Modeler's Mall
Manufacturers who wish to have their products considered for inclusion in this department should send information and a photo, if possible, to the editorial office of Model Aviation. These reviews are composed from such information, and do not imply an endorsement of the products.
Hangar 9 Clipped-Wing Taylorcraft ARF from Horizon Hobby, Inc., 4105 Fieldstone Rd., Champaign IL 61822; Tel.: (217) 355-9511; Web site: www.horizonhobby.com.
Hangar 9 Clipped-Wing Taylorcraft Almost Ready to Fly is a scale-looking reminder of a simpler, more elegant period in aerobatic competition. It is based on a full-scale clipped-wing Taylorcraft design that was used to win the Advanced class title in the 1961 National Aerobatics competition.
The centerpiece of these scale looks is the prepainted and pretrimmed cowl that comes with the intakes and scoops already cut and smoothly finished. Simulated louvers are molded in for added realism. Other scale touches include a custom pilot seat, prefinished wheel pants, and a trim scheme. As with every other Hangar 9 1/4-scale ARF, the kit is covered in UltraCote® from wing tip to tail.
The kit comes 90% prebuilt from balsa and plywood, and it includes all necessary finishing hardware. Even with all the scale goodies to put on, the Taylorcraft doesn’t take any longer to assemble than any of Hangar 9’s other 1/4-scale kits: approximately 24 hours.
With Saito’s 1.80 bolted on, the airplane seemingly defies all physical laws, making light work of vertical maneuvers, knife-edge flight, and hovering torque rolls. Equipped with the G-23, aerobatics are enjoyable exercises in the type of energy-management maneuvers full-scale pilots perform.
Hangar 9’s Taylorcraft ARF is a diversion from the beaten path. Its combination of pleasing flight characteristics and scale looks should find a large following among 3-D and sport pilots who are looking for something out of the ordinary.
Specifications: wingspan, 85.5 inches; length, 67 inches; wing area, 1,315 square inches; weight, 13-15 pounds; and recommended engines, .108-1.48 two-stroke or .120-.182 four-stroke (gasoline 23cc).
Check out this Taylorcraft anywhere Hangar 9 kits are sold. Hangar 9 is distributed exclusively by Horizon Hobby, Inc.
Blitz ARF flying wing @ $79.95 from Dymond Modelesport USA, Ltd., 683 N. Main St., Oshkosh WI 54901; (920) 303-1100; Web site: www.rc-dymond.com.
Despite its big size (82 inches in span), the precovored yellow-and-blue model can be easily transported because its wings are readily detachable. It can be pulled out of a car trunk and assembled in seconds.
The Blitz can be flown as either a slope soarer or with a direct-drive or geared electric motor in the 540-600 size range. Construction is of balsa and light plywood, and the airplane’s dry weight is just 27.5 ounces. Length is 21.5 inches.
Ailerons are prehinged, and the airplane can be assembled easily using two small servos and simple three-channel radio gear with V-tail or elevon mixing. A 35-size ESC is used if you opt for motor power. Carbon-fiber rods used for the wing mounts are strong and allow sure and fast assembly and take-down at the flying field.
For powered flight, Dymond recommends a seven-cell Ni-Cd power pack in Sub C or CP 1700 3/4 Sub C and a choice of a variety of electric motor options, including low-cost and high-performance motors.
The Blitz is capable of extensive maneuvers with electric power and flies fast and true as a slope soarer.
Contact Dymond or your hobby dealer for more information.
Giant Scale stand from RC Stands, 4544 Barr Creek Ln., Naperville IL 60564.
This Giant Scale stand is RC Stands’ latest addition to its existing line of stands for RC airplanes and boats. Designed with Giant Scale and turbine airplanes in mind, this stand is at home in the shop and at the field.
Made entirely from rugged one-inch-diameter PVC pipe, there is no finish to peel or metal to rust, and it can be easily modified for a truly custom fit of your models. The boxtype frame construction helps to make the stand as solid as possible, and the lower horizontal braces easily support a toolbox.
The stand is 39 inches tall, 51 inches long, and 33 inches wide, with a cradle width of roughly 15 inches. The removable table frame measures 33 inches x 34 inches, and it can be covered to form a solid surface. The entire stand quickly folds to a flat five inches for storage.
The kit includes all connection fittings, and all pipe parts are cut to length.
Priced at $64.95 plus shipping, RC Stands accepts checks, money orders, and credit cards.
Contact Steve at [email protected] or see the Web site at http://rcstands.4t.com/ for more information about this or other stands.
