Is this the variable resistor you are talking about?
http://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B008DF...e+resistor&dpPl=1&dpID=315n4S2zI3L&ref=plSrch

And which of these dual comparators(if any) will work?

http://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/s/ref=is_box_hi?k=Dual+comparator

Yes on the resistor, but get the right value. In fact, I recommend you get a 100k and a 10k, so you can experiment. No on the comparator. Look up the comparator by part number, LT319A.

You can use any perf board and cut it to size. The exact size depends on the inside of your handle.

Ronv is right, concentrate on the sensor and understand how it works. If you can't get the kind of effect you want from a pressure sensitive resistor, you might need to switch to something like an air pressure sensor sealed inside a slightly flexible handle.

That first item in your voltmeter search is as good as any to start learning. Maybe you can borrow one to start.

 

Yes on the resistor, but get the right value. In fact, I recommend you get a 100k and a 10k, so you can experiment. No on the comparator. Look up the comparator by part number, LT319A.

You can use any perf board and cut it to size. The exact size depends on the inside of your handle.

Ronv is right, concentrate on the sensor and understand how it works. If you can't get the kind of effect you want from a pressure sensitive resistor, you might need to switch to something like an air pressure sensor sealed inside a slightly flexible handle.

That first item in your voltmeter search is as good as any to start learning. Maybe you can borrow one to start.

Would this be a possible option for a battery? Would save so much space if it was. I see that it is 12v though so not sure what the implications would be.

http://www.energizer.com/specialty-batteries/a23-battery

 

Sure that would be fine.

 

I see that is 55Mah it will depend on your current draw and anticipated use time.
I assume you want to run the motor off that?
Max.

 

I see that is 55Mah it will depend on your current draw and anticipated use time.
I assume you want to run the motor off that?
Max.

Yes for the motor. For the most part the use time will be short bursts at a time. For the battery I want to use the smallest one I can to run prob either 3v or a 6v motor. That 12v battery is a good size given my space constraints.
Would it also be possible to use those small button type batteries?

 

I still think LiPo if you can get them in, they come in various sizes and are 10x the Mah for the same physical size.
Also re-chargeable.
Max.