Frequently Asked Questions
After reading through my site, many folks are choked full of questions. The
time I have to answer e-mail is usually quite limited, so I've created the following FAQ
to elaborate on many of the more popular questions that prop replica fans have asked me.
Q - Do I have a Graflex flash for sale?
A - No. I only have four Graflex flashes. I have converted two into
Luke's ANH and ESB versions, one is awaiting conversion into Vader's ROTJ saber and the
last one is the hinged button type as seen on my Building a Lightsaber page. Now
that I've found all the flashes I need, I've disassociated myself with the classic camera
market.
Remember that nothing worthwhile is ever easy-Patience and persistence will pay off in
a nice lightsaber replica for an affordable price. Forget searching the web, there have
been hundreds before you. Your best bet is to put some miles on your car and go dig
through dealer's junk boxes.
Q - Why haven't I done a complete part-for-part analysis of Vader's
Heiland based sabers?
A - The sabers used in ANH and ESB are mostly shrouded in mystery. The
picture in SW Chronicles shows a saber that is very similar to the kind of Heiland flash
that you'll find in a camera shop with a few exceptions. For instance, the flash is marked
with "S" and "E" instead of "Shutter" and
"Extension" as found on most Heiland flashes. The reflector mount is also
slightly different than the commonly substituted 47 Luminar reflector in that it is
missing the notch for the tripper switch. The clamp used to hold the 6 digit LED lens is
also a mystery. It's unlike any clamp I've seen. I'll post new information on these sabers
as it becomes available.
Q - Where did I find my machine guns?
A - International Military Antiques http://www.ima-usa.com
carries many dummy guns and parts kits used for the conversions, as well as some of the
bandoleers and ammo packs featured on my page.
Q - Where did I find the grenade launching rifle used for the Jawa
blaster?
A - Springfield Sporters 724-254-2626 sells the rifle complete with
the grenade launcher as their #1 Grenade Launching Rifle. You'll need to have a
gun shop or gunsmith order it for you since Sporters can only ship to Federal Firearms
Licensee holders. Most shops only charge about $25 for this service.
Before modifying the barrel for this conversion you'll want to read the "Federal
Firearms Regulations Reference Guide" from the BATF. This is a free publication.
The publication number is ATF P 5300.4 (10-95).
More to come...
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