Hi guys, noob here.
Just getting started with Star Wars costuming n' such. For my first-ever lightsaber purchase, I went with the Duellist package from Rebel Sabers. I like these, because I have two sabers, so I can spar with a friend, or practice two-saber techniques, and they can be joined together for a long single-blade saber, or use both blades for a saberstaff.
First attempt at minor customizing: sanded them with 200-grit sanding sponge, then painted with Rustoleum paints. Not sure about the surface prep, it seems like it will come off a little too easily with a fingernail. Also, the paint came out fine, but when I put a coat of matte clear-coat over it (also Rustoleum), it wrinkled-up in a few places? Kind of added to the weathered look, though.