Safety Comes First - 2015/03
How do we learn about aeromodeling?
Our hobby is a complex entity. Building a model aircraft requires many skills—each one a fun challenge. There are plenty of ways to go wrong, and sometimes using the wrong technique can be a safety issue. So, how does a beginner—or an experienced pilot trying a new type of model—learn how to use it?
In the “old days,” books and magazines about modeling were the way to pick up information. (Hey, you’re reading a magazine right now!) Some of this early printed material has become valuable to collectors. I have model-building books that date back to 1911, and no, I was not the original purchaser.
These days, a popular way to get “how-to” information is by watching online videos. Some hobby companies produce professional-quality videos that are part instruction manual, part advertisement. I’ve purchased numerous products after seeing video demonstrations. Watching a factory representative operate a product is a great way to learn the safe and proper way to use it.
I think the amateur uploads are the most fun to watch. There are homemade movies about how to build, modify, and fly nearly every type of model aircraft. What motivates these filmmakers? It’s doing a good turn for fellow pilots and maybe a desire for fame.
These clips are loaded with advice about what to do and what to avoid. Viewers rate the productions, so incorrect information and dangerous practices get voted out…hopefully.
AMA Videos
AMA has embraced online videos in a big way. AMA’s Education department has a website called AMA Flight School that’s packed with great “How Do I?” movies. The content covers first-time pilot questions and advanced stuff, with videos frequently added. These are high-quality productions full of reliable information from expert modelers. Well, maybe the standards are slipping, because one day you might see me in an AMA video or two.
I spent a day in a television studio, showing the camera how to do some model conversions without slicing your fingers or gluing yourself to an airplane. Actually, I did, in fact, slice my finger and become glued to the airplane, but they promised they’d edit those bits out. Movie magic!
The best way to learn our sport has always been via an experienced mentor. Willing and skilled aeromodeling teachers are rare. Newbies who are taught by an expert are fortunate.
My father got me started in the 1960s, and everything good I know about modeling and safe tool use I learned from him. At the age of 91, he is still my go-to guy for engineering questions.
Mountain Mentor
Some young fliers in Montana lucked out and were mentored by Karl Gies. Under his coaching, the Fergus High School Science Olympiad Team won the state Science Olympiad team title and advanced to the national competition, which will be held May 15–16, 2015. Karl knows his stuff and gave those kids a great start on a lifetime of fun.
Many young people don’t have the advantage of someone teaching them the safest and best way to get their models in the air. Hooray for mentors such as Karl who share their knowledge and enthusiasm with the next generation.
Stylish vs. Sloppy
Lance Novak responded to my recent discussion about glue drips on clothing: “Multiple washings don’t affect the strength of epoxy stains. I finally got tired of paint and stuff dripping on my clothes, so I disciplined myself to wear one of two sets of surgical scrubs when I work on airplanes and helicopters. I always keep one set by my workbench and put them on before starting.
“I did some touch-up painting yesterday, opened the top of a paint squeeze bottle, and a spurt of red paint shot out and landed on my leg. I just rubbed it into my scrubs and no problem.
“Having two sets allows you one to use when the other is in the wash, so you’re not tempted to work in nice clothes. A nice side benefit is [that] you can reminisce. Each paint color reminds you of a plane you built over the years.”
I think Lance has not thought the matter through. He is in grave danger.
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
