First Look and Kit Review:
See what’s in: Trumpeter 1/35 Boeing CH-47A "Chinook"
Let us embark on an unboxing journey unlike any other! For this blog, we are going to be diving into the Trumpeter 1/35 scale CH-47A Chinook model kit. Boy, this is going to be something special, so let us get started!
Get the model kit online at Hearnshobbies.com! Shop now.
Summary
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The History of The Boeing CH-47A "Chinook"
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What is Inside Trumpeter: Boeing CH-47A "Chinook"
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Watch The Unboxing and Kit Review
Background on the Boeing CH-47A "Chinook"
Before we dive into what is inside this model-making wonder, let us first talk about what we are dealing with here. The CH-47A Chinook is no ordinary helicopter. It is not designed for combat but for some heavy-duty lifting. This helicopter might not be your typical combat machine, but it has its own remarkable history.
The Chinook came into existence to meet the need for a heavy-lift helicopter in the US Army and was originally meant to replace the Mojave helicopter. It took its first flight in 1961 and officially entered service in 1962. But here is the kicker—it is not just an American thing. The Chinook spread its wings (rotors?) worldwide, serving in the US military, the UK, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and even Iran, which still has these mighty machines in its employ.
This iconic helicopter is renowned for its size and distinctive tandem rotors at both ends. With over 1,200 produced across various variants and subvariants, the Chinook has played a vital role in military operations worldwide. Most notably, it had a special mission version, the MH-47, and an attack variant known as the ACH-47, nicknamed the Guns-a-Go-Go, used in Vietnam.
What Do You Get?
Now, let us delve into what is inside the Trumpeter 1/35 CH-47A "Chinook" kit. Trumpeter presents this kit in a 1/35 scale, and the first thing that grabs your attention is the striking artwork on the box, featuring the Air Cavalry symbol lifting a UH-1. The UH1 might not be included in the kit, but the cover perfectly captures the Chinook in its element.
Surprisingly, this kit does not seem to have an overwhelming number of pieces, which suggests that this build might be relatively quick compared to some others. However, that is not to say that it is going to be an easy build. From what we can see in the box, there is probably going to be a bit of weathering and fine tuning involved in the creation of this model.
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Instruction Manual
The black-and-white instruction booklet that comes with the kit is in the usual Trumpeter format. It is complete with a color chart and decal placement guide that make it easy to visualize the final product. The instructions themselves are simple to follow, featuring large, clear images to help you identify and assemble the parts.
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The Body
The main body of the helicopter comes in four separate pieces. The front and rear parts are distinct, giving you a sense of the Chinook's impressive size. The parts fit together snugly, but a touch of putty might be needed in some spots.
The majority of the helicopter's pieces are securely nestled in cardboard compartments, and they have an interesting feature that Trumpeter added for further visualization. These cardboards outline all the pieces, giving you a rough idea of what to expect when finishing the model.
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Interior Details
Another impressive detail that Trumpeter incorporated into this model is the interior. The recreation of Chinook’s interior is nothing short of spectacular. On the walls, there is a pattern of insulation to dull the noise of the roaring rotor blades outside, and there is even a detailed cockpit section! You can use a few different washes to really liven up these details.
As for the model’s rear end, there is a door for unloading and loading cargo. For the life-size Chinook, this door was large enough to accommodate small military vehicles! You would probably want to let the door down once you finish so people can see the interior.
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Engine and Landing Gear
Now, let us explore the engine components. The Chinook had two engines at the rear, and this kit accurately represents them. You can spot the exhaust ports and the parts for the rotor blades' attachment, along with the engine cowling pieces that will go over the engines.
Then we got the landing gear component: four legs with wheels that would deploy from the sides of the helicopter during landing. And of course, more engine details, including the exhaust ports.
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Rotor Blades
Lastly, we have the rotor blades. You might notice a slight bend to it; this mimics the way helicopter blades tend to sag when stationary on the ground. These blades may be shorter than what you would expect given the Chinook's lifting power, but they are still sizable.
Final Thoughts
The Trumpeter 1/35 CH-47A "Chinook" kit is a gem for scale model enthusiasts. While it may not have an overwhelming number of parts, it more than makes up for it with its attention to detail and authenticity. This kit is not for beginners, but for those looking to create an impressive replica of the iconic Chinook helicopter.
It is an excellent choice for those looking for a model of the helicopter with a detailed interior that is perfect for displaying. With the right paint and weathering techniques, this model has the potential to shine, so if you are a Chinook fan or just love scale modeling in general, this kit is worth considering as your next buy.
Watch The Unboxing and Review
Watch Dan as he unboxes and shows you everything inside the Trumpeter 1/35 Boeing CH-47A "Chinook" kit! Tune in to see him explore the different parts of this iconic helicopter and see if it can be the next one to sit on your display case!
What do you want us to unbox next? Feel free to message us with your ideas!
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