Apache AH-64D

[JudgeDredd]

Cockpit started

[JudgeDredd]

Sprues and more

[JudgeDredd]

Cockpit is done. Instructions said to "scrape" off the controls on the mould before putting the decals on. I didn't - and regretted it  :'(  What can I say - I ain't no perfectionist.

Also - I promise you - that cockpit doesn't look that bad to the naked eye - the photos really show the imperfections in my paint and decals 

[JudgeDredd]

It's an impressive sized model.

I'm not looking forward to fitting the canopy...it's very, very thin and I dry fitted it and it wasn't sitting well at all.

[JudgeDredd]

I'd say this model is a 5 out of 10 for fit.

Really poor in places and not a whole lot of "nubs" or guides to help you put what you want where you need to.





There was nothing to say whether you fitted the wings before the side pods or vice versa - turns out dry fitting didn't help me decide that either - so I put the side pods on then had to cut off the guides on the wings and physically force the wings in through the woefully inadequate gaps in the side pods (which I had to cut in the end) to get the wings on.

Thankfully - aside from the cockpit (that does look like it's going to be a nightmare) I don't seem to have many parts that will be problematic now.

[JudgeDredd]

It's taking shape - but man - some of these fittings are horrendous.

I've seen videos of people saying how rubbish Tamiya kits are - and their reasoning for that deliberation? No skill required.

Well - I couldn't disagree more. I don't need kits to test my skills and regardless - building ANY kit requires skills. The level of skill required goes up with (generally) cheaper, older moulds. This is a 7 out of 10 for requiring skills.

Anyway - I'm confident it's gonna look killer

[Jarhead0331]

Looking good! I'm with you. I'd prefer a model that is well made and relatively simple to build. Although a challenge is nice, overall, the experience should be relaxing and enjoyable.

Here are some images of an SH-60 I built from parts made on my 3D printer. I'm not sure whether I will paint it or not.

[JudgeDredd]

Ooooh that's excellent quality for a 3D print 

[undercovergeek]

Wow - apart from the rotors did that print in one piece?

[Jarhead0331]

Wow - apart from the rotors did that print in one piece?

No. Three main components - Cockpit, center hold, tail. The landing gears and wheels were separate parts and the stabilizer, rotor assemblies and blades were all separate too.

[undercovergeek]

Wow - apart from the rotors did that print in one piece?

No. Three main components - Cockpit, center hold, tail. The landing gears and wheels were separate parts and the stabilizer, rotor assemblies and blades were all separate too.

It's a good looking piece

You have to paint it!!

Order some decals online

[JudgeDredd]

I'm going to have to find a way to get those rotors to droop rather than - well - what they are doing.







I've pretty much finished putting this together. I've got externals like wheels and weapons - but all the little bits and bobs are on.

It'll be painting next - but I'm waiting on the masks for the cockpit canopy. When I get those, I'll attach it (it looks like it's going to be a right pita) then I'll get primer on and start the paint job. In the meantime, I'll get the weapons and wheels painted.

[JudgeDredd]

Give this a try - but I might need to apply some heat. I may do this but leave it out in the sun all day - see if that helps.

[JudgeDredd]

Not working so I'm going to have to try some heat

[JudgeDredd]

Ok - managed to get some bend

Used the old "finger rub" technique...generate warmth to slowly loosen the plastic by rubbing the blade between thumb and forefinger and dragging it along the length of the rotor whilst bending it to conform. Worked a treat