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This is an All-In-One compilation of various resources for ANH Stunt Stormtrooper builds which will hopefully be helpful to prospective troopers as you get started and begin your research. Many TKs over many years have spent countless hours documenting their tips, tutorials, and builds, and this index includes posts and links which have been helpful on my own journey to the 501st. Printable PDF documents are included with select posts. This index will be updated as additional resources are created and identified by troopers helping troopers. 501st Legion Links: 501st Legion - Member Application 501st Legion - Available IDs 501st Legion - Garrison/Outpost World Map TK ANH Stunt CRL FISD Forums Getting Started - Read This First ANH (Stunt & Hero) Forum Tutotials, Tips, and How-Tos Vader's Valkyries (women of armour) Getting Started Forum Pinned Threads (selection) Various Types of Armor (Vetted Vendor List) by Daetrin Vendors to Avoid by RogueTrooper [NEW ADDITION] Common FISD Acronyms & Glossary by justjoseph63 Steps to Join the Legion by Dark CMF Cost of a Stormtrooper by Dday Imperial Attaché List by Pretzel Supply Lists OT TK Supply List by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) List of Soft Parts by justjoseph63 Build Tips and Resources Quick Reference Guide OT TKs by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) Armor Party 101 by justjoseph63 Return Edges 101 by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) Paint Color Guide by themaninthesuitcase Billgrams One Stop Shop (some diagrams may be outdated) Things/tips you wished you had on your build by DTKC and others How to paint ab button plates by JBar Magnets 101 by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) Butt-joining Armor by ZacMuleer Sanding Before Gluing by Shinyarmour1 Make Heat Gun Return Edges by pandatrooper Make Return Edge Sealing Iron by Daetrin Making ABS Paste by kman (Print PDF) Resize Armor with ABS Scaps & Paste by Harbinger (Print PDF) Armor for Bigger Troopers by ELP Altering Armor for Shorter Troopers: See Cricket's builds (WTF, RS Props) ATA Armor Sizing by Thrawndike bar Armor Fitment for Skinny OTTKs by Morgi V-Tabs for Kidney & Butt by gmrhodes13, Cricket's implementation, Colin's implementation Kidney Plate Shimming by Bullseye Fix Back Plate Kidney Overlap by A.J. Hamler (also in his build thread) Reinforcing Super Strong Shoulder Bridges by A.J. Hamler (Print PDF) Arm Armor Assembly by pandatrooper [ARCHIVED] Forearm Alignment and Shoulder Bells by CableGuy Thighs Assembly by pandatrooper [ARCHIVED] Thigh Trimming by Cgarduc Fill Thigh Ridge Gaps with Sugru by justjoseph63 Angled Mobility Cuts Behind Knees by ABS80 Attaching Flexible Hand Guards by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) Tips for Using E-6000 by jeebus68 and others E-6000 Safety Precautions (PPE) by cm325i Cover Strips threads: gazmosis, I'm Batman, sith_241, & Falciform13 ANH & ESB Cover Strip lengths and Ends by CableGuy Scribe technique for Cover Strips by chiefbonan Bending the ABS Belt by gazmosis, Boba_Skywalker3 Heat Bend Belt by pandatrooper Attaching Belt to Abs by GnrlGrievous Holster Placement on Belt by CableGuy Current (2021) Holster Placement by gmrhodes13 (follow-up to previous thread above) Belt Assembly by ukswrath Removable Holster with Snaps by Harbinger Belt, Holster, & Drop Boxes video tutorial by RWA (youtube) Combat a Fraying Canvas Belt by CallMeMrTibbles Thigh Ammo Pack Positioning by CableGuy Armor Thickness: 1.5mm, 2mm, Capped by Jakebullet Shoe/Boot Stretchers by justjoseph63, OneStrangeCyka