There are two main problems with the other "Dueling Sabers" I've tried. The first problem is the control design. They all use a single button to control everything, and no two use the same control scheme. If you lose the instructions, you might never figure out how to operate the thing again. There's no difference here - it's still a single button, and it's different from every other one I've seen so if you lose the instructions, you're out of luck.The instructions are very well done and relatively clear. The controls mostly consist of holding the button and waiting for a certain number of flashes then releasing it. The trick is that the exact same sequences do different things depending on whether you're in "on" or "standby" mode, and the light will flash 5 times before the saber powers off but only the first two flashes. Humorously the instructions also acknowledge that if you get stuck and can't figure out the right sequence of holds and presses to get the thing working like you want, you may just want to pull the battery out to reset it. On the plus side I really like that a quick twist motion puts it in and out of standby.This saber is the first I've seen that actually got the sound + acceleration right - the "whump" noise it's supposed to make when you wave it through the air. Every other one I've seen up until now has made exactly the same sound whether you're waving it through the air quickly or slowly - at a certain acceleration threshold it plays the sound and that's it. The problem is that if it's just playing a clip of the sound it doesn't match the motion. With this one the sound actually corresponds to the acceleration - move the blade slowly and you get a low dragging sound, move it quicker and it increases in pitch and volume culminating in the most satisfying effect. This is exactly what I was hoping for in all of these.The sound modes mimic the sound made by different characters' light sabers and they're pretty darn close. They can't list them because of the obvious copyright violation, but there's nothing stopping me from doing it:Emperor PalatineDarth VaderLuke SkywalkerBen Solo/Kylo RenGeneral GreviousObi-Wan KenobiGroguQui-Gon JinnThe packaging is very gift-able. It's tastefully decorated, and uses good dense foam to hold everything securely. You could use the packaging to store the saber when not in use though you have to remove the blade to do so, and I'm not sure it's a great idea to keep removing and re-installing it.The blade is held in place with tension (like it is with all of these). This one stays in place very well. I've had others where it slipped no matter how tight you made the screws.Calling this "12 Colors RGB" is a little ambiguous. It's technically true that it uses RGB LEDs to produce the various colors but "RGB" usually means you have access to the whole spectrum. With my other sabers that's exactly what it means. With this one it means you are limited to 12 colors.Areas for improvement (this is more for the manufacturers' benefit than anyone): put a cheap wifi module in these and let people use a phone app to change settings. Find a way to hold an instruction sheet inside the handle so you will always have them.Conclusion: this is the best "Dueling Saber" I've ever used. It's bright and has just enough settings to be customizable but not so many that it's easy to get lost. The saber sounds are the most authentic of any that I've used. Definitely recommended!

I've gotten a few of these over the years as gifts for fans of a certain movie franchise and this was by far the best (as expected, matching the list price). This has a metal handle that carries an amount of weight you'd expect, and what stands out to me is that it FEELS better to hold, instead of feeling cheap like some competitors. It looks good, their pictures (other than the costume clad model) do accurately depict what you're getting. It came with an instruction book to tell you how to adjust the sounds, lights, put it to sleep vs off, etc.

This light saber was a wonderful surprise in all aspects. The unboxing was like unwrapping the best present. There are several pamphlets with information that help hype it up while you are taking out all the pieces.The hilt is solid with some heft on it. The weight makes it easier to hold without feeling like the light saber will fly from your hands. The sound effects were spot on and sounded great.The blade was the only part that was a bit lacking. Once assembled, it still made a rattling noise and felt loose despite being as secure as it could be.This is a great item for any one who would appreciate a light saber.