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SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

Discussion on SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread within the Boba Fett Helmet forum, part of the Star Wars Original Trilogy Bounty Hunters category; Although he doesn't post much on TDH anymore, SgtFang was

  1. #1
    batninja's Avatar
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    SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Although he doesn't post much on TDH anymore, SgtFang was one of the first to offer the resin-cast Mystery Helmet, back in the day. I owned one up until 2004, and I have to say it was one of my favorite pieces. When he started offering them again on the RPF, I knew I couldn't pass up the chance to own another one.

    Look what came in the mail today!










    There will be some minor cleanup, but mostly more sanding than putty.


    The range finder (not hollow) and ear pieces are extremely clean castings, and will require very little touchup. The right earcap is slightly longer than the post, so I'll use some styrene sheeting and blocks to build up that area.




    These helmets, as opposed to some others, are not ready to wear right out of the box, and will need a little cleanup. Some hobbyists are discouraged by that. But don't fret - patience, as opposed to skill, is indeed a virtue for this project.

    As for the durability, the only reinforcement I used on the first one was a horizontal brace across the mandible, about 2 inches up from the edge of the helmet. These helmets are also very light, and my headliner rig was held in place only by Velcro.

    SgtFang is offering these over on the RPF for a great price, probably the best price you'll ever get on a true Mystery Helmet.

    I can't wait to get started on it, and will probably break out the Dremel and sandpaper this weekend. Enjoy!

    Last edited by batninja; 08-20-2006 at 11:10 AM.

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Very cool looking.

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Quote Originally Posted by batninja View Post
    The right earcap is slightly longer than the post, so I'll use some styrene sheeting and blocks to build up that area.
    Cool review and great pics!
    Could you explain the above a little more?
    You're the second person (I think) who's mentioned an issue with the right ear on this bucket.

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Here's a quick picture of the area.



    I may use a scrap piece of styrene block to fashion an 'extension' to the earcap mount.

    The other option, if you don't like the scratchbuilding idea, would be to mount the earcap higher, so that the top extends:



    It may not be quite as noticeable this way.
    Last edited by batninja; 08-14-2006 at 06:10 PM. Reason: Stalk width looks okay...

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Ah!! Got it, perfect pic. Thanks for explaining.
    That's a pretty minor thing to alter.
    I saw this deal on RPF and was thinking of getting one. . . the price sure is right.

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Either way, its not near as pronounced now as it was on the older version of the helmet.

    Tell 'im BatNinja sent ya!

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Ahh -getting packages in the mail is always a good thing!


    Nice helmet - all resin?

    my luck would mean I would drop it as soon as possible and watch it shatter in 100000+21 pieces.

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Quote Originally Posted by batninja View Post
    Either way, its not near as pronounced now as it was on the older version of the helmet.
    No its not. Mine was about 5/16" longer than the base. I just chopped the base off and ordered a bobamaler earcap.

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Quote Originally Posted by stonerook View Post
    Nice helmet - all resin?

    my luck would mean I would drop it as soon as possible and watch it shatter in 100000+21 pieces.
    Believe me, its not much more fragile than any other helmet out there. MonCal still has the helmet I sold him, and wears it ALOT.

    I've heard that you can fiberglass the inside for added strength, but I don't know much about the process or cost involved.

    Quote Originally Posted by zombierepellent View Post
    No its not. Mine was about 5/16" longer than the base. I just chopped the base off and ordered a bobamaker earcap.
    That's not a bad idea...

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    I got an extra set of MS earcaps if you want em....

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    cool...glad to see you got it...cant wait to see your progress pics!!

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Quote Originally Posted by evan4218 View Post
    I got an extra set of MS earcaps if you want em....
    Got pics? Better yet, give me a call...

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    I bought one of these helmets over on the RPF, and I am almost finished with my paintjob, RF assembly and interior. I'll be posting pics of mine as well, so more people can see these buckets.

    This is a very nice helmet. Especially for the price. And Batninja is right about the cleanup. There is a little bit of work, to get it ready to wear, but that is all part of the fun!

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Mine should be in today if I havn't just jinxed myself!

