14 MODEL AVIATION
Rocco Mariani of Aeroworks showed the company’s newest
release: the Cessna 195. This model of the late 1940s gem of aviation
is designed around the 30cc-35cc gas engine or 1.60-2.20 glow
engine.
An ARF from the
Quick Build series comes
out of the box with extra
steps taken at the factory to
help eliminate the time
needed to assemble the
model. This gets the
aircraft into the air quicker.
The Cessna has a 90-
inch wingspan with 1,350
square inches of wing area.
The flying weight varies
between 15 and 17 pounds, depending on equipment used.
Aeroworks: 4903 Nome St., Denver CO 80239; Tel.: (303) 371-
4222; Web site: www.aero-works.net
Scott Stauffer of SKS Video Productions has provided Rich
LaGrange, AMA historian, with the first Blu-ray release featuring
model airplanes. Florida Jets covers the largest gathering of RC jets
in the world. Held March 5-8 at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in
Lakeland, Florida, this event continues to assemble the hottest pilots
and jets from around the globe.
Footage includes Thomas Singer of Germany demonstrating his
CARF Eurosport’s 3-D
capabilities, Jorge
Escalona burning up the
skies with his F-4
Phantom, and several
aircraft debuts, such as the
Mibo Mirage F1 flown by
Pablo Fernandez and the
Skymaster Viper Jet that
Ali Machinchy brought
from England.
Other aircraft of note
include Adrian Valencia’s
twin-engine Velox, Bob Fiorenze’s electric-powered T-38, and Jason
Somes’ MiG-29.
Total running time for DVD is 103 minutes and Blu-ray is 115
minutes.
SKS Video Productions: 85 Pine Rd., Abbotstown PA 17301;
Tel.: (800) 988-6488; Web site: www.sksvideo.com
Worth a Closer Look
Balsa USA proudly displayed its D.H.4 uncovered, to allow show
attendees to get a good look at this beautiful kit. Its 127-inch
wingspan drew a lot of
attention. The model has a
wing area of 4,100 square
inches and weighs 30-35
pounds using a 60cc-80cc
gasoline engine.
The kit includes fullsize
rolled plans and
instructions, fixture- and
die-cut parts, prebent wire
landing gear, name-brand
hardware, and an ABS plastic cowl.
Balsa USA: Box 164, Marinette WI 54143; Tel.: (906) 863-6421;
Web site: www.balsausa.com
RC Goes Blu-Ray
3D Hobby Shop has expanded its line of Slick aircraft in a big
way. Andrew Jesky designed the series, which is modeled after
the full-scale Slick 540: one
of the latest, high-tech
aerobatic aircraft flying
today.
The new Slick model
was designed around a
170cc-200cc gasoline
engine, with
aerobatic competition
in mind. Proven to be a
strong performer in knifeedge
flight and no-rock
Harriers, it has a wingspan of 126 inches and weighs
approximately 42 pounds.
3D Hobby Shop: 603 FM 2093 Ste. 1601, Fredericksburg TX
78624; Tel.: (830) 990-6978; Web site: www.3dhobbyshop.com
AJ Slick
Quarter-Scale de Havilland D.H.4
These products were shown at the Weak Signals’ R/C Expo, which took place April 3-5, 2009, in Toledo, Ohio.
Cessna 195 Quick Build ARF
Loosely based on the
midwing Extra 300 design,
Extreme Flight R/C’s new Extra
300 EXP (Experimental
Progressive) ARF incorporates
several forward-thinking design
concepts that contribute to its
unique construction and flight
characteristics.
The tall fuselage and forward
canopy placement contribute to
the model’s knife-edge ability, which is further enhanced by the
Extra 300 EXP
included removable side force
generators. Carbon-fiber enginebox
supports prevent twisting and
reduce the structure’s overall mass,
while carbon-fiber longerons add
strength and durability to the
fuselage structure.
Airfoiled one-piece carbon-fiber
landing gear is included, as is a
lightweight miniature carbon-fiber
tail-wheel assembly. A carbon-fiber
wing tube is provided as standard
equipment, along with carbon-fiber pushrods and micro ball links.
A unique geodetic structure that is used for the elevator and rudder
allows for a lightweight yet rigid airfoiled tail section. Two highvisibility
UltraCote color schemes are available, and a matching,
painted fiberglass-cowl-and-wheel-pant set finish the EXP off in
style.
A complete hardware package and decal set are included. The
Extra 300 EXP has a 48-inch wingspan, is 48 inches long, has 500
square inches of wing area, and has a flying weight of 42-46 ounces.
