentioned, please include the extra photos he listed (no need to get suited up). Also, please add some side views of the thigh ammo pack. As soon as ya' get that done we can get started. THANKS!!

So after today I will have to resize and cut the shins so they fit well around my ankles and shin, work on my helmet more if needed, clean up ab buttons and test my new shoulder strap locations so they sit more in the middle of the back armour. I feel like so far I have fixed most of the issues that were present in my last approval photos and other suggestions from the last. I will be trying to do another pre-approval photo take after I have fixed my strapping. Any more suggestions to improve are always welcome Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Hi Robert, Nice to see you're going for higher levels. I would suggest to add some photos that I'm sure the D.O. team surely will ask you for. 1- Knee Ammo pack Outer and Inner Rivet right and left side. 2- Close Photo of Cod Rivets 3- Front, Right and Left side of your Sniper Knee Good Luck with your request. Cheers

OK, Jonathan, I am WELL impressed (seriously) with the way the forearm fits, and SO glad to see that you removed the return edges from the tops of them! But.. those of you who know me know my feelings on return edges in general, lol. I know many troopers like the way they give our armor a "thicker" look. but in reality when it comes down to it we have to spend hours actually wearing these costumes, and return edges in certain places can make life mighty uncomfortable, especially in the area where your arms bend since we spend most of our time with our arms at a 45 degree angle holding an E-11. Having red welts from armor-bite is preventable (and totally screen accurate) by simply removing them, and I assure you that the general public will not notice. Trust me on this one.

Awesome guide and great job. Probably going to have to do the same to my thighs. Do you recall what grade sandpaper you finished with? Sent from my SM-A520F using Tapatalk

Update helmet and shins: Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I helped Robert with the photos and the calf halves shifted a bit when I was aligning the thighs and calves for the front photo. Normally they are closed and do not show any opening. A slight twist back in one direction and the halves line up nicely and are fully closed.

Hello, let me introduce myself. I am a complete newbie in all of this, all of it. I have never cosplayed anything, I haven't build any armor or anything like that. As I say, completley new. The thing I do love and (I want to think) I know a lot of, is Star Wars. That being so, the idea of the 501st, costumes and all this stuff had sometimes popped in my head, but always like a hypothetical thing, never a real one. Now, though, I am pretty sure I want to start the journey of costumes and cosplay, so what better to start than my favourite saga. I have been reading through the threads but I'm not yet sure about which armor supplier to buy to, if to buy it all build up or by parts... I don't know anything, I don't even know if I'm posting this at the right forum. Being the such inexpert I am, I'd like to know what would some of you, being as veterans as you are, think is the best thing to do in my place. Thank you very much for reading all this, I hope I make a good stormtrooper.

Hola Llorenç,, ¡¡¡ Bienvenido a nuestro destacamento !!! Te mando un PM para que pueda ayudarte en todo el proceso tanto de compra como de montaje de la armadura y que puedas montarla al máximo nivel de screen accurate que es el nivel Centurion. Un saludo

Thanks for the clarification, saw some photos online where you could clearly see them, kinda expected it wouldn’t meet centurion standard which I’m trying for. I’ll add, read up on abs paste, to my ever increasing too do list. [emoji106] Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Finally found the time to get a photo taken and uploaded: FISD stuff on top, everything else on the bottom. Over half of these were gifts... not bad for a little over two years in the Legion.

Purchasing in pieces gives you opportunity to fit to our size, although ready to wear may fit it could use adjustments. Also price is something to consider. If you have a look through some of the build threads for RS you will see some who have purchased as a kit and others fully made

Thanks to everyone for answering the post, I was expecting support but not so many nor so quickly! I'll be checking my local garrison, which I suppose is the Spanish one, and will continue resarching through the forums, thank you ver much to all of you!!

It's OK to have a small gap if you can't get them perfectly aligned, as the cover strips will cover any imperfections. The sanding that Glen mentioned is critical, though. Just try to make sure that the ridges (yellow lines) run as parallel with the cover strip edges as possible. You will need to trim down the V shaped point on the upper piece, otherwise this will seriously poke into your arm. (Pic 1). If it were me, I would trim down as seen in the second photo. You don't want any angles that are too sharp. Reference images of screen used armor.

Hiya, DA is the only one I know of that can supply them when needed. Others sometimes to the odd run here and there, but DA are consistent. Anon is another but I believe is based in Australia or New Zealand. Helmet runs are in bursts. The DA lid is very nice. I built one last year and the overall quality is good. Here it is if you fancy a look. :-)

Great to hear you’re joining the trooping ranks. :-) My $2; any kit you are considering, compare it directly with screen shots from the movie. Use a free app like “Live Collage” and put your pictures side by side. Comparing directly to the source material will show you which one meets your expectations of accuracy. Here’s an example of a notoriously inaccurate kit vs original (the LFL promo trooper*). Playing spot the difference directly like this really helps to gauge the quality of the moulds, the proportions of the pieces, the overall appearance etc. *this uses a hero helmet: picture for armour comparison only. Best of luck with your decision, Dan

95% of my customers are US based so not sure why it would be difficult, we take care of shipping not the customer Mark (AP)

I bought an AM kit from Dave, and am super excited to get it in this next wave! I know you aren’t alone with being on the fence about it, there are a few others doing the same research as you right now. Another plus side for AM for me is the location being in the US, so shipping is much easier for me. I know some people are heavily influenced by the location of the vendor. On a final note, it seems AM is making a huge resurgence here, lots of people have been buying it lately.

