Building R2-D2 isn’t what I would call a beginner’s level project. Astromechs require a lot of parts, skills, and patience, and though the R2-D2 Builders Club exists to help people achieve the dream of constructing a droid, there are easier ways. And I don’t mean the sort of easy that will lead you to the dark side — just the kind of easy that will save you a lot of time and effort.

Plastic model kits are an option, but Metal Earth has a whole series of exquisitely detailed Star Wars 3D models that are made from shiny steel.

In case you’re concerned about it being too simple, don’t worry. Putting the model together isn’t a piece of cake. You’ll have to punch several components out of two laser-cut sheets of steel and follow the instructions closely. No glue is required to keep the droid together, but you will need needle-nosed pliers and the patience of Yoda to put all the tabs into the right place. If, like me, prone to accidents and often ending up bleeding on your craft projects, please be extra careful because metal isn’t the softest substance.

As mentioned, Metal Earth has several Star Wars models available. You can craft the Millennium Falcon, an AT-AT, an X-wing, or other droids. Amazon reviews say that R2-D2 is the most complex build so maybe test your mettle on other metal model kits first?

Would you have the patience to assemble an astromech model kit? If so, will you please consider putting one together for me? I’m mostly kidding.

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HT: Boing Boing

IMAGES: Amazon