starwarsblognumber1001:

Kylo
Ren’s Lightsaber: Info. Graph + Transparency

Kylo
Ren’s lightsaber has created many disagreements, since the design diverges from
the conception of a traditional lightsaber. Consistent with many Dark Force users, Kylo Ren has chosen a
red kyber crystal. Unlike his predecessors,
Kylo Ren implemented a cracked kyber crystal into his lightsaber design. The
cracked crystal presents some difficulties for the user. Since the crystal is
damaged, it is difficult to manipulate and control the energy produced. To
focus the crystal’s energy into a plasma
stream, the crossgaurd – or the quillon
vents – are needed. The quillons help to reduce excess energy created by
the kyber crystal. However, the angular placement of the quillons may negate the
functionality of the vents.

Each
plasma stream creates its own force. Plasma is not static, instead it is in constant
motion. The plasma stream of a lightsaber cycles through a loop. The plasma moves
rapidly and continuously in and out of the kyber crystal located in the hilt. This
means the crystal is pulled in each direction
in which a plasma stream is present. In turn, this causes tremendous stress on
the damaged crystal as well as difficulty wielding the lightsaber.  

The
damaged crystal only partially accounts for the ragged and unstable appearance of
the plasma blade. The electromagnetic
field which surrounds and assists the creation of the plasma stream has been
clearly weakened. Indicators of this manipulation are the varying width of the
blade as well as the particles of plasma (flying sparks). There are a few
reasons why Kylo Ren would want to weaken the electromagnetic field. First, it could
reduce the stress on the cracked kyber crystal. Second, it might allow for the
formation of the quillons.

Some
speculations: As mentioned in the previous post, Kylo Ren’s crossguard lightsaber
is based of an ancient design. I personally wonder if the design specifically calls
for a cracked kyber crystal or if there another reason behind Kylo Ren’s
crystal selection? What if Kylo Ren specifically uses this crystal for
sentimental reasons. It is possible that this cracked crystal was originally
implemented in the lightsaber of Darth
Vader.

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