The build and light/sound quality of this is great.  Takes a good beating and has a realistic set of "turn-on", "turn-off", "swing", and "clash" sounds.  Compared to the Rubies costume sabers, this model is rock-solid (Rubies' accessories are quite junky, even if they are cheap).

Two exceptions: 1) The lowest segment of the "blade" never retracts, I think this was to make room in the handle for the sound and motion electronics, but I've seen newer models that retract completely, 2) It turns off after about 3 minutes of not being used... this is great if you're in constant saber battles, but really? couldn't this have been a bit longer?

All and all, a great toy w/o the price of the replica models.