Free Flight Fanatic: Recent Episodes
John McAvoy
John discusses the new and old of free flight model aviation. Includes kit reviews, current projects, how to information and interviews.
Bernard and John discuss their ongoing projects, Nats anticipations as well as a detailed look into the science and art of laser cutting parts.
Bernard and John discuss their ongoing projects, Nats anticipations as well as a detailed look into the science and art of laser cutting parts.
John and Bernard catch up on their activities, as well as tips and tricks for cutting out print wood parts.
Safety first: Save your lungs and your relationship with your cohabitants/family members and build yourself a vacuum sanding table:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_OmRlL60Ys
Plus: How do participants and their models travel to distant free flight competitions?
New Products:
J&H Aerospace
8" WS Spitfire Half Size Nocal, $18
Full kit for Steven Wrigley’s delightful 8″ span nocal (“no calories”) scale Spitfire. Includes full set of printed tissue using Epson waterproof ink, 4″ plastic propeller, preformed prop shaft, and Liem Kou Phing aluminum F1D bearing.
https://jhaerospace.com/product/spitfire-half-size-nocal/
10" WS Howard DGA Nickel Scale - Full Kit, $22
Rendition of the Comet “Nickel Scale” Howard DGA has been remastered by Steven Wrigley and is intended for the FAC special event and includes all laser cut parts, hardware, and water resistant printed tissue.
https://jhaerospace.com/product/howard-dga-nickel-scale-full-kit/
Peck Polymers
9, 9.5 and 10 inch plastic propellers, $1.99 to $2.49
These new 9, 9.5 and 10 inch props are a bit different from their others, in that the P/D ratio is 1:1.25 and they feature a larger hub which can be used as-is or drilled out for custom clutches or front-ends. These work out-of-the-package with our 3/64" prop shafts and bearings. These are also available in 3-packs.
https://www.wind-it-up.com/products/new-9-5-prop-single?_pos=1&_sid=8b3e5be18&_ss=r
KP Aero Small Winder Counter, $8.49
This clever new counter from KP Aero keeps track of your rubber winds effortlessly! Attaches to any KP Aero small winder and tracks the number of handle turns. Simply multiply the number on the display by your winder ratio (5, 10 or 15) for the number of turns in your rubber. This counter is only meant for use with KP Aero Small Winders. Easy to attach to any KP Aero small winder, whether it's brand new or the one you bought 15 years ago.
https://www.wind-it-up.com/products/new-kp-aero-small-winder-counter?_pos=4&_sid=8b3e5be18&_ss=r
Retro RC
Scale Rubber Power Kits, $19.95-$39.99
8 kits. Appear to be NOS or from a colloection, and all printwood except SR-7. 3 from GAR and 3 from Comet, othe 2 unknown. P-39 Aircobra, Fokker DVIII, Fokker DVII, P-40, A26, A35, SR-7 Laser Cut) and Aeronka K (unknown)
http://retrorc.us.com/scalerubberpowerkits.aspx
KeilKraft Kits, $54.52-59.18
All six KeilKraft Kits by Ripmax are now in stock and available for immediate shipping.
http://retrorc.us.com/keilkraftkits.aspx
Ripmax
Current Offerings:
KeilKraft: Caprice, Invader, Ajax, Ace, Gipsy, Senator, 10" prop, 12" prop. APC 5x3 prop. ZT Model Aviator and Beaver float planes.
http://www.ripmax.com/search.aspx?Search=free+flight
Volare Products
Meteoro P-30 SHORT KIT, $22-$35
"A beautiful P-30 designed by Omar Grassetti in Brazil. Geodetic wing and tail and sheeted fuselage. A little heavy at 50+ grams, but designed for windy conditions. With nearly 125 square inches of area, it should have no problem soaring into thermals. SHORT KIT contains his original plan sheet (annotated and translated), a supplementary instruction sheet, and 6 sheets of laser-cut parts.
Optional 9.5″ Gizmo Geezer Prop Assembly for +$13, and this comes with laser-cut nose block for Gizmo Geezer."
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=meteoro-p-30-short-kit
ZT Model
http://www.ztmodel.com/product/category.php?productCategoryId1=69
Bernard and John catch up regarding the goings on in March. After a listener writes in about covering tissue over mylar, Bernard explains how he handles this intriguing aspect of our hobby.
We wrap up this episode with a conversation with Bernard's F1B teammate, Tony Mathews.