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Quote Originally Posted by batninja View Post
    Believe me, its not much more fragile than any other helmet out there. MonCal still has the helmet I sold him, and wears it ALOT.

    I've heard that you can fiberglass the inside for added strength, but I don't know much about the process or cost involved.



    That's not a bad idea...

    eerie - Tk409 had his break...

    doh!

    Hope he gets on this new run - I know I'm going to try to grab one.

    thanks for the picks BN!

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    PM Sent

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    I may be sending you a PM soon Sarge, thanks for clearing that up. Not like it was really a big deal......

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Hey guys, just dropping in to let everyone know I'm going to be out of the shop all weekend, and not to panic if you PM or email me and don't hear back from me right away. 8)
    Have a good one!
    -Sarge

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Well are you gonna do a run and what is the price on one of those bad boys.Better yet PM sent.

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Quote Originally Posted by Spideyfett View Post
    Anyway BAT, have you started on this thing yet?????

    Yeah, shouldnt this helmet be primed by now...

    Serisouly though, if you need to barrow any tools or magnets for the earcaps... let me know.

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    mandalore697's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Yeah new thread! Full of pics!!!

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    batninja's Avatar
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    BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    I've started working on my SgtFang mystery helmet I received last week.

    Here are the tools I'm using right now:


    At this point, I've used a Dremel to trim the bottom edge of the helmet, and cut out the visor.


    Then I used a sanding wheel and sandpaper to even out the width the entire visor opening, to achieve a uniform thickness. I will do the same thing for the bottom of the helmet edge later:


    For the corners, I used an X-Axcto to carefully carve the corners, and finished it with a Emery board and a tiny triangle file:


    Comments are welcome!

    Next step: the keyholes...

  23. #23
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review (pic intensive!)

    Quote Originally Posted by batninja View Post

    As for my helmet progress, I'll start a new thread.
    Can't wait... I'd like to see the potential of this helmet...

    I'm a little confused though, did Sarge just bring these back to life or what? I looked briefly around the forum and couldn't find any progress threads or complete pics of his helmets, besides the tragic 409 helmet.

    If thats a silly thing to say, please bare with me... I'm to new to Boba building and don't know all of the history here.


    -Shawn

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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Very clean job... I only hope that I do as well with mine.

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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Looking great so far... I would pull up some ref pics and throw in some of the screen accurate scratches to really PIMP it out.

    You were still needing my extra earcap peices right? Let me know when you were wanting to use my garrage. My mouse sander will make quick work of the earcap to mod it for the 2 peice caps.

    You sure got that visor clean man!!! WOOHOO!!!

    Oh, I almost forgot.... I have an extra coldcast metal bordon connector if you need it.

    How are you going to be painting this bad boy? Layered with chrome first, reverse masking with your base colors first... ???

    I reccomend reverse masking. No paint pull up and less errors. But thats just me. Both work great. I will save you a set of the stencels for when I see you next. They make painting easy!

  26. #26
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Thanks for the comments!

    I think I'll pass on the Borden connector for now. The one on the helmet is pretty clean, and once it's painted, I doubt it will make too much of a difference.

    And no stencils, either. I'm painting this OLD SCHOOL, just like my last one. I'll see if I dig up a decent picture of it.

  27. #27
    I helped at SDCC '08 MandalorFett's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Mr. Bat, this is great! Showing your tools of the trade w/ comments on how and what to use. This is great, I'm going to follow this closely for techniques on my MS3 and SGT. Fang!



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    Darth Fett's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    awesome job man.

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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    I tried something new for the keyholes. Using a large sanding wheel, I attempted to come from the inside of the keyhole out, hoping to sand away the entire hole at a time. However, I got very close to coming all the way through (see the fourth keyhole down). I'm going to use a few dabs of JB Weld to reinforce that area.

    So I opted to use the cutting wheel to slice horizontally through the long part of the keyhole, and was able to clear away the majority of the hole. Then I used a small cutter-head, and cleared the top part of the hole. Afterwards, I used the X-Acto knife to trim the corners.

