What are the parts to a real lightsaber? The question has been asked by numerous "Star Wars" fanatics thinking about building their own custom space weapon. The lightsaber proper was born amidst the distant Star Wars galaxies, so you can't make one exactly as it is in the movies. However, a realistic version can be assembled with parts available at most hardware stores. Knowing a few things about the necessary parts can help you decide whether or not you're ready to build a saber of your own.
A Chrome Tube
First, head to the plumbing aisle of the hardware store, and acquire is a chrome tube that will serve as the main weapon portion of your lightsaber. The chrome tube should be between 12 and 14 inches long to enable ease of use, but it can be longer or shorter depending on your preference. A basic chrome tube does not overwhelm with aesthetic beauty, but it is the tool that can be transformed into a silver, glittering or gold lightsaber.
PVC Coupler And End Cap
In order to connect the base handle of your lightsaber, you will need a PVC coupler and end cap. The coupler can be found in the electrical conduit section of a hardware store, while the end cap is typically located in the PVC plumbing section. You'll need a PVC coupler that is approximately 2 inches long, with a 1 and ΒΌ inch inside diameter. The end cap must match the diameter of the coupler. A sink plug may also work as a substitute if you don't have a PVC end cap handy.
Foam Weather Strips
Foam weather strips can be applied to the base of your lightsaber to serve as the grip. Foam weather strips can be cut to the length you desire and applied quite easily. These strips are available at hardware stores for a small fee. They can also sometimes be found at scrap material stores for a fraction of the price.
LED Lights, Batteries And Switches
A lightsaber that doesn't light up is hardly a lightsaber. This being the case, it is necessary to buy LED lights with a power of at least 2.7 volts, in a color you desire. LED lights are typically available in clear, yellow, red, orange and green. In order to power these LED lights, you will need batteries that are sold in the same location as the LED lights. This battery will need to be connected to a switch attached to the saber that when turned on or off can light or dim your saber.
Although the end result looks more like a cool flashlight, building a lightsaber can be a thrilling experience for any "Star Wars" fan. If you aren't sure that you can find the right parts that will help you unleash your intergalactic imagination, you can always turn to a lightsaber assembly kit. However, you might be able to save some money with a quick trip to the hardware store.
 | To build your own lightsaber, you can turn to household parts and LED lights to create an authentic-looking fake weapon. |
 | Curious how to build a functional lightsaber? The short answer is that it's not possible, but you can build a lightsaber that looks like the real thing you see in the Star Wars galaxies. |
Find articles about build your own lightsaber, parts to a real lightsaber and how to build a functional lightsaber. |