Extreme Flight R/C: 3600 North Pkwy. Suite 101, Cumming GA
30040; Tel.: (770) 887-1794; Web site: www.extremeflightrc.com
07sig1.QXD 5/22/09 11:49 AM Page 14
These engines, which
are made in Hungary,
have provided quality
power for miniature
aircraft since 1957. Long
known for their ease of
use as glow power
plants, Mark Engines is
now offering its same
solid designs as more
economical gas burners.
Phoenix ICE is the update and
extension of the Phoenix-series
controllers. It will be available
in 50-, 75-, and 100-amp
sizes. The maximum input
voltage is 8S (33.6) from
the 6S on its predecessors.
The line has a
switching BEC that
allows it to provide up
to 5 amps continuous
current at all input
voltages. Users can select the output voltage in .1-volt increments
from 5 to 7.
The ICE series’ most incredible new feature is full onboard
data logging. The controller logs data including actual current,
volts, electrical rpm, throttle position, ripple voltage, and ESC
temperature at sample rates ranging from 10 Hz (10 per second) to
once every two seconds. This data is retrieved and displayed using
the Castle Link USB adapter and software.
ICE controllers are currently in beta testing and should be
shipping by early summer 2009.
Castle Creations: 235 S. Kansas Ave., Olathe KS 66061; Tel.:
(913) 390-6939; Web site: www.castlecreations.com
Worth a Closer Look
Steve Eves’ 1/10-scale Saturn V
was so amazing that it won the
2009 Director’s Award for
Achievement at the Toledo Show.
At 36.3 feet tall, the Saturn was
poised to be the largest model
rocket ever launched.
Built using 3/8 plywood, the
Saturn V’s expected flying weight
is 1,648 pounds, and it requires
nine motors to launch it. The total
cost to build and launch the model
is nearly $25,000!
The Saturn was
launched on April 25,
shortly after the R/C
Expo, in Maryland. It
reached approximately
4,440 feet and was
recovered successfully.
NASA (the National
Aeronautics and Space
Administration) has
already contacted Steve
about displaying his
model in the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
You can learn more about this project at www.rocketsmagazine.com
Dave Thacker of Radical RC had a vision of a semiscale
Wright Flyer for everyday flying. He designed this conversion kit,
combined with parts from
two GWS Slow Stick slope
glider kits, to produce a
sport-scale model of the
1905 Wright Flyer. Best of
all, it flies using wing
warping!
A servo drives the top
canard, which, in turn,
drives the bottom canard
through a simple transfer
rod. The canards move up
and down together on their
own individual pivots,
similar to on the original 1905 Flyer. This process causes the
wings to warp. According to Dave, this model flies like a trainer.
Radical RC: 5339 Huberville Ave., Dayton OH 45431; Tel.:
(937) 256-7727; Web site www.radicalrc.com
Phoenix ICE Speed Controls
Mark Engines
Wright Stick
Saturn V
The twin M 360 60cc is impressive, providing 7.8 horsepower
and a maximum rpm of 11,000. The G 180 30cc is capable of
producing 3.9 horsepower and 10,500 rpm. Also look for the G
140, which is a nice system for popular 72- to 80-inch-span
warbirds and aerobats.
Global Hobby Distributors: 18480 Bandilier Cir., Fountain
Valley CA 92807; Tel.: (714) 963-0329; Web site: www.hobby
people.net
This is the second
generation of the
Phlatprinter cutting tool. It
utilizes a belt-drive system
that allows for speeds of up
to 400 inches per minute.
The MK II uses a RotoZip
and flex shaft, which
maximizes its potential for
cutting materials.
The MK II kit contains
everything needed to build
the machine, excluding the
electronics and glue. It
even comes with its own
stand, so you don’t need to
find a table for it.
The MK II employs taband-
slot construction and is accompanied by a step-by-step
video tutorial that walks you through building and cutting out
your first part. This tool can cut material as wide as 271/2 inches,
as thick as 21/4 inches thick, and of unlimited length.
Phlatboyz: (856) 417-3377; Web site: www.phlatboyz.com
Phlatprinter MK II
See page 175 for submission guidelines
07sig1.QXD 5/22/09 11:49 AM Page 15
16 MODEL AVIATION
We
were
impressed by
the sleek racing
look of the Pisces
autogiro.
Controlled with
rudder,
elevator, and
throttle, it is
reportedly
easy to
fly.
The
Pisces’ components are preprinted and precut, including fuselage,
wings, tail, rotors, undercarriage, and wheel pants. Wing spars,
struts and pushrods, hardware, and wheels are also included,
allowing for the model to be completed in roughly two to three
hours.
