Anyone ever try products from these guys?

[7CS]

http://fxhome.com/

Doesn't look terribly expensive, but they do look like the light saber specialists..

[Ogrus]

dvlab supposedly is the best "amateur" fx program. Its no AfterEffects or Combustion but a grrreat tool to start and you can get some spectacular results. Check the forum! it will give you a better idea