Reviewing Fanhome’s Darth Vader 1:2 Scale Build-Up Stages 6-8

The third package in Fanhome’s Darth Vader Build-Up Subscription has arrived. This package contains build stages 6-8, and a slip case to hold the magazines that accompany each build stage. Before we get into the packaging, presentation, and assembly of these three stages, let’s do a quick recap of the subscription service and the completed model.

This Darth Vader Build-Up Subscription adds one of cinema and pop culture’s most legendary villains to Fanhome’s product line. The service delivers an accurate, half-scale replica of the Sith Lord as he appeared in Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back. The completed 1:2 scale Sith Lord stands more than 3 feet tall and features articulated limbs. It also uses both visual and audio effects that bring Vader’s red lightsaber, breathing and memorable lines to life.

The reproduction of Darth Vader’s uniform and armor is screen accurate down to the smallest details, complete with helmet, mask, cape, and red-bladed lightsaber for a realistic appearance.  Vader’s helmet is removable to reveal the Dark Lord’s face. The helmet, boots, and chest controls are constructed with easy to assemble precision metal and ABS components. His fabric cape and simulated leather gloves, vest and other costume elements will impress the most ardent Star Wars fan and collector. 

With Build Stage 6, I’ve now added a few more of the panels and buttons for Vader’s chest plate, and installed a circular piece and magnet that will orient and hold the helmet in place. Stage 7 includes a few little witchy bits that enhance the visible interior of the lower part of Vader’s mask. I wish I was enough of a Star Wars nerd to tell you what all these witchy little bits are, and whether they’re screen accurate, but alas, I am not. 

One interesting thing to note is that whether some of these pieces are ever visible on screen or not, Fanhome has taken the time and care to make sure that any parts that are visible when the helmet and mask are off are complete looking, and fit with the aesthetic of the rest of the piece. What would be inside Vader’s breathing apparatus? All sorts of little tubes and wires and magical science bobs.

Stage 8 has a couple more little pieces for the chest plate, and some more parts for the rear piece of Vader’s gorget. 

So far, this has been a pretty simple build. There have been a couple times where I’ve had to put my glasses on to see the tiny little spots where these tiny little pieces go, and I have to admit I have lost a couple of the smaller screws along the way. Luckily, Fanhome puts a couple extras in the bag. That’s helpful. 

Teeny tiny little pieces not meant for Wreck it Ralph-sized mitts aside, this has been a really interesting build so far. Fanhome has a habit of front-loading the fun stuff to keep builders excited long enough to get them pot committed. Once these eye pieces go in, I have a 1:2 scale Vader helmet to look at until the rest of The Fallen Angel’s body and armor is completed.

And now here’s something else fun. In celebration of last weekend’s Star Wars Day, Fanhome is offering 10% off any of their Star Wars Build-Up kits by using promo code STAR10 at checkout. The code, which expires today at Midnight PT, is good for new subscriptions on the Darth Vader 1:2 Scale Build-Up, the R2D2 1:2 Scale Build-Up, or the 32” Millennium Falcon Build-Up. 

*Fanhome provides this subscription to me free of charge for the purposes of review.