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Where should a first-time Ghostbusters builder actually begin?
In this episode of Bench Tested: A Ghostbusters Podcast, Charlie Harsh is joined by prop maker, designer, and longtime Ghostbusters builder Rhett J. Martin of Stantz Industries for a practical and wide-ranging conversation about building your first uniform, proton pack, and collection of Ghostbusters gear.
Rhett explains why beginners should start with a comfortable flight suit, how to choose between Spirit, HasLab, 3D-printed, fiberglass, and scratch-built proton packs, and why budget, weight, durability, skill level, and intended use should guide every decision. He also walks through planning a build, test-fitting components, choosing appropriate materials, building troop-ready equipment, and avoiding common mistakes before they become expensive ones.
The conversation goes far beyond beginner advice. Rhett shares stories from nearly three decades in the prop community, his work on proton packs, particle throwers, stunt belt equipment, paper props, and ecto goggles, as well as his contributions to Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. He also discusses professional prop making, learning from failure, working safely with hazardous materials, and the importance of building something that works for you instead of chasing someone else’s approval.
Whether you are assembling your first Ghostbusters costume, upgrading a Spirit Pack, planning a screen-accurate replica, or simply trying to understand where to begin, this episode offers honest guidance from a builder who has worked at nearly every level of the craft.
Visit benchtestedpod.com for more interviews with the builders, artists, engineers, and creators shaping the Ghostbusters community.
