I recently learned thatDarth Vaderhas a hidden connection to the Mandalorians inStar Wars, which could have led to a fight withDin Djarin. Although Din Djarin was likely an active bounty hunter during theStar Warsoriginal trilogy, he never encountered Vader, at least not as far as we know. Vader often hired the legendary Boba Fett, who wore beskar armor but was not considered a true Mandalorian.

While the armor that kept Vader alive was not made of Beskar, one component was derived from Mandalorian technology.Star Wars: Darth Vader: A 3-D Reconstruction Logreveals several fascinating facts about Vader’s armor, including a deadly instrument that wouldn’t be possible without the Mandalorians. If Din Djarin had known that Vader possessed something from Mandalorian culture, he likely would have killed Vader or died trying.

Illustration of Darth Vader’s Mandalorian crushgaunt in Star Wars: Darth Vader: A 3-D Reconstruction Log.

Darth Vader’s Armor Incorporates A Mandalorian Crushgaunt

Perhaps a Force choke is more merciful

According to the “Gloves/Boots” section ofDarth Vader: A 3-D Reconstruction Log,Vader’s mechanical right hand is"an authentic Mandalorian crushgaunt.“The internal structure gives Vader incredible squeezing strength, which would be invaluable for holding onto something in a dangerous situation or even choking the life out of an enemy. The Mandalorians may have developed this to counter Jedi Force abilities, a useful tool after Vader’s connection to the Force was lessened by losing his limbs.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW/ORDER STAR WARS: DARTH VADER: A 3-D RECONSTRUCTION LOG

Darth Vader wielding a lightsaber in front of a red and black illustration of his mask.

I find Vader’s crushgaunt fascinating because of how strong it must be compared to his left hand. One of Vader’s first actions inA New Hopewas choking Captain Antilles to death with his left hand, so how much more gruesome would it have been had he used the crushgaunt?The guide also mentions that Vader’s Force abilities further enhance his strength, making his mechanical limbs deadly weapons.

The Mandalorians Would NOT Be Happy At Their Armor Being Used Like This

Din Djarin would have killed others for far less

The Mandalorianemphasized how Din Djarin and his clan did not tolerate non-Mandalorians wearing their armor.He nearly killed Cobb Vanth on the spot when he refused to give up Boba Fett’s armor, only avoiding a fight when the two came to an agreement. Din Djarin was similarly hesitant to return the armor to Boba Fett and only did so when Boba proved that it belonged to his father.

These 10 Surprising Facts Make Darth Vader’s Armor Even Cooler Than I Thought

Fallen Jedi, Sith Lord, and iconic villain: Darth Vader’s armor encapsulates his character, but how does it work and why was it designed this way?

Considering howthe Empire ruled and later destroyed much of Mandalorian society, Din Djarin would probably have been especially offended byDarth Vaderpossessing a Mandalorian crushgaunt. He may not win in a fight against a Dark Lord of the Sith, but I could easily seeDin Djarinthrowing away an assignment to take back what rightfully belongs to the Mandalorians. It’s an epic duel to imagine, even if it never happens inStar Warscanon.

Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader Split By a Lightning Bolt

Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader

Conceived by the will of the Force itself, Anakin Skywalker was the prophesied Chosen One, destined to bring the Force into balance. Anakin struggled to balance competing attachments to the Jedi Order and his wife Padmé Amidala, and ultimately fell to the dark side, becoming Darth Vader. For years he served as Palpatine’s right hand man, but he was ultimately redeemed by the faith of his son, Luke Skywalker. Now a Force Ghost, Anakin continues to act as an agent of balance.

Din Djarin

Din Djarin was once a lone bounty who has since tasked himself with raising his adopted son and Mandalorian apprentice, Grogu. Born on Aq Vetina and raised on Concordia by the Mandalorian faction the Children of the Watch, Din is an orphan and Mandalorian foundling who has risked both his life and his Mandalorian Creed to protect Grogu. Djarin has become an important part of the galaxy’s fight against the Imperial Remnant that lingers in the wake of the Empire’s fall, as he is now working under-the-table for the fledgling New Republic’s rangers.

Din Djarin and Grogu In The Mandalorian Season 3 Textless Poster