ATA (ABS) vs. T/MC

[Darth Sigurd]

Hi all,

 

I am currently looking at these two kits and wanted to ask which one is the most accurate and by how much. ATA is $150 cheaper but the wait list is 9 weeks longer. I have heard nothing but good things about the two, but would love some insight from the forum to help make a decision. I am 5'11, 160 lbs.

 

Thanks!

 

Chris

[Tray[TK]]

I wish I new more about the ATA. I own and sell the T/MC.

[tkrestonva[TK]]

I think the difference is much less between the two kits, and much more in how you build them - something completely under your control. Both are sized for screen-accurate sized individuals like yourself, and both can be built to Centurion standards right out of the box.

 

It really comes down time vs money and which is more important to you - pay the extra $$$ to get a T/MC now, or wait the extra weeks to get the ATA later.

[TK bondservnt[501st]]

there is a difference in appearance due to the type and thickness of plastics used.

slight but subtle.

[gazmosis[501st]]

I am just finishing an ATA kit now...if someone wants to send me a TM, I would be happy to give a build comparison....tee hee

[TK-4510[501st]]

The T/MC is a recast of the old GF molds. The ATA is a recast of the old TE/CAP molds. Although both are derived from the same original ROTJ molds they have been altered in different ways to be more accurate by their owners to appear to me ANH. Both kits are a little softer than their earlier generations, however that is not a big factor. ATA armor is a little thinner than T/MC but I think thats a GOOD thing. The ATA armor will appear a tiny bit more angular than the T/MC. The T/MC follows a more accurate line in its shape but is smoother. Both sellers are reputable. I dont know about prices, but I hear that the ATA is very low cost. Because both kits are screen derived they can be a challenge to assemble for the novice. Panels and such will not always line up when putting the armor together. Thats the nature of the beast. There are many builds on this forum for both kits. Both kits are specifically made for someone 5'10" tall and about 150-160 lbs, Enjoy the journey!

[Darth Sigurd]

So ATA will have a little more detail and T/MC is a little less likely to crack because of the thickness of the plastic, but neither is a major trump over the other? From the few samples of finished T/MC armor, it seems to be "shorter" and "wider". Maybe that is what you meant by angular. Is this my imagination, is it just a coincidence that the wearers were built that way, or is there something to it?

 

I am leaning toward T/MC because my local Garrison is doing an armor party on the 25th and because I have 9 days off for Spring Break one week later. I would like to be finished by mid June if possible. I will keep up the research and make a decision by the end of the weekend. Thanks for the input.

[bobojuice]

ATA uses 2mm abs, not sure what MonCal uses, but I have had no problems with cracking on either of our ATA ABS suits. The HIPS, now that's a different story.

[Tray[TK]]

I know this is way late in the discussion but T/MC armor is made with .090 ABS.