Retro RC 1913 Eastbourne Monoplane
Modeling a pioneer-era aircraft often means tackling multiple wings, fragile structures, and a labyrinth of rigging wires. Although some modelers view those challenges as half the fun of such a project, the rest of us can’t see past the countless hours in the workshop.
Stevens AeroModel 1911 Caudron Racer - 2015/04
Take baby steps. This is common and sage advice for anyone starting something new or just getting back into the game. When it comes to building balsa kits, I fall into the latter category. I’ve only built one kit during the last several years and I was beginning to feel out of practice. Because of its small size and simple design, the Stevens AeroModel 1911 Caudron Racer seemed like a good first step toward regaining my balsa mojo.
HITEC WEEKENDER F4U CORSAIR
The Corsair from Hitec’s Weekender line of warbird models is a prime example of how much foam models have improved over the last few years. As I removed the airplane from the box, I was impressed by the smooth surface of the foam parts and how cleanly the paint and decals had been applied at the factory. This model is nothing like the unpainted and flash-scarred foam airframes we dealt with in the past.
Graupner MX-24 HoTT 2.4 GHz Radio 2014/07
I’ve always been a minimalist when it comes to radios. Fancy gadgets and doodads on a transmitter don’t impress me. Too many switches, knobs, and levers can complicate the simple joy of flying.
Great Planes Rifle 1M Sport Electric 2014/06
If you like to fly fast, or maybe just want to give it a try, there are plenty of models that will scratch that itch. The problem with these speedsters is that they often sacrifice practicality for a few more miles per hour. It’s similar to driving a top fuel dragster to work. Sure it’s fun to leave the minivan drivers agape at the stoplights, but parking is a real pain!
