Bell 47D Mash version

Modeling Subjects Helicopters
1

Hi

My first post although I have been lurking around for a while.

I was wondering if anyone can help me.

I am in the process of finishing the Academy 1/35 kit and I was wondering if they ever carried any small arms for crew self defense such as a rifle or a sub machine gun ?

2

Standard side arm for the pilot was either an M1911 .45 cal automatic pistol or a .38 cal revolver. I would imagine it would not be out of the realm of possibility for the pilot to also have an M1 Garand on board and a small pack for survival gear in case of a shoot down as well.

3

Thanks for that Gino.

I will dig out my old Tamiya stuff and I am sure I have a Garand some where I can fix in the cockpit.

Brian

4

I saw a documentary showing the origins of the attack helicopter. H-13 Soiux (Bell 47’s) did participate in experiments with arming helicopters. The experiments took place in Aberdeen Maryland. Unfortunately, I can’t remember which documentary it was, but it did show Bell 47’s hovering and shooting rockets. The helicopter would rock and recoil a great deal when the rockets were shot.

Sorry I can’t remember the documentary,

Chris

5

The Squadron Signal H13 Sioux in action minibook is a great reference. I would imagine that a pilot would be inclined to carry a Carbine or Garand for self defense. Reminds me of the great final scene of Bridges of Toko Ri where Mickey Rooney’s character charges from the downed helo with a rifle (dont remember which one , have to watch the movie again tonight!)

David

6

Thanks for that.

I found the Garand was too long to mount across the back of the cockpit so I went for a short barrel Carbine in a scratch built gun rack.

Dont look too bad if I do say so myself.

Brian [:D]