In the hands of Obi-Wan Kenobi, the glowing blue plasma blade of his Jedi lightsaber etched itself into Star Wars iconography. Much like the character himself, the noble weapon came to represent the ideals of truth and justice in a tumultuous galaxy.
Obi-Wan Kenobi's first lightsaber
Obi-Wan's path to Jedi Master meant constructing multiple lightsabers as he grew in skills and rank. The version seen in The Phantom Menace was likely his first after achieving knighthood. Modeled after his master Qui-Gon Jinn's lightsaber, it showcases the influence and guidance Obi-Wan received from his esteemed mentor. The simplistic design showed practicality and humility as he instructed young Anakin.
The lightsaber's physical attributes are notable. The hilt, fashioned in a cylindrical and straight design, measures approximately 28 centimeters in length and is constructed from a durable silver alloy metal. This choice of material not only ensures its strength but also enhances its aesthetic appeal. The blade, extending to a length of 145 centimeters, emanates a vibrant blue color, representing the noble and just nature of the Jedi.
Powered by a diatium power cell, Obi-Wan's first lightsaber demonstrates the Jedi's proficiency in harnessing the Force to create their iconic weapons. The crystal embedded within the hilt is a kyber crystal, a vital component responsible for channeling and amplifying the energy of the blade. It is worth mentioning that, for a brief period, Obi-Wan's lightsaber utilized a Kohlen crystal, which temporarily altered the blade's color to a striking orange hue.
Obi-Wan Kenobi's first lightsaber saw action in numerous lightsaber combats, as it served as a tool for both defense and offense. Its affiliation with the Kenobi family, Jedi Order, and Galactic Republic further solidifies its significance in the wider Star Wars narrative. However, during the Invasion of Naboo, Obi-Wan engaged in a fateful duel with the formidable Sith Lord Darth Maul, resulting in the loss of his beloved weapon. Darth Maul's powerful kick sent the lightsaber tumbling into a pit within the Theed power generator, forever separating Obi-Wan from this cherished symbol of his Jedi heritage.
Obi-Wan Kenobi's second lightsaber
By Attack of the Clones, Obi-Wan wielded an updated model with a more intricate steel hilt. The distinguished look reflected his new status as a mature Jedi Council member at the height of his powers.
Obi-Wan Kenobi's second lightsaber characterized by its single-blade design, was crafted by Obi-Wan himself, showcasing his skill and mastery in lightsaber construction. It's hilt featured a cylindrical and straight shape, providing a comfortable and balanced grip for combat. It was powered by a kyber crystal, which emitted a vibrant blue blade, a distinctive feature of Obi-Wan's lightsabers. The design of this lightsaber closely resembled his first one, which was based on the lightsaber of his late master, Qui-Gon Jinn.
Having created his second lightsaber prior to the Mission to Dallenor, Obi-Wan Kenobi became its sole owner. Throughout his illustrious career as a Jedi Knight, he wielded this weapon with great proficiency, employing it in lightsaber combat against various adversaries. It served as an essential tool in his role as a defender of justice and peace in the galaxy.
Obi-Wan Kenobi's third Lightsaber
Obi-Wan lost his second saber when dueling Darth Vader on Mustafar. Now in exile on Tatooine, he constructed a third and final lightsaber with parts procured from local Jawas. The hilt, measuring approximately 29.2 centimeters (11.5 inches), featured a cylindrical and straight design, constructed from alloy metal. The blade, ignited by a kyber crystal, emitted a vibrant blue color. With a length of 145 centimeters (4ft 9in), the blade was suitable for lightsaber combat.
The humbler design matched his new identity as the unassuming hermit Ben Kenobi. Though simpler, its blade was no less attuned to Obi-Wan's mastery of Soresu, Jedi philosophy, and the Living Force. Facing defeat at Vader's hands aboard the Death Star, Obi-Wan sacrificed himself, disappearing into the Force. But his lightsaber clattered to the floor, allowing Luke to retrieve it. This passing of the torch empowered Luke in his journey to become a Jedi. The legendary blade then served Luke until being lost in Cloud City. But it continued to represent Obi-Wan's enduring influence through two generations of Skywalkers.
Quick Specifications Of Obi-wan Kenobi’s Lightsaber
| First saber | Second saber | Third saber | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightsaber Color | Blue, Orange | Blue | Blue |
| Construction Date | Pre-Clone Wars | Clone Wars | Post-Clone Wars |
| Crystal Type | Kyber, Kohlen | Kyber | Kyber |
| Blade Type | Single | Single | Single |
| Hilt Design | Standard hilt with a ridged grip | Modified hilt with a shorter blade | Modified hilt with a shoto blade |
| Other Notable Appearances | "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" | "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" (animated series) | "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" and subsequent sequels |
| Usage | Jedi Knight | Jedi General during the Clone Wars | Jedi Master during the Galactic Empire era |
| Affiliation | Jedi Order | Jedi Order | Rebel Alliance/Jedi |
| Fate | Sacrificed on the Death Star during duel | Lost on Mandalore during Order 66 | Passed down to Luke Skywalker |
The Ultimate Collectible for Fans
From a Canon perspective, yeah Obiwan had three sabers. Though from a Prop perspective, he had 5 Hero ones:
- Episode 1
- Episode 2 (Almost identical to Ep1)
- Episode 3
- Kenobi Show (Similar to Ep3, but is weathered and has a Balance Pipe instead of the custom machined emitter)
- Episode 4 (Made from Vintage Parts including the Rolls Royce Balance Pipe)
It’s interesting that the Episode 3 was made to replicate the Episode 4 but was instead custom machined and made skinnier as well as shiny. The shininess of the ep3 prop makes sense given its earlier in its life and he has nearly unlimited resources at his disposal to upkeep the thing. Kenobi seems like the type to constantly be cleaning and performing preventative maintenance on it.
