STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK

"Apache Longbow on Patrol" by Artist Craig Tinder

This signed and numbered limited-edition relic artwork is offered in Gallery-Wrapped Canvas presentation. The 18×12 edition is limited to 30 total pieces, and the 30×20 edition is limited to 20 total pieces. Each artwork includes an authentic historical relic and Certificate of Authenticity and is hand-signed by artist Craig Tinder.

The Story Behind the Print:

Entering service in the early 1980s, the AH-64 Apache was developed by Hughes Helicopters (later acquired by Boeing) as a replacement for the AH-1 Cobra, which had served since the Vietnam War. The Apache was specifically designed to be a more robust, advanced, and survivable attack helicopter. With a tandem cockpit configuration, the Apache is commanded by a crew of two—a pilot and a gunner—both of whom are capable of flying the aircraft. This dual-pilot capability enhances its versatility, allowing the aircraft to maintain combat effectiveness even if one crew member is incapacitated.

The Apache is engineered to fight in close, dense environments, where traditional aircraft may struggle to operate. Its advanced systems, including the 30mm M230 Chain Gun, give it a unique combat edge. This gun is linked to the pilot's helmet-mounted sight system, allowing the gun to be aimed based on the pilot's head movements. This innovative targeting system, combined with a variety of lethal armaments, makes the Apache a formidable force on the battlefield. Typically, the Apache is equipped with Hellfire anti-tank missiles and 70mm Hydra rockets, allowing it to engage both ground vehicles and enemy infantry with precision.

Since its introduction, the AH-64 Apache has become one of the most battle-tested aircraft in modern military history, accumulating over one million flight hours in combat. Its proven durability and adaptability have led more than 15 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Egypt, to adopt the Apache as their primary attack helicopter. With its ability to conduct operations in challenging environments and its technological superiority, the Apache remains an essential asset in modern military aviation.

Visit the Journal to read the full story!

Commissioned by Museums, Treasured by Collectors

This item is handmade by artist, Craig Tinder. Available to ship worldwide!

ABOUT THE RELIC

This aluminum fragment is an original piece from an AH-64D Apache Longbow Attack Helicopter and was recmoved from the gunner's door on the forward, starboard side of the aircraft (Manufacturer Part No. 7-311112200-7). This particular door panel was built by the Boeing Aircraft Company (8V613) on 2 December 1999, showcasing Boeing’s dedication to producing one of the world’s most advanced attack helicopters.AH-64D Apache Longbow gunner's door included in "Longbow on Patrol" limited edition canvas artwork

This specific AH-64D Apache Longbow, was introduced as a modern upgrade to the original AH-64, and was in service from 2000 to 2018. This gunner's door was red-tagged, meaning it was deemed unsuitable for re-use during maintenance or repairs and was subsequently released as scrap material. Now preserved as a relic, this piece offers a rare opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors to own an authentic part of military aviation history, directly linked to one of the most formidable and technologically advanced helicopters ever produced.Up-close view of gunner's door

Example relic included with art piece

MATERIAL & DISPLAY

HERITAGE ALLOY™

Heritage Alloy™ is the next generation of Aces In Action Relic Artwork. Made from a rigid aluminum composite material, its smooth surface delivers exceptional color, contrast, and fine detail with a luminous quality that is difficult to fully capture in photographs.

Each Heritage Alloy™ edition incorporates our exclusive Artifact Dock™, integrating the authentic historical relic, its provenance, and limited-edition identification directly into the artwork. Available Ready to Hang or finished in a solid black wood frame.

GALLERY-WRAPPED CANVAS

Select Relic Artwork editions remain available on our traditional gallery-wrapped canvas while inventory lasts. Canvas provides a classic, textured fine-art presentation and is available Ready to Hang or finished in our traditional black floater frame.

AVAILABLE SIZES & FORMATS

  • 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm) — Heritage Alloy™ or Gallery-Wrapped Canvas; Ready to Hang or Framed
  • 30" × 20" (76.2 × 50.8 cm) — Heritage Alloy™ or Gallery-Wrapped Canvas; Framed
  • Custom sizes may be available upon request

READY TO HANG

Every Relic Artwork edition arrives ready for display. 18" × 12" Heritage Alloy™ Ready-to-Hang editions include an installed rear wall-mount bracket, while Gallery-Wrapped Canvas arrives ready to hang without an external frame. Framed editions include installed hanging hardware. No additional framing or mounting is required before display.

RELIC MATERIAL & VARIATION

Unless otherwise stated, the relic included with your artwork is a fragment taken from the larger historical component shown in the reference photos. The size, shape, color, markings, and appearance of each relic may vary based on the original material available. Reference photos are provided to document and illustrate the source of the relic material and may not depict the exact fragment included with your artwork.

ABOUT CRAIG TINDER

ARTIST • HISTORIAN • RELIC CURATOR

Craig Tinder has spent more than two decades creating historically researched artwork that connects collectors with the people, machines, and events that shaped history. His work goes far beyond illustrating an aircraft, ship, or vehicle—the research and historical artifacts behind each piece are an integral part of the artwork.

Craig works with museums, aircraft and vehicle restoration organizations, veterans, historians, collectors, and other historical institutions around the world to locate and document authentic artifacts with meaningful connections to the subjects he depicts. He supplements this physical evidence with extensive research using museum collections, military records, historical photographs, archives, and other primary and secondary sources from around the world.

In his workshop, Craig carefully prepares and incorporates these genuine historical relics into his signed and numbered artwork, preserving their provenance while giving artifacts that might otherwise remain unseen a new way to tell their story.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING & CARE

SHIPPING

Each Relic Artwork edition is individually handcrafted and completed by Craig Tinder. From engraving and assembling the Artifact Dock to preparing the relic, framing the artwork when selected, and completing the final inspection and packaging, every piece is finished specifically for its collector. Please allow additional time for this hands-on process before your artwork ships.

Gift wrapping is available for Relic Artwork, making it ready for presentation upon arrival.

DISPLAY & CARE

All Relic Artwork arrives ready to display. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed.

Premium Relic Artwork editions are designed for long-term display. Keep artwork away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth and avoid household cleaners or abrasive materials on the artwork, frame, relic, or Artifact Dock.

ACES IN ACTION JOURNAL

Explore Further

Discover the people, missions, machines and events behind this artwork with the complete story in the Aces In Action Journal.

AH-64D Apache Longbow: The Story Behind Longbow on Patrol

Read the Full Story

THE RELIC ARTWORK EXPERIENCE

Authentic History

Each edition incorporates an authentic historical relic, presented on a custom laser-engraved Artifact Dock with details connecting the artifact to its history.

Handmade by Craig Tinder

Every Relic Artwork edition is assembled in Craig's studio, where it is signed, numbered, crafted, inspected, and prepared for its collector.

Made for Collectors

From the Certificate of Authenticity to the finished presentation, each detail is designed to create a collectible that preserves a tangible connection to history.