Saber Forum

As some may or may not agree, Darth Maul became one of my favorite SW characters since we had a proper look at him in the Clone Wars series.  IMO he should've been the main villain throughout the prequel trilogy.  As a fan of the character I was excited when US released the Menace.  That and the fact that it is unbelievably beautiful and wrought full of detail.

I actually suffered a small amount of anxiety over which version I wanted(SE, CE, Dark, Azure, Crimson).  It came down to the SE and the Dark Menace.  I tried to fight the urge to pick the canon look and do something different for me, but in the end I felt at peace going with the Menace SE.

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/4D3A2EBC-C908-450F-ADB4-2829FF88B57A.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/4D3A2EBC-C908-450F-ADB4-2829FF88B57A.jpg.html)


Wow, this is seriously one gorgeous hilt.  If you like your precious's shinny, this is the precious to get.  For the order specs, I decided on BR, with SY FoC; yellow AV switch, the black blade holder and the classic control button configuration.  And US V4 sound.  *shudder*  


(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/DDFC0D52-4E01-4621-9135-74C83AE476CD.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/DDFC0D52-4E01-4621-9135-74C83AE476CD.jpg.html)


One of my constant favourite aspects of any lightsaber is a flared emitter.  With the option to pick from two different blade holders and with the shmexy grill, it checks off all the right boxes.  The grill itself is machined so that its edges are comfortable to the touch.  To me gripping it here is comfortable and useable for dueling and spinning. And just the overall dimensions of the emitter are functional and very pleasing to the eye.


(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/53DF1B0F-3DA9-4933-90B4-E6B198A07756.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/53DF1B0F-3DA9-4933-90B4-E6B198A07756.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/2CF32985-8A4C-4FC3-B641-CB081E86DC10.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/2CF32985-8A4C-4FC3-B641-CB081E86DC10.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/2F3D2492-4402-4077-AF95-96A253F1E9C8.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/2F3D2492-4402-4077-AF95-96A253F1E9C8.jpg.html)


Knowing this is one of the shortest premium hilt US makes I chose a 32" regular UE blade.  Visually it stays the course for the overall dimensions and makes this a quick and compact weapon.  It's really light and fast and I so enjoy wielding it.  The blade retention is very fortified with three blade retention screws that hide under the grill.  

To get at the retention screws, the top portion of the emitter unscrews from the black blade holder underneath the grill.  This top emitter piece holds the grill in place with precise pressure against the top of the hilt body.  Then the grill simply slides free and exposes the blade screws.  Really, just loosen these parts and install/remove the blade.  It may be one or two steps more than usual but it's so easy.  Sure some design elements could be improved, but little steps like this add a bit of depth to such a personal weapon like this :D


(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/FF93B251-32A2-4CF4-AD6E-C8A64C4B4C2D.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/FF93B251-32A2-4CF4-AD6E-C8A64C4B4C2D.jpg.html)


The body of this lightsaber has been taken to a new level by US IMHO.  It's just so nice.  The raised and recessed machined rings, the buttons, jewels, screws...  My favourite detail is the small flat sections in between the buttons, and the square cut lines along side the jewels.  The jewels do a nice job of subtly catching the light and can give off a little bit of glow.


(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/40971A77-5E4E-4773-8376-2AE443C75F88.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/40971A77-5E4E-4773-8376-2AE443C75F88.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/9278FBFE-9EAB-4098-9CF1-962C6F959FE9.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/9278FBFE-9EAB-4098-9CF1-962C6F959FE9.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/D20B9B41-FCE8-4337-9BDB-1E08A55D965E.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/D20B9B41-FCE8-4337-9BDB-1E08A55D965E.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/F08C77AE-62E5-438D-B31F-B1DDECF89B9F.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/F08C77AE-62E5-438D-B31F-B1DDECF89B9F.jpg.html)


The covertec wheel is placed close to the emitter which is character specific and true on one end of Maul's full staff.  But on any Menace you get one and can remove one from either end to make it more canon accurate if you wish.  I like it where it is, it's different and hangs uniquely on your belt.  With a blade on it'll swing down in the same way as most sabers will with a covertec wheel.  As for grip I've found no issue with where it is placed.  The emitter makes for a fine hand hold with enough room without interference from the wheel.


(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/68B8AE3F-D0CD-4116-8044-C4B643678E1A.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/68B8AE3F-D0CD-4116-8044-C4B643678E1A.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/5F71BB92-19AB-478B-B91A-4CA793F3C7C6.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/5F71BB92-19AB-478B-B91A-4CA793F3C7C6.jpg.html)


Here are just a few fun shots of the buttons with a macro lens.  Of course, the control buttons are removable if you so please.


