1/32 Revell "Blank Canvas" AH-64 Apache

Modeling Subjects Helicopters
1

I have the old 1/32 Revell kit, from what I remember, it came out about the same time the actual helicopter first started seeing service. I can imagine that due to this, the Revell kit might be a good version of a prototype Apache but not so accurate when it comes to the helicopters that have seen service.

I want to take advantage of this early stage prototype version and use it as a blank canvas to add on all the updates and electronics that would make it an AH-64D that might be flying over Iraq or Afghanistan today.

I would much rather scratch build/add resin to update a kit than cut off parts and sand down detail to backdate a kit so I’m looking forward to an in depth project.

I can’t find any kind of resin kits but am not very familiar with smaller “out of the garage” companies, I know Cobra Company makes some pretty specific sets but I don’t know where to start.

Any tips on kits, parts, anything- would be appreciated.

What I really could use would be photo reference, I understand that the most prominent feature of the modernized Apaches are whether or not they have the Longbow mast mounted radar, but I’m sure with updated GPS, NAV systems, Radios etc. there’s probably hundreds of little variations antennas and equipment on board that I’m not familiar with. I might be able to look at pictures and scratch built something, but it would be very beneficial to know what parts do what and where they’re located and why.

Anyway, thanks guys! Not sure when I’ll start on this one, I’ve had the kit for years but the Apache is my favorite helicopter of all time.

2

i have this kit as well, it depicts an ‘A’ model.

They are still flying but the majority of them are ‘D’ models or longbows these days. The biggest external difference is the side sponsons are longer and broader, rear chaff/flair dispenser on the boom and antennae. The side sponsons could be scratch built and the chaff/flair dispenser would be an easy build as well.

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Thanks, from what I can tell it doesn’t even fully depict an A. I had wanted to convert it to a D but after seeing how much would go into that, I’m content with converting it to a modernized A.

The wider/thicker “wings” and the flairs on the tail, plus the disco ball on the roof- I’m thinking of spending $30 to get the Verlin update kit… hmm…

Thanks again

4

The Revell kit is a good representation of a mid-late '80s A model. A lot has changed on them since then. The guy to ask about the upgrades is Jon “CobraHistorian” Bernstein. He is an Apache pilot and expert. He usually hangs out over at the ARC Helo Forums. He has already done the conversion a couple of times.

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I was going to add the verlinden set as well.

Definitely check out ARC forums, great stuff in there.

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Thanks a lot guys I will definitly check over there. [:)]