Description
- Metal
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs
- AH-64 APACHE – 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Assembled Size: 4.80 x 4.80 x 2.16 inches
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed – collect and build them all
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doresoom –
This was the first 3D model I have ever put together, and although it quite easy to assemble, I still had some troubles throughout the process. In hindsight I should have started with a different model suited for beginners. The directions are a little unclear with certain aspects of the build and overall the model is very technical. You will need a pair of clippers, needle nose pliers, and a very steady hand for some of the required metal bends. I do not suggest this model for beginners. Although I completed it, the model is not without flaws due to accidentally bending a few pieces where they should not have been bent. The model also has quite a few scuff marks because I used needle nose pliers with a serrated jaw. You will want to use pliers with a smooth jaw in order to prevent scratching.
caleb –
Having seen these in a display case in the States I though they looked fantastic so I got some when I came home. Be warned for these you need the patience’s of a saint, a few hours to spare and the right tools. Knowing what I know now I wouldn’t start with the Apache which is quite detailed and the instructions aren’t up to airfix standard, I’d start with the Enterprise much less complicated and you learn tricks as you go . It’s not quite “Simply pop out the pieces and connect them using the tabs and holes” These are flat pieces of metal that you need to bend,roll or twist. Some of the pieces are incredibly small so great if you have the hands of a child but not quite so for a ham fisted middle aged bloke. I purchased a magnifying glass on a stand to do these. I have added some pictures of 3 I’ve done to give you an idea of how complex they are — Remember they all started flat.
C. Harrington –
Pretty difficult to put together but it was worth it. Had it almost done when one of my cats decided to play with it while I was showering.
Mike K –
I do like the metal earth products and would buy them again but this model takes fiddly to a new level. The metal is so thin that it often snaps on the joints. It is quite difficult to put together and ends up being quite frustrating rather than an enjoyable challenge. If you enjoy intricate metal work, have small hands and magnifying glasses instead of eyes then definitely give it a go.
Andy –
Bought the tank for boys and they love to make it. It probably used 4 hours to finish. Thought this helicopter should be same level but is way too difficult for children little over10, it should be good for older kids or adults.
Dave –
Awesome model!!!
It is not for beginners tho, it took me several hours to build it, unlike some of the others around.
However the pieces are less likely to break than in other models, and some of them have various copies in case you need a second chance.
The result is astonishing! Definetly one of my favs!
ps: the propeller rotates 😉
Andy –
It’s an amazing model the blades on top also spin when done correctly, I am still a beginner but with enough patience I was able to complete the model, it goes really well with the rest of the models I have. I would recommend getting an easier one for beginners so you can practice the techniques first.
doresoom –
It was a good model but the pieces are so small it is definitely for more dedicated builders
eddie sulborski –
These Metal Earth models are fun and challenging to build. This model is one of almost 25 that I have built to date. It requires a higher skill level to build and the confidence to know when the instructions are not quite right. A part numbering error is in this sets instructions, but once you are familiar with these models, you catch them more readily before trying to make the parts fit.
Best advise is to take your time and not rush any of these models. I keep telling myself that I will make one of these with latex gloves on my hands so as to keep finger prints and naturally occurring oils in my skin off the shiny metal surfaces! Someday I will do so.
Oh! A bonus feature on this Apache model is that (with proper care and patience) you build this one and the main rotor is free to spin! It works and the rotor on my finished model spins quite freely – enough to capture the movement with my tablet camera. It looks so cool!
Ian Wingfield –
Not attempted yet so I cant rate. very small…..
Dave –
First one I have done. A bit fiddly at first and definitely requires the tools. Once I’d got into it it got a lot quicker and easier. Read the instructions and go in the right order. I had to go back twice cause I missed a bit. For a first try I think it went pretty well. Took about 5 hours.
Evan –
I’m blown away by the accuracy of this model for it being only a ~1:120 scale. I’m fairly familiar with the Apache, and there are tons of little details that are spot on – from the TADS/PNVS to the rocket pods, to the correct angles on the tail rotor, it’s all there. The main rotor even spins freely! The only thing I noticed that was a little inaccurate was the nose gearboxes don’t have an output shaft to the main transmission. There also weren’t any LORAS’s or an FM whip antenna, but those were probably too delicate to include in the model.
The assembly process was a little tedious, and took a few hours of careful work. I think the age recommendation of 14+ is fairly accurate, as I’m not sure younger kids would have the patience and dexterity required. The main rotor head assembly was one of the parts I actually had the most difficulty with, since the end of the part tends to bend down a little bit when you bend the tabs, which leads to the whole thing being too short and not fitting in the mating slots. I recommend using a set of precision needle nose pliers to clamp the part at the bend location, and a set of tweezers to bend the tab.
The kit also included extras of a few smaller parts as well, including the mast (P/N 3), swashplate (P/N 4), disco ball (P/N 10), and cockpit firewall (P/N 15).
Metal Earth makes some amazing models, and so far I’ve completed the Apache and Chinook helicopters. I’m planning on tackling their NASA series next!
ASSEMBLY TIPS:
– My advice is take it slow and make sure to have a pair of precision needle nose pliers, precision snips, and an extra set of tweezers on hand.
– Double check all those pieces and the directions before bending those tabs too!
– When freeing the pieces from the sheet, I try to snip the connection points that are in less conspicuous places, and then slowly work/spin the piece along the axis of the last two connection points until they shear. That seems to leave the smallest burrs on the work piece.
– For important bends without a pre-weakened bend line, I recommend using a set of precision needle nose pliers to clamp the part at the bend location, and a set of tweezers to bend the tab.
Christopher Williams –
Love Metal Earth. They’re a little hard to work with and very easy to mess up on but great products and the end result is very cool. Make sure you have some tweezers, needle nose pliers (preferably with no teeth as that can damage the metal), and a bent needle nose pliers if you have one as that helps with hard to reach areas. The metal is sharp so use caution and take your time as mistakes are difficult to undo.