Why Can Finn Use a Lightsaber in 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'? - Analyzing His Combat Proficiency

In the Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Finn, the new hero of the saga, is able to effectively use a lightsaber, a weapon previously thought to be exclusive to Jedi and Sith. While he does not possess the classic Jedi abilities, examining his background and training reveals why his combat proficiency with the lightsaber is significant.

Finn’s Experience and Training as a Stormtrooper

Finn's ability to use a lightsaber is rooted in his background as a stormtrooper. Despite the fact that the First Order does not explicitly train stormtroopers in the use of lightsabers, stormtroopers undergo rigorous combat training. This training includes the use of various forms of weaponry and hand-to-hand combat skills, which ultimately prepares them for a wide range of combat situations.

When Finn takes up the lightsaber in his pivotal duel against Kylo Ren, it illustrates his transition from being a Stormtrooper to a hero. His initial struggles and eventual grappling with the weapon highlight his character development and the themes of choice and resistance in the film. Unlike a Jedi, Finn's proficiency with the lightsaber comes from his physical training and instincts developed through his military experience.

The Myth of Force-Sensitivity and Finn’s Awakening

There is a misconception that Finn was initially intended to have Force abilities, a notion popularized by fan theories. According to some, the idea that Finn was going to exhibit force abilities or even mention his feelings for Rey stemmed from early scripts. However, this was likely discarded because the filmmakers wanted to focus on his journey and growth.

Finn's story is more about his unique path as a character who finds himself in the middle of a larger conflict, untrained in the ways of the Force. This storyline emphasizes the film's themes of choice and the resistance movement, showing that what is ultimately important is not the Force abilities, but the courage and willingness to fight for what is right.

The Reality of Using a Lightsaber

Using a lightsaber is not merely a matter of pushing a button as some might believe. While anyone can push the activation button and release the plasma blade, true mastery of the weapon requires extensive training and advanced skills. Fighting styles, defensive techniques, and understanding the energy flow are critical to effectively wielding a lightsaber.

For instance, prior to the events of The Force Awakens, Han Solo utilized Luke Skywalker's lightsaber as a last resort. However, an untrained person would certainly have swung and hacked with it, struggling to control the powerful weapon. Finn's early struggles with the lightsaber in his battle against Kylo Ren are a testament to the difficulties of mastering such an advanced tool without proper training.

The Limitations of Finn's Lightsaber Proficiency

Finn's combat proficiency with the lightsaber is not just a matter of physical preparedness; it is also constrained by the limitations of the weapon itself and the threat to his opponent. While Finn shows significant bravery and adaptability, his early use of the lightsaber demonstrates the importance of specialized training. Trained Jedi and Sith can deflect or counter projectiles and opponents, but an untrained user like Finn struggles to do so effectively.

The intensity of the battle between Finn and Kylo Ren is further emphasized by the fact that Ren is severely wounded. Had Kylo been at full strength, Finn's chances of survival would have been extremely slim against a true master of the dark side. Similarly, Rey, despite being strong in the Force and trained in combat with her staff, struggles against Kylo Ren until his injury weakens his abilities.

While Finn’s initial use of the lightsaber is admirable, it also underscores the importance of proper training. His character growth throughout the film demonstrates that true mastery, whether in the Force or in combat skills, cannot be achieved without dedication and practice.

In conclusion, Finn’s ability to use a lightsaber in Star Wars: The Force Awakens is a testament to his bravery and adaptation to new circumstances. While he lacks the classic Jedi abilities, his journey from Stormtrooper to hero serves as a powerful symbol of choice and the struggle against the forces of darkness. The film encourages viewers to appreciate the importance of training and the path of true empowerment.