justjoseph63

You definitely got a great set of armor with AM.. (I use it as my main armor and it is built like a tank). Unfortunately AM doesn't make replacement parts, so take your time. As I mentioned before, if you have questions during your build, just ask. We are here to help. You may have a few "oops" moments, but there is almost nothing that can't be fixed.

True story. It was only featured in a few promo shots. There really are no rules against it, and some Troopers like the look, but for screen accuracy (which I hope you will be aiming for) it is not needed.

Due to the fact that the areas that they are applied to are not really handled a lot, I don't think a clear coat needs to be added. Plus, some clear-coat products can yellow over time, especially when exposed to sunlight extensively.

Congrats on Big Brown Box day, Frank! I know what you are thinking right now... You wait and wait on your kit and then when it arrives you tear into it like a kid at Christmas... that's when the terror sets in. "Holy cow.. I have to put this thing together"? Not to worry, brother. There are literally hundreds of Troopers to help you out and dozens of fantastic build threads you can follow. Hopefully you have all the build supplies you will need on hand. For a complete list, here is a thread that may help: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/31404-supply-list-for-your-tk-build/ The best thing to do is decide on a place that you will be assembling it. Someplace (hopefully) quiet where you can keep all the parts together in one area. An outside area for letting the E-6000 glue dry is recommended. (It can be pretty noxious). A lot will depend on the strapping system you decide on. There is the "classic" (brackets) or the "snap" (preferred by many). An awesome build thread can be found here: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/35086-ukswraths-anovos-tk-build/ The biggest thing though comes down to a few things: 1. This is not a race. Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. (Take your time). 2. Measure twice (3 times) cut once. 3. Research, research, and a little more research. (Study the build threads). 4. When in doubt, ask before moving ahead. 5. Start your own build thread. You can (and should) ask as many questions as you want there. We are here to help you every step of the way, and posting photos will help immensely if you should have any difficulty. (We LOVE photos). 6. Remember that many of us had no experience building armor and were in your shoes (boots) once. 7. There is no such thing here as a "silly" or "inane" question. We truly want you to succeed and become a part of the FISD family, and will assist you wherever we can. 8. Hopefully you are thinking about taking your armor to the highest level, (Centurion). Aiming toward this is easier during your build rather than after, and I promise you it's not as difficult as you think (and well worth the effort). Here is some more info. on that: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/35371-eib-and-centurion-what-do-these-terms-mean/ Best of luck on your white armor journey!

Haha, ain't THAT the truth! The amount of talent out there truly amazes me, no doubt. Do I sense a T-shirt in the works?

For those in the central Florida area, Gary (Flashpoint0214) will be hosting another epic AP on Saturday, Nov. 11th from noon until 8-9 p.m. If you are starting (or in the middle of) a TK build, or just want more information on the 501st, build techniques, etc. you are more than welcome! If you've never been to an AP, here is an excerpt from my Armor Party 101 thread: Posted September 17 You may have heard the term "Armor Party" mentioned here, and wondered exactly what that means. While these are not "official" 501st or FISD events, below is some basic information which may be helpful for those who would like to either attend or host one. Goals These events are aimed for those who are beginning or are in the process of building a set of TK armor. There will be approved Troopers there who have been there-done that and will help you with any questions or problems you may encounter. However... if you have not received or even ordered your kit you are more than welcome (and encouraged) to attend. These are "judgement free" zones, so no matter how strange or inane you think your questions may be (or how many you have) we have heard them all, and are here to assist you. You will also get to meet the future friends you will be eventually trooping with. Supplies "I have my kit, so what else should I bring"? 1. I would start with a spiral notebook and a pen. This way you can write down any questions you may have before you get there, as well as take notes and contact information. Bring these items even if you don't have your armor yet. 2. Many hosts may have some supplies on hand, but what stage of your build you are in will determine what you will need. I suggest bringing a Dremel tool (with accessories), clamps, magnets, E-6000, sandpaper, a pencil, etc. When in doubt, bring everything you have. A complete list can be found here: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/31404-supply-list-for-your-tk-build/ 3. If you have them, bring your undersuit and boots. These will come in handy for fitting your armor. 4. If you have a laptop, bring it for FISD references. Food/Drinks While some hosts will supply snacks and water, some make a whole day event (or a barbeque) out of it. Ask your host in advance, and be prepared to bring your own water/soda/juice, snacks etc. Some hosts allow alcohol (usually BYO), some do not, so please respect their wishes. Again, check with the host before bringing it. Not to be a buzzkill, but I personally don't recommend drinking while using a razor knife or electric tools. Conduct 1. If you smoke or vape, please check with your host to see if there is an area where you can do this and not offend others who don't. 2. If you drink, please do it in moderation. 3. If you need to use someone else's tools or supplies, ask beforehand. 4. Please try to avoid bringing small children without checking with your host first. Sharp objects, flying ABS pieces and kids may not mix. Plus, they can get really bored. 5. The same goes for pets. 6. If you sign up to attend, please do so. 7. Please do not expect others to build your armor for you at an AP. They are here to help, not do it for you. I have heard of some who actually dropped their armor off and said "I'll be back later to get it". Needless to say it was left in the box untouched. For more information, here is a link to the post on the FLG site, and I hope to see you there! http://www.fl501st.com/boards/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=35904&p=561659#p561659