    I've done some light sanding, but will work on it some more tomorrow. But for now, here are the keyholes:


    I've also added some putty to the split-line, and will try to finish this up tomorrow afternoon.


    Now back to vest-sewing!
    Last edited by batninja; 08-19-2006 at 05:08 PM.

  30. #30
    I helped at SDCC '08 Jimmy BufFETT's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Whew Bat ... you are really workin' hard right there! Really nice job so far! When you get to painting it, what scheme are you gonna use ... , , or ?

  31. #31
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    ESB. I like all the stickers and stuff.

  32. #32
    I helped at SDCC '08 MandalorFett's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Mr. Bat,
    How do you get your lines cut so straight? I do it freehand, and slow, but if there's a way to cut straighter please let me know.
    Thanks!



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    DarthMiller's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    WOW...great work...you are a dremel JEDI

  34. #34
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Using the fiberglass-reinforced cutting disc on a Dremel, I sliced through the backside of the keyholes, and carefully moved it up and down to 'sand' the area out. Afterwards, I used the X-Acto knife (with a NEW blade) to carefully shape the corner areas. This will take some time, so be patient and go slowly.



    Let me know if that makes sense...
    Last edited by batninja; 08-19-2006 at 07:09 PM.

  35. #35
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by DarthMiller View Post
    WOW...great work...you are a dremel JEDI
    I happen to have a Covertec clip for my rotary tool...
    Last edited by batninja; 08-19-2006 at 06:34 PM.

  36. #36
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Great work....The helmet on the edge of the balcony makes me nervous

  37. #37
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    That's some mighty fine Dremel work so far!
    Since I have one of these on the way, I'm just curious about how much work I'll have to do to it.
    Is this area I've marked some kind of 'depression' in the surface? I'm wondering if it's something to be filled in, or if the angle of the lighting is making it look weird.
    Attached Thumbnails Attached Thumbnails progress_5a.jpg  

  38. #38
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    There is a slight depression there, same with my last one. But it's hardly noticeable once it's painted. I don't think I'm going to fill it in. That'd be like 'correcting' the wavy brow on an ESB bucket.

  39. #39
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Good deal. Thanks for the info.
    By the way. . . you always reply so fast to questions.
    It's as if you're some kind of. . . I dunno. . . a small flying mammal with Oriental assassin-type qualities or something!

  40. #40
    Spideyfett's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Your not done yet??? I thought for sure this thing would've been painted by now..

    Looking good bro...and got the "thingy" today...:thumbup
    Last edited by Spideyfett; 08-20-2006 at 10:06 AM.

  41. #41
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    I've done the preliminary sanding on the imperfections along the rear quarter of the helmet. There are a couple of spots to re-putty, and I'll post pictures tomorrow.

    As for the keyslots, I'm not happy with the thickness of the resin in that area; it's not uniform on all the slots. I may fabricate a keyslot board out of a spare piece of styrene, and install it instead. I'll have to sleep on the idea. It would be a shame to replace that after all the work I did to hollow out the original slots.

    More to follow tomorrow...

  42. #42
    I helped at SDCC '08 MandalorFett's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Mr. Bat,
    I'm a total noob when it comes to this type of hobby work. Thanks for all the step-by-step info. I'll push my luck a little further and ask, how do you keep the cut lines so straight on the mandibles and visor area with the Dremmel? Also, what kind/brand of filler putty are you using? I noticed you're not using Bondo.

    Thanks.



  43. #43
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    To me, Bondo is great if you're restructuring something (i.e. building a helmet from scratch or making major repairs), and it's very difficult to sand. Since the mystery helmet is resin, I needed something that sanded easier.

    Regular white model putty is what I'm using to fill in small holes. The brand is Squadron. I usually prefer Testors red putty, but the local HobbyTown was out of stock.

    As for the straight lines, all I can suggest is patience. This is my fourth career helmet, and it gets a little easier each time. If you're using a variable speed Dremel, keep the speed around 5. Do one section at a time, and be aware of where your blade is at all times. Going slower will keep you from having to putty/sand a section later.

    I don't draw any cutting lines on the helmet, but maybe that might help others.

