So, after all the backstory telling, and the teasing, here we are! The real review. There have been numerous Bane reviews already, so I will try to avoid the obvious things that have been covered thoroughly already. Instead, I will attempt to give it my own spin on things perhaps less "front and center" about the saber.
Let me just say first that I am very impressed with this saber! Is it absolutely flawless...well no, but really...what is? I will say that the imperfections are very minor and nitpicky considering the techniques required to create this masterpiece!
Rather than being something that is created on a lathe, incorporating design themes that rotation allows, this thing is cast in separate pieces that are held together with fasteners in rather ingenious ways, that make them blend into the texture of the saber. I notice a lot of the latest SF designs are moving to the more intricate designs, and I personally think they are doing a great job of it! The imperfections I mentioned earlier really have to do with seam lines that show under close scrutiny. However, when you are looking at the varied lines and textures that this saber is comprised of, you really don't notice unless you want to.
I have to say that I very much dig the way that curves are combined with straight lines, and then combined again with circular depressions, creating a textural flow that one could imagine as being due to so many things in their imaginings on the origin of their Bane. There are rounded surfaces, that intersect with very pointed angular surfaces, and the mix is balanced in such a way that it just WORKS!
The weight of the saber is much lighter than its appearance would have you think. Without a blade, it almost feels too light! With a 32" blade, the balance point feels just forward of the emitter. With a 37" blade, it is noticeably further out. Not to say that it is too blade heavy with the longer one, but the balance does shift forward. I would imagine if one were planning to use this saber with a one-handed grip, a 32" blade would work better, where a 37" blade would pretty much demand a two-handed grip for any but those with very strong forearms.
The saber came without a covertech wheel installed, but there was one included in the box, which allowed us to choose which side to put it on. As the saber technically belongs to my son, he chose the side, and we installed it there. It was pretty obvious that the Covertech was an afterthought, as it is really not designed for this particular saber. The location where you attach it is not the typical rounded surface, it is actually part of the pommel design, which does not really fit the Covertech. Another minor imperfection, but until there are wheels that are designed to blend in better, as a matter of practicality, it will suffice. I will also say that with the Covertech installed, a two-handed grip becomes more difficult, and less comfortable. Without it, my hands (which are on the high side of medium in size) fit perfectly, and comfortably.
Since we went with the weathered finish on the saber, and the Crimson sound font, we obviously envisioned this saber as something of a Darkside affiliate. To that end, the color of the finish, and the aggressive look of the emitter, combined with the beautiful 12w Indigo give the exact look we had in mind. Much cosplay will be planned around this saber, I can assure you!
As for the sound, it is quite loud! The angled pommel, combined with the location of the speaker deep inside allows it to resonate in a way that give the Crimson font a little bass. That could just be my perception, but that is how it sounds to me. As for the Indigo color, I will just say that it is the most true purple I have seen on a saber, and the 12w makes it very bright. Just beautiful! Someday, when the 12w + is readily available in Indigo, we will get one which I am sure will make a great thing, just a little better!
I think Saberforge produced something fantastic in the Bane, and while I understand it might not be for everybody, I think it is one of the most compelling designs I have had the pleasure to behold. The feel of it in my hand makes me feel as if the Darkside is pulsing through my being, which is reinforced by the color of the blade, and the sound coming from it. Bravo Saberforge!
For overall design of the Bane: 9.8 out of 10 (small hit for the aforementioned imperfections)
Sound: 9.9 (because nothing is perfect)
LED Brightness: 9.8 (a little base heavy, which I am sure the 12w + will address, but overall, awesome!)
LED Color: 9.9 (Like I said, best looking purple I have seen)
I have craved this saber since I first saw it announced, and it lived up to all of my expectations! When you consider that I bartered for it, my son and I love it even more!