So I think you're on to something with the visual customization on armor, etc. I'm a little hesitant to say that optics, et al are hackable by the player, because they're going to want to keep certain weapons with a bit of unique, non reproduce-able goodness. I also *want* the guns to modifiable in the way you're asking for, but I'll ask you the same question I've asked bungie in the mailsack: If I can tweak the bejesus out of generic auto shotgun and level with it for 20 levels (as it improves every time I shoot it, per Deej)....what makes a weapon like the Red Death, or the Thunderlord, or any other exotic rare weapon desirable? Why would I want to switch to this "epic/legendary" weapon, especially if I can visually customize this generic autogun into something that *looks* legendary? I get that you're going to tell me the parts of the Thunderlord/Red Death/whatever become valuable, but that's like stealing a Jaguar for the chop shop - it may be more profitable, but it's a crime in and of itself XD