1:72 AH - 64A Apache

The real subject

The AH-64A Apache is an American twin-engine attack helicopter with a tandem cockpit in which the gunner sits in front and the pilot behind him and higher. The glazing is made up of flat panes in massive frames, which follows from the requirement for resistance to hits. Stub wings on the sides of the fuselage carry pylons for the armament.

What the part is for

The replacement clear canopy in 1:72 scale takes the place of the part from the kit. It comes in handy where the original part looks hazy or is scratched, and everywhere the cockpit is meant to be visible. In a small scale it is precisely the cleanliness of the glazing that decides the result, because the area of the canopy is large in relation to the whole model.

Building and painting tips

Take the part by the edges and set it down on a clean surface. Cut the excess material around the edge away with a sharp blade a little way from the part and true the edge by sanding on fine paper laid on a flat board; keep checking the fit dry as you go. Glue it with a product intended for clear parts or with PVA glue (white glue), which dries clear; cyanoacrylate glue will fog the surface. The straight frames of the Apache are easier to mask than curved glazing: narrow strips of tape measured off against the edges are enough. Spray the interior shade first, then the top shade. Finish the interior and seat it before you glue the canopy on; once it is glued, you cannot get into the cockpit any more.

Who it is for

For builders of helicopters in 1:72 scale who want the cockpit as a feature on show. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.