Great to hear that you are upgrading your Anovos strapping, Andy! There are a few options you can go with... one is the "classic" system, which uses brackets, elastic and nylon webbing, but you can also opt for the snap (or double snap) method. If you choose the classic system, Tony (ukswrath) has an incredible tutorial located here: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/35086-ukswraths-anovos-tk-build/ Here is a link to Mr.NoStripes' sales thread for the brackets: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/20859-accurate-anh-stormtrooper-strapping-brackets-v-20-now-available/ If you choose the snap method (most of us use this) you can follow his instructions as well for mounting the snaps, and here is a diagram (below) my buddy Jeff (wingnut65) came up with that may help. Please note that he uses the "double snap" system on it. Using two snaps in the areas shown will eliminate any chance of anything falling off during a troop. It costs a bit more in the beginning and takes a bit more time, but the results are well worth it, I assure you. Either way I would invest in a wood burning (soldering) tool. They are less than $20.00, and will make your life MUCH easier. You use it to make holes and seal the ends of the nylon webbing/elastic. https://www.lowes.com/pd/Weller-Electric-15-Piece-Wood-Burning-Kit/3402984

GREAT job on that, Paul! Another hint if I may add one is this: Before painting the blue on, hit the edges with a light coat of white paint and let it dry. This will seal any minute openings on the edges of the tape and prevent any bleed through of the blue, providing crisp. sharp lines. Fantastic work on the whole paint job, by the way, especially the vocoder!

Anovos' track record is so bad that they have been removed from the "vetted sellers" area for the time being. When they prove that they can process orders in a timely manner and vastly improve their communication skills I am sure they will be welcomed back. That may take a while, though. I doubt that since the kits are made overseas that they will be offering replacement parts of any sort in the future.

Sorry to hear about the AM damages! You may want to consider selling any pieces that are salvageable... AM does not provide spare parts, and there may be folks looking for them.

The old saying "A picture is worth a thousand words" applies in this case, Stephen. I am assuming you did the RS full commision, which should fit danged near perfect, as a 6 to 8 inch gap seems awfully wide. If you could post up some pics it would be really helpful, that way we can get you sorted out. I thought you were doing an AM 2.0 build! ?

Bump

I'm not sure what area Conway is in, but your best bet would be to get in touch with both Garrisons that are located in Arkansas, Christian, (links below). You will have to register/sign in and introduce yourself in the "new members" section, where you can ask which is closest. Some may have a contact person, and you can post your question on their boards. You should also introduce yourself here in the New Member Introductions thread: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/forum/5-new-member-introductions/. You can also ask any questions you want there. we are here to help! Diamond Garrison: http://ar501st.com/ Star Garrison: http://www.stargarrison.com/forums/forum.php

Your build thread has been epic, Sha Sha, and your attention to detail had paid off big time! Should be an easy pass, Trooper... then on to Centurion!

