mjc269 - good interesting thread.
Check rides are never easy. As a PPL examiner and TRE I try to offer checks to pilots as an opportunity to practice maneuvers that they would not normally do. This is not to catch them out or put them under undue pressure but to try and build confidence. The only way to improve skills whether it is an ILS approach or engine off landing is to practice. Unfortunately unless you are in the training environment is very difficult to practice for real because of the expense.
Being a hangar pilot is a really good idea as is the use of PC based flight sims. Personally I find check rides difficult even though I fly with some very tolerant and understanding training captains. I do take the opportunity to iron out any problems and always maintain a positive view.
The great thing with flying helicopters is it’s a skill that can be continually improved on. I have learnt just as much from low hour pilots as well as the more experienced.