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Different Lightsaber Types Explained

Different Types of Lightsabers Explained

If you’re a fan of “Star Wars,” then you know that the lightsaber is one of the most iconic weapons in movie history. But what you may not know is that there are different types of lightsabers, each with its own unique capabilities. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the different types of lightsabers and explain their features. So if you’re curious about how to choose the right lightsaber for your needs, keep reading and also check out our Ultimate Sabers Guide!

Training Lightsaber

Jedi younglings training
Younglings training at the Jedi Academy

Lightsabers are the iconic weapon of the Jedi Order, and training sabers are used by younglings in order to learn the basics of combat. A training lightsaber is a practice sword that is significantly weaker than a standard lightsaber, making it safe for training purposes. The training saber has a number of features that differentiate it from a regular lightsaber. For example, the training saber’s blade is shorter and not as bright as a standard lightsaber. In addition, the training saber produces a distinctive sound when it is activated, which helps to signal the start and end of training sessions.

While training sabers are not as powerful as regular lightsabers, they are still deadly weapons. As such, those who train with them must be careful to practice with caution and respect their training partners. By following these safety guidelines, students can learn the basics of lightsaber combat in a safe and controlled environment.

The Standard Lightsaber

Who Has a Green Lightsaber?
Luke Skywalker with a Standard Saber

Lightsabers are the weapons of the Jedi and Sith in the Star Wars universe. Each one is unique, with its own design and construction reflecting the personality of its owner. While training sabers are used for practice and have relatively simple designs, combat lightsabers are made for battle and often have more elaborate hilts.

The vast majority of lightsabers are standard lightsabers and feature a single, straight hilt and a plasma blade powered by the kyber crystal inside the hilt.  Although non-force users are capable to wielding a lightsaber, it is at the standard lightsaber level where its full potential can only be realized by someone knowledgable in the Force.

Dual-Phase Lightsaber

darth-vader-with-graflex
Vader’s Dual-Phase Saber

Dual phase lightsabers are a type of weapon that can be adjusted to different lengths by shifting the alignment of the kyber crystal. This allows the user to adapt their combat style to the situation, and also makes it easier to carry the lightsaber around.

The dual phase lightsaber was first introduced in The Empire Strikes Back, when Luke Skywalker faced Darth Vader. Vader’s saber is, in fact, a dual phase saber, and not surprisingly as this type of weapon requires a mastery of the Force and more than one combat style.

Since then, dual phase lightsabers have been featured in several other Star Wars movies, TV shows, and video games. While they may not be as iconic as the standard single-bladed lightsabers, dual phase lightsabers are still a popular choice for Jedi and Sith alike.

Shoto Blades

What Does the White Lightsaber in Star Wars Mean?
Ashoka Tano dual-wielding her Shoto blades

The shoto lightsaber is a shorter version of the traditional lightsaber, with a blade that is typically between 12 and 24 inches long. Ashoka Tano preferred dual-wielding a shoto blade with a standard one. The shoto was originally developed for a specific type of combat style known as wushu, which emphasizes speed and agility. The shorter blade makes the shoto lighter and easier to handle, allowing users to perform complex maneuvers that would be difficult with a standard lightsaber.

Today, shoto lightsabers are used by both Jedi and Sith for close-quarters combat, and they are also popular among those who prefer a more compact weapon. Whether you’re practicing your solo Form II moves or trying to take down a group of enemy troopers, the shoto is an excellent choice for any lightsaber user.

Double-Bladed Lightsabers

Darth Maul’s Double-Bladed Saber

Double-bladed lightsabers are unique weapons, first seen wielded by Darth Maul in Episode I: The Phantom Menace, and later seen as a preferred weapon for the Jedi Temple Guard. Also known as saber staffs, these impressive weapons consist of two lightsabers attached at the hilt, resulting in a double-ended blade.

While they may appear to be unwieldy, double-bladed lightsabers are actually well balanced and provide a number of advantages in combat. For example, the double blade allow users to perform a wide range of complex maneuvers, and the extra length gives them a reach advantage over their single-bladed counterparts. In addition, double-bladed lightsabers can be used to block incoming blaster fire, making them an essential tool for any Jedi Knight.

