Hey everyone!
I’m a newbie to the site. To be honest, im not very experienced with forums either. ive always wanted a ghostbuster uniform but lately ive really put my heart into it. Im not very crafty and find it hard to make things. So unfortunately I try to purchase everything I can which of course can get kind of pricey (especially since they think its a good idea to make limited items at high prices instead of making things available for all to enjoy) So far I’ve purchased a jumpsuit and patches. Since I have no know how and no tools, ive purchased the matty collector PKE meter and Ghost trap (which REALLY hit my wallet hard and didnt make the girlfriend happy either) My issue is the proton pack. I figure this is a piece im going to have to make because there is not one available and if it does become available it will probably be pretty expensive. I’m also looking for help on putting everything together and getting as screen accurate as possible. I figured this would be a good community to assist in that. I have seen a couple ghostbuster cosplayers and everytime they have been very friendly and welcoming. I just met one at baltimore comic con who gave me a card that referenced this site so I thought Id reach out for help. I look forward to discussing Ghostbusters with you all and hope you can be patient with my rookie status!
I’d just like to add that already, this forum has helped me. I was able to find a good pke meter holster. This is the start of a beautiful friendship
I tried to do my build as inexpensively as possible. Here are a few brief pointers:
I suggest you wait until everything comes in before you start your build. Far too many times did I run into parts that wouldn’t fit because different parts were already mounted. Or I overlooked holes that needed to be drilled until it was almost completely built and I had no way to drill the hole without damaging parts or dissembling things. Also drill your holes first.
Take your time. The most difficult part for me was waiting for everything. Some times it would take weeks or even months before something I ordered actually arrived. And since it’s close to Halloween, it’ll probably just get worse.
I shopped around and tried to find the most inexpensive, quality parts to use on my first pack. I highly suggest MultiMediaMeyhem for just about everything. I also suggest Crix for lights and sounds and D-42 for a vac-formed shell. The vac-formed shell is less detailed and takes a lot of work to clean up, but it’s often $200-ish less than other shells.
Also, look at local army surplus stores for your ALICE frame. Mine has them for $20, while some people sell them for $50 or more online.
You will need a drill and a set of drill bits. If you get a D-42 shell you also need a dremel. You’ll also need sandpaper, various glues, bolts, pliers and probably a soldering kit with a basic knowledge of soldering.
Not counting tools and the many parts I made myself, mine ended up at over $1,000 for everything.
Wow thanks, those are helpful tips. Hmm i havent even priced what the proton pack will cost. 1000 bucks seems like alot but if i take my time like you say it shouldnt hurt too bad over time. My friend makes cosplay items all the time and he’s going to be assisting me so I think he’ll have all the tools I need, Is there a good guide to making them that you recommend?