HaloMods "Classic" Read-only Archive

Ok first off I used MilkShape 3D which was wonderful until the free trial ran out. Ok so im trying to find a modelling program similiar to MilkShape 3D, if you can find one for me that would be great, but please don't give me Gmax cause I hate it.

blender?
and try using gmax, although you wont be able to put it it halo, its a good beginning to 3ds max.