Micro Electric Cub @ $49.95 from House of Balsa Inc., 10101 Yucca Rd., Adelanto CA 92301; Tel.: (760) 246-6462; Fax: (760) 246-8769; E-mail: [email protected]; Web site: www.houseofbalsa.com.
This kit (K-60) features all balsa-and-plywood construction, full-size rolled plans, full-color, photo-illustrated instructions, and a complete set of self-adhesive Mylar™ decals. Laser-cut parts make construction fast and accurate. Du-Bro hardware is included.
Specifications: wingspan, 35 inches; wing area, 160 square inches; wing loading, 10.8 ounces per square foot; weight with radio, 12 ounces; fuselage length, 18.5 inches; three-channel micro radio required; motor, Astro 010 brushless.
The Beechcraft D-18 electric twin (kit 10142) can be set up with full functions, ailerons, elevator, rudders, flaps, retractable landing gear, and throttle control. The D-18 spans 60.5 inches, making it easy to transport from home to flying field. It also builds fast because of the fully molded epoxy fiberglass fuselage, cowls, and nacelles.
The kit also includes many precut-to-shape parts, such as foam cores for the wings and stabilizers, tip blocks, verticals, and rudders, leading edges, formers, landing-gear blocks, and plywood spar. Also included are clear vacuum-formed windows for that scale look.
The D-18 is an easy airplane to fly and is stable in flight. There are many different power units that can be used with the D-18. An OS with a belt or gear drive is suggested for minimum power.
Specifications: area, 545 square inches; loading, 31-32 ounces per square foot; ready weight, 7-7.5 pounds.
Model wheels from Du-Bro Products, Box 815, Wauconda IL 60084; Tel.: (847) 526-2136; Toll-free: (800) 848-9411; Fax: (847) 526-1604; E-mail: [email protected]; Web site: www.dubro.com.
The newly released Mini-Lite Wheels in three sizes — 1 inch, 1 1/4 inches, and 1 1/2 inches in diameter — weigh 1.80, 2.20, and 4.20 grams per pair respectively.
Also available are Micro-Lite wheels in three sizes: 1 1/2 inch, 2 inches, and 2 1/2 inches in diameter. These weigh 2.91, 4.36, and 5.56 grams per pair respectively. They feature a one-piece design with polished spokes and a flat-black wheel. They are perfect for indoor and park flyers.
The Super Lite Wheel series is by far the lightest for its size that Du-Bro has ever produced. It features a closed cell-treaded foam wheel with a nylon hub, available in sizes of 1 3/4, 2, 2 1/4, 2 1/2, 2 3/4, and 3 inches in diameter.
The new Diamond Lite Wheels will give your model that scale look. They are available in three sizes: 2 1/4, 2 3/4, and 3 inches in diameter. Whether it’s Indoor or Giant Scale model wheels you are looking for, Du-Bro has them. Look to Du-Bro for new hardware to come.
For more information, see your local hobby dealer or call Du-Bro Products.
Chea-Pass Float Plane .10 @ $59.95 from House of Balsa Inc., 10101 Yucca Rd., Adelanto CA 92301; Tel.: (760) 246-6462; Fax: (760) 246-8769; E-mail: [email protected]; Web site: www.houseofbalsa.com.
This kit (K-54) features all balsa-and-plywood construction. Laser-cut parts make construction fast and accurate. Isometric drawings and step-by-step instructions are included.
Specifications: wingspan, 45.5 inches; wing area, 318 square inches; wing loading, 14.5 ounces per square foot; weight with radio, 32 ounces; fuselage length, 31 inches; four-channel radio with micro system required; engine, .09-.12 two-stroke.
Easy Cutter Pro @ $23.99 from Midwest Products Co., Inc., Box 564, Hobart IN 46342; Tel.: (219) 942-1134; Fax: (219) 942-5703; Web site: www.midwestproducts.com.
The Easy Cutter Pro (stock #1122) is designed to cut a variety of materials, including balsa, hardwoods, dowels, and most plastics. It includes three adapters for cutting cordage, hose, and rubber quickly and easily. Visit your favorite craft or hobby supplier for the Easy Cutter Pro, or visit www.midwestproducts.com.
The Easy Cutter Pro features high carbon steel blade, double ground and heat-treated to stay sharp longer, and built-in protractor with 45-, 60-, 90-, and 120-degree angles. Adapters slide on and off quickly and easily. Comfortable textured grips make it easy on your hands. A built-in safety latch is included. It’s perfect for applications requiring materials up to 1/2-inch thick, and the steel body is plated to last longer. A replacement blade (stock #1133) is available.
Fury Extreme C-Clip Head Axle Kit @ $42.95 from Miniature Aircraft USA, 3743 Silver Star Rd., Orlando FL 32808; Tel.: (407) 292-4267; Fax: (407) 292-4296; Web site: www.x-cellhelicopters.com.
