Hey all, I am new to the world of trooper costuming and have been doing a lot of reading here on the boards about the different armor makes and materials. Based on what I have seen so far I would probably be better off going with an ABS kit. I usually take care of everything I own, but as this will be my first build I want to go with the most durable option and not risk tearing up something made from styrene. This of course still leaves me with several options. I am also a little taller than the 'idealized' trooper height at 6'-1" and 180lbs but from what I understand on that issue, it is more a matter of how the stuff is put together than specific size for each armor.
I know that FX is the most common armor type in the 501st as well as big enough for my frame and, from what I gather, it is also the most economical with an option to go headless and find a better helmet elsewhere.
Then there is the AP which has been said to be one of the most accurate, but is probably more expensive and might be a harder fit for my frame. Also read a few things about it being a more difficult assembly in some instances.
I have also read a bit about RT-Mod and TM who both seem to have more fans than FX and are workable for my size though they are both produced outside of the US. I understand that these are not as accurate as the AP since they are not cast from originals, but still are very good.
The one thing I have absolutely no idea about is the financial burden of having a more accurate armor setup. I know this is not a cheap hobby, but if it is within reason I would like to go for the best setup possible. I am aware that no one can just post prices in here, but if someone could PM me with a general ballpark figure it would probably help me narrow it down a bit more. Even if you can point me in the direction of someone to contact for this info it would be greatly appreciated. Sorry, if this thread is in violation of any board rules, I'm trying not to while still getting the info I set out for.
Thanks for any help you can give.
-Sean