GO TO Resources by ukswrath Strapping Systems Rivet Setting 101 by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) Snap Setting 101 by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) Snap Setting Hardware Solutions by TheRascalKing E6000 and Snaps Discussion by Harbinger, Snap Options by ukswrath Snaps with Rivet Heads by TheSwede Split Rivet Placement by DroidHunter How to Use a Rivet Tool by huttman How to Make Snap Plates by stukatrooper Elastic ABS Reinforcement by Cricket Magnetic Shin Closures by Cricket (Print PDF) Magnetic Shin Closures (supplement) by Zugor Alternate Magnetic Shin Closures by OddViking327 Types of Inner Strapping by Shinyarmour1 Internal Strapping by justjoseph63, nrgband RascalSnaps by TheRascalKing Thigh Garter System by Pencap510 Making Thigh Garters by Spectre Bicep Hooks by Pyrates and Brent Shin stabilization by Cricket and themaninthesuitcase Helmet Assembly ATA ABS Helmet Assembly by pandatrooper (Print PDF) ATA Stunt Helmet Assembly by Ales (Print PDF) ATA Helmet Build by maxsteele ANH TE2 Helmet Build by TK-4510 Helmet Ear Tutorial by gazmosis (Print PDF) Draw No Gap Ear Line by bpoodoo (Print PDF) Ear Trimming Foil Hack by trooper96 Choose Your Brow Height by CableGuy (Print PDF) Helmet Alignment by CableGuy (Print PDF) Template Painting 101 by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) Tube Stripes by CableGuy (Print PDF) Vocoder Paint Examples by CableGuy (Print PDF) Helmet Painting Tips by CableGuy Replicate the Screen-Used Look by CableGuy Hovi Tip Found Part Groundbreaking Discovery! by Dan_O and Sly11 Helmet/Bucket/Lid Interior Attach Lenses Using Sugru by justjoseph63 (Print PDF) Mounting Lenses by Solcar23 Helmet Padding by Boba_Skywalker3 Hard Hat vs Foam Helmet Liner by han_solo1 Interior Painting #1 and #2 Post by Staffa359 Truck bed-liner vs plasti-dip by TheRascalKing Helmet Fan Placement by RLH2515 What's in Your Bucket by Ragtooth Helmet Interior Build by kamikaze Helmet Internals Purchase Options by JZYL Clean frown mesh install by Toothdoc & others TrooperTalk iOS App by BrinkHouse Voice Changer Suggestions by nick007 Voice Amp System by JFarwell iComm + Aker Volume by kaa1304 iComm Help by endy iComm 3D Box Holder by Garbz Modding an iComm with External Battery by Sly11 Video Tutorials (youtube) RS Prop Masters' series Pandatrooper's series TK-4510 (Trooperbay) Password to access scruffynerfherder CableGuy's build video series Armor Building with TK1636 (forum post here) RWA's Youtube Channel How to put on Stormtrooper Armor (dressing tips) by CableGuy Stormtrooper Series by Nairy Photo References FISD Gallery LFL Archive Photos: Part #1, Part #2 538 HD Screen Grabs by dashrazor (2010) 1059 frames of TKs in ANH by Jeklynhyde (2020) Armor Cleaning, Sanding, & Shining Wetsanding and Polishing by Ensi (Print PDF) Best Way to Clean Armor by Daetrin Novus Plastic Polish by Darth Aloha Armor Yellowing Yellowing Preventative Measures by Brandon Make Aged ABS White Again by dashrazor Reversing UV Damage on TK ABS (external) Trooperbay Whitening Gel (external) Password to access scruffynerfherder Additional Yellowing Discussion and Resources Combat holster staining thigh armor: suttontech post & Daetrin post Image Posting Photography Tips for Posting by CableGuy Posting Imgur Photos 101 by justjoseph63 Post images on Imgur by Ensi **NEW** Post images on Flickr by Nairy E-11 Blaster FISD E-11 Blaster Reference (Print PDF by Blaster Team) Rubber Blasters: Hyperfirm vs. Praetorian by kman Rubber Blasters: Hellhounds (vs. Hyperfirm & Praetorian) by MaskedVengeance Another Hellhounds Props E-11 variant