Olimp Models 1/72 AH-1W NTS conversion

[Sarathi S.]

Hello everyone, I've got the Revell 1/72 AH-1W with the Olimp NTS conversion on my desk, but I'm a bit anxious about cutting the canopy to fit the new nose. Any suggestions on how to cut the requisite amount off without snapping the whole thing in half on accident?

Thanks in advance.

[tberres2]

I have built them. I actually vacuum-formed a replacement, but had modified a kit canopy in case. For my build I actually had 3 kits of the AH-1W, since they are readily available cheaply (Revell, Italeri, and Testors are all identical).

I used a file and course sandpaper to file down the front of the canopy. If you're worried, I recommend getting a second kit on ebay as an insurance policy.

Edited August 13, 2014 by tberres2

[Sarathi S.]

I guess I'll do that instead of using the Dremel.

Thanks for the advice. Great work on your Cobra!

Also where'd you get the decals for it? I haven't been able to find many options other than the now OOP Fireball Modelworks HMLA-167 and Armycast decal sheets.

[tberres2]

The decals were a mix from spares and WolfPak: http://www.millcreekconsultants.com/WolfPak_home.html

Sets 056 and 065 include AH-1W markings.

I particularly liked WolfPak's set for the Hellfires, which included the rare 'USMC' missile marking (set 070).

I made my own stencil for the bulldog of HMLA-773.

I also highly recommend the Master M-197. http://master-model.pl/index.php?option=com_content&view=frontpage&Itemid=1 I bought two (which was a good idea because the parts are VERY small and fiddly). The gun looks incredible with it's three fine barrels and the PE detail.