FAQ

Every Blackforge saber ships with the Xenopixel V3 (XENO3.0) as standard. This is the current generation board featuring Bluetooth connectivity, 34 pre-installed sound fonts on SD card, 8 blade effects, and full app control via XenoConfigurator on iOS and Android. Proffie 2.2 is available as an upgrade on most models for full open-source customization.

Xenopixel V3 is plug-and-play. It comes pre-loaded with 34 professional sound fonts, connects to a free Bluetooth app, and requires no technical knowledge to customize. It's the right choice for most customers.

Proffie 2.2 is an open-source board popular with enthusiasts who want to install custom fonts, write their own blade styles, and access deeper configuration. If you're new to neopixel sabers, Xenopixel V3 is the right choice. If you're an experienced builder who wants full control, Proffie is worth the upgrade.

Eight built-in effects: Steady, Pulse, Rainbow, Candy, Unstable, Crack, Fire, and Flash. All are selectable via the XenoConfigurator app or the button controls on the hilt.

27 preset colors plus infinite custom mixing via the XenoConfigurator app. You can dial in any hue precisely.

Yes. The Xenopixel V3 reads fonts from the included SD card. You can add any compatible sound font package by copying files to the card via the included SD card reader. The Proffie 2.2 supports any ProffieOS-compatible font.

All Blackforge sabers use neopixel blades — a 144-LED strip runs the full length inside the polycarbonate tube. This gives true full-blade color and effects, unlike cheaper base lit sabers which only light from the bottom.

The default blade is 92cm (36"). Most models support shorter blade lengths of 82cm, 72cm, and shorter on request. Short-hilt models like VERDANT use a 72cm blade by default.

Yes. All blades are fully removable for transport and storage. A blade plug is included to protect the emitter opening when the blade is detached.

Yes. All Blackforge hilts are aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. No plastic components on the hilt body.

2mm thick polycarbonate — the same material used in full-contact dueling sabers. It is rated for heavy dueling and sparring.

A Samsung 3600mAh 3.7V protected 18650 cell. This is a standard size cell and is user-replaceable.

Approximately 1–2 hours of continuous active use depending on brightness settings and blade effect mode. Lower brightness and simpler effects extend runtime significantly.

Via the USB-C port on the hilt. Supports fast charging — a full charge takes approximately 2 hours. Do not use the saber while it is charging.

Yes. All Blackforge sabers are built for dueling. The 2mm polycarbonate blade withstands heavy contact. The aluminum hilt is impact-resistant. We recommend removing the blade for full-contact sparring and using a dedicated dueling blade for competition-level combat.

The neopixel strip is flexible and seated inside the blade tube. Light-to-moderate dueling contact is fine. We do not recommend striking the very tip of the blade directly as this puts the most stress on the strip.

The sabers are splash-resistant but not waterproof. Do not submerge or use in heavy rain.

Yes. These are used extensively for cosplay, photo shoots, stage performance, and display. The hilt weight and blade illumination both look and photograph exceptionally well. For convention carry, check the event's prop weapon policy — most allow sabers with polycarbonate blades.

Orders are processed within 1–3 business days. Delivery takes 5–12 business days worldwide. All orders include tracking.

Yes. Free shipping on orders over $350. Flat rate shipping on all other orders, calculated at checkout.

Yes — 30-day return policy. The item must be unused and in its original packaging. Contact us to initiate a return.

12 months against manufacturing defects including electronics, battery, and hilt construction. It does not cover physical damage from dueling, drops, or misuse. Contact us to make a claim.

Search "XenoConfigurator" on the iOS App Store or Google Play. It is free.

Blade color, brightness, volume, sound font selection, blade effect mode, and sensitivity settings for motion detection.

No. The saber is fully functional without the app using the button controls on the hilt. The app adds convenience and deeper customization.

First, charge it fully via USB-C for 2 hours. Most issues on first use are battery-related.

If it still doesn't power on, check that the blade is fully seated — some models require the blade to be inserted before powering on.

If the issue persists, contact us with your order number and a description of the problem. We cover all manufacturing defects under our 12-month warranty.