    Also, after any Dremel drum-sanding, go over the area with regular sandpaper. This helps to flatten out edges as well.

  44. #44
    I helped at SDCC '08 GCNgamer128's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by superjedi View Post
    That's some mighty fine Dremel work so far!
    Since I have one of these on the way, I'm just curious about how much work I'll have to do to it.
    Is this area I've marked some kind of 'depression' in the surface? I'm wondering if it's something to be filled in, or if the angle of the lighting is making it look weird.
    It does look like a depression, you might want to fill it in with more puddy and sand it down.

  45. #45
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: BatNinja's Bucket - Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by GCNgamer128 View Post
    It does look like a depression, you might want to fill it in with more puddy and sand it down.
    Yes, GCN, I verified that in post #38. It is a depression, and I decided to add a small bit of putty to even it out. It's not very pronounced, and the final paintjob will hide most of it anyway.

    Most of the fill work is done now, and I'll do some more sanding later this afternoon. I'll do some wet-sanding and then a coat of primer sometime this week.

  46. #46
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Okay, I just sanded some some, and I'm happy with the overall look of the rear quarter:


    I've also worked a bit more on the keyholes:


    One thing I forgot to do was trim the 'stop' on the right earcap. I bought a new accurate BKBT stalk, and due to the angle, I'll have to trim a little off the resin (see the pencil marks):


    I've still got some areas to go over again, but I should be pretty close to the first coat of primer. The paint will help me determine if there are any more issues.

  47. #47
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Looking good man, you sure are moving fast on that bad boy!

  48. #48

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by batninja View Post
    Okay, I just sanded some some, and I'm happy with the overall look of the rear quarter:


    I've also worked a bit more on the keyholes:


    One thing I forgot to do was trim the 'stop' on the right earcap. I bought a new accurate BKBT stalk, and due to the angle, I'll have to trim a little off the resin (see the pencil marks):


    I've still got some areas to go over again, but I should be pretty close to the first coat of primer. The paint will help me determine if there are any more issues.
    Nice work so far! if you dont mind my asking, how are you going to put the stalk in? with a small screw or something?

  49. #49
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    whats a covertec clip?

    my squadron is green. I hate it

  50. #50
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by Hammer of Might View Post
    Nice work so far! if you dont mind my asking, how are you going to put the stalk in? with a small screw or something?
    I'm going to use one of HyperDyne's remote servo system for the stalk. I won't know exactly how I'll secure it until I get it. Until then, I'll just use a simple nut and bolt. In order to fit the nut flat under the earcap, I'll have to bevel out the stalk hole. SpideyFett has some pics of this in another thread, and I should be able to get the stalk beveled this weekend (I'll post pics).


    Quote Originally Posted by zombierepellent View Post
    whats a covertec clip?

    my squadron is green. I hate it
    A CoverTec clip (used for cell phones) is what the prequel Jedis use to hold their lightsabers to their belts. Since I'm a Dremel Jedi, I hang my Dremel...never mind, you get the idea.

    I can't stand green Squadron putty. I know there are those that use it exclusively, but I was never happy with the drying time and the hardness. It just didn't seem as easy to sand as the white stuff.

  51. #51
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    oh ok. Yeah I hate the green stuff a lot. Where can I get the different colored stuff? my hobby shop only has green squadron and white testors.

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by batninja View Post
    I'm going to use one of HyperDyne's remote servo system for the stalk. I won't know exactly how I'll secure it until I get it. Until then, I'll just use a simple nut and bolt. In order to fit the nut flat under the earcap, I'll have to bevel out the stalk hole. SpideyFett has some pics of this in another thread, and I should be able to get the stalk beveled this weekend (I'll post pics).

    .
    awesome, thanks for reply. I'll have to subscribe to this thread.

  53. #53
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by zombierepellent View Post
    oh ok. Yeah I hate the green stuff a lot. Where can I get the different colored stuff? my hobby shop only has green squadron and white testors.
    I got this from HobbyTownUSA, but I suppose most any brand will work.

