Why not try a two-wing trainer?
May 2009 113
AMA Plans Service Showcase
U.S. MALE
LARGE RC MODELS have a lot going
for them. They draw attention at the flying
field and are generally easier on which to
work. In the air, they are easier to see,
handle the effects of wind better, and
benefit from larger airfoils.
Clarence Haught designed the U.S.
Male to be a “big airplane” for novice
pilots or a docile sport flier for more
experienced pilots. Three-channel control
keeps it simple, while its 80-inch span
makes it IMAA (International Miniature
Aircraft Association)-legal. (The
requirement for biplanes is 60 inches or
longer.) It provides a whopping 1,800
square inches of wing area.
The wings are identical, making
construction easier. A flatbottom
airfoil and
generous dihedral
allow the
aircraft to
recover
itself from
unusual attitudes. Clarence noted that the
U.S. Male landed itself one-quarter mile
away, unassisted, when he lost control
because of a radio issue.
The cowling is removable, allowing
access to the recommended .60 two-stroke
glow engine and fuel tank. This setup would
permit easy access to the motor and batteries
if electric power were used.
One of the model’s other benefits is its
ability to operate from less-than-perfect
runways, with its hefty tires
and broad, shock-absorbing
landing gear.
The U.S. Male was
featured in a construction
article in the December
1982 MA, which AMA
members can access via the
MA Digital Archives on the
Academy’s Web site. This design is
AMA Plans Service listing 389C, and
it is available for $30 plus shipping
and handling. See page 167 or go to
www.modelaircraft.org/plans.aspx for
ordering information. MA
05sig4.QXD 3/24/09 12:56 PM Page 113
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/05
Page Numbers: 113