(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/87DB3D32-E546-41A3-86A7-B2FDDA5829BB.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/87DB3D32-E546-41A3-86A7-B2FDDA5829BB.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/931CC020-8916-42C1-BBF5-5EBDDED20659.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/931CC020-8916-42C1-BBF5-5EBDDED20659.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/03CC9BEE-6735-4A62-9FA6-0CE126A426FA.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/03CC9BEE-6735-4A62-9FA6-0CE126A426FA.jpg.html)


Some of you may be thinking that with so many buttons along the body that it might be uncomfortable to use other than light play.  But I quickly found out that this isn't the case, for me anyway.  I love using this for spinning, there are hardly any drawbacks with the buttons in place when this lightsaber is in use.  And for light to medium dueling I'm happy to leave the buttons where they are as your fingers find a way to fit them into place with most grips and with relative comfort.

But if you want to get more serious there is a way.  I have spouted much about replacing the control knobs with smoother, low profile button screws for more serious fighting(and for sure not the only one to think this or do it).  So I finally have a chance to show you what you could do by making available for yourself these screws for a very quick and easy change out for a cleaner finish for fighting.  By far I am no expect when in comes to dueling, but I sure love to get out there and scrap!!!

I found the control screw by the pommel end hard to replace for the fact that the body has a thin wall(in this spot anyway) and even with a super short screw it protrudes to the interior getting in the way of the sound board.  The stock screw is fine though.  However replacing all other control screws including the covertec wheel is not a problem.


(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/DF534F5A-C0BA-4E48-9D66-C1D5E8B0ACB5.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/DF534F5A-C0BA-4E48-9D66-C1D5E8B0ACB5.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/7B207102-B469-45A3-94A8-FC66C6F26A2F.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/7B207102-B469-45A3-94A8-FC66C6F26A2F.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/C8D70E12-5FF8-4D91-AF7D-C14084445BFF.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/C8D70E12-5FF8-4D91-AF7D-C14084445BFF.jpg.html)


No lightsaber is perfect but as you can tell I haven't had much to criticize concerning the Menace.  And if I did I haven't found it worth mentioning at this point in ownership.  This is a good example of how US keeps taking it's steps fwd to provide something quality, fun, and affordable for us to enjoy.  As far as all aspects of the saber hobby goes I give this one my full recommendation for those who are considering the Menace.  I love it...this hilt is an A+.


(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/EB904BE5-0AE9-40E9-8F1C-872665E7779E.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/EB904BE5-0AE9-40E9-8F1C-872665E7779E.jpg.html)

(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE/E6E36099-CCBC-4E92-A17B-9AFB04131F8B.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE/E6E36099-CCBC-4E92-A17B-9AFB04131F8B.jpg.html)

Another excellent review and outstanding photography my friend....... +1  :)


I'm one of those who have taken most of the screws off one of my Menaces (Azure stunt) and replaced with black button screws also..... I just prefer it for duelling and play..... but the screws complete the look, and I wish I didn't feel the need to...... although, I am lucky to have my Dark Menace on display to leave intact (now have an US black / yellow av to install in that soon for the complete stealthiness  :o).....

Your yellow av looks awesome with the SE hilt / BR blade combination, I much prefer BR in silver hilts over black hilts, and I think I will copy your idea for a future project, so thank you for that......   :D

Super review and beautiful photos.  Now as I look at my dark version am second guessing myself if I got the wrong color.   :-\   Silver hilt with a red blade does indeed look shmexy.    8)

Well deserved point for you.    :D

EDIT:  Was thinking about getting the silver emitter with black window to switch out.  Also a silver bottom screw which I thought had originally been chosen with my saber.  What do you think ?  I'm sure that you can come up with some enviable swap outs for this shinny beauty.

Hazard502, Excellent review and photos indeed so point to you . That is a great lookin saber my friend.  As i am a fan of canon sabers, well done! MTFBWY!

Yeah I'm really happy with how it all turned out.  I wasn't sure how I would feel about the yellow switch given it's more amber but I really like it and would certainly recommend it to others. 
And you're right the black finish switch will certainly bring the stealth Menace to it's fullness!  Hope you'll share some pics when its done ;D




I really like the Dark Menace and I would still like one.  I just have trouble spending money on a saber I already have when it could buy me another one I don't have!  Like the all silver Shock...I'll prob always be a fan of the Dark Menace but never have one ::)




Thanks Mav, this one went right to the top of my wish list when it came out and it's amazing finally having one!  This was my first red bladed saber too so it's pretty special ;D

Excellent review and photos hazard502, thanks!! I have the Dark Menace FO and bought a Menace SE for a friend in BR. It does look super nice! I couldn't deny the Dark side however. LOL

I didn't know you could find those small black cover buttons to make it smoother for spinning and dueling. Very nice! Where is a good place to acquire those?

Light side point given.

Cheers Thorbs, thank you! I guess you could try your local hardware store. Didn't have any luck in my city so I ordered these button screws(and a few other bits) from the "other guys". If you take your time and look around there's a few good sources out there.

Nice. Definitely gotta get me one now. I also feel the SE would have more of a Clone Wars type finish to the hilt same with the red having an Ultra Edge blade. I like red in an Ultra Edge blade though. Has that pre quels/animated look to the blade

Hey - been crazy busy lately (not to mention ridiculously sick) but wanted to say, great review!