ICARE: 381 Joseph-Huet, Boucherville Qc J4B 2C5 Canada;
Tel.: (450) 449-9094; Web site: www.icare-rc.com MA
Thunder Tiger has introduced the latest Raptor 50 Titan SE. A
major upgrade from the original Raptor 50 Titan, the newest
version features critical metal parts to handle all the power that the
RL-53H engine delivers.
Another key
feature of the Titan SE
is that collective pitch
has been increased to a
range of plus or
minus 15°,
providing increased
pitch response.
Ace Hobby
Distributors:
26021
Commercentre, Lake
Forest CA 92630; Tel.:
(866) 322-7121; Web site: www.acehobby.com
BP Hobbies displayed its new, larger version of the German
Fieseler Storch. It spans 51 inches, has 364 square inches of wing
area, and features a flying weight of roughly 23 ounces. The low
wing loading of approximately 9 ounces per square foot should
allow the model to
fly in the slow
manner for which
the Storch is known.
Designed around
clean electric
power, this bigger
model will allow
larger servos, for more
flexibility than its smaller
counterpart.
BP Hobbies: 140 Ethel Rd. W.
Suite J, Piscataway NJ 08854; Tel.: (732) 287-3933; Web site:
www.bphobbies.com
One way to
describe this
highly
maneuverable
new model is “7
ounces of fun in a
22-inch
wingspan.” This
versatile little
model can be
flown as a sport
or 3-D aircraft.
Currently
available as a high-quality, laser-cut kit, the Micro 3DX includes
all precut balsa and plywood parts, molded-plastic canopy, prebent
landing gear, wheels, and all hardware necessary to complete the
model. Look for an ARF version in the future.
Millennium R/C: 12859 Lower River Blvd., Orlando FL 32828;
Tel.: (407) 208-9745; Web site: www.millenniumrc.com
Kennedy Composites showed its
new 2-meter Sprite. Designed as a
scaled-down
Supra, it
spans 78.75
inches and has a
wing area of 565
square inches. Its flying
weight is 31 ounces, and the
wing loading comes in at 7.9
ounces per square foot.
Controls include rudder, elevator, flaps, and ailerons. The
Sprite comes in white or yellow primary colors with violet, red,
or blue accent colors.
Kennedy Composites: 1935 Highvalley Tr., Grand Prairie
TX 75052; Tel.: (972) 602-3144; Web site: www.kennedycom
posites.com
Worth a Closer Look
Sprite Sailplane
Classic Aero displayed its Aeronca K in two sizes, with
options for wheels or
floats.
The 54-inchwingspan
model
(1/12 scale) has
approximately 350
square inches of
wing area and was
designed around a
25-amp electric
power system.
The 30-inchwingspan
model
(1/14 scale) has approximately 100 square inches of wing area and
is flown on a 9-amp electric power system.
Classic Aero: 1782 Laverne Ct., Oxford MI 48371; Tel.: (248)
969-8139; Web site: www.classicaero.com
Micro 3DX
Fieseler Storch
Aeronca K in 1/12 and 1/14 scale
Raptor 50 Titan SE
Pisces
07sig1.QXD 5/22/09 11:52 AM Page 16
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/07
Page Numbers: 14,15,16
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/07
Page Numbers: 14,15,16
14 MODEL AVIATION
Rocco Mariani of Aeroworks showed the company’s newest
release: the Cessna 195. This model of the late 1940s gem of aviation
is designed around the 30cc-35cc gas engine or 1.60-2.20 glow
engine.
An ARF from the
Quick Build series comes
out of the box with extra
steps taken at the factory to
help eliminate the time
needed to assemble the
model. This gets the
aircraft into the air quicker.
The Cessna has a 90-
inch wingspan with 1,350
square inches of wing area.
The flying weight varies
between 15 and 17 pounds, depending on equipment used.
Aeroworks: 4903 Nome St., Denver CO 80239; Tel.: (303) 371-
4222; Web site: www.aero-works.net
Scott Stauffer of SKS Video Productions has provided Rich
LaGrange, AMA historian, with the first Blu-ray release featuring
model airplanes. Florida Jets covers the largest gathering of RC jets
in the world. Held March 5-8 at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in
Lakeland, Florida, this event continues to assemble the hottest pilots
and jets from around the globe.
Footage includes Thomas Singer of Germany demonstrating his
CARF Eurosport’s 3-D
capabilities, Jorge
Escalona burning up the
skies with his F-4
Phantom, and several
aircraft debuts, such as the
Mibo Mirage F1 flown by
Pablo Fernandez and the
Skymaster Viper Jet that
Ali Machinchy brought
from England.
