Gallery Models 1/48 scale HH-34J USAF Combat Rescue version of the H-34. Previous versions have included the USMC H-34 Chocktaw and the H-34 US Navy Rescue. This is the unarmed recue version and comes with markings for a USAF version as well as German SAR version. Both markings are primarily silver. The kit is primarily styrene but there are two nice photo-etched frets for screens and smaller parts.
The build starts with the interior and the interior is complete and full length. Starting from the front, there is a full front engine compartment, a well done cockpit and full crew area. Behind this is the tail of the helicopter and it is ribbed and has its bulkheads. The engine is 40 parts alone and looks great when done. Watch alignment on this carefully- the engine exhaust protrudes through the side and if alignment is off a little, it will not line up with the doors.
The main compartment/crew area is next and Gallery gives you three choices- stretchers, and two different style of seats. I mixed and matched for variety with stretchers on one side and seats on the other. Assembly is straightforward; you will need to drill holes in the main floor and the holes are dependent o the arrangement you choose. Once painted, you can add some grime and chipping. The interior is almost all one color. There are photoetch seat belts for each seat and they add an excellent touch to the interior.