Thanks for the info Mark , sent a PM .. still haven’t pulled the trigger yet, was getting close and talked at length with Dave on the AM builds . would love some info on the AP kits , really appreciate the feedback and thanks for replying and helping this FNG out.. LOL

Thank you! Couldn't have done it without your master Anovos guide!

Building the Helmet has been, for me, the most challenging part of an Armor Building process. Consider that original ANH Helmets were not perfect and they had some ear gaps too as you can see in the following reference pics. You can try too reduce the gap as much as possible . The following links may help https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/47872-ear-troubles/ https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/27375-howto-draw-an-approximate-ear-trim-line-with-no-gaps/ https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/29238-my-helmet-ear-tutorial/ Hope this help. Keep on doing a great job mate !!

I don't think any GML would approve, no option for no tube stripes in the CRL: Helmet Tube stripes are medium blue, numbering between 9 and 16 per side with the curve bends extending backwards.

Just to make it clear, It’s not acceptable for 501st approval in any Garrison

I'm pretty sure that the mr no stripes look isn't acceptable for clearance with the UKG however ...just icase you were thinking it might be a nice way to sort out your tube stripe problems .

You narrowed down to RS and AM which are two completely different suits in every aspect. RS movie accurate more expensive thin plastic = more fragile for trooping made for slender troopers AM not movie accurate less expensive thicker plastic = solid for trooping but less comfortable designed to fit larger troopers RS and most suits that have movie lineage are pretty narrow at waist unless you wear approx 34" pants, AM is better suited if your on the heavier side but not movie accurate so all depends whats your priority, the main problem with movie lineage suits are the waist and thigh sizes and the reason I extended AB/Kidney molds on my AP kits so it can fit up to 41 pants size, I basically added 3" extention on AB and kidney plates so you can trim them down to your exact waist size without the need of adding shims. Also most people have a misconception, the thicker the plastic is not necessarily more durable actually more prone to crack since there's less flex making parts too rigid, heavier and less comfortable to wear , you want the parts to flex when you move around (thicker = less flex) and also softer details when forming, too thin is not good either you want the best of both worlds accuracy/durability! Mark (AP)

Nice work! The only additional thing I would add (if not done so already) is the white weathering around the hovi mics. Great job on the painting.

SOO mega update I got it wearable for 2019 Halloween but I am making changes to go for Centurion (i place full blame on @sharkbait for telling me about the pretty things) and i have a PICTURE finally found one that would work but here it is 2 months of slaving away in 2019 paid off well i also won my work place costume contest not that i cared i just felt so cool!!!! also lots of ppl loved it and did several pictures and double takes on the armor both young and old enjoyed it! Edit i added the second pic with the Helmet on

http:// Generated from my Apple iPad using tools.sportscard.trade Another small mod to the forearms, first time using a different image coder please let me know if it can’t be seen.

