Tank

This helps illustrate the difference using the Academy D/E kit plastic.

Same. Would also like a 1/72 CH-46E kit too.

For a true cost comparison you would need to wait to see what SB is going to charge for the Academy kit. Would also check other US stores before using that as a claim in my opinion. At least in today’s times (late Oct 2025) the tariffs for each country of origin could also be impacting the cost difference. While they could have had different design teams for the kits as suggested it could also be access to references. A lot easier to get access to a Whiskey than a Yankee. While nice having the Bell logo on the kit box, that doesn’t mean to me that they had provided any help

While I do agree with Gino that in some cases that can be done but not sure with decals in these case. That said you could do a nett camo which had no or very limited markings.

Looking great. 👍 Your friend has probably already thought this but he should just continue on to with 3D printing the main fuselage as well as he won’t be happy with it once he adds these parts. I have a similar friend building a different Bell helicopter and that is what happened.

Noice! 👍

Also the retractable inflight refueling probe on the HH and rescue hoist (maybe a different design).

ICM has some sets but they are standing outside the helo. Reeoak has some seated pilots. As for painting here are some links that I send to my club members. Using Oils on a figure Nightshift figure painting Different modelers method

One big thing to change is to remove the bulge on rotor housing, step 71. https://www.scalemates.com/products/img/9/3/3/1495933-11-instructions.pdf

Great find. 👍

Congrats Paul. Those are three excellent builds. 👍

Looks like 34087 to me for the body, the door etc looks like the early OD green that has faded. https://seawolf.org/about/aircraft/markings/ If it was black/navy blue it would look darker imho. Image from https://www.seaforces.org/usnair/HAL/Helicopter-Attack-Squadron-Light-3.htm HTH

Had to look that one up. Great looking paint scheme. https://capitolbroadcasting.com/2015/07/30/sky-5-turns-36-on-july-31-the-early-years/ Screen grab the second photo from its promo video.

I’ll give her a pass since she’s put up with me for almost 40 years.😂 In that case she should be calling out the details to you. 😁 Good post. Wonder what the history is for bird.

Some people. 🙄😁