Dragonator

This sounds really neat WhiteFang, if I can find the time I'll try and get an entry built. It'll be interesting trying to replicat that "classic" feel.

It's just not fair.

The Race for Armament - Part 2 An Article and Review by Dragonator Welcome back to the 2nd part of my article on BrickArms LLC and my review of some of its current and upcoming weapons. Today we are going to look at the bladed, Sci-Fi and miscellaneous weapons, as well as talking some more about colours and stuff like that. If you missed part 1 of this article, then make sure you read that first. Before getting into the reviews, I think it is important to highlight that BrickArms has just come out with its first wave of new products for 2009, including 5 bladed weapons and a whole pile of new guns. Will also announced 7 new prototypes at BrickFest a few weeks ago, which can be viewed on the BrickArms forum. But enough about all that, let's take a look at what I've got to show you today. Bladed Weapons The Blades In the above picture are all the bladed weapons that I received, including all five that are currently available on the site, as well as a few other prototypes. I really am a castle fan at heart, so I find these all very appealing indeed! Let's take a look at each one in turn. The Dadao Also known as the BrickArms Cleaver, this is a really neat weapon, with some very nicely defined edges and a great effect caused by the curve of the blade. I really like how this looks in transparent yellow, even if it is pretty hard to photograph; it would go well with a space pirate or something of that kind. This really is stylish, with that neat curve in the cross-guard and the little ring in the bottom. While I'm on the topic of colours it should also be noted that all the BrickArms weapons from this most recent wave are available in four different colours, which are black, gunmetal, silver and dark grey. I would show you a picture of how well the dark grey and the gunmetal colours match the Lego equivalents, but I don't have any of them yet. I can tell you however that they match perfectly, from what I have seen. The rapier Now this is a really good weapon, and one that pirate fans will love. The classic rapier, with optimum balance for a good performance in any duel. The one shown in my photographs is not the same as the one that went to final production, as it is a slightly earlier version I am told. The actual version has more of an edge on the blade, rather than being round as this one is, and has a more open hilt, allowing a minifig hand to fit in better. Despite all that, this version still demonstrates an excellent eye for scale, being in my opinion the perfect length. The detailing is just right, and I can't wait to get myself a few of the ones that are on sale now in the BrickArms store. The Longsword The longsword is probably my favourite of the whole line; it really is the classic type of blade. Before I go further, it should be noted that the above sword is Version 1 and did not go to mass-production. Version 2, aka the Damien blade, will be discussed in a moment. Back to this one though. If I could see both versions of the longsword in production it would be a dream come true for me, as I love both of them. They each have their good points, and both are excellent examples of BrickArms craftsmanship. The best thing about this one I think is its added length. It is approximately 7mm longer than the Damien blade, and this adds a certain sense of intimidation and power. In terms of Lego weaponry, this blade is a couple of mm shorter than the large chrome-silver swords of Lego Castle. So in my opinion it is definitely not too big at all. I could just see a dark hallway lined by a whole lot of statues holding these swords... very intimidating indeed. I also really like the way the actual blade has been designed, with the flattened middle and the tapered edges. This is also seen on the Damien blade. If this blade were to see mass production, which it unfortunately is unlikely too, then the only improvement I can really see is perhaps having a ribbed hilt like the Damien blade, rather than a plain hilt. Other than that, this blade is very appealing to me, and I can see all sorts of uses for it. The Damien Blade Above you can see the final production version of the longsword, which was called the Damien blade as it was Damien's favourite, so I understand. After all my ranting about how much I love version 1 and wanted to see that produced, I would have been equally annoyed if BrickArms did not come out with this version, because it is really coo. The blade is much smaller than version 1, being just longer than a normal Lego short-sword, which is probably why this didn't end up being called a longsword. The blade is much thinner than the Lego versions, and is slightly thinner than the version 1 prototype. What I really like about this sword is the detail on the hilt, which although simple is really, really effective. It just shows that you don't need lots of fancy patterns to make something look awesome. The ribbed handle combined with the small spheres on the ends of the cross-guard all add up to make this an attractive weapon. As you can see the shape of the blade is the same as that of version 1, only smaller. One other thing which is neat is that if you are careful a minifig can grip part of the blade, although excess pressure would probably snap it or cause damage to the hand, I didn't want to find out which. All in all, these are two very similar yet unique weapons. While I really do love the Damien Blade as a great short sword for the everyday warrior, I think it would be neat if BrickArms produced version 1, or something similar, as a longsword for the strong warriors and heroes that just need that added bit of power and intimidation caused by a longer blade. Either way, I am glad I was able to get a closer look at version 1 and the Damien Blade, they are certainly some of the best blades I've seen at this scale. The Machete An important necessity for any jungle adventurer, the machete is what Johnny Thunder really wanted. One of the earlier prototypes of this lacked the nob at the end of the handle, and didn't have such a tapered blade, so I'm glad those were added to the final version above, because it looks great! Simple, yet effective. I can just see Johnny or Indy hacking through the jungle vines with this. Here's a better look at the edge of the blade. Hopefully you can see that this, like all the other bladed weapons, has a nice sharp finish to the blade, unlike the rounded edges of the Lego blades, and this adds a certain sense of realism. They are of course not sharp enough to actually cut. The bayonet This is another accessory that pirate fans have been eager to get hold of. The bayonet is just what your imperial soldiers need to defeat the enemy on the battlefield, that an a little artillery help of course. The bayonet is simple yet effective, with a small handle allowing it to be held in the hand as well as being clipped onto a gun with a