New Products:
J&H Aerospace
TSA (Technology Student Association) and SO 2022 RULES GAGES, $7 each
Convenient jigs for displaying all measurements for 2022 TSA MS and HS and SO flight rules.
https://jhaerospace.com/product/tsa-middle-school-2022-rules-gage/
https://jhaerospace.com/product/so-2022-div-b-c-rules-gage/
https://jhaerospace.com/product/tsa-high-school-rules-gage/
Laser Cut Planes
45cm or 17 3/4" WS Sea Story–Wright Stuff C Div, $21
The “C-Story” is designed for the 2022 Wright Stuff event for C Division (high school students). 45 CM wingspan, 9 CM Chord. Because of the generous weight limit (8 grams), covering with the included tissue is just fine. The kit comes with an Ikara 24 CM prop, 3/32" rubber, laser-cut balsa and plywood parts, and of course, photo-illustrated instructions to make the build successful for new builders. Despite its low-tech construction, the plane is very nice flyer, and congratulations to the young ladies who just won Colorado’s Southern Regionals with a beautiful 2:23 flight with kit #1.
https://lasercutplanes.com/product/sea-story/
Peck Polymers
Many of Peck Polymers' kits are now in stock.
https://www.wind-it-up.com/pages/model-airplane-kits
Volare Products
13" WS Fleetwood Flyer Short Kit, $12
This is a tiny old timer, a 13″ span, with a rolled tube fuselage. You will have fun with this quick-building model. The “Victory” models were war-time models designed to save the builder balsa and rubber. This was published in the August 1943 Air-Age Magazine. This qualifies for the Flying Aces Club events “2-Bit Plus One”, “Old Time Fuselage”, and “Victory Models” (Pinkham Handbook)
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=the-fleetwood-flyer-short-kit
Caution when listening amongst our younger modelers - this episode contains adult language.
Please welcome Bernard Guest as my new co-host! We talk about the third and final (sort of) element of "Aeromodeling Survival Needs", new products, the differences between jet catapult and rocket propelled profile jet models.
We also attempt to wrap our brains around the horrible news coming out of the Ukraine. This is meant to be a podcast free of politics and world news, and we will try to maintain that degree of separation. That being said, I think all of us in the modeling community (plastic and aeromodeling) feel like we've been hit over the head with a 2x4.
Happy New Year! It's been a couple months but getting back into the swing of modelling and podcasting after a busy holiday season. John is joined by Bernard Guest and they talk about the Lost Hills October competition, April 2016 rubber and why the "Eastern Block" countries (especially Ukraine) are so good at designing F1B models.
John dives into the subject of "Tools That We Use". Albatross progress report is brief. Also John goes over the following new products:
BMJR Models:
https://www.bmjrmodels.com/new-model-kits/brff-free-flight
J&H Aerospace
https://jhaerospace.com/product/ez-travel-model-storage-box/
https://jhaerospace.com/product/ez-travel-model-storage-box/
Laser Cut Planes
https://lasercutplanes.com/product/stick-figure-p-30/
Retro R/C
http://retrorc.us.com/retroemoth-1-2-1-3-1-1-1-2-1.aspx
Volare Products
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=comets-5-cent-w-5-cessna-short-kit
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=comets-5-cent-w-7-miller-racer-short-kit
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=folkerts-sk-2-outdoor-nocal-short-kit
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=comets-aya4-short-kit
Email me at freeflightfan66@gmail.com just to say hi, to let me know what projects you are working on, or if you have a free flight modeling question or problem you need help with!
Show Notes:
Tom Hallman's Favorites:
From Episode 23.1, Tom’s favorite aircraft that he has modeled is the Nicholas Beazley NB-3.
https://youtu.be/j6kC5EauQio
As far as full scale aircraft, he’s a big fan of the 1926 Winstead Special.
https://airmuseumnetwork.com/air-museum-network-visits-the-golden-age-air-museum-1926-winstead-special/
Our current giveaway: Listen to the podcast for how to enter your name for a chance to win a Diel’s Engineering TA-152H rubber scale kit
https://www.facebook.com/freeflightfanatic
New Products:
Volare Products:
22" WS Cloud Tramp Short Kit
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=comets-aya4-short-kit
J&H Aerospace:
BMK RADIO DETHERMALIZER
https://jhaerospace.com/product/bmk-radio-dethermalizer-tx-rx-pair/
29" WS Monster HLG
https://jhaerospace.com/product/monster/
34.5" WS Poly C TLG
https://jhaerospace.com/product/polly-c-tip-launched-glider/
10" WS BAC CANBERRA – JET CATAPULT SCALE
https://jhaerospace.com/product/bac-canberra-jet-catapult-scale/
Saturno V3.6 P-30
https://jhaerospace.com/product/saturno-v3-6-p-30-rubber-power/
Shortcut 30 P-30 Shortkit
https://jhaerospace.com/product/shortcut-30-short-kit-only/
Retro R/C and Campbell’s Custom Kits:
2022 WS Minnow 45 (17.7") cm span
http://retrorc.us.com/katana-3-2-2-2-2-1-1-2-1.aspx
Starlink-Flitetech
Pyxis GPS Retrieval System
http://starlink-flitetech.com/pyxis.php
This is Part 1 of the "September Issue". Master builder, flier and photographer Tom Hallman was kind enough to "sit down" with me on a Saturday morning for some hangar talk. For those of you not familiar with his YouTube channel maxfliart, you are in for a real treat.
