Hello from Laguna Hills, CA

[Alk3fan]

Hi folks! I've been lurking around the forums over the last month and finally reaching out to say hello. I love the idea of joining a community in which I can have some particular fun volunteering and hopefully make some people smile along the way. But also who doesn't want to wear some Star Wars armor?

 

Despite the time in the forums, I'm still feeling pretty overwhelmed by the amount of information available. I've tried to narrow down my focus to finding a good kit. I've been leaning toward purchasing AP. While I sense the majority of people here would recommend building my own, I feel a little shame admitting I'm currently leaning toward a full built with the expectation to make some adjustments. I'm on the taller side of the kit at 6'1, but I'm still leaning that direction. Anyone have any thoughts or suggestions? 

 

Looking forward to chatting and trooping!

[Spadille[TK]]

Hi and welcome to the community!  
 

I can’t speak to any armor makers that have an assembled “tall” kit, but being 6’2” myself I feel I could at least share my experience when deciding on my armor.  Basically all I did was go through the EIB and Centurion submissions looking at the applicant’s height and then seeing what armor brand they used.  Although I personally wanted to build my armor, I decided to go with Troopermaster because they offered an “XL” shin variant that ended up giving an inch or two of added coverage on the leg.  
 

If I were to do it over, I would try to find a US vendor, but that is because I get really impatient when waiting for my BBB of armor when I’m itching to build 

 

Also, imho, building the armor isn’t actually all that hard after you finally bite the bullet and start cutting plastic.  In fact, it actually helps a lot with fitment as well as obtaining knowledge of construction methods in case you ever have to make repairs down the road… (you will have to make repairs down the road) so something to consider.

 

Good luck with your endeavor whichever route you take, but know there are plenty of folks here willing to help along the way! 
 

Edited June 22, 2025 by Spadille

[gmrhodes13[Staff]]

Hello and welcome, a lot of the general kits are for those under 6' but in saying that some makers supply longer shins. Don't just think about height but also girth, I've build AP in the past and found they are very narrow around the mid section, some needing to add shims to the sides.

 

Usually 6' and over I would recommend AM (DDD), thread here on the sizing, but do some research in the build thread area https://www.whitearmor.net/forum/forum/80-anh-build-threads/

 

 

 

It can help if you look through some of the build threads, many will post maker of armor as well as their size.

 

 

[Alk3fan]

Thanks for the insight! I heard TM was good for taller people. And someone I know recently got a TM kit and seems to really enjoy it.

 

I have the confidence I could build my own. I'm just thoroughly intimidated by the process and not sure how much time I want to spend stressing out about sizes and cutting lol. Maybe I need to focus on a piece at a time instead of trying to get a clear picture of all of it at once.

 

I've also since reached out to AM for their options as well. Maybe it would be safer to opt for a maker known for supporting taller troopers. 

 

Back to the forums and hopefully will make a decision soon. 

 

 

[justjoseph63[Staff]]

Hi Will, and welcome to the forums!

There are 2 schools of thought when it comes to armor:

 

Commission set-  Yep, it saves you a lot of work, and as long as you send the exact measurements to the builder you should be OK.  Know ahead of time though that it can take patience.. a sort of "hurry up and wait" scenario.  Some make their armor in batches and there may be a waiting list to construct it.  As for adjustments after you receive it, this is common.  The issues come when a piece is not large enough or you have to separate a glued area.  This can be tricky, but most issues are solvable.  It can also cost quite a bit.

 

Build it yourself-  To echo what has been said, building your own has more than a few advantages.  You will be able to custom fit it to your frame, as well as take pride in knowing what you have accomplished.

You will find that the vast majority of the folks here never attempted anything like building a set of armor (myself included) but with our help and a little patience I think you can do it!  We are here to assist you every step of the way, beginning to end, and we encourage any and all questions (no matter how small).

 

Either way, I wish you the best on your TK journey and look forward to seeing you here on the boards!

[MaskedVengeance[Staff]]

While I don’t currently have an AM kit myself, that’s definitely the route I hope to go for my next set of armor someday. Excellent quality; great for larger troopers. Plus, in my opinion, Dave has the best thermal detonator of all the American and Canadian armor makers.

I too had never built any armor and costumed before embarking on my own TK journey five years ago. I’m sure you can do it!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[justjoseph63[Staff]]

I'll second the quality of AM, and can promise you will get many years of enjoyment out of it.  It is made a little larger to accommodate a wide range of sizes but can be cut down to fit.  

[Alk3fan]

I spent another night trying to find the right kit for me. At the moment it’s really fun to get lost in the forums but I’m scared that will change if I DIY. Despite small experience prop making, I’m concerned on BBB day I’ll just be too overwhelmed to know where to begin. However I’m feeling more encouraged to consider that option after chatting with you fine troopers. 
 

I’m going to continue to look into AM a bit more. Despite being 6’1, I’m not particularly big. It might be a good option. 