BrickArms U-Clip. As you can see it is long enough to protrude far enough to stab past the end of the a Lego musket, and it doesn't look to shabby either. The U-Clip allows this to be attached to any minifig grip-able object (more on that later). It is hard to see, but the bayonet has a roughly triangular shape, with a broad top which tapers down on either side to an edge along the opposite side. It also slopes up to a point, which for safety reasons I presume has been rounded off somewhat. There is a very small lip around the edge of the handle which stops it from slipping through the U-Clip or a hand. Simple yet also very effective, just what a well designed blade should be like. The Combat Knife The combat knife was previously availabe only in a couple of weapons packs, but it is now available as an individual item. The silver version in the above picture is an earlier prototype without the ribbed handle, while the black one is the production version. This is a very neat weapon, with a couple of great details such as the small groove in the blade, the sharp tapered edge with the little dip at the end of the blade, and the presence of a small cross-guard which fits the weapon. The picture below compares the two versions of the blade. As you can see the two versions are pretty much the same other than the designs on the hilt. This is a small yet versatile weapon, excellent in close quarters where guns just wouldn't do the trick. The U-Clip I briefly mentioned the U-Clips in my description of the bayonet, but these nifty little things can be used to connect more than just bayonets. In fact, they can connect any two items together which a minifig can grip. Just think of all the crazy combos you could have! These are also now available in packs of 3. Well that ends my review of the bladed weapons. I really like all of these weapons, and I can't wait to see if Will has anything more in store for us, because these are fantastic. Now it is time to move on to the final section, the Miscellaneous items, which includes all the Sci-Fi weapons and a few other things. Miscellaneous Weapons The assorted items There is a fair bit to see here, so I'll begin with the two "other" items, and then move on the the Science-Fiction themed weaponry. The Paintball Marker Although hard to photograph in transparent yellow, in real life the details on this are quite clear. This sums up a paintball gun completely; simplicity for optimum performance. From the air-canister to the container for the paintballs on top of the gun, this has all the details needed to do some serious damage to anyone who wants to stand in your way. The gun can also be gripped by the air cannister, the ball-bucket on top, and by the body of the gun. The only part that cannot be gripped is the nozzle at the end of the barrel, which I am fine with because if it was thick enough to be gripped then it would look a bit too big. It should also be noted that the final production version of this has a two-fingered trigger as well as a slightly different finish to the back end of the body. The Baseball Bat Great for hitting a ball around the park, or more importantly, whacking your enemies in the head. The baseball bat was also available as part of the zombie apocalypse pack. This makes a great edition to any gang of thugs, villains, or protective husbands. It also works well for your favourite baseball team.I really like the black one there, it looks very sinister indeed, does it not? Sci-Fi Weapons The Chief - Needler The chief was a special custom minifig only available at BrickWorld 2008 I believe. I was lucky enough to pick one up one eBay, although at a price, I can tell you. The Chief came with the Needler gun, and I have also pictured him here with one of the Plasma Blades which are a part of this section. The Needler Gun is a great little weapon in my opinion, both in a solid colour and with over-moulded colours. It has been said that if this were to make mass production it would be done in solid colours, although a limited quantity of them are available currently as over-moulded weapons through the BrickArms Premium line as well as the Alien Energy Pistol. These are quite expensive, but with cause. The over-moulded weapons are all made by Will himself at home, in a very time-consuming process. The Needler itself requires four steps of over-moulding, in which each piece is injected in its own mould, and then put into another one to be moulded together. The version shown above is the official version that was sold with the Chief, although a few other crazy-coloured ones have been seen around the place. Although it looks amazing with the over-moulding pieces, it is just too hard to do on a large scale. The Chief - Alien Energy Pistol and Plasm Blade Here you can see the other over-moulded prototype, the Alien Energy Pistol, as well as a solid colour Plasma Blade. The picture below shows these three items together. The Three Here you can see the Plasma Blade a little better, in silver, which is easier for me to photograph. The sword starts with a very wide handle which quickly tapers to two thin blades. Each side has an edge, for optimum alien carnage. Although it may look a little delicate I have actually found it to be quite durable, despite both sides only being held together at the handle. The Alien Energy Pistol As I said earlier, if this and the Needler Gun become available as mass-produced items, it will probably be as solid-colour weapons like those shown above. This weapon is well designed with some nice curves that give a very alien feel and are aesthetically pleasing to the eye. I like the curve on the handle, as well as the bottom half of the weapon, both of which can be gripped, as demonstrated above. The Photon Pistol This is the last weapon I have in the line up for today, and it is a good one to finish with. It is highly detailed and accurate, and packs a lot into a small weapon. As shown below it can also be held by the top. I understand that these will also be available sometime in the future in an assortment of colours, s keep on the look out. Before finishing off I think it is important that we know that BrickArms weapons are not just aimed at minifigs. Many of them can also be used by Fabuland figures, such as the baseball bat and combat knife. Isn't he cute? It should be noted that only weapons which have open handles/hilts can be used in this way, for example the Needler cannot be held by a Fabuland figure. So on that note, that concludes my article and review of some current and upcoming BrickArms items. I don't know about you, but I sure am excited about their release, and I am looking forward to seeing what Will has in store for us in the future. It is rumoured that he is expanding into headgear, and he is always developing new weapons, so there is always something new to see from BrickArms. I hope you have enjoyed reading this and hearing my thoughts, it has been a pleasure writing this for you all. Please feel free to share your own thoughts on these great items. -ator