Here is a quick link to that section, Jacob: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/11538-the-various-types-of-armor-and-where-to-find-them/ Hopefully you are looking to join the 501st, and the armorers there all supply kits that can get you there. Just avoid any armor you may find on eBay or auction sites. If you have any questions, just ask!

Looking sharp, Aaron!! Are those snaps holding the holster? The CRL states that "Rivets, snaps, or Chicago screws" can be used, so you may be fine. If you want to change them out to Chicago screws I have an extra set I will send ya' no charge, just PM me. Don't forget to paint those ear screws!

For those who purchase one of the large Husky bins, here's a tip: When getting ready (before or after a troop) slide the handle out. The tray that comes inside fits perfectly in the opening, giving you perfect access to everything inside the bin and tray as well.

Great to hear that you are aiming for Centurion, Kevin! To reach that level, you will need flexible hand guards, but they must be attached to rubber gloves. For trooping in hotter climates like CA. a lot of troopers change to the nomex ones after approval. Instead of gluing the flexible guards to the rubber gloves you can attach them with Velcro, that way you can eventually Velcro (or glue) them to your Nomex ones. I suggest these type, which have a longer wrist so that it doesn't slip out from underneath your forearm armor: -------------- I sell the flexible guards if you need them, and they are 100% approvable at Centurion level. There is a link underneath my large avatar below to my sales thread, and if you have any questions, feel free to PM me.

Okay, Troopers, it's time for another contest! We are asking those of you with mad artistic/design talents to come up with the official FISD "EIB March to 1000" patch design. Here are the details: 1. The competition will begin Oct. 16th and will run until Nov.13th, at which time a poll will be opened so that everyone can vote on the design they like best. 2. There is no limit to the number of designs you can enter, and the shape can be round, chevron, etc. 3. You are welcome (and encouraged) to copy the E.I. logo at the bottom of this post to incorporate into your design. 4. All entries become the property of the FISD. 5. Winner will be announced in the December NL. The winner will receive a free patch of their design and 501st car decal along with some other cool swag, (including a set of Disney Imperial Binders) but most importantly, serious bragging rights! We are also working on an exclusive coin for EIs only to coincide with the patch, so if you are considering taking your armor to the next level now is the time to get those EI submissions in! E.I. logo: ---------

I assume you are looking to have that done on a local level, Todd. Have you tried signing up at your local Garrison's boards and seeing if there is someone near who could take that on? Here is a link to their (Garrison Tyranus) site: http://www.garrisontyranus.com/

I too have been having that issue with my AM armor, and also found it strange that it is mainly on the inside. I know there have been several products recommended by Troopers with yellowing problems, but I am going to try Armorwhite by Trooperbay as I have heard good things about it. https://trooperbay.com/trooperbay-armorwhite-plastic-whitening-gel

A lot of it depends on aesthetics, Andrew. Some prefer a cleaner, smoother look, and you could take some sandpaper to the edges no doubt, but a lot of the screen used ones had some issues as well. Below are 2 examples of screen used eye openings... kinda' rough to say the least. -----------

I also had to remove my ab button panel on my first build, and I did exactly as Q and Mike advised. I used an exacto knife (be reaalllly careful... trust me) and sliced through the glue a bit at a time, prying it gently with a popsicle stick as I went. Took all of 10 minutes if I remember correctly.

Randy is absolutely right about the return edge on the thigh tops. They are not a requirement for any level, and can not only shred your undersuit, but they can chafe the holy bejeezus out of your, uh.. let's just say "bathing suit" area, lol. Below is a photo of a set of screen used thighs. Notice no return edge.

Better late than never, Tom, and GREAT to hear that you are aiming for Centurion! Looks as if things are coming along nicely, and having a build thread is always advantageous because you can post photos (we love photos) and ask any questions you may have in the same place. Looking forward to your build and eventually seeing your EIB submission photos on your way to Centurion!