Armor Choice - Picking the brains of the experts

[Jorran]

I ran a similar thread on my garrison forum a couple weeks ago and got some great feedback, and now I want to open this up to the global Stormtrooper community.

 

As best as I can tell from scouring our budget and talking to The Boss, I'm just a couple months away from ordering my armor...so it's probably high time to figure out what I'm going to get. I'm going for ANH TK Stunt.

 

The most important factors for me are:

 

1. Cost. Between the armor and the blaster, I need to keep this whole thing below $1,000 (or as close to that number as possible).

2. Not needing to paint the whole suit. Due to our living accommodations, it's not easy to set up an area outside to spray paint with neighbors, kids, etc., all sharing the same common area.

3. Durability. We'll be starting a family in the next couple of years, so this will be the only suit I own for the foreseeable future - it needs to last as long as possible.

4. EIB. I want to be able to pass EIB certification.

 

I'm going to keep my guesses as to what kit I should get to myself so I don't sway the jury. Just for reference sake in this discussion, I'm 5'9", 155 lbs. and have a fairly lean build.

 

So what do you white plastic warriors think?

 

Thanks in advance for the help!

[tkrestonva[TK]]

Your requirements would lead me to choose either AP or T/MC.

[pandatrooper[TK]]

I agree with Brian.

 

ABS means AP, RT mod, AM, T/MC and TM.

 

RT mod is for bigger troopers. TM is probably out of your price range unless you can find a used one for less. AM could be trimmed down (I did and I'm 5'8" and 145 lbs) but it's a lot of work.

 

Which leaves AP and T/MC.

[TK-4510[501st]]

I'd go AP and wait for someone to sell their used set.

Edited November 19, 2010 by TK-4510

[Daetrin[Admin]]

FWIW, *all* armor makes - even FX - can be made EIB. T/MC can be a little less expensive than AP - I'd check both for price/avail.

[john danter]

Well based on what you've said I'd go FX

Cheapest one out there and can be trimmed do it fits you better and you don't walk like a recently assaulted prison inmate lol

I have FX with a screen accurate chest plate TM and a pair of my own shoulder bells to make the suit look more iconic

Works for me

 

I'm not totally screen accurate as a result but it fits me far nicer than anyother suit ever could as I've cut most parts to fit me and ive had it 7+ years with no cracks in sight

 

If you're 5ft 8 plus nearing on 6ft and slim you're lucky enough to look good in accurate armour. If you're not that build buying accurate armour will mean things may rub and eventually crack.

 

If you want to go close to a screen accurate look on a budget you can do it

[Daetrin[Admin]]

Realize that FX is not made anymore, so you mean it's successor, AM, right? And then, you'll need to get a different helmet unless you're huge. I think you're correct that AM will still be less, but I'd check current pricing to be sure.

[Evolver79[TK]]

I recommend RT-Mod.I just got it two days ago. I'm still in awe! Rob will take your measuremnts and try to make the armor fit you! I am not your run of the mill trooper size, and so far everything fits, 6'00' 250 lbs. The helmet can come assembled, your choice. The plastic is trimmed, all I've had to do is very little extra trimming and just sanding the edges. I hav estrated a build thread if you want to see how it is coming. The best part of this kit is the person who makes it, Rob. He is great at communicating and willing to work with you. I couldn't be happier with this purchase.