Iron Man Armor Model 3

The new generation of Iron Man armors started with this model, by implementing a long time staple of the Iron Man arsenal: Repulsor Rays.^[2] Shortly after, Tony decided to give his armor more facial features, by including the infamous faceplate which included a "nose".^[3] When Happy Hogan was captured by the Mandarin while wearing this armor, Tony created the Model 3 MK II (unofficial designation) which was "strong enough to overcome the handicap of [his] newly-injured heart".^[4] Later, it was heavily damaged in a battle against The Freak, forcing Tony to create the Model 4 armor, which was not only more flexible, but also returned to the nose-less faceplate.^[5]

It was briefly used by Happy Hogan and Michael O'Brien as well. When Tony Stark undertook Stark Resilient, he dismantled and melted one of the models of this armor.^[6]

• The 2008 "Iron Manual" states that Iron Man's Model 4 armor first appeared in Tales of Suspense #85, but this issue actually shows the creation of Model 3 MK II (unofficial designation). The Model 3 armor continued to be used until Iron Man #85.
• The Iron Man armor, especially the models prior to the Model 3, were in a constant state of experimentation and improvement. The Model 3 distinguished itself when Anthony Stark implements a basic helmet design. The Model 2 helmet first had a horned look. The helmet mask was later riveted on flat. The Model 3 appears to be of a smooth bore motif which led to Iron Man being affectionately referred to by some of his fellow Avengers as "Shell-Head". The Model 4 removed the 'nose' and initially could be worn in a soft state under clothing which hardened and expanded when needed.

• Tony says he "may have been drinking when [he] thought of" the idea of rocket skates.^[7]