Upgrade your Fury to include the Extreme head axle modification (part #120-70). It utilizes your existing blade grips and radial bearings and includes a new design c-clip axle and thrust bearings like those found in the #0848 CNC Metal Rotor Head. It includes all hardware as well as new .5mm head shims for extra-firm damping. It will work with any X-Cell using the #0844 head block and plastic blade grips.
Available at local hobby shops or order direct.
Beechcraft D-18 @ $399.99 + $20 S&H from K&A Models Unlimited, Box 65527, Albuquerque NM 87193-6527; Tel.: (505) 994-8083; Web site: www.kamodels.com.
Modeler's Mall
Pat Johnston Saito manifold kit @ $60 + $3.50 S&H (in US) from Ultra Hobby Products, 9930 Edgecliff Cir., Dallas TX 75238.
Ultra Hobby Products' newest product for the Control Line (CL) Stunt flier is the Pat Johnston Saito manifold kit. Designed by Pat, this manifold and venturi setup allows for easy conversion of Saito's powerful four-stroke engines from Radio Control to CL use. His manifolds have been tested and flown by several top CLPA fliers and are now available to the public.
The kit features a manifold which bolts into the existing Saito carburetor mount, three venturis (.265, .275, .285), an O.S. Needle Valve Assembly, mounting screws, and an instruction sheet. These kits are currently available for Saito 56 and Saito 72 engines.
Write to the above address for a free catalog, or call (214) 348-3962 or (214) 826-3041, or visit the Web site at www.egpworld.com/ultrahobby.
Giant Scale version of an aerobatic aircraft that reigns as the most advanced in its class.
This model sports two-piece removable main wings and horizontal stabilizer. The symmetrical airfoils are supported by strong aluminum spars. The control surfaces have maximum deflection available through double-beveled hinges. The fuselage, wings, and tail section are built-up wooden structures that are light, strong, and easily reparable. A one-piece, removable canopy allows quick access inside the aircraft.
Robart and Du-Bro control mechanism and hardware are included. The hefty 3/16 aluminum landing gear compliments the 4-40 size hardware that is found throughout the aircraft. The fiberglass cowling and wheel pants match the professionally applied heat-shrink covering. The engine-mounting firewall has an adjustable depth to accept various, proper-size gas engines.
Specifications: wingspan, 90 inches; wing area, 1,474 square inches; fuselage length, 94 inches; engine power, 3.2-4.2 cubic-inch displacement; flying weight, 17-20 pounds; radio channels required, four; all hardware is included; servos required, seven (six at 70 ounces of torque and one standard for throttle). MSRP, $1,095.99; street price, $799.99.
This is stable in flight and performs great aerobatic maneuvers. It can also be hand-launched.
The kit (#10145) builds very fast because of the fully molded fiberglass fuselage. The inboard section of the wings and vertical up to the stabilizer is molded in as well. The outboard section of the wings are foam cores that you sheet with 1/16 balsa provided in the kit. All the tail surfaces are precut to shape.
The kit also comes with a clear raised-lined canopy, ABS vacuum-formed tip tanks, and canopy hatch for a great scale look. All-up time to frame the Panther is roughly six hours less paint and covering.
This model can be set up with many motors, starting with a standard Speed 400 six-volt. Other motors that can be used are 480, 450, AP 29, 020, or 05 brushless.
Specifications: wingspan, 27 inches; wing area, 136 square inches; wing loading, 20 ounces per square foot; ready weight, 18-20 ounces.
30% Edge 540T ARF from LanierRC, Box 458, Oakwood GA 30566; Tel.: (770) 532-6401; E-mail: [email protected]; Web site: www.lanierrc.com.
The 30% Edge 540T ARF (part #21262) is an addition to Lanier's 21st Century line of Almost Ready-to-Fly (ARF) airplanes. This is a
Electric F9F Panther @ $129.99 + $11.99 S&H from K&A Models Unlimited, Box 66527, Albuquerque NM 87193-6527; Tel.: (505) 994-8083; Web site: www.kamodels.com.
These types of prop jets are popular in Europe and are becoming more popular in the US. The Panther
Super Decathlon from Wendell Hostetter's Plans, 545 Jerome Dr., Orrville OH 44667; Tel.: (330) 682-8896; Fax: (330) 683-5357; Web site: www.aero.sports.com/whplans.
The plans for this 2002 design are available in two sizes: 30% (115-inch span) and 33% (126.72-inch span). The two sizes accommodate engines from 3 to 7 cubic inches (50-114cc).