Other aircraft of note
include Adrian Valencia’s
twin-engine Velox, Bob Fiorenze’s electric-powered T-38, and Jason
Somes’ MiG-29.
Total running time for DVD is 103 minutes and Blu-ray is 115
minutes.
SKS Video Productions: 85 Pine Rd., Abbotstown PA 17301;
Tel.: (800) 988-6488; Web site: www.sksvideo.com
Worth a Closer Look
Balsa USA proudly displayed its D.H.4 uncovered, to allow show
attendees to get a good look at this beautiful kit. Its 127-inch
wingspan drew a lot of
attention. The model has a
wing area of 4,100 square
inches and weighs 30-35
pounds using a 60cc-80cc
gasoline engine.
The kit includes fullsize
rolled plans and
instructions, fixture- and
die-cut parts, prebent wire
landing gear, name-brand
hardware, and an ABS plastic cowl.
Balsa USA: Box 164, Marinette WI 54143; Tel.: (906) 863-6421;
Web site: www.balsausa.com
RC Goes Blu-Ray
3D Hobby Shop has expanded its line of Slick aircraft in a big
way. Andrew Jesky designed the series, which is modeled after
the full-scale Slick 540: one
of the latest, high-tech
aerobatic aircraft flying
today.
The new Slick model
was designed around a
170cc-200cc gasoline
engine, with
aerobatic competition
in mind. Proven to be a
strong performer in knifeedge
flight and no-rock
Harriers, it has a wingspan of 126 inches and weighs
approximately 42 pounds.
3D Hobby Shop: 603 FM 2093 Ste. 1601, Fredericksburg TX
78624; Tel.: (830) 990-6978; Web site: www.3dhobbyshop.com
AJ Slick
Quarter-Scale de Havilland D.H.4
These products were shown at the Weak Signals’ R/C Expo, which took place April 3-5, 2009, in Toledo, Ohio.
Cessna 195 Quick Build ARF
Loosely based on the
midwing Extra 300 design,
Extreme Flight R/C’s new Extra
300 EXP (Experimental
Progressive) ARF incorporates
several forward-thinking design
concepts that contribute to its
unique construction and flight
characteristics.
The tall fuselage and forward
canopy placement contribute to
the model’s knife-edge ability, which is further enhanced by the
Extra 300 EXP
included removable side force
generators. Carbon-fiber enginebox
supports prevent twisting and
reduce the structure’s overall mass,
while carbon-fiber longerons add
strength and durability to the
fuselage structure.
Airfoiled one-piece carbon-fiber
landing gear is included, as is a
lightweight miniature carbon-fiber
tail-wheel assembly. A carbon-fiber
wing tube is provided as standard
equipment, along with carbon-fiber pushrods and micro ball links.
A unique geodetic structure that is used for the elevator and rudder
allows for a lightweight yet rigid airfoiled tail section. Two highvisibility
UltraCote color schemes are available, and a matching,
painted fiberglass-cowl-and-wheel-pant set finish the EXP off in
style.
A complete hardware package and decal set are included. The
Extra 300 EXP has a 48-inch wingspan, is 48 inches long, has 500
square inches of wing area, and has a flying weight of 42-46 ounces.
Extreme Flight R/C: 3600 North Pkwy. Suite 101, Cumming GA
30040; Tel.: (770) 887-1794; Web site: www.extremeflightrc.com
07sig1.QXD 5/22/09 11:49 AM Page 14
These engines, which
are made in Hungary,
have provided quality
power for miniature
aircraft since 1957. Long
known for their ease of
use as glow power
plants, Mark Engines is
now offering its same
solid designs as more
economical gas burners.
Phoenix ICE is the update and
extension of the Phoenix-series
controllers. It will be available
in 50-, 75-, and 100-amp
sizes. The maximum input
voltage is 8S (33.6) from
the 6S on its predecessors.
The line has a
switching BEC that
allows it to provide up
to 5 amps continuous
current at all input
voltages. Users can select the output voltage in .1-volt increments
from 5 to 7.
The ICE series’ most incredible new feature is full onboard
data logging. The controller logs data including actual current,
volts, electrical rpm, throttle position, ripple voltage, and ESC
temperature at sample rates ranging from 10 Hz (10 per second) to
once every two seconds. This data is retrieved and displayed using
the Castle Link USB adapter and software.
ICE controllers are currently in beta testing and should be
shipping by early summer 2009.
Castle Creations: 235 S. Kansas Ave., Olathe KS 66061; Tel.:
(913) 390-6939; Web site: www.castlecreations.com
Worth a Closer Look
Steve Eves’ 1/10-scale Saturn V
was so amazing that it won the
2009 Director’s Award for
Achievement at the Toledo Show.
