Daetrin

Canvas covered is acceptable. The goal of Elite was never to be 100% movie accurate but instead to clarify, refine, and elevate many of the details that are not in the 501st requirements, with requirements that are readily achievable (IMHO we're easier and cheaper to get than MEPD Police Officer or Lancer status). At the we thought canvas covered would be fine as it may be an easier upgrade for all the FX folks, never realizing that everyone until now just opts to get a canvas belt from the start. Actually I think a canvas covered belt is fine - the argument isn't against the belt but how it's rigged, but I can see how since everyone else has just opted for canvas in the past there may be a need to remove the "canvas covered" (though it will not affect your application). I can understand the frustration with the belt but looking at the past 47 submissions this is a comparatively minor nit. Also, given the number of UKG folks on this board I'm sure someone can procure you and forward on an SDS belt if needed, though as mentioned getting one from TE2 or AP would be fine as well. You're so close brother! Just that and the blaster and you are golden.

You're right Chazz - I must have grabbed the wrong photo back in the day. I'll have to update that as soon as I can break away from visiting relatives.

If it's computer intensive I'd say get the laptop. Much easier to work from home then schlep over to a computer lab. This hobby will always be here, and can be a suck hole for cash.

3 more to go! Who's next? We're almoooossst there...

You could try using photobucket or similar - would love to see what you're describing.

I think we just need to see the butt plate split better, but I've not had coffee yet. I'd suggest trying to cinch the side gaps a little closer. The shim job looks excellent IMHO and much better than adding a slab of plastic in between. Some day I'd suggest getting some RT thighs as they'll better fit a guy your size, but this won't affect Elite. Now, let's see what Scott says!

Congrats Tony! A tip to the wise - a blaster is a great negotiator in getting scanner techs to do cleanup duty... ;-)

From me and mine, a very Merry Christmas to all FISD members.

Awesome work - conrats! FISD membership updated - check out the jacuzzi behind the blast doors Can't wait to see your Elite app next

Dude, that is one nice lid! Wish mine looked half as nice.

You look docking bay ready to me Lou. You wear the armor well.

Wow Tony - not sure if having the DO being in your garrison is more of a help or the guy will be more of a stickler to detail. I'm sure he just wants to ensure you'll *shine*

Thanks everyone. When I started this detachment I had a dream of a place where people can go to celebrate the stormtrooper costume. It is my #1 favorite since I first saw them burst through the door of the blockade runner in 1977 when I was an impressionable lad who had just had his 9th birthday two days prior. I had thought that even if FISD was no larger than 20 members I'd be happy, and look where we are now? My hats off to each and every one of you who's contributed even a single post to this forum of ours.

Congrats to #46 - only four to go. Congrats also to the Nordic Garrison, and most of all to Lisa

Having owned both ABS and HIPS armor I will say that both are suitable for trooping. My HIPS TE2 is holding up just fine, though it's only been a year. That said, ABS will take abuse that HIPS just can't. I've played a few downs of football in ABS, something I would never dare to do in HIPS.

Yeah - Bill's suggestions are great but do not affect Elite application. I'd also raise the back plate up an inch to cover more of the neck. It's OK for the back and kidney to have no overlap. Great job all around

The only concern with CD's is them getting outdated, plus the cost to do them. I'd think having an online resource hosted here would be easier - it could then also be simple to update. Heck, that's really what this entire forum is about - and you can see how for most every topic there's always *something* new every few months.

Take the sizing with a grain of salt. I'm 6'0" 180lbs and had to trim a little bit on the sides, though one bicep/shin did need shimming. People as big as 6'4" have made TE look OK, and we've seen people here 5'4" in trimmed down FX that looked OK. Yes, each armor is made for a particular ideal size, but it's really all about the quality of the build job. What you do with your kit is as important as which kit you get. Also, while HIPS armor will not withstand the same abuse as ABS, it's fine for trooping IMHO after personally owning both.

And a Happy Hannukah as well

It's not hard really - just need a different bucket & hand plates are the biggies. You might be able to re-use the same belt, or else just get a different belt/holster rig. After that it's really just the blaster, though unless you care for Elite no one will notice the ammo counter. I'm surprised there are not more people doing both.

Agreed. There is no one best armor - it depends. Both are fantastic kits and honest sellers and you can't go wrong with either.

Updated! Welcome to being the low man on the totem pole Nathan ;-) Also, need your last name for the Elite page.

Actually that's how all ANH helmets go on. I think only the FX let's you not do this.

Just waiting on Scott...

Which part of taking it on/off? I found that much can be made easier by opening up the neck a little bit.