@Ramanji @Tayo30 & Clan, Exotics don't need to be maxed to get upgraded.

Like I said yesterday in the Raid. In order to get the upgraded version, you do not need to max your gear. Sources: " You’ll need three things. First, you need to own the original version of that exotic item, and turn it in to exchange for the upgraded version. [b]It doesn't matter if this old version of the item is brand new or fully upgraded.[/b] To complete the upgrade, you’ll also need to turn in an exotic shard. This recently introduced new material is available for purchase for seven strange coins from Xur, or by breaking down another existing exotic item in your inventory. Finally, each exotic upgrade costs a hefty dose of cash – around 7000 glimmer as of my playthrough of the expansion in mid-November." - Game Informer "This means that if you want to upgrade your existing Exotic gear to the more powerful gear, [b]you’re better off not spending any money or materials with the current upgrade options in the game.[/b] You’ll only be wasting your time and Glimmer." Read more at http://www.inquisitr.com/1652415/existing-destiny-exotics-can-be-upgraded-again-but-will-require-a-grind-repeat/#mW6wjiW0h88JWMPk.99 "Some players have expressed dismay at this requirement, and argued that the impending reset [b]makes any current progress upgrading exotics pointless[/b]." -Eurogamer http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2014-12-04-destinys-exotic-items-to-get-further-upgrades-but-also-require-progress-reset