1:35 AH-64

The real subject

The AH-64 Apache is an American attack helicopter with a crew of two seated in tandem: the gunner in front, the pilot behind him on a raised seat. Under the nose hangs a movable mount with a 30 mm automatic cannon, and from the sides of the fuselage grow stub wings with pylons for antitank missiles and rocket pods. From the start the machine was built to survive a hit: the cabin is armored, key systems are duplicated and the crew sit separately. Since the 1980s it has gone through several modernizations and, besides the US Army, it serves in other countries as well.

What kind of set this is

An add-on set in 1:35 scale intended for a model of the AH-64 helicopter. It is fitted to a model under construction and does not replace the kit. Which parts of the machine it covers and in what order they are fitted is shown in the manufacturer's instructions; before building, therefore, also compare the version of the helicopter you have under way.

Building and painting tips

First wash the add-on parts in lukewarm soapy water and let them dry, or the paint will hold on them less well. Cut the excess material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and carefully sand the remainder. Try every part dry; on helicopters the surrounding plastic of the kit often has to be adjusted as well, so that the new assembly seats without tension. The suitable glue is given in the manufacturer's instructions. US Army Apaches wear a uniform matte dark green coat, on which every transition of shade stands out, but which at the same time takes well to a gentle lightening of the centers of surfaces, dust on the underside of the fuselage and traces of oil around the rotor head.

Who the set is for

For builders of modern helicopters in 1:35 scale who want to equip a model beyond the contents of the box. The package contains the add-on parts. The helicopter model, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.