Lightsaber prop question (separating double bladed saber)

I'm producing a fanfilm in which one of the characters wields a double-bladed lightsaber which, with a press of a button, can separate into two separate sabers as well as rejoin into one dual-bladed weapon.

In constructing the saber prop, I need some kind of connecting mechanism that can join and separate instantly (as the fight scenes require that the wielder separate and join the weapon in the middle of attacking), so removable pins and screws are not an option. The connection also has to be sturdy enough that the joined sabers can stand up to the rigors of combat. Finally, I would like the connection to be subtle enough so that you aren't able to tell at a cursory glance that the sabers are supposed to combine. A lot of restrictions, I know, but does anyone have any suggestions?

nMe


edited title for clarity

 

You might want to have a peek at this thread for ideas.
Not sure if it will help or not.

 

You might try using some air hose connectors. You might have a hard time getting them uncoupled and coupled quickly though.

Another idea is to use those springloaded buttons on the interior segment that fit through a hole in the outter segment. It is just a wire spring pressing against a "pin" that locks the pieces together. Again, it won't be fast.

WAIT!!! I GOT IT!

Make two hilts. One the full length, the other split. Use magnets in the bottoms of the split hilt so that they stick togethet. That way you can switch and to the split hilt and still get a shot of it being pulled apart. It is just clever editing and prop switchage!

 

Thanks Jyro. The springloaded button idea was what originally came to mind, I just wasn't sure if there was a pre-built mechanism that I could buy for this, or if I would have to construct it myself.

I had also thought about magnets, but had ruled it out as not being sturdy enough. I can't believe it never occurred to me to have a separate "joined-version" of the hilt! Too much on my mind, I guess, or maybe I keep thinking too much in real terms and not movie-magic. Anyway, thanks for the suggestion.

nMe

 

Spring loaded mechanism? Easy.

Its called a vacuum cleaner.

Try and find some older vacuum cleaner hose pipes. Most of them have a push button mechandism for holding the pieces together. You can build the prop around the pipe.

 

You could steal them from a broken blade scooter. The handles detach that way so it can fold up. They are just a piece of wire poked into a hole on the bottom of the button.

The button is the hard part... You could use some of that metal clay that you can get at home depot and make your own. By the time you spend the money and effort you can probably go buy a broken scooter instead...

Still think your best bet is the dual props idea.

[image=http://www.stoneartgallery.com/fdp/images/personal/springbutton.gif]