justjoseph63

DANG YOU, Jesse! I have completed 3 DD resin builds, getting more accurate each time (with Tino's kits) but you have inspired me to start another one! BTW, if it helps, Danny (Ripper_L) has just updated the photos on the E-11 Blaster Reference thread, which should really come in handy. https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/32111-fisd-e-11-blaster-reference/

If you are looking for gloves that will not only fit well, but "breathe", I suggest these: ebay The palms are leather, but the backs are cloth. This allows you to glue any sort of (latex or silicone) hand guards on and has the advantage of the wrist being extra long which prevents them from slipping out from underneath your forearm.

Just a note to let folks know that you can get an RS props full commision set of armor for just about the same price: http://www.rspropmasters.com/product/complete-stormtrooper-commission-2/ The wait time is 6 to 8 weeks, but the accuracy and quality are leaps and bounds better. Also, RS is pretty much built to Centurion level right out of the box.

2 words for this build, Frank... "Lil' Centurion"! (Like father, like son). You should both hit Zoo Boo there in Royal Oak this October!

Doesn't look as if there's much, (if any) left. I would steer clear of a heat gun unless you have experience using one, as those can reach temperatures of 1200 degrees and turn ABS into molten plastic faster than you think. I would go with the boiling water bath method to widen them a bit. It takes more time but you have more control.

I just PM'd him about that, LOL, and the fact that the armor could use a little "dirty love". Looking forward to having another HWT in the ranks!!!

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. How do I find one in my area? These are normally posted on your local Garrison or Squad websites, usually in the "New recruits" or Events area. If you have any questions, you can ask the board admins for your local unit. A list of all Garrison/Squad/Outposts can be found here: http://www.501st.com/members/displayUnits.php You may also have a local Imperial Attache that you are welcome to PM. A complete list can be found here: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/38483-fisd-imperial-attache-list/ 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 and offer advice. 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 if you are at that stage. 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 (alcohol), please be responsible. 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. You may also want to enquire about where to park. 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. When it's over.. Remember to thank your host, as well as those who helped you, and PLEASE offer to assist in the clean-up afterward. It's the right thing to do. HOSTING AN AP If you wish to host an Armor Party, I highly recommend it. A Saturday or Sunday afternoon of camaraderie with fellow (and future) TKs can make for a great time, and is REALLY appreciated by those who need help with their build or have questions. So how do I do it? 1. Determine what type of space you have and how many people you can accommodate. Some use a garage, basement or patio, as long as there is shade (summer) or heat (winter). You will also need multiple electric outlets for tools, as well as sufficient tables, chairs and hopefully a workbench of some sort. 2. Ask the senior TKs, EIs and Centurions in your Squad/Garrison if they can commit to attend and help out with build questions. You really can't have too much white-armor knowledge at these events. Having one or more experienced FO TKs will definitely help. 3. Check with your neighbors. These events very rarely get loud, but parking may be a concern. 4. After you have determined that you are good to go, post up the information on your local 501st site (and FB if you have that). Be sure to give all the details you can in the post, including day, date, begin/end time, food/drink/alcohol/kid/pet/parking policy and if there is a limit on how many people you can accommodate. Don't forget the address/directions to your house! You may also want to provide an alternate date in case in inclement weather. 5. Have a laptop or computer online and at the ready with the FISD site available. This will help with any technical info. 6. Be prepared to answer the same questions over and over. These folks are depending on and will appreciate your knowledge. 7. If you get the chance, take lots of photos and post them up here! If you have any suggestions/additions for this, please feel free to post up below, or if you have any questions about hosting or attending please feel free to PM me.

Please keep us informed of your progress, Tony. I would be interested in finding out how it goes.

Definitely adding this to my "Followed content" to use as a reference for those who need it. Great job, Kalani!

GREAT work so far, Sha Sha! You have done a spectacular job showing that armor who's the boss, LOL. I'm sure it was just temporary for the photos, but be sure that the top of the ABS belt slightly overlaps the bottom of the ab button panel. Here is a screen cap from ANH that shows it: If you need more split rivets just let me know and I'll get em' to you no charge.

Congrats, Matt... now onto Centurion, Trooper! If you would like your EI certificate, here is the link: https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/40769-request-your-eib-certificate-here/

Really nice job on those fixes, Ross! I think the only photo you are missing is one of your wrist openings. See you at Centurion soon!

If you look closely, the calves are on the wrong legs and you can see it just below the ammo thigh pack. Looks as if the costume folks missed their morning coffee, lol.

Looks great, Steven! I swear by the thigh garter system, and it's so danged easy to put on. Really nice job on that build, and I believe you could get to EI and Centurion without much effort. One thing I see that jumps out is the 4 button panel on the ab plate. Depending on how you attached it (hopefully E-6000) it should be removed and trimmed flat, like the ANH screen used one in the photo below. Although not an approval issue, you can trim down or (even completely remove) the return edge on the inside of the thigh tops. Some folks find that it can chafe, especially on longer troops. Best of luck on your approval!

When it comes to Christmas parades, all bets are off! We did these for the Clermont (FL.) parade last year, and this year we are doing elves. Always nice to change things up a bit for the holidays.

I thought the same thing, but if you look closely it appears that the top of the inside half got tucked under the box on the ABS belt during this shot.

Looking great, John, and fantastic to hear that you are building with Centurion in mind! Definitely a nice job on that Plasti Dip, and it was a wise idea to sand it down before applying it. You could probably open up those teeth a bit more... below is a detail pic of a screen used ANH-S bucket. Keep up the great work!!

* "I hit a bird once"... * (This one is kind of dark, and not a response for kids) "Ask Luke's aunt and uncle about that".

WOW, Tara! That is one fantastic AP build there, and I'm sure this will be an easy pass for your EIB. (It's always nice to see such awesome attention to detail). On the forearm photo, (detail below) is that the wrist opening? If so, I would suggest trimming it down to match the one seen in the second photo below. After your EI approval, I see a Centurion badge under your name as well in the very near future! GREAT JOB!

People are asking for money, as in soliciting?

I don't think you will have a problem there, Matt! Or HWT..

On it's way tomorrow, John.

I personally removed most of it from the elbow side, leaving about 1/4 inch. Otherwise (depending on the thickness of your arm) it can pinch a bit when you bend your arm.

Looking great, Matt! SUPER nice jobs on those shims, sir. (Looks like those boots have a LOT of trooping time)! LOL

Any kind of dark colored screen (window screen) can be used, John, but I recommend the fiberglass type and not the metal type. If you need a piece just let me know and I will mail you one free of charge. PM me if interested.