Indeed, as I'm going to be away for most of next week, which would cut me out of a day, and I really don't want to miss the first one. I'll be away from Monday morning and will get back on Sunday. Sorry for any inconvenience, I hate being away.

It's a really neat piece in my opinion, it came in 3 sets, 6098 King Leo's Castle, the 6091 alternative, and a smaller set, 6095 Royal Joust. I like how this builder has used, it is very effective.

I keep all the boxes, there is some nice art on a lot of them, and they are to me part of the set. I flatten all the smaller boxes that can be easily flattened without tearing them, and store these inside the large boxes which open up from the top, that is cannot be flattened without tearing. This still takes up a lot of space, I have a number of stacks of them, but far less space than it otherwise would. I am currently in the process of putting all the boxes into labelled storage bags for long-term storage. It may take some time, like most of my other projects. There are of course a few exceptions, such as older boxes like that of the yellow castle, which I keep up on a special shelf. I love that set. This is an interesting topic, thanks for asking Chopper Otters.

Dr. Phil climbs up and inspects the chandelier. He finds it to be fantastic! That is a really, really cool MOC. That chandelier is outstanding! Truly inspirational! I want one! The rest of it is OK too.

I just received some lovely space weapons from The Little Armoury, I have a BrickForge order on the way, and there are plans for a BrickArms one as well now that the new items are out. ...am I going to buy any real Lego any time soon?

Happy birthday guys, have a great one! Enjoy that cake, it looks delicious!

It's funny how you can read my mind like that.

We do run a variety of games in the LEGO Wargames and Mafia Games forum, from Mafia and Mystery games to RPG. If you are interested, that is the place to look. Welcome to the site.

My CRAZY mind just isn't as fast as it used to be. Ah well, I have plenty of CRAZY saved up for another time. Of course, you probably guessed my CRAZY number. 13 What was that? Size 4? That's CRAZY talk! In case you were wondering, I was going to make a CRAZY time-travelling assassin, complete with his teleporter disguised as a soup ladle and his CRAZY arsenal of attention seeking explosives, noisy weapons and fart-bombs. It is unclear what sort of effect he has had on history, but one thing is clear; the time-spectrum is extraordinarily flexible. Maybe next time. As for favourites, you've got to love the one Matn made. Ah that brings back memories. I also like yours Thrash, the story is very well done and your part usage is imaginative. Not to mention it's CRAZY! Those were the two which stood out most for me. The rest were all very imaginative and CRAZY as well, well done everybody.