Edited June 24, 2025 by Alk3fan

[Nairy[Staff]]

On 6/22/2025 at 7:13 PM, Alk3fan said:

I feel a little shame admitting I'm currently leaning toward a full built with the expectation to make some adjustments

Hello Will! Great to hear from you, and welcome! There is no shame in getting a commissioned kit! I think it is a case of people having loved the process and the pride that comes with building something that gets approved, and the control that you have over the small things (especially if you're aiming to rise in the ranks).

 

I commissioned my kit, mostly due to not having much space to work as I live in an apartment, but I did it knowing it would be wrong in some areas for Expert Infantry and Centurion, so I got to work on the kit when it arrived, and even I am proud of the little things I did (mostly proud of that I didn't cut my hands off, when having to cut off a glued sniper knee )

 

It is always harder to adjust something that is "completed"!

 

Great attitude already, spending time researching what would be best for you! There is no time limit!

[Nairy[Staff]]

1 hour ago, Alk3fan said:

I spent another night trying to find the right kit for me. At the moment it’s really fun to get lost in the forums but I’m scared that will change if I DIY. Despite small experience prop making, I’m concerned on BBB day I’ll just be too overwhelmed to know where to begin. However I’m feeling more encouraged to consider that option after chatting with you fine troopers. 
 

I’m going to continue to look into AM a bit more. Despite being 6’1, I’m not particularly big. It might be a good option. 

When you get your BBB, the best way to go about everything if you want to have your head in the game and not get lost is to create a build thread! We have members all across the globe and there is always someone awake that would be able to help you out on everything from verifying cut lines to how to paint your helmet! The forum will help you get all the way there to a completed suit of armor!

 

Example:

You: "Hey, I don't know where to cut! [attached image]"

Forum: "I would suggest this line [attached image]"

You: "I drew the with a pencil, is this what you mean? [attached image]"

Forum: "Yes exactly, looks good! "

 

That's what you can expect from a build thread! 

[gmrhodes13[Staff]]

2 hours ago, Alk3fan said:

I spent another night trying to find the right kit for me. At the moment it’s really fun to get lost in the forums but I’m scared that will change if I DIY. Despite small experience prop making, I’m concerned on BBB day I’ll just be too overwhelmed to know where to begin. However I’m feeling more encouraged to consider that option after chatting with you fine troopers. 
 

I’m going to continue to look into AM a bit more. Despite being 6’1, I’m not particularly big. It might be a good option. 

Just remember there is no rush and there is never enough research, take your time and you will know when it feels right to jump on the next step  

 

One other thing to consider is screen accuracy opposed to fan sculpt, it all comes down to what you want and how much you are willing to part with.

 

When asked how hard it is to build my reply is have you ever assembled a plastic model kit, it's just like that only the parts are bigger 

[Doggydoc[Staff]]

Hi Will, 

 

Welcome to FISD.  You have some great advice above.  Whatever route you choose to go, we will be here to help you on your journey.

 

 

[Tilheyra[IPM]]

On 6/23/2025 at 12:40 AM, Alk3fan said:

I have the confidence I could build my own. I'm just thoroughly intimidated by the process and not sure how much time I want to spend stressing out about sizes and cutting lol. Maybe I need to focus on a piece at a time instead of trying to get a clear picture of all of it at once.

 

Welcome!

 

Focusing on a piece at a time is how I completed my kit! It does feel intimidating, especially when everything is laid out in front of you, but developing a plan for completion is indeed the way you make incremental progress and bring your TK into reality.

 

As others have mentioned, research is key! Knowing the kit and the process of building it helps with making progress as well. Take the time you need and work at your own pace.

 

Ultimately, those who build their kits and those who commission their kits are all 501st Legion stormtroopers upon approval! 

[Shanester[TK]]

Welcome aboard!  You are taking your time and asking the right questions.  Good luck!

 

[TheRascalKing[TK]]

Hey @Alk3fan and welcome aboard!

@Oztrooper and I are your FISD Attaches for the Southern California Garrison, Orange County Squad and both certified Armorers, so please feel free to reach out to either of us with questions or in-person help if needed here or on Facebook Messenger, in addition to these forums. We should have a Squad Armor Party coming up next month in Orange, and I have a garage workshop in Placentia you're welcome to come check out. Stay tuned to the SCG Imperial Recruits page for more info.

 

We're all here to help! 

Edited June 24, 2025 by TheRascalKing

[Alk3fan]

I've really appreciated everyone taking time to welcome me and share advice about getting started. It's made the process a lot more accessible and put my mind more at ease to see how many people are willing to help. I'm really eager to get into a suit, but for the time being I'm going to continuing researching.

 

@TheRascalKing and @Oztrooper thanks for reaching out regarding the SCG for OC, CA! I'm stoked to hear of the armor party coming up. I've reached out to one of the reps via the FB and I hope to attend in a few weeks. I'd love to see some kits in person and get more visual understanding of the process before I commit to DIY or commission. Regardless of attending the party or not, I'm sure I'll reach out for advice one of these days. Thank you!

 

I hope to follow up here shortly with news on a kit so I can transition to a build thread :)

 

Thanks again to everyone - I've really enjoyed the advice and kindness!