review by Toothdoc Hellhounds Props E-11 Review/Experience by KaiserintheHood Completion Sets for E-11 Resin Kits by T-Jay Sterling SMG & E-11 3D Print Files by trooper96 [NEW RELEVANT POSTS] Full Aluminum Parts Kit by fieldmarshall Previously Unknown E-11 Prop Detail by Joe and gmrhodes13 TroopaCoola JMC E-11 Build by CableGuy Sterling Sub-Machine Gun Diagrams / Handbook / Images by gmrhodes13 Sterling Main Spring Forming Tool by trooper96 E-11 Suppliers 2021 by gmrhodes13 How to Smooth Out a 3D Printed E-11 by justjoseph63 Gun Rack for Blasters by T-Jay ANH E-11: Sterling vs Bapty Differences by justjoseph63 Scope / Hengstler Decals by gmrhodes13 The Leia Leveller - A Mr. No-Stripes E11 Recreation by revlimiter Armor Storage/Transport TK Storage Bin by Garrett803 Husky Cog Wheel Covers by GoofTrooper Add Shelves to Husky Bin by TK21999 Husky Bin Modification by VancouverTrooper Customizing your Transport Cases by OddViking327 FISD and Stormtrooper Supplemental Posts Armor Tree History by Locitus ATA Armor History by c6dy A Sad Day for FISD by Sly11 FISD User Ranks & Awards by Harbinger Your First Troop Tips by justjoseph63 Emergency Trooping Kit by justjoseph63 Tips for Hot Weather Trooping by justjoseph63 Talk Like a Stormtrooper by Thrawndike bar Christine's PVC Mannequin by Cricket Adjustable PVC Mannequin by TK4205 Terry's Duct Tape Mannequin by pandatrooper Trading Card Holster by swagger What does your TK ID Represent? by gmrhodes13 How did you choose your TK ID? by humperdingle Story Behind Your Nickname by Snaps Re-Introductions by CableGuy Differences Between OT TKs (Post #1) & (Post #2) by sharkbait Rogue One TK vs OT TK by 11b30b4 Joseph's TK Mancave by justjoseph63 Help Fix FISD Dead Links & Photos by Sly11 Using a Torch/Flashlight to Find Armor Cracks by CallMeMrTibbles FISD Memes by Morgi Recasting What is recasting and when is it bad? by Sonnenschein TM Troopermaster recast CFO by sskunky ANH Stunt Build Threads (WIPs) ukswrath (Tony) - ANOVOS (Print PDF by harris.adp) Harbinger (Brien) - ANOVOS kman (Kalani) - ANOVOS Uxorious (Fredrik) - ANOVOS Rat (Jim) - ANOVOS Blast 'Em! (Shane) - ANOVOS unfinished ukswrath (Tony) - AM 1.0 pandatrooper (Terry) - AM LTM (Lou) - AM A.J. Hamler (A.J.) - AM (Print PDF by MV) OddViking327 (Colin) - AM 4.5 AsBlondeAsLuke (Diana) - RS Props tsongololo (Jennifer) - RS Props DudeSidious (Wayne) - RS Props unfinished Cricket (Christine) - WTF, RS Props, RS #2 (Mr.) shashachu (Sha Sha) - WTF StrmTRPR85 (Jeff) - WTF LadyInWhite - AP (google doc) Pyrates (Aaron) - AP wook1138 (Greg) - AP zv288bot (Jorge) - AP Scimitar (Eric) - AP Bud Spaklur (Matt) - AP MechaPumpkin (Danny) - AP SpiceCredits (Rick) - AP batmanmike (Mike) - AP unfinished Shinyarmour1 (C) - AP unfinished (photography) rwmead10 (Ryan) - AP unfinished MightyAtom (Mark) - AP Sly11 (Andrew) - AP Dark CMF (Tim) - TR-Mod LEGOeatPokemon (Jonas) - SDS dereferenced (Brian) - T/MC unfinished Redforce (Anthony) - NE maxsteele (Ron) - NE CableGuy (Dan) - RWA CTID (Mark) - RWA NOTE: Many of the Pre-Approval, EIB, and Centurion request threads below are for ATA armor, as that is my armor type. Threads from other makers are included for their valuable content ATA Build Threads (WIPs) ukswrath (Tony) - rebuild Ensi (Daniel) DStep (D'Angelo) echo327 (Erick) StarTrooper (Jayke) TheLorelei (Lorelei) Bazz (Adi) Quixotic5891 (Antonio) RampantLion (Leo) REAPERofDAISYS (John) Zarlon (Kyle) gmrhodes13 (Glen) wingnut65 (Jeff) pandatrooper (Terry) - MEPD TD FIVE (Noel) - MEPD TD Flykiller (Jerome) - thigh question timecyspace (Clay) - unfinished MaskedVengeance (Caleb) - unfinished (Print