Note: Vintage review – this review is from an earlier version of our homepage and is correspondingly old!
First impression
When you unpack it, the new surface design catches your eye immediately. Compared to the older version, the new Darth Maul FX lightsaber has a matte finish.
Otherwise, it's in no way inferior to its predecessors with a fixed blade.
Of course, a connector is also included, which lets you join two sabers into a double-bladed saber.
Handling
Like all other models with a removable blade, the saber runs on 3 AAA batteries.
The balance has improved noticeably, since the blades are much thinner than those of its predecessors.
Thanks to this improvement, you can now do all tricks with just one saber, since the center of gravity is no longer in the blade.
Only the shape of the emitter is a bit unwieldy in the single version. In the double version, too, the saber impresses with its balance.
Thanks to the lower weight, tricks can be done faster and with less force. Unfortunately, the activator is quite loose, and despite the rotary switch it can be switched on or off unintentionally.
Light and sound
The brightness of the red blade is comparable to that of the other Sith sabers. In terms of sound, however, Hasbro has really stepped it up.
Four new clash sounds and four new swing sounds make this saber even more interesting than the older versions.
Especially when used as a double, this is a real joy. When you switch on the saber without a blade, another sound plays, which is meant to represent a defective lightsaber. With the blade removed, you can plug a small insert into the emitter that represents the blade emitter plate and makes the lightsaber look more authentic.
Wear
There's no wear worth mentioning, since the hilt is made entirely of metal.
Only the black paint on the emitter can wear off with frequent use.
Verdict
Hasbro's Darth Maul FX lightsaber makes a good impression both as a single and in the double version.
Whether as a display piece, to complete a costume or to practice various tricks – you'll certainly have a lot of fun with this re-release.
