Since their introduction in the first Star Wars movie, the lightsaber has remained an iconic symbol of the franchise, and a number of them have achieved notoriety either because of their unusual design, rarity, or association with an illustrious personage. Anakin Skywalker’s lightsaber is one of such lightsabers that have achieved this notoriety.
This lightsaber which is also known as Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber or Rey Skywalker’s lightsaber (depending on the timeline), is a particular fan favorite because of the unique features (adjustable blade, distinctive hilt, and unique history) it, which distinguishes it from other of its type. If you’re a fan looking to get your hands on a replica of this lightsaber, here are some things you should know about it.
The Lightsaber’s History
During his time as a Jedi, Anakin Skywalker actually constructs two lightsabers (with the second one being the most well-known). He constructed the first lightsaber when he was a Padawan. The saber had a blue plasma blade with a handle that had thick ridges and chunky controls. He trained with this lightsaber in Coruscant until it was destroyed by a mechanical blade at the Geonosis droid factory.
Shortly after his first lightsaber was destroyed (prior to the events of the Clone Wars), Anakin created his second and most well-known lightsaber. Because Anakin was still allied with the Jedi Order at the time he created his second lightsaber, the blade color was blue, and he wielded it when he defeated Count Dooku during the Battle of Coruscant. This second lightsaber remained with Anakin even after he transformed into Darth Vader but his former master Obi-Wan Kenobi eventually took possession of it after he defeated Anakin (now Vader) at the Duel on Mustafar.
Notable Characters who Wielded the Lightsaber
Luke Skywalker – After taking possession of the lightsaber following the duel on Mustafar, Obi-Wan Kenobi handed Anakin’s lightsaber over to his son Luke who trains with it during his voyage to Alderaan. Luke later uses the lightsaber in a duel with Vader on Bespin, where he loses it to the depths of Cloud city, and he eventually had to construct his own lightsaber to replace it.
Rey Skywalker- Following its loss during the duel between Luke and Vader, Anakin’s lightsaber was eventually salvaged from the depth of Cloud city and it ended up with Maz Kanata, who was secretive about how it came to be in her possession. During a visit to Takodana, the lightsaber calls out to Rey, who was scared of it, so Finn decides to take it and keep it safe.
Rey eventually wields it to defeat Kylo Ren and escape with Finn. She tried to return the lightsaber to Luke but he refused it, so she ends up using it to train and improve her skills. Rey goes on to use the lightsaber to fight Kylo Ren on the ocean moon of Endor and defeat the reborn Emperor Palpatine and the Final Order before deciding to bury the lightsaber on Tatooine.
The Lightsaber’s Specifications
Anakin actually incorporated many of the elements from his first lightsaber into the second one. The single-bladed, blue lightsaber had a design that could facilitate his style of combat, which was Form V (Way of the Krayt Dragon). This means that the saber had a solid casing and a heavily shrouded blade emitter that helped to designate different facets of the blade for either defensive or offensive purposes. The hilt was designed to have a ridged hand grip that ensures a solid grip during battle. The lightsaber was also modified for operation underwater.
Buying a Replica Anakin Lightsaber
If you’re looking to get yourself a replica Anakin lightsaber, below are some of the features to look out for.
Blade Lights and Colour
The replica Anakin lightsaber model you get must include visual effects and the blade color should be blue. There should be added sound effects to complement the visuals and make the lightsaber more realistic. The blade should also be of high quality, so it can withstand lightsaber duels. Reputable suppliers like Padawan Outpost are a good place to source your replica lightsabers.
Design:
Hilt design is also important when buying a replica Anakin lightsaber. Because the original movie design involved the use of an alloy metal, a replica with a metal hilt is more movie-accurate and better for withstanding intense lightsaber duels. The hilt shape should also be cylindrical with a ridged hand grip. You can also decide to customize the hilt if you want it to stand out and be one of a kind. Just make sure that it looks and feels like a real weapon.
Power Options
Typically, replica lightsabers are powered by AA batteries which either come in the package or are sold separately.
Weight
Your replica Anakin lightsaber should feel like a real weapon when you handle it, so be sure to check that the model you are buying has the right weight. Ideally, a replica lightsaber should weigh around 425g (0.42kg) for better balance and usability when the blade is inserted.
Conclusion:
Anakin Skywalker’s lightsaber has to be the most storied lightsaber in all of Star Wars, from its unique history and design to the number of notable characters that have wielded it. If you’re thinking about getting a replica Anakin lightsaber, make sure to check for the features mentioned above.