PDF) Pre-Approval Requests Actionsdower (Jim) - RS iEmpire916 (William) - AP husky68 (Robert) - AP TKModder421 (Greg) - ANOVOS Jared (Jared) - ATA REN2100 (Ryan) - ATA Hotel (Jim) - ATA MissingNo (Peter) - ATA echo327 (Erick) - ATA 31-9 (Jayson) - ATA unfinished snipedoc2001 (Cody) - ATA Swarzo (Cory) - ATA unfinished Cesarisamisfit (Cesar) - ATA unfinished EI & Centurion Informational Threads Advanced Tactics: EIB and Centurion by justjoseph63 ANH Stunt EI Visual Checklist by Sly11 and Wingnut65 ANH Stunt EI Photo Submission Guidelines by justjoseph63 (PDF by Sly11) Multiple EIB Award Recipients by gmrhodes13 Expert Infantry Honor Gallery by gmrhodes13 ANH Stunt Centurion Visual Checklist by Sly11 and Wingnut65 ANH Stunt Centurion Photo Submission Guidelines by justjoseph63 (PDF by Sly11) EI Requests TKittell (Robert) - 100 AM Dargas (Richard) - 163 ATA gmrhodes13 (Glen) - 291 ATA Boba_Skywalker3 (Dominic) - 310 ATA TK6682 (Michael) - 337 RS Props Warwitch (Gabriel) - 340 TE2 EnemyZero (Tom) - 355 ATA ukswrath (Tony) - 435 ATA sylverbard (Mark) - 456 ATA YESSRAM (Yessid) - 465 ATA CrookKnight (Shawn) - 638 AP Cricket (Christine) - 700 RS Props TheRascalKing (Justin) - 807 ANOVOS Wargasm (Joshua) - 810 ATA lucnak (Luc) - 815 ATA Jared (Jared) - 841 ATA TK 71627 (Jose) - 850 WTF REAPERofDAISYS (John) - 944 ATA echo327 (Erick) - 948 ATA equuspolo (Ardeshir) - YR2019 ANOVOS Ruffalo - 949 RS Props husky68 (Robert) - 953 AP revlimiter (Adam) - 1037 AP benthemonkey (Ben) - 1044 RS Props Starkiller (Marek) - 1047 Anovos Nairy (Jonatan) - 1051 RS Props (also Hero) Doggydoc (Gerald) - 1052 AP MaskedVengeance (Caleb) - 1055 ATA Centurion Requests gazmosis (Steve) - 32 ATA Solcar23 (Carlos) - 52 ATA JEDISTAR (Charlie) - 60 ATA niugnep (David) - 76 AP piklz36 (David) - 86 ATA Jancelot (Chris) - 92 AP Techne (Chris) - 108 ATA RampantLion (Leonard) - 115 ATA Vader's Wingman (Jason) - 123 ATA ukswrath (Tony) - 144 ATA DarkOrder66 (Christopher) - 160 ATA YESSRAM (Yessid) - 165 ATA justjoseph63 (Joseph) - 167 AM2.0/ATA Squimspickle (Aaron) - 213 ATA Cricket (Christine) - 316 RS Props Daetrin (Paul) - 326 TM Soulart (Teresa) - 335 AP jamihal (Jim) - 344 ATA Ruthar (Taylor) - 354 ATA TheRascalKing (Justin) - 396 ANOVOS menschie (Colin) - 404 ATA Scimitar (Eric) - 425 AP (photography) Bazz (Adi) - 436 ATA MissionTrooper (Andrew) - 454 AP Ruffalo - 457 RS Props OddViking327 (Colin) - 485 AM MightyAtom (Mark) - 488 AP (photography) revlimiter (Adam) - 508 AP MaskedVengeance (Caleb) - 522 ATA Purchase Options (my build) Armor and helmet: Affordable Trooper Armor (ATA) Undersuit: Trooperbay One-Piece Double-Zipper (courtesy of a GA Garrison mate) Password to access scruffynerfherder Boots: Imperial Boots 421 (NAME CHANGE: KeepTrooping) Gloves: See hand guards below. (mine) Hand Guards: justjoseph63's kit [NO LONGER AVAILABLE] Strapping: TheRascalKing's kit Holster: Darman's 8oz leather (tan straps) Neck Seal: Darman's Premium (zipper) Belt: TKitell's Imperial Issue TD Hooks: ukswrath's kit Mounting Hardware: justjoseph63's kit Hovi Tip Screen/Mesh: ukswrath's kit Helmet Fans: ukswrath's Cooling Kits by ukswrath (Etsy) Voice Mod/Amp: iComm + Aker amp Blaster: Hellhounds Props E-11 Alternative Accessory Options: TrooperTronix Helmet Fans Henry's Helmet Fans DIY Neck Seal by BrinkHouse Making a TK Neck Seal by Doggydoc Geeky Pink's Neck Seals Making a TK Neck Seal by Doggydoc Also see Joseph's Soft Parts List above Other External Resources Ukswrath's Website Less Intimidating Build by imperialbrewer TK41973 Blog Tony Barnett TK300 Website (snaps) | FISD wordmark used with Command Staff permission |