  54. #54
    Buckeye_01's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by zombierepellent View Post
    oh ok. Yeah I hate the green stuff a lot. Where can I get the different colored stuff? my hobby shop only has green squadron and white testors.
    You can also head over to your local automotive paint and body store and get a tube of glaze. It works very well, but bondo is king.

  55. #55
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    A slight detour...

    While working with the stalk last night, I noticed that the seat for the stalk is just barely the same width as the stalk. When I install the servo system later, the stalk may produce a little unwanted friction when operating.

    Looking at the screen-used helmet, I notice that the correct way to avoid this is to sand the seat toward the helmet, as the seat is not quite as thick on the movie helmet. However, I didn't want to take a chance on sanding too much or sanding unevenly.

    So I took a spare piece of 1/16" styrene and made an 'extension' to widen the gap a little. I'll glue this to the exisiting seat, and putty/sand the edges until they're uniform.



    More to follow...

  56. #56
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Batninja, so your helmet had the stalk angle thing too?

    I was looking at my BKBT stalk, lined up with my Sarge helmet, a couple of days ago. And, I had to shave off about that same amount of the RF stalk holder, as you have marked. Otherwise, that stalk just sits off angle, like in your photo.

    No big deal, it just took a minute to trim. I thought it might've just been my helmet.

  57. #57
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Update 8/24...

    Over the last couple of days, I've worked alot on the stalk spacer. For more pictures, visit my PhotoBucket album: http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v7...met/?start=all


    Using Gorilla Glue (wonderful stuff!), I glued the spacer to the stalk seat:


    After putty, sand and primer, you can see that the spacer worked perfectly!


    I was so excited, I went ahead and did a base primer, just to see what it looked like. I sanded with 320-grit sandpaper, and did a final wet-sand with 400-grit. I need to grab some shots of the rear of the helmet, because it came out great!





    Next step: I'll add a small brace between the front mandibles, and begin the white primer.
    Last edited by batninja; 08-24-2006 at 06:03 PM.

  58. #58
    Admin Staff webchief's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Looks great Eric!

  59. #59
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    UMMM..I think I need to hire you to do all my PREP work in the future...GREAT JOB!!

  60. #60
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    BN,

    Did you ever reinforce the thin area by the keyholes? If so, how did you go about it? Just putty and sand? That area looks pretty scary... lol... I have no idea what I'm gonna do with it.


    -Shawn

  61. #61
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Looking FAN-Tastic Good job bud!

  62. #62
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by Devilstar2k2 View Post
    BN,

    Did you ever reinforce the thin area by the keyholes? If so, how did you go about it? Just putty and sand? That area looks pretty scary... lol... I have no idea what I'm gonna do with it.


    -Shawn
    Yeah, I forgot to mention that. I used a few small dabs of JB Weld, and coated a few spots around the keyholes. I also used it to reinforce an area along the rear quarter, where I sanded too close to the edge.

    I know alot of people use Bondo for things like this, but I don't. Bondo is very difficult to sand, and resin is very easy. Using Bondo to fill resin areas could result in over-sanding the resin.

    I'll get pics up tomorrow.

  63. #63
    Devilstar2k2's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    I'll heed the warning and use the JB Weld... and model putty...

  64. #64
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    is resin like vinyl where if you heat it up you can bend it easily? On my bucket the right cheek seems to be puckered out a bit.

  65. #65

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    "I'm going to use one of HyperDyne's remote servo system for the stalk. I won't know exactly how I'll secure it until I get it. Until then, I'll just use a simple nut and bolt. In order to fit the nut flat under the earcap, I'll have to bevel out the stalk hole. SpideyFett has some pics of this in another thread, and I should be able to get the stalk beveled this weekend (I'll post pics)."

    Hey, I'm very new to all this and was wondering what a Hyperdyne Remote servo system is and what it does. Thanks.

  66. #66
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    http://hyperdynelabs.com/products_el...unterServo.php

    It controls the up/down motion of the range finder. A bit on the expensive side, but a definite must-have for the 'wow' factor.

  67. #67

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by zombierepellent View Post
    is resin like vinyl where if you heat it up you can bend it easily? On my bucket the right cheek seems to be puckered out a bit.
    You should be able to- I'd use a heat gun or boiling water if you have a pot big enough.

