When I first got into this hobby, I bought a set of recast ARC Clone armor off EBAY(summer 2005, the modified ARC with the chestbox things molded in) I dropped $600.
Needless to say, I was pissed when I began to pull the components out of the box. The pulls were very thin in places, pitted all over, wavy and fraudulent to touch. Matter of fact, I ultimately destroyed the kit to get out of my hair and get it out of circulation.
It wasn't until then I began to realize that buying from reputable prop makers was the way to go. I have bought at least one item from just about each and everyone of you. You all have been 501st members (by the way) and I haven't been let down since.
What Gino was saying in his first initial post in this thread, is in effect what is called Guilt by Association. The actual permitance of the ineffective armor/prop building method known as recasting goes unchecked, and therefore ALL members become supporters by association. Not good policy because a members long term involvement in the costume club over time is completely hinged upon having a set of not only accurate, but good quality made armor. People need be warned like I needed to be warned 4 years ago. Awareness is paramount in a hobby that is expensive overall.
Without a strict policy or position against the act of recasting, you are not only allowing for quality components to be sidelined, but you are also allowing for inaccurate low quality items to enter circulation. There are too many negatives associated with the act, and therefore sets a negative impact upon the club as whole.
As far as the shirt goes; I think it has been effective enough. From a marketing perspective, the shirt shouldn’t run because once it’s in circulation it will hurt morale in the long run. I think the club needs to be smart and tighten up the Charter. I like Stormtrooperguys idea of posting a FAQ about recasting and the detriments also.
Good job EVO. Traits of a proactive commander. This has been a great debate to watch from the sidelines.