Ok so this came in mail finally.

Here we go. I cleaned up the Grey edges on the teeth and rounded the black on the top of the vocoder humps.

Hi Glen! Can you add the following for me? (Edit as needed). Thanks! For the EI Pin area IMPORTANT: For those Troopers who attained Expert Infantry level before Sept. 16, 2020 and missed this run, it will re-open after all the VICTORY 1000 patches have been mailed out (hopefully before Christmas) so keep an eye out! In the D.O. staff area (Anything to add, @shashachu or @TKSpartan? Just a note from the D.O. Staff to say how very proud we are to have a record number of Troopers who have earned their Centurion badge in the last 4 weeks! You have certainly kept us busy, but we appreciate each and every one who has submitted, so keep em' coming and know that we are here to help if you need it!

Ok trying this Imgur thing. Worked on the helmet while the glue is drying on the forearms and biceps. Cut out the frown sections. Painted it Grey and paint the Vcoder black.

I use Imgur from my Mac and iPhone for all of my builds (it's a free site for both). Use the phone app to upload to Imgur right from your phone (set it to private and you can post them here, but they won't be searchable in their feed, and you don't have to title them). Then for whatever reason, I can't get the BBCode on the phone, but on each image on the Imgur in your images, click it, and copy the BBCode and paste it into your post. It won't show while writing your post, but will show after you hit "Submit Reply". Super easy. And if people want to see a bigger version, clicking on it takes them to it.

Forgot to update. The final thing I had to change was to remove the wrist return to totally flat, which I did: Before: After: And I was approved for Centurion, number 485! And one final thing, I took some extra action pics, and some in the same light of a Black Series 6" K-2SO droid, to photo edit into this pic:

Hello and welcome aboard, a great starting point is the "Getting Started" section, also check out this very useful thread

Hello everyone. Been dying to join the 501st for years. Always wanted to be a Stormtrooper since the day I saw Star Wars in the theater in 1977 when I was 4. My first movie in a theater couldn’t have had more of an impression on my life. Ben a huge fan ever since. Never had the time or the ability to make my own armor. Well now I can make the time and with all the people out there making armor, I can finally be one of the coolest and most iconic Sandtroopers to have ever been maliciously mind tricked by that Jedi scum on Tatooine. I have on order from RS Props a commissioned Sandtrooper armor kit and I am looking to do a FO Executioner. The latter won’t be as easy, as I’m finding out. Sourcing the parts seems to be very difficult for that CRL. I always liked helping people and doing charity work. I was a town watch junior member as a kid and a volunteer firefighter as an adult. Giving back to the community has and will always be a wonderful experience for me. I look forward to getting my TD/TK numbers and becoming a member of one of the coolest on organizations in this galaxy.

It's Humbrol #5 alright. It's just the lack of good lighting for my phone/camera. I'll get more on those teeth tonight. Thanks for the speedy reply. Sent from my SM-G930T1 using Tapatalk

Thanks I was waiting for your input.

@gmrhodes13 Thank you so much. That is incredibly helpful.

Tut tut, very tardy. FYI this issue closed Monday and this isn't the newsletter prep area, but I've added the info just because it's you.

Hello and welcome aboard, the getting started section is a great place to help you one your way. https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/forum/38-getting-started-read-this-first/ This thread is full of helpful info Good luck and hope to see a build thread from you soon

Very nice, one thing that would need to be modded if aiming for the higher levels is the henglster position, should be higher

No black is present on the teeth area, references here:

“ I am bad and that’s good. I will never be good and that's not bad. There is no one I would rather be than me.” Move along. Move along

Welcome to FISD Jason. Glad to read you're on the way of becoming a Bad Guy Doing Good!! Good luck with your Sandy.

Welcome to the FISD! RS is a great choice - especially for a sandy. If you are thinking of going the sandtrooper route, you might want to check out the MEPD's forum as well. When I did my sandy, I posted on both the FISD and MEPD - you get great general construction feedback here and great sandtrooper-specific feedback on MEPD.

Thank you brother, looking forward to serving you

Hey Jason welcome to the FISD. Great choice of armor for your TK. Let us know if there's anything we can do to help you along.

That I can do and will fix it next. Appreciate that!!

Nice work so far Greg

Thanks.. Noted I will remove the grey that is on the gum areas and round off the tops of the vocoder.

Welcome to the FISD, Jennifer! Sizing down armor can be easier than you think, and we are here to help. In looking at the extensive black "weathering" it looks as if you have armor that was used for a Heavy Weapons Trooper (example here) but I find it odd that the kidney is connected to the posterior plate as in ROTJ armor. Christine (Cricket) has what I consider to be the best build thread for the smaller trooper located here. She built from scratch, but I'm sure you can adapt the methods. Your husband is another matter. Because of his size, his best bet would be to get a new set of armor from one of our "vetted" vendors that offer them in larger sizes such as AM, TM or RT. Their details and contact info. can be found here. Posting as many detailed photos of the armor (both individual pieces** and wearing it) will help us determine the best way to proceed, and always feel free to ask any questions you or your husband may have, and thank you for your service! ** Don't forget close-ups of the helmet front/sides!

Welcome to the true home of shiny white armor, Zach! After you decide which type of costume you would like (we have 18 types as seen here), then you choose your armorer. I suggest staying well clear of ebay and the like and going with one of the "vetted" armorers here. Trust me on this.. This site can seem a bit overwhelming with the amount of info. available but after some research and poking around you be navigating it like a pro in no time! Always, always feel free to ask any and all questions you may have. It's what we are here for!