At 36.3 feet tall, the Saturn was
poised to be the largest model
rocket ever launched.
Built using 3/8 plywood, the
Saturn V’s expected flying weight
is 1,648 pounds, and it requires
nine motors to launch it. The total
cost to build and launch the model
is nearly $25,000!
The Saturn was
launched on April 25,
shortly after the R/C
Expo, in Maryland. It
reached approximately
4,440 feet and was
recovered successfully.
NASA (the National
Aeronautics and Space
Administration) has
already contacted Steve
about displaying his
model in the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
You can learn more about this project at www.rocketsmagazine.com
Dave Thacker of Radical RC had a vision of a semiscale
Wright Flyer for everyday flying. He designed this conversion kit,
combined with parts from
two GWS Slow Stick slope
glider kits, to produce a
sport-scale model of the
1905 Wright Flyer. Best of
all, it flies using wing
warping!
A servo drives the top
canard, which, in turn,
drives the bottom canard
through a simple transfer
rod. The canards move up
and down together on their
own individual pivots,
similar to on the original 1905 Flyer. This process causes the
wings to warp. According to Dave, this model flies like a trainer.
Radical RC: 5339 Huberville Ave., Dayton OH 45431; Tel.:
(937) 256-7727; Web site www.radicalrc.com
Phoenix ICE Speed Controls
Mark Engines
Wright Stick
Saturn V
The twin M 360 60cc is impressive, providing 7.8 horsepower
and a maximum rpm of 11,000. The G 180 30cc is capable of
producing 3.9 horsepower and 10,500 rpm. Also look for the G
140, which is a nice system for popular 72- to 80-inch-span
warbirds and aerobats.
Global Hobby Distributors: 18480 Bandilier Cir., Fountain
Valley CA 92807; Tel.: (714) 963-0329; Web site: www.hobby
people.net
This is the second
generation of the
Phlatprinter cutting tool. It
utilizes a belt-drive system
that allows for speeds of up
to 400 inches per minute.
The MK II uses a RotoZip
and flex shaft, which
maximizes its potential for
cutting materials.
The MK II kit contains
everything needed to build
the machine, excluding the
electronics and glue. It
even comes with its own
stand, so you don’t need to
find a table for it.
The MK II employs taband-
slot construction and is accompanied by a step-by-step
video tutorial that walks you through building and cutting out
your first part. This tool can cut material as wide as 271/2 inches,
as thick as 21/4 inches thick, and of unlimited length.
Phlatboyz: (856) 417-3377; Web site: www.phlatboyz.com
Phlatprinter MK II
See page 175 for submission guidelines
07sig1.QXD 5/22/09 11:49 AM Page 15
16 MODEL AVIATION
We
were
impressed by
the sleek racing
look of the Pisces
autogiro.
Controlled with
rudder,
elevator, and
throttle, it is
reportedly
easy to
fly.
The
Pisces’ components are preprinted and precut, including fuselage,
wings, tail, rotors, undercarriage, and wheel pants. Wing spars,
struts and pushrods, hardware, and wheels are also included,
allowing for the model to be completed in roughly two to three
hours.
ICARE: 381 Joseph-Huet, Boucherville Qc J4B 2C5 Canada;
Tel.: (450) 449-9094; Web site: www.icare-rc.com MA
Thunder Tiger has introduced the latest Raptor 50 Titan SE. A
major upgrade from the original Raptor 50 Titan, the newest
version features critical metal parts to handle all the power that the
RL-53H engine delivers.
Another key
feature of the Titan SE
is that collective pitch
has been increased to a
range of plus or
minus 15°,
providing increased
pitch response.
Ace Hobby
Distributors:
26021
Commercentre, Lake
Forest CA 92630; Tel.:
(866) 322-7121; Web site: www.acehobby.com
BP Hobbies displayed its new, larger version of the German
Fieseler Storch. It spans 51 inches, has 364 square inches of wing
area, and features a flying weight of roughly 23 ounces. The low
wing loading of approximately 9 ounces per square foot should
allow the model to
fly in the slow
manner for which
the Storch is known.
Designed around
clean electric
power, this bigger
model will allow
larger servos, for more
flexibility than its smaller
counterpart.
BP Hobbies: 140 Ethel Rd. W.
Suite J, Piscataway NJ 08854; Tel.: (732) 287-3933; Web site:
www.bphobbies.com
One way to
describe this
highly
maneuverable
new model is “7
ounces of fun in a
22-inch
wingspan.” This
versatile little
model can be
flown as a sport
or 3-D aircraft.