So (after what seems like ages), you finally received your official 501st I.D. number and signed up for your first Troop. Now what? Depending on the event, there may be a few differences in protocol. For instance, a "Canon" event (usually one authorized by LFL or Disney) may be more serious in nature and regimented, while other times we are there to make the occasion a lot more fun, (parades, movie premiers, etc.). Here are a few basics to think about in regards of what (and what not) to do on your inaugural appearance with your local Garrison. Of course, all events are different.. some will be indoors, some will be outdoors, or a combination of the two.. some will have just a few members, others may have over a hundred, but the basics stay the same. This list is by no means meant to be complete, so all Troopers are welcome to add their own ideas, tips and fun things to do! 1. Before you leave- If you have not had the chance to wear your armor for any length of time, put it on (including your bucket) and wear it while walking around the house and maybe in your yard for a while. This will give you an idea of your range of vision, movement limitations, and let you know what you are in for. Walking up and down stairs will help. 2. Be prepared- Double (and triple) check your armor to make sure you have all your accessories and all your connections are secure before leaving your house. I would suggest carrying a small repair kit in your bin as well. I have a thread here which will help: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/48390-emergency-trooping-kit/?tab=comments#comment-674403 2. BE ON TIME- I cannot stress this enough. When you sign up for a troop, they will have an arrival time, (usually an hour or so before), and a "step off" time when you should be completely suited up and ready. The hour gives you the chance to get your armor on, and make any adjustments. There should be "handlers", but any fellow Trooper will be glad to help you out. The POC (point of contact) person for the troop or event coordinator will give you any details you might need beforehand, (directions, special notes). Feel free to ask them any specific questions. If you have any concerns, let your handler or the person in charge know about these. They are there to help. 3. Be aware of you surroundings- Due to the limited visibility in a bucket, watch out for curbs, steps, obstacles, etc. Small children will often run up to you and stand close, so be aware that they may be right below you and cannot be seen. When raising or lowering your weapon, take it slowly as not to clock anyone in the head. 4. Photos- You will be asked (sometimes hundreds of times) "Can I take a picture with you"? Be patient, and get used to it! But be aware of where your arms are to avoid touching anyone inappropriately by accident. Often, people will ask "Can I hold your gun"? That is entirely up to you. A lot of us have spent a great deal of time building our weapons, and they (especially the resin cast) can be damaged if dropped. Many of us carry Hyperfirms for this reason. If you don't want to let someone hold it, you can say something to the effect of "The Emperor forbids it" or "It's against Imperial regulations". Side note: Never, EVER point your blaster at a child for any reason. This is just in really bad taste. UPDATE: In this day and age it's not a good idea to point your blaster at ANYONE. This includes those trooping with you (even Rebel types) and anyone taking the photo. 5. Hydration- Another item that is VERY important, especially in warmer areas and extended troops. FISD legend Steve (gazmosis) wrote a great post on this subject, and it is used here (with permission): "Big troops, big crowds, lots of kids, lots of chances to show off your hard work. With the hot weather, there are also lots of chances to be become quickly dehydrated and sick. Don't let this happen!! There is no greater cooling system than hydration. But drinking a ton of water is not the solution....it's how and when you drink it that is. Let's be clear here!!! We are talking about WATER! Not soda, not energy drinks, not juice. WATER...H2O. Leave the Gatorade in the cooler for after the troop. Proper hydration should begin a full day prior to a hot troop. Steady intake of water (8-16 oz. an hour) is fine. Too much water at one time can actually be harmful but a slow and steady intake will allow the body to properly absorb and distribute it until you are hydrated down to a CELLULAR level. Yes, you will be in the bathroom a lot. But when the pee is clear...you are there! Continue this until just before bedtime. On the day of your troop, avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks that can dehydrate you. Your bathroom trips will have evened out overnight. Have one more bottle or serving of water before suiting up. Once in your suit, you will sweat. No matter what fans you have in your lid....you will sweat. THIS is your cooling system. If you are properly hydrated, you will have the fluids so that your body will adjust to the rise in temperature and cool itself properly. If not, your body will use the water in it twice as fast and without the proper reserves, you will risk not only dehydration but elevated internal temps, dizziness, and possible heat stroke. The long and short of it is be safe and smart. We need out troopers vertical!!!!!" On that subject, if you do feel dizzy or need a break, tell your handler immediately. It's nothing to be ashamed of... safety first! 6. Changing areas- Most events will have a secure and private changing area, but some may not, so ask ahead of time. If it happens to be an outside area, you can wear your under suit to the event underneath your clothes. 7. Armor bin storage- Again, most troops will have a secure area designated to store your armor bin, away from the public. If this is the case, you are fine. Some have asked "Do I need to keep it locked during the troop"? That's up to you. We tend to be a very honest bunch, treat each other's belongings like our own and keep an eye out for one another. (I have never felt the need to lock mine). If it is a parking lot suit up and your bin will be visible to the public while you are away from your vehicle, that's a different story. 8. Conduct- Have a blast on your troop, but keep it civil. Some Troopers clown around a bit occasionally (myself included) depending on the circumstances, but remember, you are a representative of the 501st Legion, the FISD and your Garrison/Squad, so act accordingly. When in doubt, ask someone who has done that event before. Side note: If you happen to be a smoker or vaper, please do not do it in public view while in armor. 9. Handlers- Handlers are an absolutely integral part of a troop, and make our lives much easier. They take photos for the public, warn us of obstacles, escort us to the restrooms/break areas, pick up fallen armor pieces, protect us from kids smacking us with toy lightsabers, guard our stuff, bring us water, keep us informed, and a myriad of other things. After your troop, be sure to thank them for all they do to make an event possible and allow those in costume to have a better time. 10. Trooping in other Garrisons/Squads- Once you have your official TK #, you are welcome to troop with any 501st unit in the world. You may need to sign up at that Garrison, as many do not list their upcoming events for the general public to see. Once you have access to their site, you will need to sign up for the particular troop that you want. Most importantly of all....... HAVE FUN!!!!! UPDATE! The thread below was posted by Caleb (Thrawndike bar), and contains some awesome responses/TK chatter while in public. https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/47603-howto-talk-like-a-stormtrooper/

Thanks for the encouragement! A bit more progress tonight. Got the side webbing in place plus shoulder straps and crotch strap. Tomorrow night I want to have a go at setting the shoulder straps. I'm worrying about getting the crotch high enough on someone whos 5ft8. Is this usually a problem at this height? Seems like I might meet to take a few mm more out of the neck line of the chest plate.

Thank you for the information. Even though I've had 9 troops so far it's good to fall back and re-read guidelines to keep in memory