As Caleb mentioned, the paint on the tops needs to be dialed back a bit (this includes the bottoms if needed). Many GMLs miss this requirement, but as per the CRL for Basic approval the paint "...does not leave the teeth area". To remove it, I suggest Goof Off or any NON-ACETONE paint remover, a few Q-tips and tooth picks. It's easier than you think!

Thanks @giskard8, @boochamp, @gmrhodes13 and @T-Jay. I'll try to get the recommended photos after the kiddo is asleep, though may be a few more days before it gets to the pre-approval section.

Great job getting the photos working via imgur! You’re off to the races now! Just a little feedback regarding your paint job, at least for higher levels of approval: You may want to remove some of the gray paint which extends onto the gum areas (it should only be on the teeth), and the top vocoder ridge ends could use some rounding off. You could also check with your GML to see if they would currently pass it for basic. Keep up to good work, Greg! Sent via Imperial Tapatalk Comms

Glad to see it's working out! My knowledge of techie type things could fit on a postage stamp, lol, but I got the hang of it in an hour or two.

Just got the Imgur. Easy so far.

Thanks, I'll make those changes. Good thing I got two sets of templates. Stay tuned! Sent from my SM-G930T1 using Tapatalk

So the button plate for the small side, unfortunately, isn't going to match up and look proper. I discovered this after I got it trimmed and sanded. Not to worry as I've got an idea I hope you will appreciate? I thought I could recycle the one from the other side and got it cut and sanded. I will await your suggestion on it before I glue it, as I think it needs to be a little bit slimmer. I broke out the belt sander and got it to this point. Hopefully I'm close and this is an acceptable fix to my situation? Next I need some input on the bigger ab plate before I glue it on. I will also await your input for this one so I can get it right the first attempt on reparatrions. I must admit that I thought I was gonna pop when I got out the Dremel for the next photos, but I survived it. LOL My apologies, as the pics are a bit out of order, but I was anxious to get some progress shown in hopes of getting any direction I need at this point to move forward. The belt rebuild will be the next part I will be working on, but I need to do a little remembering, as well as some homework on it before I dive in. It's been about 5 years since i assembled the one that is not up to snuff. I may need to purchase some supplies if I am unable to reuse the things I have on hand in the garage. Rivets may be the only thing I'll need off the top of my head? The steel ones are preferable, over the aluminum type. Looking forward to your response so I may continue with forward progress. Thank you very much for your time and energy!

Began assembling the armor today. I reinforced every point except for the bottom of the kidney. Have to come up with 3 more plastics and fit them. I was a little surprised how much the chest plate can come above the codpiece. I may be with 1" pieces there instead of 2". But we'll see when I can actually climb into it. For now I at least have to get some straps on the chest plate and back to even try to get it together, but not much point until I get some weight off. I feel that, the more I assemble, the more firm and tight the unit will become. Right now parts are just kinda flopping around. But I wish I could have done a trial fit tonight. Can't really do that without the straps on the chest and back. Striving for a nice snug fit. If the elastics don't feel right, I'll go tighter, but right now it's all about cutting. May need to make the chest straps shorter? This is a 2".

Oh, and feel free to PM me if you have questions, I just got my AM 4.5 to Centurion. The kit is good. The main things to adjust now are the Thermal Detonator (the clips are a bit long, and the holes are not as close to the ends, the included screws are a bit too big, and the caps are a bit wide). It was way harder to fix after, but not impossible. For Centurion, the helmet decals that come with it have a bit thick or off-center black outlines, and I wish I had painted the traps and tears from the start. A.J.'s build was really good to follow for a lot of nice solutions from a very precise builder.

Welcome to the FISD! Research is the key to a good set of armor. Good Luck Future Trooper!

I agree, I just don't have the equipment or the know-how at this time. But I completely know what you mean and agree, I take much more pride in my custom build gaming PCs that I've completed as opposed to pre built ones. They're like trophies. In the future I'd like to possibly build a kit, but it's just not in the cards right now (I also have paid already anyway and got a good deal)

Congratulations and welcome!!!! Looking sharp!

Take your time, look at the reference pics and post up photos if you have any questions (before cutting or attaching anything).

Another benefit of using an image host such as imgur or Flickr is that you will no longer have to compress/downsize your images and sacrifice viewing quality. Sent via Imperial Tapatalk Comms

Everything is looking GREAT so far, Greg! So glad to see you removed those return edges and are using interior cover strips (you'll be happy you did that, trust me). Speaking of interior cover strips, when you get the the shins (calves) I suggest using ones that are a little wider (an inch or so). The reason being is that when you put them on, that connection gets a lot of stress from opening and closing them when suiting up. When using imgur, you can post as many pics as you like at one time in a post. This will come in handy after you get Basic approval and are ready to submit for Expert Infantry and then Centurion. Keep up the awesome work, and keep those photos coming!