Currently
available as a high-quality, laser-cut kit, the Micro 3DX includes
all precut balsa and plywood parts, molded-plastic canopy, prebent
landing gear, wheels, and all hardware necessary to complete the
model. Look for an ARF version in the future.
Millennium R/C: 12859 Lower River Blvd., Orlando FL 32828;
Tel.: (407) 208-9745; Web site: www.millenniumrc.com
Kennedy Composites showed its
new 2-meter Sprite. Designed as a
scaled-down
Supra, it
spans 78.75
inches and has a
wing area of 565
square inches. Its flying
weight is 31 ounces, and the
wing loading comes in at 7.9
ounces per square foot.
Controls include rudder, elevator, flaps, and ailerons. The
Sprite comes in white or yellow primary colors with violet, red,
or blue accent colors.
Kennedy Composites: 1935 Highvalley Tr., Grand Prairie
TX 75052; Tel.: (972) 602-3144; Web site: www.kennedycom
posites.com
Worth a Closer Look
Sprite Sailplane
Classic Aero displayed its Aeronca K in two sizes, with
options for wheels or
floats.
The 54-inchwingspan
model
(1/12 scale) has
approximately 350
square inches of
wing area and was
designed around a
25-amp electric
power system.
The 30-inchwingspan
model
(1/14 scale) has approximately 100 square inches of wing area and
is flown on a 9-amp electric power system.
Classic Aero: 1782 Laverne Ct., Oxford MI 48371; Tel.: (248)
969-8139; Web site: www.classicaero.com
Micro 3DX
Fieseler Storch
Aeronca K in 1/12 and 1/14 scale
Raptor 50 Titan SE
Pisces
07sig1.QXD 5/22/09 11:52 AM Page 16
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/07
Page Numbers: 14,15,16
14 MODEL AVIATION
Rocco Mariani of Aeroworks showed the company’s newest
release: the Cessna 195. This model of the late 1940s gem of aviation
is designed around the 30cc-35cc gas engine or 1.60-2.20 glow
engine.
An ARF from the
Quick Build series comes
out of the box with extra
steps taken at the factory to
help eliminate the time
needed to assemble the
model. This gets the
aircraft into the air quicker.
The Cessna has a 90-
inch wingspan with 1,350
square inches of wing area.
The flying weight varies
between 15 and 17 pounds, depending on equipment used.
Aeroworks: 4903 Nome St., Denver CO 80239; Tel.: (303) 371-
4222; Web site: www.aero-works.net
Scott Stauffer of SKS Video Productions has provided Rich
LaGrange, AMA historian, with the first Blu-ray release featuring
model airplanes. Florida Jets covers the largest gathering of RC jets
in the world. Held March 5-8 at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in
Lakeland, Florida, this event continues to assemble the hottest pilots
and jets from around the globe.
Footage includes Thomas Singer of Germany demonstrating his
CARF Eurosport’s 3-D
capabilities, Jorge
Escalona burning up the
skies with his F-4
Phantom, and several
aircraft debuts, such as the
Mibo Mirage F1 flown by
Pablo Fernandez and the
Skymaster Viper Jet that
Ali Machinchy brought
from England.
Other aircraft of note
include Adrian Valencia’s
twin-engine Velox, Bob Fiorenze’s electric-powered T-38, and Jason
Somes’ MiG-29.
Total running time for DVD is 103 minutes and Blu-ray is 115
minutes.
SKS Video Productions: 85 Pine Rd., Abbotstown PA 17301;
Tel.: (800) 988-6488; Web site: www.sksvideo.com
Worth a Closer Look
Balsa USA proudly displayed its D.H.4 uncovered, to allow show
attendees to get a good look at this beautiful kit. Its 127-inch
wingspan drew a lot of
attention. The model has a
wing area of 4,100 square
inches and weighs 30-35
pounds using a 60cc-80cc
gasoline engine.
The kit includes fullsize
rolled plans and
instructions, fixture- and
die-cut parts, prebent wire
landing gear, name-brand
hardware, and an ABS plastic cowl.
Balsa USA: Box 164, Marinette WI 54143; Tel.: (906) 863-6421;
Web site: www.balsausa.com
RC Goes Blu-Ray
3D Hobby Shop has expanded its line of Slick aircraft in a big
way. Andrew Jesky designed the series, which is modeled after
the full-scale Slick 540: one
of the latest, high-tech
aerobatic aircraft flying
today.
The new Slick model
was designed around a
170cc-200cc gasoline
engine, with
aerobatic competition
in mind. Proven to be a
strong performer in knifeedge
flight and no-rock
Harriers, it has a wingspan of 126 inches and weighs
approximately 42 pounds.
