First time builder seeking tribal knowledge

[Doc]

Hey all, Doc here!

 

 

I just recently joined the forums and am excited become part of this community. This will be my first time tackling a project like this and like many other newcomers, I'm looking to learn from those who have gone before me. I realize there are plenty of threads out there focused on acquiring pieces for a R1 DT ensemble, where to buy, who is reputable, etc. Before I reach that stage, I wanted to get some input from members regarding the challenges of their first builds and how they overcame them. Namely,

 

1) What was your first 501^st build project?

 

2) What specific aspect(s) of the build posed unexpected difficulties?

 

3) Who/what were your most valuable sources of information utilized during your build?

 

4) What are some common pitfalls that newcomers such as myself often fall prey to when beginning their first build?

 

5) What would you do differently about your first build, knowing what you know now?

 

6) (Optional) Anything in particular about a R1 DT build that I should cognizant of in terms of complexity, fabrication, acquisition, etc? Since I have nothing to compare it to, I have no idea if this is a challenging first build or not.

 

I have no doubt that I will face my own challenges during my build but I feel it is best to minimize my own mistakes by learning from the mistakes of others. Thank you all in advance for your valuable insight and for allowing me to join this inclusive community.

 

Doc

[amcclary[TX]]

Welcome aboard.

 

I just completed my Death Trooper build a few months ago. One of the first 20 approved. I built almost everything myself in my shop and help others as well. Contact me through PM if you need a source for parts.

 

The Death Trooper is a complicated build but it's worth it. Start with studying the CRL (character reference library) on the costume your interested in. Get to know it real well because it will be your guide. There are also some Facebook groups which would be good to follow.

 

 

[Chaos[CMD-DCA]]

1) What was your first 501st build project?

 

I built a Shadow Stormtrooper (Blackhole Trooper)

 

2) What specific aspect(s) of the build posed unexpected difficulties?

 

Due to funding and sizing issues, I bought pieces and parts from various vendors. Most were brand new, but there were some pieces that were used and in need of repair. In hind sight, this helped me in future builds. I went thru a “trial and error†phase when building and repairing pieces for the build which made future repairs to my armor less stressful and more successful. Bondo, E6K, and sandpaper were my best friends. At some points during my build I had to fabricate a few parts to meet CRL requirements. All in all, it was the perfect environment to learn a lot about fabrication/modifications and painting techniques as I had to paint my entire armor to ensure that I had that matching high gloss black shine necessary for a Shadow Trooper.

 

3) Who/what were your most valuable sources of information utilized during your build?

 

I used this forum, the 501^st forum and several Facebook Groups (do a search in Facebook for Death Trooper and it will bring up all the groups. Google and YouTube will also be great tools for your toolbox.

 

4) What are some common pitfalls that newcomers such as myself often fall prey to when beginning their first build?

 

Most people don't do enough research before starting and during their build. It is imperative that you thoroughly know the CRL (as Andrew mentioned) and what type of material you are working with. Biggest mistake after the research is that people get in a hurry. Take your time and be patient! Measure twice three times, cut once! Never Give Up! There is always someone who is where you are at in a build and will have ideas and advice to help with your issues.

 

5) What would you do differently about your first build, knowing what you know now?

 

I probably would have saved longer and did more research before I pulled the trigger on buying my armor and helmet and bought my kit and helmet from a single vendor. Like I said earlier, in hind sight, my path actually helped me out, but it was frustrating at times.

 

6) (Optional) Anything in particular about a R1 DT build that I should cognizant of in terms of complexity, fabrication, acquisition, etc? Since I have nothing to compare it to, I have no idea if this is a challenging first build or not.

 

There are three or four (maybe more) DT vendors, each one's kits have their advantages and disadvantages. For instance, some of the 3D print vendors can tailor your pieces to your body size. Others have a more flexible material which withstands more abuse and is very forgiving if you make a mistake with a cut etc. Same with the helmet, soft parts, weapons etc. Do your research of these vendors, almost all meet CRL requirements but as with the armor each have minor differences. Price ranges vary as some charge more for their pieces because initially there were very few suppliers. As more people began supplying pieces and parts, prices became more reasonable. So, it's best to research and find the best product that meets your needs for the best price.

 

I am handy at fabrication, so I ended up making/modifying a few of my accessories simply because of the high prices or unavailability of parts.

 

I don't get into the debate over whose stuff is better because unless I had one of each vendor's kits to compare, it would be stupid for me to make that kind of statement. But I will tell you that I am happy with who/where I got my pieces and parts from and am very happy with my end results.

 

Here is the info for my build:

 

Armor and helmet – Jim Tripon

 

Helmet electronics – Disney DT Voice changer mask (the larger one) and fans I made from Radio Shack bought components.

 

Under suit and boot spats – Jim Tripon

 

Specialist add on (covers for chest rig) – Jim Tripon

 

Boots – Doc Martens Talib

 

Gloves – Local outdoor/shooting supply store with modifications

 

Weapons – Jerry Budde

 

Weapons electronics – from a Hasbro blaster

 

Specialist chest rig – I am making right now and will post my patterns and material list for others to use soon.