[gmrhodes13[Staff]]

"Troopers, helping troopers" 

[Alk3fan]

Hope those of you in the states have a safe and happy 4th. 
 

I saw that KeepTrooping is currently open for shoes. Was curious if anyone here had any particularly thoughts regarding? My research says to get a size larger. I’m typically 10.5 in boot and 11 in sneaker. It seems like 12 should be the way to go knowing I can add inserts but I do love to feel more form fitting feeling. Anyone have additional suggestions for the latest batch? 

 

Thanks for the help!

[gmrhodes13[Staff]]

Hope you are having a great July 4th weekend.

 

From what many have said it's wise to go 1/2 a size up as they can run a little tight, I've never purchased from them, luckily my TK boots have lasted very well, shame they are no longer available. 

[TheRascalKing[TK]]

1 hour ago, Alk3fan said:

Hope those of you in the states have a safe and happy 4th. 
 

I saw that KeepTrooping is currently open for shoes. Was curious if anyone here had any particularly thoughts regarding? My research says to get a size larger. I’m typically 10.5 in boot and 11 in sneaker. It seems like 12 should be the way to go knowing I can add inserts but I do love to feel more form fitting feeling. Anyone have additional suggestions for the latest batch? 

 

Thanks for the help!

 

Get the 12 and some Dr. Scholl's 

[justjoseph63[Staff]]

1 hour ago, TheRascalKing said:

 

Get the 12 and some Dr. Scholl's 

 

You beat me to it, Justin!  Their boots will last many, many years (trust me) but as mentioned their sizing runs a bit on the small side.  

Side note:  Since they are made from leather, I suggest an inexpensive boot/shoe stretcher to keep them in shape between troops.  

 

re: the Armor party, I would definitely attend and ask lots of questions.  Bring your armor if you can, but even if you don't it's a great chance to learn and meet some of the folks you will be trooping with.

I have a thread here that may help.

[DohF4[TK]]

On 7/4/2025 at 8:21 PM, Alk3fan said:

Hope those of you in the states have a safe and happy 4th. 
 

I saw that KeepTrooping is currently open for shoes. Was curious if anyone here had any particularly thoughts regarding? My research says to get a size larger. I’m typically 10.5 in boot and 11 in sneaker. It seems like 12 should be the way to go knowing I can add inserts but I do love to feel more form fitting feeling. Anyone have additional suggestions for the latest batch? 

 

Thanks for the help!

I just received mine. Hopefully, my data points are not too late. If so, maybe others can benefit from them.

 

Shoe sizes are always painful for me since I seem to have a different size with every manufacturer.

Fortunately, I picked the right ones with KeepTrooping and they fit perfect.

 

Ok, here we go:

I am a European 44.

In Adidas I can wear a snug US10 or loser 10.5.

I am a 11M in Johnston and Murphy boots.

11 US in Brooks running shoes.

315mm in Technica ski boots.

 

I ordered a 11US 45EU 421 and it fits perfect.They are very snug and maybe a little bit long. Meaning I could have probably gotten away with a 10.5US for length but there is no way a 10.5 would have fit me because they would have been to narrow.

 

I think 1 size up if you use EU sizes is a good call.

The US sizes seem pretty close to true fit but they are narrow.

 

In general the shoes feel and look great. I am thinking of attaching velcro so the shin armor stays in place. I also need to put the shins higher than desired on the boots since I am 6.2 tall. If I slide the shins all the way down I create a big gap by the knees. I rather have the shins sit high (which is not that much noticeable since it is white over white) than the large black gap by the knees.

 

Hope this helps.

Good luck with the shoes.

Edited July 13, 2025 by DohF4

[Alk3fan]

@DohF4 - thanks so much for the thorough breakdown. Really glad they fit so well for you! I ended up ordering the 12’s before I saw your comment, so we’ll see how it goes. 

 

I wanted to take a moment and thank @TheRascalKing and any others that might have been at the OC armor party yesterday. I was amazed at the warm welcome I experienced here in the forums but feeling it first hand with a bunch of strangers in person was really special. Thank you for all the good vibes and knowledge sharing. I’m more eager than ever to determine my kit and get trooping.
 

Hope to catch up and meet more of you fine folk soon!

[TheRascalKing[TK]]

It was great meeting you and talking TKs! OC is a great Squad and you have plenty of resources to reach out to if needed. 

[Alk3fan]

Happy Saturday gang. Hope everyone is doing well.

 

I'm trying to learn a bit more about the Denuo Novo kit. Couple questions:

- I see that it's 3d scanned from an original. Does this version eliminate the warts on the helmet?

- Are the straps and mounts that are included helpful or do I need to replace them?

- Are the included instructions helpful?

- I think I was told the belt will need upgrading?

- Besides under armor suit, shoes (purchased), neck piece, electronics (fans, voice changer, hearing assistance) blaster and potentially belt... are there any additional pieces/expenses I should expect with this kit? (flexible hand armor?)

 

Thanks as always!

Edited July 20, 2025 by Alk3fan