Helo Finished – Finally
This is Hasegawa's SH-3H, converted to a -3G from HC-1 Westpac cruise in 1977, aboard my old ship the USS Coral Sea.
Reference photo from that cruise.
I used Belcher's Bits resin sponsons, shortened the horizontal tailplane, covered the sonar opening and scratch built the 175gal drop tanks. Other changes included filling in one port-side window and one fuel filler port. Custom decals rounded out the build.
I started this about 3 years ago. Then put it aside. About a year ago I fought the white paint, and I lost. So, I set it aside again. But since I really wanted to finish it I decided to live with the paint and take low-res photos. ?
This is the first kit I've finished in over a year. Such is our life as modelers. ?
Gorgeous work, made even better by the personal connection. The very essence of modeling. Nice work, Gary, and special kudos on the decal work.
Great SH-3! Paint scheme looks fine! I remember seeing them in my before time,[same time period] before the mono tone camo.
Really nice build, Gary...excellent work !
Great build. It may have taken a year, but it’s a pice to be proud of. Thanks for sharing.
Wow, that's some really fine work Gary. It may have been a long and slow process but man was it worth the effort.
Nice job, Gary! Way beyond my capability! I have a friend who served on the Coral Sea in '68-69 off Vietnam in the ATC unit. F8's, F4's, A4's, and AD's. he looks back on it with pride.
Thanks Richard. It’s funny how that now I miss those days, but back then... it was a different story. 🙂
Thanks for the nice comments guys.
Looks great. Don't see any paint issues.
A very nice project! Well done.
fine work...very attractive
very very nice and fine work Gary