Okay guys, another update. Been working away slowly, and figuring things out as I go. Pretty happy with all of my V1 solutions! I promised you magnets... Another test fit! I identified a couple of critical problems, and have spent the last several weeks trying to remedy them. I definitely noticed a few things: 1. The forearms were way too tight at the wrist with the velcro shut, and it was veryvery difficult to get the velcro to line up (and be hidden) while suiting up on my own, with one hand and gloves on, so I gave up. So of course, I ridiculously overengineered them to solve this problem, and they work great now and are very easy to put on alone. I started by cutting channels in the coverstrips on each half of the forearms. They're plenty thick to allow for these 60 x 10 x 3mm neodymium bar magnets to be epoxied into them. And of course, I'm neurotic so I took the time to sand and use some filler to flatten them out a bit, spray them flat white, then put a piece of fuzzy ultra-thin velcro over them to make for a smooth and easy connection (and you barely notice they're there). I used some adhesive strips to attach corresponding magnets to the under/back side of each piece (keeping all the polarities the same, so they can only go on ONE way). The gaps look good and the magnets are just the right strength. Finally, a piece of elastic velcro'ed on one side keeps the pieces from separating entirely, and allows them to hinge open enough for me to get them on, then snap shut nicely. Once they're on, they're comfortable now and they line up fine on their own without help. Took some inspiration from Boba gauntlets on this one. As you can see, the magnets hold them snugly and make the gaps very smooth. I'll have em on in the next test fit. 2. I needed a cod strap. So I made one - velcro on one side for adjustability, and a snap on the cod. You can see most of the barrel strapping setup here, and where I installed the new suspenders, with slightly lower mounting points than the originals to allow for their length better. The key was finding where the "X" in the back wanted to sit flush on my back, then marking and gluing the mounting tabs in accordingly. 3. The thighs wouldn't stay shut in the back on their own. You can see how my right thigh was obviously bigger than the left in the original photo from opening up by accident. So, time to overengineer again! The coverstrips on the rear of the thighs weren't thick like the forerarms or shins, but actually are slightly concave and allowed for the same bar magnets to be mounted under them, then I used a stronger (slightly thicker) 5mm bar magnet to hold the thighs shut in the back. Gaps looking pretty good again and magnets are just the right strength again. They are pretty well motivated to stay in place, but are absolutely able to flex and slide open in the back to allow for greater mobility, and I added elastic similar to the forearms to help pull them back shut when not flexed. Finally, I finished the mounting points for my garter belt strapping - one down the front (idc if canon or no), and the characterstic ones down the sides as well. The double strap helps them hang nicely and I'll adjust them as I go. The drops come down from a duty belt and snap in easily. I had a bit of excess strap that will need to get trimmed, but you get the idea. Some final adjustment needed, but it's easy to put on and plenty comfortable. The thighs may still be a bit too tall, and I may end up cutting them down more in the future, especially after seeing how deep the inside of the leg is cut on this one... probably more comfortable as well. I don't want to cut parts that are already painted, and it's tough to get stuff symmetrical... but if it bothers me when I wear it, I'll cut em down more. (PS, I don't consider this a spoiler because it's been more than a week since this episode, and his Black Series leaked months ago). 4. The back/chest armor was rubbing/transferring onto the barrel where it overlaps. So I started lining the bottom lip of the pieces with sheets of adhesive craft foam to cut down on the rubbing! 5. I still need to finalize the shoulder bridge mounting... I ended up cutting a few extra ridges off after confirming the number visible from some reference photos. I also put a bit of a step into the area where I'll epoxy them in (after paint and clear again), so that they sit pretty nicely. They should be better now and bring the back panel up a bit. They're due for paint with the helmet and belts soon... soon... I also removed one of the aluminum shoulder supports that was slightly crooked, re-epoxied it in, added some extra epoxy around the mounts, then sprayed them white again. I also decided to change the color of the support tabs to black so that they're less noticeable. Painting the shoulder bridges and gluing them in the front should be all that's left in this area. 6. I still need to finish gloss white and clear on a couple of items... but the big one is the helmet. I've been putting it off, honestly out of fear of messing it up again, but I've been researching and trying to perfect my painting technique. Or at least make it passable haha Before I do my final coat of paint, I wanted to address two remaining issues... First is the bump in the (wearer's) right eye, a detail I'll blame @Parquette for confirming and having find its way into the CRL at L3. If I'm gonna do it, now's the time, so I started trying to add it in with a little Bondo. I don't love it (I dig the cleaned up symmetrical style) and don't want it to be super noticeable, but don't anyone say it's not there. I also noticed an extremely slight low spot that I wanted to fix (now or never), so we'll see how it looks after more wet sanding. I think that's about it for now. Stuff I have left? - The helmet... just a lot of stuff with the helmet. - The shins - with the success of the forearms, I may set them up with magnetic closures as well, or probably half magnet, half velcro. I also need to reinstall the sniper knee that I removed and add a spacer to lean it forward - it was tipped too far back and was hitting the thigh too aggressively. Will also likely add some craft foam to the back of it (and the belts). - The belts - need paint and to have the belt boxes, drop boxes, and thermal detonator mounted. I did purchase hardware for them tho - some cool screws that have washers built in. The plan is to use a little E6000 in addition to screwing directly into them, then cover the screws with some more craft foam. Whole thing mounts with magnets and a little velcro. - The thermal detonator - I'll probably paint the gray at the same time as the helmet details, then mount it. - The shoulder bridges - still need to be painted and glued on, but otherwise the chest/back is done, as are the arms and most of the legs. I'm getting there! More updates soon. I'm legit trying to have this submitted by the end of the year. Then on to other projects next year

