Ever since teaser photos and videos of The Mandalorian were released, I knew I had to build this blaster. Loads of 3D files and kits popped up even before the series premiered but I decided to wait for accurate kits/files to emerge. When JOATRASH FX from RPF announced he was working on his kit, I jumped in blindfolded and hands tied behind my back. His attention to accuracies and details is well known so I know this blaster is going to be kickass! And boy he sure didn't disappoint.
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I got walnut grips from another RPF member Justin Rowan that were crafted exclusively for this kit.
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To replicate the patina on a well-used steel gun, I sanded the gun frames to a smooth finish, concluding by wetsanding with 2000 grit paper. They are spray painted gloss black and let dry for 24 hours. I rubbed graphite powder thoroughly onto them and dabbed heavily thinned flat black acrylic ( I used AK Interactive) over with a soaked cotton ball. The graphite powder somewhat repels the paint, resulting in a faux patina effect that I like. Again, I let this dry for at least 24 hours. No clear or top coat is required.
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Other modifications I made to the kit; used leather craft rivets for the pins on the gun frame
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Real hex nut for the hammer strike
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Fabricated the rod holder out of brass sheet.
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Flame-blued M6 slotted cheesehead screw for the plunger retainer
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