The following accessories are available from other sources: cowl, wheel pants, landing gear, decals, and wood kits. The plans are drawn on two detailed sheets and include a full-size drawing.
The plans may be purchased for $43.50 (30%) and $48.50 (33%), postage-paid in the US. Visa® and MasterCard® are accepted.
Send $2 and a self-addressed, stamped envelope for an illustrated catalog, or see all 30 of the company's designs on the Web site.
Mariner 40 seaplane from LanierRC, Box 458, Oakwood GA 30566; Tel.: (770) 532-6401; E-mail: [email protected]; Web site: www.lanierrc.com.
The Mariner 40 seaplane (part #21261) is an addition to Lanier's 21st Century line of Almost Ready-to-Fly (ARF) airplanes. It is a 40-size model capable of easy takeoffs and landings on water. The Mariner taxis on water from rudder control at the vertical stabilizer, which extends below the waterline. Spray rails and hull lifters ease the transition from boat to aircraft as it quickly gets up on step to leave the water.
The Mariner has a built-up wood fuselage and wing of balsa and strengthening hardwood plywood. The engine pod is mounted above the wing via a hardwood mast that is secured through the fuselage to the base of the airboat. The symmetrical wings have fiberglass tips to stabilize the craft while on water.
The entire aircraft (including fiberglass-reinforced hull) has carefully applied iron-on covering. The fiberglass cowling and tip floats are prepainted to match one of the three color schemes: orange and white, red and white, or yellow and white.
The Mariner includes 4-40-size flight-control mechanisms and hardware. Carbon-fiber pushrods and metal clevises also help make the model strong, reliable, and durable. The air and water craft was designed by Jerry Smith, who is associate editor for Radio Control Modeler.
Specifications: wingspan, 62 inches; wing area, 687 square inches; fuselage length, 48 inches; power, .40-.46 two-stroke engine; flying weight, 6-7 pounds; channels required, four; all hardware included; servos required, five (standard plus Y-harness); MSRP, $449.95; street price, $279.99.
Giant Scale Control Horns from Sullivan Products, 1 N. Haven St., Baltimore MD 21224; Tel.: (410) 732-3500; Fax: (410) 327-7443; Web site: www.sullivanproducts.com.
Sullivan Products has two Giant Scale Control Horns: the Large Scale Adjustable Super Horn and the Super Rudder Horn, providing excellent pull-pull response.
Both of these products offer a 3/4-inch offset from the hinge line, allowing the 1/2-inch dowel hard point to set back further in the control surface. Both are specifically designed for and include a 4-40 Gold-N-Clevis with locking retaining clip for additional security. The arm is fiberglass-filled nylon.
An 8-32 x 2-inch steel bolt is supplied with the Large Scale Super Horn, and a five-inch, stainless-steel threaded rod is supplied with the Super Rudder. The aluminum base is red anodized and tapped for an 8-32 thread.
The Large Scale Super Horn (number S567) retails for $4.29, and the Super Rudder Horn (number S568) retails for $6.79.
For more information on new products from this company, write, call, or click onto the Web site.
Buzzard Bombshell from Bob Holman Plans, Box 741, San Bernardino CA 92402; Tel.: (909) 885-3959; Fax: (909) 889-9307; E-mail: [email protected].
Plans and laser-cut parts are available for this old-time gas model from the 1940s. The Buzzard Bombshell is a 72-inch-span Free Flight Power model. The original design by Joe Konefes was first published in the October 1940 Air Trails.
Models were powered by a number of the old ignition engines of the day, such as the Super Cyclone, by which the model shown is powered.
The Bombshell shown has been converted to Radio Control by Steve Remington (newsletter editor of SAM 27 in Northern California). The Buzzard can be powered with a number of modern glow engines. Model 1 makes a great trainer or just a fun airplane to fly.
The wingspan is 72 inches, and the wing area is 844.6 inches. Laser-cut parts include all the parts you need to cut out. You add the stock sheet and strip.
The plan is a copy of the original drawn in CAD by Jim O'Reilly. Parts fit as they are of the original CAD files. If there is interest, Bob Holman Plans will do a half-size Buzzard Bombshell. Plans are $20, and laser-cut parts are $35; postage is $8.
Heavy Metal & Thunder from Aces Video, 22 W. "F" Ave., Kalamazoo MI 49004; Tel.: (800) 987-5491 for credit-card orders.
Features full-scale aircraft warbirds like the P-40, P-38, Corsair, and P-51, and jets like the F-15, F-16, and F-18. Hear the roar and feel the thunder. Take your pick of tape or DVD. Tapes are $25 + $4 S&H; DVDs are $30 + $4 S&H.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