3D Hobby Shop: 603 FM 2093 Ste. 1601, Fredericksburg TX
78624; Tel.: (830) 990-6978; Web site: www.3dhobbyshop.com
AJ Slick
Quarter-Scale de Havilland D.H.4
These products were shown at the Weak Signals’ R/C Expo, which took place April 3-5, 2009, in Toledo, Ohio.
Cessna 195 Quick Build ARF
Loosely based on the
midwing Extra 300 design,
Extreme Flight R/C’s new Extra
300 EXP (Experimental
Progressive) ARF incorporates
several forward-thinking design
concepts that contribute to its
unique construction and flight
characteristics.
The tall fuselage and forward
canopy placement contribute to
the model’s knife-edge ability, which is further enhanced by the
Extra 300 EXP
included removable side force
generators. Carbon-fiber enginebox
supports prevent twisting and
reduce the structure’s overall mass,
while carbon-fiber longerons add
strength and durability to the
fuselage structure.
Airfoiled one-piece carbon-fiber
landing gear is included, as is a
lightweight miniature carbon-fiber
tail-wheel assembly. A carbon-fiber
wing tube is provided as standard
equipment, along with carbon-fiber pushrods and micro ball links.
A unique geodetic structure that is used for the elevator and rudder
allows for a lightweight yet rigid airfoiled tail section. Two highvisibility
UltraCote color schemes are available, and a matching,
painted fiberglass-cowl-and-wheel-pant set finish the EXP off in
style.
A complete hardware package and decal set are included. The
Extra 300 EXP has a 48-inch wingspan, is 48 inches long, has 500
square inches of wing area, and has a flying weight of 42-46 ounces.
Extreme Flight R/C: 3600 North Pkwy. Suite 101, Cumming GA
30040; Tel.: (770) 887-1794; Web site: www.extremeflightrc.com
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These engines, which
are made in Hungary,
have provided quality
power for miniature
aircraft since 1957. Long
known for their ease of
use as glow power
plants, Mark Engines is
now offering its same
solid designs as more
economical gas burners.
Phoenix ICE is the update and
extension of the Phoenix-series
controllers. It will be available
in 50-, 75-, and 100-amp
sizes. The maximum input
voltage is 8S (33.6) from
the 6S on its predecessors.
The line has a
switching BEC that
allows it to provide up
to 5 amps continuous
current at all input
voltages. Users can select the output voltage in .1-volt increments
from 5 to 7.
The ICE series’ most incredible new feature is full onboard
data logging. The controller logs data including actual current,
volts, electrical rpm, throttle position, ripple voltage, and ESC
temperature at sample rates ranging from 10 Hz (10 per second) to
once every two seconds. This data is retrieved and displayed using
the Castle Link USB adapter and software.
ICE controllers are currently in beta testing and should be
shipping by early summer 2009.
Castle Creations: 235 S. Kansas Ave., Olathe KS 66061; Tel.:
(913) 390-6939; Web site: www.castlecreations.com
Worth a Closer Look
Steve Eves’ 1/10-scale Saturn V
was so amazing that it won the
2009 Director’s Award for
Achievement at the Toledo Show.
At 36.3 feet tall, the Saturn was
poised to be the largest model
rocket ever launched.
Built using 3/8 plywood, the
Saturn V’s expected flying weight
is 1,648 pounds, and it requires
nine motors to launch it. The total
cost to build and launch the model
is nearly $25,000!
The Saturn was
launched on April 25,
shortly after the R/C
Expo, in Maryland. It
reached approximately
4,440 feet and was
recovered successfully.
NASA (the National
Aeronautics and Space
Administration) has
already contacted Steve
about displaying his
model in the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
You can learn more about this project at www.rocketsmagazine.com
Dave Thacker of Radical RC had a vision of a semiscale
Wright Flyer for everyday flying. He designed this conversion kit,
combined with parts from
two GWS Slow Stick slope
glider kits, to produce a
sport-scale model of the
1905 Wright Flyer. Best of
all, it flies using wing
warping!
A servo drives the top
canard, which, in turn,
drives the bottom canard
through a simple transfer
rod. The canards move up
and down together on their
own individual pivots,
similar to on the original 1905 Flyer. This process causes the
wings to warp. According to Dave, this model flies like a trainer.
Radical RC: 5339 Huberville Ave., Dayton OH 45431; Tel.:
(937) 256-7727; Web site www.radicalrc.com
Phoenix ICE Speed Controls
Mark Engines
Wright Stick
Saturn V
The twin M 360 60cc is impressive, providing 7.8 horsepower
and a maximum rpm of 11,000. The G 180 30cc is capable of
producing 3.9 horsepower and 10,500 rpm. Also look for the G
140, which is a nice system for popular 72- to 80-inch-span
warbirds and aerobats.