Switchblade

Dark Rey
Dark Rey with a switchblade saber

Switchblade lightsabers, such as the one seen in Rey’s dark vision of herself, are unique weapons that combine the cutting power of a lightsaber with the versatility of a switchblade knife. Switchblade lightsabers are characterized by a hilt that can collapse into a small, concealable blade. When activated, the blade extends and locks into place, providing a sturdy and reliable weapon for combat. Switchblade lightsabers are popular among Jedi and Sith alike for their compact size and sleek design. In addition, switchblade lightsabers offer a unique combat style that is both elegant and deadly. For those who know how to wield them, switchblade lightsabers are truly the weapons of choice.

Lightsaber Pikes

Jedi Temple Guards
Jedi Temple Guards

Lightsaber pikes, also referred to as saber staffs, are weapons that are used most commonly by Jedi Temple Guards. The pikes are about two meters long and have a hilt in the middle, which is used to grip the pike during combat. The pikes are primarily used for defensive purposes, as they can be used to block incoming attacks from enemies. However, the pikes can also be used as offensive weapons, as they can be jabbed into an opponent’s body. Jedi Knights often use pikes in conjunction with other lightsabers, as they provide an additional level of protection. When used properly, pikes can be deadly weapons that give Jedi Knights the upper hand in combat.

Crossguard Lightsabers

Kylo's Cross Guard Saber
Kylo Ren’s Crossguard Saber

Crossguard Lightsabers are a type of lightsaber that was first seen in the hands of Kylo Ren in Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens. They have a crossguard-shaped blade, which gives them their name. The crossguard lightsabers were designed for a more aggressive style of combat, and they were often used by Sith Lords and other dark side users. The crossguard also helped to protect the user’s hand from being sliced off by an opponent’s blade. However, the crossguard lightsabers were not without their drawbacks. The crossguard could make the blade less stable, and it could also get in the way during a fight. Nonetheless, the crossguard lightsaber remains a popular choice for many Jedi and Sith warriors.

The Inquisitors’ Lightsabers

The Grand Inquisitor

The Inquisitors in Star Wars are skilled fighters, specialized in hunting down Jedi, who wield unique lightsabers in combat. These lightsabers are designed for efficient and powerful attacks, and they include a number of features that set them apart from other lightsabers.

For example, inquisitors’ lightsaber hilts are around the same length as a single-bladed lightsaber, but they support a double-blade mode. Additionally, the blades have the ability to spin, almost like helicopter blades, along a circular track attached to the hilt. As a result, inquisitors’ lightsabers are some of the most deadly weapons in the Star Wars universe.

The Darksaber

Mando with the Darksaber
The Mandalorian wielding the Darksaber

The darksaber is a unique weapon in the Star Wars universe. It is a lightsaber that is black in color, and it is said to be created by a member of the famous House Vizsla and the first Mandalorian to become a Jedi.

Unlike a regular lightsaber, which has a smooth, straight blade, the darksaber has an angular blade that comes to a sharp point at the end. The darksaber is also said to be more powerful than a regular lightsaber.

In terms of combat style, the darksaber is more suited for slashing and chopping strokes, rather than the thrusting and parrying style of a regular lightsaber. As a result, the darksaber is considered to be a more dangerous weapon, and only those with experience in lightsaber combat should attempt to wield one.

Curved-Hilt Lightsaber

Count Dooku
Count Dooku

The curved-hilt lightsaber is a type of lightsaber that has curved, as opposed to straight, giving it a distinct look. The curved hilt also provides some advantages in combat. For example, it can be easier to swing a curved-hilt lightsaber, and may fit more comfortably in wielder’s hand. This type of saber was first seen with Count Dooku in Episode II: Attack of the Clones, and later with Assajj Ventress in the Clones Wars animated series.

Curved-hilt lightsabers are often associated with more acrobatic and aggressive styles of combat, which can make them well-suited for Jedi and Sith who are looking for an edge in battle. Whether you’re a fan of the movies or the books, there’s no denying that the curved-hilt lightsaber is a cool and iconic weapon.

Lightsaber Pistol

Ezra Bridger escaping an Inquisitor

The lightsaber pistol is seen with Ezra Bridger in the Star War Rebels animated Series. Traditionally, Jedi Knights construct their own sabers using parts they have acquired themselves. In this case, Ezra constructed his from a blaster he already had, keeping the main mechanism of the blaster intact, resulting in a cutlass-style hilt.

This unique design allows the lightsaber pistol to be deadly at close or mid ranges, and can be adapted to wide range of combat situations.

So, there you have it. A breakdown of some of the most popular types of lightsabers in the Star Wars Universe. Now that you know a little more about each type, it’s time to choose your side and pick up your weapon! Remember, always use caution when wielding a lightsaber and may the Force be with you.

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