Because the market for replica lightsabers is so vast, many fans have a hard time choosing and buying replica lightsabers. However, this is no reason to deny yourself the joy and thrill of wielding your very own lightsaber. In this piece, we shall be taking a look at some of the most common buying mistakes that you need to avoid when looking to get yourself a Star Wars lightsaber.
Not Knowing What to Look for and Where to Look
As mentioned earlier, the world of replica star wars lightsabers is quite vast and confusing, so it is very important that you know exactly what you are looking for and where to look. Not knowing what you want can often lead to you purchasing the wrong type of lightsaber.
The best way to narrow down your search is to consider factors like; the intended use of your lightsaber (display, dueling, cosplay), your personal needs (height, build, fighting style), the type of saber features you want (hilt material and design, blade lights, colours, visual effects, sound effects, button placements, power options), and most importantly, your budget.
Once you are sure of what you want, the next step is knowing where to look. You can typically get good quality replica lightsabers online, at comic book stores, game shops, and directly from manufacturers. Buying online is often recommended as you get better access to a variety of saber models and prices.
Expecting to get High-end Features for Cheap
In the world of replica lightsabers, you get what you pay for. This means that a cheap lightsaber will not offer the same features that a high-end lightsaber does. With most cheap replicas, you get a saber with a plain metal or plastic hilt, blade lights, and some sound effects, but that's as good as it gets. This may be good enough if what you are looking for is a simple saber with limited functionality.
However, if what you are looking for is a highly functional lightsaber that has all the immersive features such as a strong metal hilt with an intricate or sleek design, a good quality polycarbonate blade, blade lights that offer maximum brightness, visual effects, authentic and motion-sensitive sound effects, and excellent power options; then you need to increase your budget.
Ignoring the Risks Involved With Pre-ordering Lightsabers
It is not uncommon for lightsaber companies (especially custom lightsaber companies) to accept pre-orders for a new lightsaber model several months before the saber is actually scheduled to be released. Lightsaber companies typically use the money generated from these pre-orders to fund the production of the lightsaber, whose design is most likely not even completed.
The risk involved with pre-ordering lightsabers is that there is always a chance of delay, and since pre-ordered lightsabers are products that are yet to be released, there are no reviews on the pros and cons of using them.
Assuming That Lightsaber Orders Will Arrive on Time
Another common replica lightsaber buying mistake that most people make is assuming that the lightsaber company will ship out their order on time. Shipping delays occur all the time, especially with custom lightsaber companies. These delays can be a result of demand (lightsaber demands are usually higher during Star Wars movie premieres and during the weeks leading to Star Wars Day, which is May 4th), availability of lightsaber materials, production speed, the complexity of the product (custom lightsabers usually take longer to complete), and other unexpected causes.
As a customer or client, it is best that you do not put your complete and total trust in the lightsaber vendor's shipping window. It is also advised that you check with the lightsaber company to know if there are any delays with your order.
Conclusion
When it comes to buying replica Star Wars lightsabers, one needs to have a good knowledge of what to look for, where to look, and what mistakes to avoid. The above are some of the most common buying mistakes you must try to avoid when buying a replica lightsaber.
