As I'm about to assemble an ANH Stormtrooper mannequin, I needed a blaster. A "TK" simply standing there with his arms to the side looks boring. While I've not yet decided on what make and brand of mannequin to go for, one things for sure is that I needed a blaster that's light. If the mannequin ends up being a bendable or flexible (read: metal wires) then it may sag under the weight of, say, a Master Replicas metal replica.
The Hyperfirm is made out of a trade secret rubber-based product, molded over carbonfiber poles and stainless steel armatures.
The product arrived quite literally the next day after the maker said he shipped it. I purchased this for $275 shipped.
It was painted black and had various tiny casting bubbles throughout as well as excess material at the seams. As this is resin, doing anything to the rubber to make the finish perfect might not flex with the rubber and may later break, so it's best to leave it alone. If you're standing 2 feet away, the bubbles disappear. Stand 4-5 feet back, and whatever prop-like imperfections vanish.
The maker related that the blaster was pretty much good to go in its current state, but that some choose to weather it using Krylon Dull Aluminum paint, spraying some on a cloth and applying it with a finger tip (dabbing some off on a piece of paper as to not overwhelm the black). He also related that if the paint job is messed up, Krylon Semi-Flat black. He also stated the weathering can be done by him.
Despite the flaws of the bubbles and the seams, the level of detail is quite remarkable, and this is where I believe the "trade secret" material comes into play. The pattern of the grip is immaculate save for some roughing that would probably deter recasters. The side of the Scope Power Unit facing you as you're aiming replicates the words "Hengstier 400" which was originally mechanically engraved into the original Hengstier counter. Hyperfirm's rubber mix picked up that hairline material. This is no ordinary rubber!
it is handsome, rugged and smells like a baby product. It's nice to have a prop that isn't smelling like automotive paint for a change.
If you're a perfectionist who is looking for a presentation grade blaster, this is not for you. But if you're doing the mannequin thing or are interested in a lightweight blaster for costuming, this is worth considering.