I really liked the view of how the Emitter comes apart.

Have you tried playing with different configs of the Menace emitter on your Consular? Curious how that would look!

I think the Graflex is still #1 on my list, but a Menace is probably next after I do some consolidation of all my Collectables . . .

Gave you a point & happy 1400th post!

Thank you Lord C! The Menace is def wish list worthy but I understand your feelings on the Graflex. The Menace emitter doesn't fit properly on the Consular. The Menace body flares out slightly about 1 1/2in from the top, and because the Consular doesn't have this wider part the grill slides down a bit.
If you play with the set screws you can make it stick though.
Thanks for the point! ;D (Hope u are well soon!)

Hi All I'm from the UK, My very first saber ...All black Dark Menace with sound (Emerald) configured to emit the counsilar green colour requested a green illuminated black AV switch and finished with the 32 inch ultra edge.

I ordered it on the 25th September, and havn't been able to sleep ever since lol. Soo excited can't wait for it to arrive.  Will also post pics when it arrives

Congrats Jedi Abid, you will love your Menace it really is a fantastic lightsaber! I would love to see pics of your Dark Menace, I would like a dark one too lol!
Consider doing a review of your own Menace Jedi Abid, we would love to hear your own opinion of it and it really helps other people who are thinking of getting their own ;D
A green blade colour and a green AV switch will look so good I'm excited to see it!

AWESOME..... CG with a black/green av will look sensational...... I too look forward to your Dark Menace pics..... Welcome Jedi Abid  :)


(Haz, I installed my black/yellow av last night in my Stealth Dark Menace....... I'll post up pics some time soon........ PERFECTION   ;))

FANTASTIC!!!

Thanks for the warm welcome😄. Controll my feelings I must... Impatience is the path to the dark side. use the force I will for speedy fed ex delivery lol. Meditate on the wait I shall. Then share my findings gladly I will with my fellow Jedi masters.

Thanks buddy can't wait to share my finding, if you have any pics of your menace I'd love to see some pics, it might ease my suffering. Best wishes.

I sure do have pics! Just go to the very beginning of this topic and you'll see all my pics of the Menace ;)

Your menace is awesome Haz great review. My menace is due to arrive tomorrow, and I'm just looking at yours to sooth the suffering of the wait :)

One question I have, I purchased a ultra edge blade. Are they sturdy as in do they bend easily when spinning or are quite upright and firm?

Thanks.

Thank you Jedi Abid! :D Regular UE blades are plenty sturdy for spinning. You will see them flex a bit when you swing them hard, and they will also flex a little when you strike them together while dueling. The blades are quite strong and will last a very long time.

Awesome review! Finally came here after your Consular Review. Pics are great, and I really enjoy the detail of your review. It's making me itch for a Menace. :D

Nice pics, I too felt like the killed the Phantom Menace off too quickly. I would love to build his saber.

As you can see from the beginning of my review I (recently) lost all my Menace photos and it was my fault(accident) and I'm upset about it.  This saber and this review is important to me and I'm going to restore the photos to this thread.  It PAINS me that it's not in order but at least the photos can be referenced here.

I sincerely apologize for bringing this post back to the forefront as this turn of events was NOT what I wanted to ever happen.  Having said that I hope this can be of use to someone and that you can enjoy the pics, and I tried putting them in the same order as the review.

Thanks.  

Heads up   ----   PIC HEAVY   ----






























[center(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j362/MoniqueWillms/MenaceSE%20-%20DarkMenace/931CC020-8916-42C1-BBF5-5EBDDED20659.jpg) (http://s1082.photobucket.com/user/MoniqueWillms/media/MenaceSE%20-%20DarkMenace/931CC020-8916-42C1-BBF5-5EBDDED20659.jpg.html)][/center]

Hey Haz.  Nice trip down memory lane.  Still really like your Menace(s).  Don't you just want to do something not so nice to Photobucket for those HUGE pics of that kitten.  Ridiculous !  I've also added to the Forum cat collection by either deleting or moving photos to another album.  But it's free so that just about says it all.  :-\

point for your attempts to right a wrong  :D  Wonder what would happen if you returned the pics to the previous album.  ::)

I wanna smack that kitten up side the head that's what! The other album doesn't exist anymore so I can't go back. Thx loads for the support 8)

Awesome pics anytime hazard!

Thanks for doing this. :)

I'd give you a +1, but just did on another thread. ;)

Thanks LR!

Well I am thankful you have reposted these pics, they show off all the detailing brilliantly. Other pics don't always show how crisp the machining is on these (US) hilts, so thanks!

point inbound.

Lovely detailed Pics.

Very nice to have a really close look at this hilt   :o

Old FX version of this was very first lightsaber I held & ignited.

You have also given me a new benchmark for how to get detailed Pics of sabers.  ;D

Thanks & +1

I would say menace saber is one of my favorite sabers

Guys, thank you for the comments I really appreciate that.

you are most welcome