AMA Plans Service
U.S. MALE
Why not try a two-wing trainer?
LARGE RC MODELS have a lot going for them. They draw attention at the flying field and are generally easier to work on. 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 flat-bottom 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, thanks to 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 website. 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.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
