Appropriate length for custom saber

[sunnyteresa ()]

Is there a window of what's acceptable or not as far as lightsaber length?

Specifically, I would like to go a little shorter than normal, and definitely a little shorter hilt, as most feel really long and unwieldy to me.

Thanks.

[Jedi of Poker (Tim {T.J.} Balski)]

A big question is:

Will this be just a 'belt hanger decoration' or do you plan on having electronics in it?

Electronics will require the hilt to be of adequate length based upon the type of components used. Count on an average length of 10" inches. The typical two-handed 'bastard' sword hilt is at least 12" for two-handed wielding.

If it's just going to be a belt hanger (and not meant for actual use), then make it as short as you'd like it.
_________________
Tim the "Jedi of Poker"
Bushwhacker extraordinaire/Squad Leader
Phoenix Squardon CO/XO
RAID XO & CO 2012-2013
Ra Kura BMO 2011-2012


"Flattery will get you nowhere, but {for the sake of my fragile ego} please don't stop trying..."

[jin starkiller ()]

if you are talking blade length it all depends on the size of your hilt and personal preference .....I use between a 32" to 36"blade. The hilt can be anywhere from 8"to 16"depending on what all you have in it sound card, crystal chamber etc,,,
_________________


Size matters not. Look at me. Judge me by my size, do you? Hmm? Hmm. And well you should not. For my ally is the Force, and a powerful ally it is."Master Yoda"

[sunnyteresa ()]

Thanks, guys. I would hate to put a lot of time into it only to find it was an inch too short. I want it to be more than just the hilt hanging.

I am thinking about a 10-12' blade, but a shorter blade - maybe as short as 24". Would that be a problem?

[Drazhar ()]

[sunnyteresa ()]

Sorry, I meant a 10-12" hilt with a 24-26" blade.

[Ste-Waz Sandoli (Stephane VOISEY)]

ususally, the lenght of the lightsabers I built are similar to a katana
(about 103-105cm ; 40 1/2 - 41 1/3 in.)
with a hilt lenght who is about 30 cm (11,8 in).
_________________
Member of KJO - 2013-2014 Six Towers Jedi Temple Master ; Member of the RLSC - #7 in the Corellian Griffons Squadron ; Member of the Wretched Hive ; Member of the RAID
French Base Commanding Officer (2014-2018)

aka Baron Waz - TI-16707 in the 501st

[rogue9607 (Nick)]

It'll all depend on what feels comfortable to you and your goals for the saber. I'd suggest getting a 3' piece of pvc pipe, broom stick, or something similar, mark a line for the hilt at 10-12", and see if that feels comfortable to you and achieves the look you want. Also, if you're uncertain on blade length, you can always cut the blade yourself and keep going until you reach a good length.

As a side note, the hilt I carry is just under 10". It feels good for use in one hand (which was the intent), but wouldn't be my first choice if I wanted to pose/spar with two hands on the hilt (though two hands do fit).
_________________

[Magnius ()]

Lightsabers above all other jedi costuming parts are more personal ,

everyone has tabbards and tunics ect. .but the lightsaber is unique to each, so there really is no rule that determines saber construction ... just blade color...
_________________
Tell my tale to those who ask, tell it truly, the evil deeds along with the good, and let me be judged accordingly.......... the rest is silence

[BedlamX (Tommy Sutton)]

A 24-26 inch blade would be fine if that is the look you are going for. As long as it is a blade for an LED saber, you can always cut it down to what you want. My wife has a saber-staff for her Sith and I just cut down a 36 inch blade to fit what she needed when it is in the "pike" configuration (I think hers is in your 24-26 inch range).
_________________
Tommy "BedlamX" Sutton

Judicial Officer-Mandalorian Mercs
Nes'ari (membership officer)-The Dark Empire

[sunnyteresa ()]

I ended up buying one second hand. The hilt is 12" and the blade is 28". It does feel unwieldy, but it seems it is more from the weight of the hilt rather than the length.

Not the best shot, but here it is.