    -Sarge

  68. #68

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    thanks for the info. Thats way cool.

  69. #69
    I helped at SDCC '08 MandalorFett's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Mr. Ninja, any updates? I'm using this thread as 'instructions' for my SGT. Fang. Thanks.



  70. #70
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    That's looking awesome!

    I must admit I'm a complete newbie at this stuff. Infact I'm just about to embark on my first real Fett suit, where can I get a Sgtfang helmet?

    Any help would be greatly appreciated.


  71. #71
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by MandalorFett
    Mr. Ninja, any updates? I'm using this thread as 'instructions' for my SGT. Fang. Thanks.
    I'm at a point where I'm going to require some outside assistance. Since I'm going to install a HyperDyne servo system, I want to reinforce the inside of the helmet with fiberglass. I'm getting with evan4218 in the next week or so, so keep watching for updated pics on that process.

    Other than that, all that's really left is the final primer coat, and then the paintjob. And since so many others have done awesome jobs with their paint-ups, I'll leave that out of my progress thread.

    Quote Originally Posted by Slave-1
    where can I get a Sgtfang helmet?
    Send a Private Message to SgtFang...he'll be glad to help you out!

  72. #72
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Cheers batninja.
    Good luck with the bucket!
    I'll keep on checking on the progress.

  73. #73
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    How would you rate this helmet in terms of sturdiness, bat? Strong enough for trooping?

  74. #74
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    I owned one of these before, and had absolutely no problems with the sturdiness during trooping. As a matter of fact, the TDH member I sold it to still wears it to this day.

    Also, this helmet is much lighter than others I've worn, so trooping was a breeze!

  75. #75
    Saturniid19's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Wow, that was fast! You really are a ninja!

    So strong but light? Sounds good.

  76. #76
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Hey Eric makes me want to buy one now,I think I might just do that.Overall good progress.

  77. #77

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    great job =D

  78. #78
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Updates???? I am dying to see your bucket..and for the record I think you should do progress pics of your paintjob!!

  79. #79
    Jordain's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Yes please update us batninja...my Sgt. Fang should arrive any day now and I would love to see how your bucket is coming along...

  80. #80
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Yeah, I need to get cracking on this thing again. I'm in the middle of an ammo belt run, but should be able to clear up my weekend to work on the helmet.

    I got a new earcap from BobaMaker, and it ROCKS! I will still have to modify the earcap 'seat', as the BM cap is about an 1/8" taller than the seat. And as much as I hate to use it, I'll probably have to use Bondo to build up the seat a bit. I'll post progress pics when I get to that step.

    Next steps: mandible cross-bar, fiberglassing the interior, and finishing the earcap prep.

  81. #81
    I helped at SDCC '08 MandalorFett's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Lookin' forward to the updates Batninja! I just received my Sgt. Fang, and it looks like he beefed up the thickness in the areas around the rear vents (key slots). The resin looks thicker than in your previous post. The seam lines are still there, and the old RF earcap still comes with the set, but overall, it looks like there aren't any thin spots anymore.

    Oh, and working with his resin mix is great! It's much easier to get clean cuts and smooth finishes compared to fiberglass. I'm not very skilled either way, but it's coming along faster and easier than my fiberglass bucket by a well known maker.



  82. #82

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    hey batninja where do you get one of those stg fang helmets???can they resist the rain.if you get them fiber glassed?right....i've never done this before can someone help me out?

  83. #83
    psych0ticmisfit's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    CARGO HOLD THERES A POST BY SGT FANG IN THERE oops sorry for the caps lock

  84. #84
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    updates? I ordered a SGTFang Helm and I'm planning on useing this post as a guide for my clean up. Looks great so far man but lets see more!

  85. #85

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by batninja
    Regular white model putty is what I'm using to fill in small holes. The brand is Squadron. I usually prefer Testors red putty, but the local HobbyTown was out of stock.
    Is this stuff expensive? I've been using bondo to shape the top and bottom edges of the blaster stock I'm working on, and yeah, I've discovered it's TOUGH to sand. I'd love to use something a little easier to work with, but that's still relatively cheap.

