Maybe they plan this to be similar to other MMO's in which world events repeat every year, in which case stockpiling them for next years event might be a good idea.

I can't imagine Republic is different from Empire in this regard (my Trooper is still just 41) but I completed all these with my BH long before the Black Hole was added and all pieces except the chest could be obtained through quests on Corellia. As a previous posters has stated, the chest is now available from The End of Torvix quest. EDIT: I don't recall the name of the quest but I recall it was in the first area (for boots) but this would not help you as I am Imperial and you are Republic scum.

I had to go back and check our loot history... and I stand corrected. I was thinking of pre-ML fix.

It is possible to do a HM EV or KP and have 0 Rakata drops. If that was the case, man you guys got boned by the RNG. But yes the HM's are still dropping Rakata.

I'm not saying this to be mean, but if the turrets are this much of a problem you probably should spend a little more time farming the story modes of EV and KP. It really sounds to me like a gear issue. Without knowing specifics what you describe sounds like you could use more practice at the mechanics along with getting your people closer to full Columi. Also this boss is one of the few where it is arguable to have either a PT or Jugg tank instead of an Assassin tank (or the Republic equivalents) as a PT can tank from range and a Jugg can get up on the tower to taunt.

The gloves come from one of the 4 man Heroics in the first area of Corellia. Can't remember the name off the top of my head but it's one of the repeatables in the first area. Full set minus Chest and still looking. /sigh

Wrong timeline, they aren't the Rebels in this game. The Republic would have a high population based upon timeline.