I couldnt agree more with Cybercorr about the list idea. I’m working on my second pack build and I have listed everything I need. The other side of things that you can look at in order to save money is building certain parts yourself such as the injector tubes and beam line etc. If you look on the pack section you will find a thread by Vincenzo330 who gives you all the sizes of aluminium tubing for each. A truly invaluable thread. Also, as Hoot said, look at Nickatron’s site and the selling threads here for resin and other parts. Speaking from personal experience, Nick’s parts are very accurate and he, like others on here, is really helpful and can offer advice on what you need. Best of luck with your build and keep us updated with how it comes along!
If this is your first pack, then also take into consideration the costs of making mistakes. I spent about an extra $100.00 on materials to fix some of my mistakes.
I am starting another pack build after halloween is over. I have most of the parts I need to finish my aluminum thrower. Just in that alone cost me roughly $600.00. Keep in mind that is using all real parts.
Take your time with the build and have fun with it.
Absolutely. A lot of people tend to overlook or not consider the thrower as a major cost fluctuation when building a pack. If you’re looking to go the high-end, aluminum hero thrower route, plan on $500-1,000 for the thrower alone. Obviously it would be a lot cheaper if you use an alternative such as styrene or resin.
For a full hero pack and thrower, plan on $1,800-$3,000 total.
My fist pack was a vacformed shell and nick a tron resin parts. I used a few bits from the shop on here.
It cost me in the region of £600
My second pack was a resin shell with aluminium parts and a lot of original parts which cost a lot and a resin thrower kit but with aluminium knobs etc. I never finished it and had to se it for personal reasons but I think up to date It cost me in the region of £1200 and a lot of the metal parts I made at work.
I hand built a foamboard/plywood/PVC pack and thrower for under $300 with pack lights. Take your time, research, ask questions, and have fun!