Note: Vintage review – this review is from an earlier version of our homepage and is correspondingly old!
First impression
The Luke ESB FX lightsaber is a fairly accurate replica, but it's quite a bit bigger than an original Graflex.
At 42 mm, the diameter is quite a bit thicker (Graflex 38.25 mm), and at 32 cm the length of the hilt is a bit generous too (Graflex 27 cm).
Differences in small details also stand out. For example, each of the „pins“ is missing a metal connector.
The activator box has 14 instead of 13 gold stripes, and the grips aren't quite as high quality as on the original saber.
Handling
The first thing you notice is that the hilt feels rather bulky in the hand. The activator sits behind the ears and is activated by sliding it.
Accidentally switching it off happens especially during fast tricks. The weight is quite high due to the 6 AA batteries used.
But once you get used to it, you can do all kinds of tricks and combinations with this saber. The center of gravity is a little too far forward, making the saber very head-heavy.
Light and sound
The LEDs in the blade are identical to those of the Anakin ROTS FX lightsaber.
The 2004/05 sound module sounds a bit „older“ and is also a bit quieter than most other FX sabers. It has 4 swing sounds and 4 clash sounds. Still, the sound seems copied straight from the film.
Wear
After a while, the activator button starts to come loose.
The plastic on the emitter can crack after a few fights, but beyond that there's no wear worth mentioning.
Verdict
Unfortunately, this saber is no longer available. Despite its size, it's a very nice replica of the original Graflex.
Disassembly is practically impossible, since some parts would have to be destroyed. There are different editions of this saber too, but the only known differences are in the packaging
The first edition came in a bigger box than the second, and the third even came in the new 2005 box.
Once you get used to the weight, it's a good saber that can be used for tricks and fights too.
