Hermanator

I'm planning an ESB trooper, and I see that Silk & Satin materials are Centurion approvable. I imagine that a tightweave pair of Lycra gloves, such as Under Armour material, could pass also. Does anyone have a suggestion on a comfortable pair of ESB gloves in Lycra? I prefer to avoid Silk for trooping, since it piles easily, such as on velcro. XS Scuba makes a pair, but the cuff doesn't come down very far. Under Armour makes a few pairs, but the only one that is lacking seams is the Coldgear Liner Gloves - and they have a silicone grippy surface on the palm. I read a review that said the grippy surface isn't durable enough, so I may buy a pair and try to strip the grippy surface off.

Cool!! Since you didn't mention how you're going to build the receiver tube, I just want to make sure: You are aware of the legalities of this correct? The gun is currently in a deactivated state, but if you go putting it back together... you can get in a whole heap of trouble, if you don't deactivate it correctly.. since it's a serialized SMG.

If I went with a deactivated one, I'd probably go with the latter. I'm going with an ESB blaster without the hengstler and cylinders, so it's basically just an L2A3 with a scope and t-tracks. I may end up going this route, but I'm still hoping to find an aluminum build somewhere for the lighter weight. Thanks for the links!!

Thanks all. The aluminum one made in germany is pretty much what I am looking for. Not sure if they are still being made. The unique caines are made with l2a3 parts kits (steel and plastic). Steel makes for a heavy rifle, and an aluminum replica would quickly drop the weight in half and be capable of maintaining most of its strength and all of its original appearance. I may end up trying to make one based on the tutorial here, but I prefer to buy one if possible. I will consider the hyperfirm, but I would still prefer an aluminum build. Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk 4

I would love to have a metal, screen-accurate E-11, preferribly aluminum and ESB style. I originally considered a deactivated L2A3, but I figured that it would raise too many red flags at Conventions and public events. I have seen several posts on the forums regarding metal scratch-builds, and a few older posts where runs were made. What are my best options for a metal E-11 or L2A3 replica? I know about the Asahi airsoft gun (though I don't know where to get one), R2Dan's friend that made a couple runs, and a couple of the scratch builds here on the forum. Outside of that, I don't know where to go. I would appreciate any suggestions on where to go. I am fine with some modifications. Also, any suggestions on a canvas belt that can hold a 5+ pound blaster without sagging? I'm estimating the weight of an aluminum E-11 with electronics. Thank you all!!

Omg... I want your esb TM kit lol... So nice!!!! Great work on it man

Is this bucket with bubble lenses approvable for 501st ESB, since there was the one trooper? 501st CRL only states flat lenses. I ask because I wouldnt mind having one, but want it to meet CRL

Wow this summary couldnt be stated better. The photo collage really helps show the differences, especially in the width of the torso armor and helmet. How do you like your TM ESB? That is a lot like the style I was leaning towards.

Rick330, this is EXACTLY the type of review I was looking for. Thank you so much for your detailed review and critiques of the armor. The cool factor of the RS amazes me, but I think the TM would line up more with my hobby uses. Especially since Does anyone have a similar comparison with ATA and TM? I know theres going to be differences, since TM has spent sooo much effort over time in improvement. Its just hard to take that plunge bcuz its twice as much as my Mando armor and Revan armor. Though I certainly understand the expense due to demand and time invested. You guys have helped so much!!

I have deciced to go with stunt armor, not hero. Leaning towards ESB, if these makers can make the handguards and whatnot.

Thank you all! The original thread is useful for getting you in the ballpark of which to order, but didnt quite explain why you might want one maker over another. They all look great. Wasnt sure if TM or RS offered a lot more accurately detailed kit than ATA, or not. It sounds from this thread like the end product is not all that different, except for color, hero bucket, cost, material, and lineage. Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk 4

I am a new trooper in Florida, interested in trooping outdoors and indoors. TM and RS armor both catch my eye, but my squadmate recommended ATA for the cost savings. What are the primary differences in the armor kits, aside from color, cost, wait time, shipping, and how the molds were made? Obviously each one has its differences.. But I am too new to really notice the minute differences. I would appreciate any help or side by side photos. However, I would like to build it to Centurion, or at least EIB, standards with minimal cost and effort. Thank you!

Extremely helpful posts! I am deciding between TM abs, RS abs, RS pvc, and ATA abs atm. My main concern with ABS is yellowing in the sun here in sunny FL. I would like to wear the suit as long as it fits, and would like to wear it outdoors in the sun. I am ok with spray painting it every few years if needed, but prefer not to. I imagine cracks are more noticeable than a layer of paint though.

Thank you! He replied pretty quick.

What is the best way to get in touch with TM for pricing and availability? I havent seen any past armor run posts in the For Sale areas, and I sent him a PM. Still awaiting a response, Im sure hes busy. Anyone mind PMing me details on how to get in touch, or at least the price of a full kit? Thanks!

Ooh and is CFO a specific maker, or a generic term?

Nice!! Are Anh hero, esb hero, or rotj helmets hard to find or a lot more expensive? Is the rotj helmet a lot easier to move in with it being smaller?

I'm in the same boat as the original poster. Didn't wasn't to create a new post. What are the major differences in the four different kits, and which ones are recreated most accurately by prop makers? Also, which are going to fit best (helmet included) for someone 5'10, 160 lb, 39" chest, 19" shoulders? The armor and helmet fitting well with better maneuverability and accuracy is more important to me than a particular style. Thank you!!