Great choice to make, not only investing in your health but at the same time getting the added bonus of looking and feeling just like the Troopers on screen Here’s a little something to get you going, I recommend looking up the site for more inspirational workouts

Nearly a week ago a special Command Staff member hit a noteworthy milestone of 10,000 posts here on FISD. On a daily basis he can be found expertly guiding new recruits on their journeys to the 501st or assisting veterans seeking the ranks of EI and Centurion. No doubt this Trooper's diligent contributions at the Detachment and Garrison levels have had a significant impact on a great many of us. Hitting 10,000 posts is no simple accomplishment, especially when they are as detailed and constructive as those by this member, and such a remarkable number is indicative of a consistent presence and immeasurable value to the community. Though he would never seek acclaim for his tireless commitment to the motto "Troopers Helping Troopers," his dedication to that cause is worthy of acknowledgement and thanks from us all. So, a big heartfelt THANK YOU to Joseph "@justjoseph63" Pedigo, TK-10963. You are a true asset to FISD and the 501st, and your abundant generosity and passion will continue to be inspiring to all of us! Here's to many more helpful tutorials, flexible hand guards, and removed return edges!

The first thing you will need to decide is which costume you want to go with. ANH Stunt, ANH Hero, ESB, ROTJ, FO, etc.. So many acronyms to choose from lol! After that, you choose your armorer. Going with one of the "vetted" sellers (located here) is your best bet. Trust me. Tim has a great step-by-step guide here. As for building it yourself or having it commissioned, both have their pros and cons: Build it yourself- I won't lie, it's a lot of work. But, you have the advantage of custom tailoring it more to your size. I always suggest starting a build thread here where you can post lots of photos and ask all the questions you want to! Plus, if you do have an issue down the road you can fix it yourself. It's quite rewarding actually, and even if you don't have a background (most of us didn't) in this sort of thing you have an entire Detachment ready and willing to help. Commission build- It saves you the vast majority of the work of course, but on occasion some of the pieces may not fit correctly or the way you like and have to either be taken apart and re-done or replaced. Soft goods- You will need boots, and under suit, holster, canvas belt, neck seal etc. Some armorers supply some of these but most don't so you will need to check with whoever you choose. I have a thread here which will help. Just know that all your questions are welcome (and encouraged) here on the FISD. With our help, you'll be a shiny white spaceman before you know it!

Great to hear you are aiming high from the start. A great thread full of info can be found here Also when in doubt check the "Gallery Sections" and also some of the Centurion applications Good luck with the research.

Hey thanks everyone! Appreciate the warm welcome and looking forward to starting the adventure. The nice thing is that I’ve lurked CRLs and even WhiteArmor for quite a while - so I have some idea of what’s what. What I don’t have is a clue on the particulars or really where to begin. I’m pretty agnostic on build vs buy. What I do want to do is shoot very high from the very beginning - I’m happy to spend a lot more time and love to end up with a really nice suit. Any pros/cons that might not be obvious to a rookie? Might help me decide between scratch/kit/etc!

There are indeed, same as on the R1 armor, you can just see it in the image below

I appreciate it! Yea, it's a little too high, but worse, the suspenders are maxed out, so I can't bring it down if I wanted to (and I do). Bringing the back up by shortening the bridges should help too. I trimmed a couple inches off the barrel top already, so I've got the new suspenders on order. Yep, I'm going to add a side strap as well, but waiting on deciding how I'm going to attach them to my garter belt first, so I can get the angle right. Idk if I should sew em, use Velcro, snaps, or what. I did add the snaps to the thigh drops tho, so this should give you a feel for what it'll end up like. This is the left side.