    Can it be applied with bare hands? It would be great to have that "feel" when filling small areas.
    Last edited by kibosh; 11-06-2006 at 09:26 AM.

  86. #86

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Hey guys just a heads up- I just finished a new mold to replace the one I've been using all summer, and it's giving me much smoother finishes and paper thin seams! 8)

    Also, I just started a third mold so that I can have two good molds going at once. That will really speed up my production time!

    95.00 shipped in the US, 25.00 shipping eveywhere else.

    Paypal to SgtFang@aol.com all other e-mail to allartistries@aol.com

    Thanks!

    -Sarge

  87. #87

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Hey guys just a heads up- I just finished a new mold to replace the one I've been using all summer, and it's giving me much smoother finishes and paper thin seams! 8)

    Also, I just started a third mold so that I can have two good molds going at once. That will really speed up my production time!

    95.00 shipped in the US, 25.00 shipping eveywhere else.

    Paypal to SgtFang@aol.com all other e-mail to allartistries@aol.com

    Thanks!

    -Sarge

  88. #88
    mandalore697's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Hey Sarge,

    Are you still offering the updated ear cap?

    Cheers

    Dan

  89. #89

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by mandalore697 View Post
    Hey Sarge,

    Are you still offering the updated ear cap?

    Cheers

    Dan
    I still want to, but with Halloween and the old computer going out, I haven't had any time to do it yet.

    -Sarge

  90. #90
    Ripcode's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    I got a chance to check out Batninja's Sgt. Fang helmet when I was in Texas.

    It's nice and light and looks really good.

    I must say at this price it is a SUPER buy!

  91. #91
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Iwas wondering sgt. how much would one of theez cost without shipping?

  92. #92

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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Iwas wondering sgt. how much would one of theez cost without shipping?
    $95.00 and it would definately come in handy right about now. (Gotta get more resin ASAP!)

    -Sarge

  93. #93
    GundamZeppelin's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    this helmet is looking great!

  94. #94
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    UPDATE 1/29/2007!

    I haven't worked on the bucket in awhile, so I though I'd post an update. A few weeks ago, evan4218 fiberglassed the inside for strength (in preparation of the servo installation).

    And since there was no football yesterday, I headed up to SpideyFett's house and did some more work.

    I wasn't happy with the alignment of the earcap (wasn't flat), so we redid the magnet positioning, and performed a little Dremel-sanding on the inside of the earcap. These magnets are tough little boogers, and VERY STRONG! My only concern now is that they may affect the servo mechanism, but I'll cross that bridge when I get there.



    Ever since the fiberglassing, the mandibles tended to 'open' a little, creating a wider vertical slit than what I wanted, and wouldn't align properly to the horizontal slit I thought that maybe using Spidey-Fett's visor method would allow the visor to 'brace' the mandibles into the correct width. It worked like a charm!





    My helmet has now been 'Spidey-fied' with his unique visor-mount system, involving the Forstner drill bit mentioned in his thread.



    There's still some general cleanup to be done, and I'll be tackling that next weekend.

    Next up:
    1) Paint inside
    2) Wet-sand and prime outside
    3) Install mesh in back (not going for accuracy here, folks!)
    4) Servo installation

    I'll post more progress later. Enjoy!

  95. #95
    evan4218's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    that visor is sitting nice and flush!!!! Great job!

  96. #96
    Spideyfett's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    BOUT TIME you updated this Thread!!


    Hey and what kind of drill did you use to install those T-Nuts ???


    Looking good "Bat Boy"!!

    8)

  97. #97
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Looking good Batninja!

    Nice work and assists Alex and Justin!

  98. #98
    Account Deactivated KaanE's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Wow, thanks batninja, I need this thread for my future Mistery Helmet. Thanks for make it and more progress but... without hurry!!!

  99. #99
    batninja's Avatar
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by Spideyfett View Post
    Hey and what kind of drill did you use to install those T-Nuts ???
    "Secrets of Prop-Building 101":


  100. #100
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    Re: SgtFang Mystery Helmet - A Review and Progress Thread

    Wow! Looking good.

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