Global Hobby Distributors: 18480 Bandilier Cir., Fountain
Valley CA 92807; Tel.: (714) 963-0329; Web site: www.hobby
people.net
This is the second
generation of the
Phlatprinter cutting tool. It
utilizes a belt-drive system
that allows for speeds of up
to 400 inches per minute.
The MK II uses a RotoZip
and flex shaft, which
maximizes its potential for
cutting materials.
The MK II kit contains
everything needed to build
the machine, excluding the
electronics and glue. It
even comes with its own
stand, so you don’t need to
find a table for it.
The MK II employs taband-
slot construction and is accompanied by a step-by-step
video tutorial that walks you through building and cutting out
your first part. This tool can cut material as wide as 271/2 inches,
as thick as 21/4 inches thick, and of unlimited length.
Phlatboyz: (856) 417-3377; Web site: www.phlatboyz.com
Phlatprinter MK II
See page 175 for submission guidelines
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16 MODEL AVIATION
We
were
impressed by
the sleek racing
look of the Pisces
autogiro.
Controlled with
rudder,
elevator, and
throttle, it is
reportedly
easy to
fly.
The
Pisces’ components are preprinted and precut, including fuselage,
wings, tail, rotors, undercarriage, and wheel pants. Wing spars,
struts and pushrods, hardware, and wheels are also included,
allowing for the model to be completed in roughly two to three
hours.
ICARE: 381 Joseph-Huet, Boucherville Qc J4B 2C5 Canada;
Tel.: (450) 449-9094; Web site: www.icare-rc.com MA
Thunder Tiger has introduced the latest Raptor 50 Titan SE. A
major upgrade from the original Raptor 50 Titan, the newest
version features critical metal parts to handle all the power that the
RL-53H engine delivers.
Another key
feature of the Titan SE
is that collective pitch
has been increased to a
range of plus or
minus 15°,
providing increased
pitch response.
Ace Hobby
Distributors:
26021
Commercentre, Lake
Forest CA 92630; Tel.:
(866) 322-7121; Web site: www.acehobby.com
BP Hobbies displayed its new, larger version of the German
Fieseler Storch. It spans 51 inches, has 364 square inches of wing
area, and features a flying weight of roughly 23 ounces. The low
wing loading of approximately 9 ounces per square foot should
allow the model to
fly in the slow
manner for which
the Storch is known.
Designed around
clean electric
power, this bigger
model will allow
larger servos, for more
flexibility than its smaller
counterpart.
BP Hobbies: 140 Ethel Rd. W.
Suite J, Piscataway NJ 08854; Tel.: (732) 287-3933; Web site:
www.bphobbies.com
One way to
describe this
highly
maneuverable
new model is “7
ounces of fun in a
22-inch
wingspan.” This
versatile little
model can be
flown as a sport
or 3-D aircraft.
Currently
available as a high-quality, laser-cut kit, the Micro 3DX includes
all precut balsa and plywood parts, molded-plastic canopy, prebent
landing gear, wheels, and all hardware necessary to complete the
model. Look for an ARF version in the future.
Millennium R/C: 12859 Lower River Blvd., Orlando FL 32828;
Tel.: (407) 208-9745; Web site: www.millenniumrc.com
Kennedy Composites showed its
new 2-meter Sprite. Designed as a
scaled-down
Supra, it
spans 78.75
inches and has a
wing area of 565
square inches. Its flying
weight is 31 ounces, and the
wing loading comes in at 7.9
ounces per square foot.
Controls include rudder, elevator, flaps, and ailerons. The
Sprite comes in white or yellow primary colors with violet, red,
or blue accent colors.
Kennedy Composites: 1935 Highvalley Tr., Grand Prairie
TX 75052; Tel.: (972) 602-3144; Web site: www.kennedycom
posites.com
Worth a Closer Look
Sprite Sailplane
Classic Aero displayed its Aeronca K in two sizes, with
options for wheels or
floats.
The 54-inchwingspan
model
(1/12 scale) has
approximately 350
square inches of
wing area and was
designed around a
25-amp electric
power system.
The 30-inchwingspan
model
(1/14 scale) has approximately 100 square inches of wing area and
is flown on a 9-amp electric power system.
Classic Aero: 1782 Laverne Ct., Oxford MI 48371; Tel.: (248)
969-8139; Web site: www.classicaero.com
Micro 3DX
Fieseler Storch
Aeronca K in 1/12 and 1/14 scale
Raptor 50 Titan SE
Pisces
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