 

Specialist MP 40 ammo pouch – I made/modified from a pattern I found on TK1336.com

 

 

Welcome to Spec Ops and best of luck with your build.

[randypavlik[TX]]

1) What was your first 501^st build project?

 

First one was Shadow Stormtrooper

 

2) What specific aspect(s) of the build posed unexpected difficulties?

I cracked one of the ears when I was putting the helmet together.

 

3) Who/what were your most valuable sources of information utilized during your build?

Build threads here and on FISD. Also one of the guys in the NER was kind enough to let me come over and help me along.

 

4) What are some common pitfalls that newcomers such as myself often fall prey to when beginning their first build?

Don't be in too much of a hurry. When (not if) you run into a problem, take the time to ask around and get the advice you need to do it right

 

5) What would you do differently about your first build, knowing what you know now?

 

Besides not cracking the ear? Nothing really. I learned a lot and had a great time doing it

[Woodo007[TX]]

Hey Doc. I am working my way through my build (slowly)

1) What was your first 501^st build project? I have only built an anovos TK before. Fortunately there is a ton of build threads/info on doing that, but it still took me a long time.

 

2) What specific aspect(s) of the build posed unexpected difficulties? There are prob two different aspects. One is my size. I was worried about my height as I am only 5ft11" but what I should have worried about was my body shape. The kit from Denis is supposed to be sized for me but the chest and back have still required a lot of heating and bending to fit my shape. I am skinny (11 stone). The other aspect So far it is the finish required for the 3d print. I have a Denis kit and I totally underestimated the work needed to finish the armour for painting. Lots of sanding/resin/sanding/filler/sanding/resin/sanding.

 

3) Who/what were your most valuable sources of information utilized during your build? Build threads on this forum and advice from Denis at Armoryshop. I have also been in touch with some guys directly who have been cleared I found through here or on the Death trooper build group on FB for advice. Mainly Tom Campbell, Nick Scofield, Chris Sullo, and others. All have been very willing to help and give advice.

 

4) What are some common pitfalls that newcomers such as myself often fall prey to when beginning their first build? Maybe not doing enough research? I have been involved with my build over 6 months and I have made a few mistakes. Mainly with buying things. I think though as more people are offering services (armour, blasters, undersuits) this should be easier on new builders.

 

5) What would you do differently about your first build, knowing what you know now? Well about a month ago I ended up buying my own 3d printer and tom campbells files so I could have printed my own armour, blasters, grenades, Magazines, spectra scope instead of buying them from other people. I was happy with what I bought ie. Denis was able to print armour parts in one piece that I couldn't, and my previous experience with 3d printing really had put me off this but I could have saved myself a lot of money.

 

6) (Optional) Anything in particular about a R1 DT build that I should cognizant of in terms of complexity, fabrication, acquisition, etc? Since I have nothing to compare it to, I have no idea if this is a challenging first build or not.

Honestly, although I have only a TK to compare this to, I think this maybe one of the hardest build I imagine it will get easier the more people doing it and more info out there. For me, I am in the UK and no one I know has armour parties or anything. There are only a few of us in UK doing a DT and I am probably the closest to complete. Worth noting also this is not a cheap build! I reckon I am in for £2000 so far, and expect it to finish up no less that £2800-£3000 ...Although if my wife asks, it is nowhere near this

[Doc]

Thanks all! Really appreciate you taking the time to answer these questions.

[CT5579[TX]]

I'll play along!

 

1) What was your first 501^st build project?

A RotS clone trooper. Start with the super hard stuff

 

2) What specific aspect(s) of the build posed unexpected difficulties? Fitting was my big deal. Since everything needs to be proportional, you have to kind of fit it all as you go, not just piece by piece. Measure twice, cut once as the saying goes.

 

3) Who/what were your most valuable sources of information utilized during your build? I was a forum junkie. I didn't reach out to my local 501st. Now, as a GML, I wish I would have. Would have made life easier.

 

4) What are some common pitfalls that newcomers such as myself often fall prey to when beginning their first build? Impatience. This stuff takes time. Don't rush anything, because it means you might have to do it all again. Need that paint to dry for 48 hours? Give it 72. Think you've sanded enough? So down a grit and give it one more. Take your time.

 

5) What would you do differently about your first build, knowing what you know now? Nothing about the build, I just wish I would have reached out sooner.

 

6) (Optional) Anything in particular about a R1 DT build that I should cognizant of in terms of complexity, fabrication, acquisition, etc? Since I have nothing to compare it to, I have no idea if this is a challenging first build or not. The biggest challenge is the diversity here. There are so many different types of parts. My clone was all plastic, so go go go. With my snowie, I had to learn to sew to make pouches and such. This has some of that same diversity - plastic armor, rubber parts, cloth gaskets, shoe covers, etc.