ULAK BLADES FROM CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK
Handmade Ulaks - Blades of Riddick based on the 2004 film "Chronicles of Riddick" starring Vin Diesel. Mould master was hand sculpted, a two-part silicone mould constructed and then the resulting props were cast in Smooth-On Smooth-cast® 310 resin. These props look extremely formidable considering they are completely plastic. I was fortunate enough to discuss this build with the original prop maker for the film, he was able to offer a wealth of advice to ensure this prop was fully screen accurate.
One of my favorite melee weapons from film, The Ulaks combine an elegant design with brutal efficiency as shown in the 2004 film "Chronicles of Riddick"
This project was a great opportunity to be able to recreate such an iconic looking prop from the film industry.
These blades are painted using the Alclad II paint system and receive a high gloss base coat of black before the Alclad II metalizer paint is airbrushed on top.
Several stages of weathering were carried out to complete these props to emulate a real steel blade.
My intention with the finish of these props was to create a careful balance between a functional blade that had been well maintained however had seen the heat of battle.
The original props from the film were constructed by combining two pre existing components; The "X-acto Ergo" craft knife and a blade called The "Swingblade" Information I was able to learn from talking to one of the original prop makers from the film.
The mould master for this build was hand filed from 3 pieces of MDF that were later stabilized with resin before sanding, priming and then finally mould making.
I was able achieve a relatively fine edge to the blade allowing the piece to look convincing but safe enough to be taken to conventions.
Grips were painted with a textured satin paint that has been intentionally chipped away in areas that would receive the most wear and tear to reveal the Alclad II metal finish below.
These props are cast in solid Smooth-on Smooth-cast® 310 polyurethane resin which combined with the ergonomic grip gives the props a really good weight and feel in the hand.
Following the painting process the blades were lightly abraded to simulate grinding marks and general use while this effect will not be noticed at a distance, it really sells these pieces up-close.
Close up of the various weathering stages applied to the blades to emulate ground forged steel.
These blades make a stunning addition to any collection of props or movie memorabilia.
I love applying really deep hollow grinds on bladed props as they catch and bend the light bringing your attention to the imposing 12" blades.
This build was very enjoyable owing to its simplicity and minimal number of parts.
If you are interested in adding a pair of these to your collection please use the form on my "contact me" page.