A nice idea Shadows, although I do worry when I read that list. I mean, surely it can't be good to have so many mentally disturbed people in one place... No wonder so many people are comically killed in most of these games. Thanks again, a very nice touch indeed. Gotta love the design as well.

Oh excellent, I shall have to get hold of some of these immediately! I am looking forward to getting a solid-colour Dadao. Really neat to see them available in four colours, I like that. Hmmm, I need to get the second part of my review done ASAP! Expect something in the next 2 days...

Personally I like his use of so many different characters, as each one does have a purpose and adds something to the story. What I've always found really unique about his writing is that every character has some sort of trait that makes them unique, unlike many writers who just have a couple of characters they go into great depth with. Also I like the way he develops his main characters, showing their conflicts, their thoughts, and looking at how they have changed and evolved as people over the whole series. Yes some of them may be stereotypical to start, it is hard not to avoid that really when you are writing an epic with a certain formula (good vs evil, etc), but the main characters are all developed really well, and we see many different sides to their personalities and contrasts with other characters. I respect your view, but if you read deeply enough you'll find there is quite a lot to discover about each of the characters. I find it quite funny that none of the men have a clue how to handle women. I'm sure that has been done though to reinforce a theme, perhaps that of growing up and such. You'll notice that all the older men are fine with women, it is only the younger ones that get all confused. As for all of them being great warriors, well, aren't the heroes always amazing fighters in any epic novel? I must admit though that it is hard to follow and remember some of the more minor characters if you don't concentrate. I guess that is part of the whole style of an epic though, isn't it? Anyway, enough of me defending one of my favourite authors from criticism, back to this lovely MOC...

How very interesting, I'd never heard of these before. I presume they were made for some sort of promotion at the LEGOLAND parks or something? Can the head and the arms move, or is it a solid figure?

You've got to love Robert Jordan for his amazing way with characters. He truly was a master storyteller. I concur, MOCs based on books are something we don't see very often, but it is nice when we do.

Wow, those are really nice, you're a great artist man! I really like th choice of shield design, certainly the best one you could have picked. I'm not being biased in any way, but you've got to admit that dragons are awesome. I love the innocent look on the horse in the second picture, simply adorable! It contrasts nicely with the determined features of the soldier. I like them, please, do more!

It will take me a few weeks to come to grips with this sudden and dramatic change in our lives, but I can understand your want to change it. Still, I will miss our dear Sinner. Welcome aboard Siegfried!

No, this is... actually I don't know what it is, where are we? Wouldn't have a clue old chap, but I do have some lovely whiskey here. Well you would, wouldn't you? Gentlemen, please, behave yourselves. We must be respectful. You're face is respectful. Thank you Ragnir. Draggy? What now? I'm sure I've seen those birds before... The party of detectives soldiers people turn to see a terrible sight...

Such a wonderful series, I have read and enjoyed them many times. In fact I just finished re-reading the whole series last week, so it is all still fresh in my mind. Such a tragedy how Jordan passed away. You have made a very nice MOC, your interpretation is certainly very nicely shown in this. The water was one of the things that grabbed me first, and I also like the variety of things inside the walls. Of course, it looks nothing like would imagine it to look, but everyone pictures these things differently, don't they, and I think you have done a very nice job.

With the games becoming so popular, it is becoming hard for hosts to figure out how to chose players. I like the idea of a host including both experienced players and also choosing a couple of new people as well to balance things. As another idea, what if we had two pools, with a "junior" and "senior" pool? Then new people could come into the junior pool, which would be based around teaching new people to play and involving them in basic yet still interesting games, and then work their way into the senior pool, which is for more experienced players with a wider variety and style of games. Or is that making things to complicated. I'm not sure if we would have quite enough interest for this idea though, so maybe not. Also it is nice for the new players to play alongside more experienced players. OK, trash that idea, it was silly anyway. I don't know, I just like playing the games. They are very fun, and we should be looking to encourage new people to play who are willing. Perhaps we should just leave it to a case by case basis, depending on what interest there is in each game?

Do you really need to ask? Sign me up for the empire! But they're evil. Well, sign me up for whatever then, although evil is my middle name. I thought that was William? Could you stop ruining my lines please?

Please, the voices, I can't bare it any more!!! What's that? A Mafia game? Why yes, I'd love to play! My cravings need satisfaction... As a quick note, you do know that seven plus eight is fifteen not thirteen, right?

Yeah yeah, just give me a CRAZY minute won't you? HURRY! Shut it.