Please see the most recent updates in the "Where did the .com name go?" thread. Posts number 16 and 17.
Gmax1.20 (free) , Blender (free) , 3DSMax7/8 (money); will all create and export models
Create? Any of the above.
Modify? A very risky area. Best avoided.
Dave
Gmax1.20 (free) , Blender (free) , 3DSMax7/8 (money); will all create and export models