ICM Models have released a number of variants in their line of Black hawks, with this one being specifically identified for medevac duties. When you look at the sprue map, there are a considerable number of parts listed as not for use. So your spares box is going to get some bits for it. The crew compartment should be well known by most who have tackled one of the Black hawks previously, and while there is always room for improvement for injection molded releases, my only real complaint is the lack of seats harness detail. The internal crew bay is set up to accommodate up to 4 casualties and there is also an airborne rescue cradle which is stored underneath the casualty area.
One of the things that has always erked me, with this beautiful series of Black hawk models is the number of holes that need to be drilled. Now, don’t get me wrong drilling holes is no big thing, but while I credit ICM with having supplied the drill size required the hole locations are indicated via measurements and due to the measurements being a 10th of a millimetre I find it very hard to get exact locations correct. This has resulted in making me disinclined to drill the holes and instead remove locator pins and add the parts where it would seem to be correct on the exterior.
The fuselage of the model, has separate doors and hatches - an aspect that I appreciate. The engine exhausts have a nice level of detail to them, as do the intakes. With this release being designed for showing on the ground, I would have appreciated weighted wheels which alas do not appear to the the case. The stub wings are equipped with 4 pylons. As you start to add external features mostly in the holes I indicated previously, you are quickly going to find another series of holes that will need to be drilled, and I again put to you that it would be better to remove the locator on the parts and place the pieces free using the images in the instructions to locate as accurately as possible.
The rotors and rotor-head have a nice level of detail, specifically the head, and while I am sure that the experts on the Black hawk will be able to point out specific issues - to me I cannot comment further. By using the word expert, please do not think that I am demeaning your knowledge . 2 very large fuel drop tanks are supplied for mounting on the outer pylon on each side, which I believe give the Black hawk an impressive look.
In typical ICM fashion a template for the production of masks is provided. The generic decal placement is covered separately from the main finish and only 1 finishing option is included, but no information is provided on where this helicopter is based or where it served. The 3 man crew for the helicopter is included, this is an American crew and they are wearing digital camouflage kit, which to me would indicated Afghanistan as I believe that was the uniform in service for that location. Along with the 2 pilots, you get the loadmaster if I get my nomenclature right. The pose that he is in would indicate to me that he is holding an absailing rope, I am however sure that someone can position the person performing a different task, maybe change the hand to indicale someone shouting come on and get him onboard.
ON the ground you have a casualty who is still clothed and has all of his limbs - so no brutal scene is depicted. One thing that I feel is missing, is his personal weapon and equipment. I am unsure what would happen to his other equipment - but it should not be a major issue for most to add. The 2 medics depict a Doctor who is using an Ambu-bag on the casualty, and a female medic is adding an IV bag of fluids via a line. I am pleased to say that the female has not been modelled on a Playboy female and has a more natural appearance to her physique.
This release of the Black Hawk by ICM is possibly my favourite, due to the instant diorama options it provides, and my only major complaint is the positioning of the holes that need to be drilled.