1:35 Bell AH-1G early

What is in the package

A set of photo-etched metal parts for a model of the Bell AH-1G attack helicopter in the early version, 1:35 scale. It is not a kit but an accessory to one. A photo-etched part is a thin metal fret, out of which the parts are broken and bent into shape; the point of it lies precisely in the thinness, because flat elements necessarily come out thicker in plastic than the scale would call for. The list of parts and their placing are given in the instructions of the manufacturer.

The real subject

The AH-1G was the first production helicopter built for the attack role straight away, and not converted from a transport machine. The narrow fuselage, the crew seated one behind the other, the stub wings with pylons and the skid landing gear made it a machine of unmistakable appearance. The set is listed for the early version.

Building tips

• separate the parts with a sharp blade on a hard surface, not by twisting
• make the bend over a straight edge or in a photo-etch bender, and start with the parts there is no reaching later
• they are glued with cyanoacrylate glue or with two-part epoxy, applied in minute amounts
• degrease the parts before painting and give them a primer, as a coat of paint does not hold on bare metal
• always try the seating dry, as the mating surfaces of the plastic part usually have to be adjusted

Who it is for

For modelers who want to move a model of the helicopter above the level of molded parts and do not mind working with tweezers and a bender. If you are working with photo-etched parts for the first time, start with a part that will not be the most visible on the finished model.

Terms of supply

The model of the helicopter, paints and glue are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.