Tom's Hydravion:
http://www.hallmanstudio.com/HydravionMB_scan1.pdf
http://www.hallmanstudio.com/Hydravion_letters.pdf
http://www.hallmanstudio.com/Hydravion1936_bones1.pdf
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Update of Ohlsson .60 Engine Run
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New Products
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New(er) Companies!
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Albatross progress
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The 9 market forces and how they affect our hobby
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The current state of the free flight model kit manufacturing marketplace
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Model Airplane Kit Giveaway!
Links:
https://wehavewayspod.com/ep-330-top-war-planes/
Philipp Jonas - Market Forces: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OcPbuFhbTI
Philipp Jonas - Oligopoly https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nC-a5OYIwpU
Philipp Jonas - Firms in Competitive Markets https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wocXSwHzWc8
John and Bernard Guest discuss the good and bad of running a model airplane manufacturing company.
Part 1 of 2 on the very complex subject of how market forces affect supply and demand. What could possibly cause the demise of the great and beloved scale plastic model airplane company Wingnut Wings of at all times now? Even an "average" manufacturer such as Kitty Hawk can bite the dust during this current hey-day of modeling activity. Can these two companies closing serve as some sort of warning for our own aeromodelling manufacturers?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KuOn5XNyRZ0
Episode 20 is here! John talks AMA guidance, new products and the The fabulous 1974 Book titled "Flying Scale Models of WWII". John does an out of box review of the modernized and laser cut kit of Hal Cover's Focke-Wulf TA-152, now produced by Dave Diels of Diels' Engineering. We also have a very special interview in this episode, Mrs. Sandy Miller. Who is Sandy Miller? Well you will just have to listen to Episode 20 to find out!
New Products:
96" WS Satellite Super D, $209.00
The Satellite Super D is based on the Satellite 1300, originally designed by Bob Hunter in 1959 and upgraded to the series 70 in 1970. The BMJR Super D stabilizer has been reduced from 58% to 35% of the wing area which is intended to improve the power pattern with today's hot 60 size engines. Model may be built in the classic style with vertical and horizontal stab as one unit, or with the vertical stab aft in the fuselage to accommodate auto surfaces. 96" wingspan and 1300 sq. in. area
https://www.bmjrmodels.com/satellite-super-d
92" WS STARDUSTER 1300, $189, $227, $294
BMJR Starduster 1300 comes in 3 different kit configurations: B-142A Short kit; plan w/laser cut wing and stab ribs. B-142B short kit + sticks to assemble wing and stab. B-142C wing and stab kit + wood to assemble fuselage.
https://www.bmjrmodels.com/starduster-1300
23-11/16" WS Focke-Wulf TA-152 $41.95
"KIT # 19-LC - WW2 German fighter plane, late long wing development of the FW-190D-9. 1/24 scale, from the Model Builder Book Flying Scale Models of WW2. Plain paper decals. Laser cut conversion and updating of the original design.
https://dielsengineeringinc.com/laser-cut-kits.html
11" WS Rookie, $16.99
Simple capacitor powered free flight model airplane aimed at the beginner. The model is powered by an electric motor connected to a capacitor which can be charged in a few seconds. This kit is great for kids and can be built relatively quickly with adult supervision. Capable of long flight and is a great choice as an educational tool for learning about flight or just having some fun.
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/woodenshoe-aviation-kits/rookie
11.4" WS Speedster, $36.99
This time a balsa wood model airplane kit by WSAT that can be assembled by novice model airplane enthusiasts or kids under close supervision. This one has the classic lines of the golden age of aviation and is a great flyer for the local park. An excellent second project after the rookie has been built and flown.
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/woodenshoe-aviation-kits/speedster
7.5" WS F104 CARTOON JET "STARFIGHTER", $39.99
This is a more advanced Cartoon jet version of the famous F104 Starfighter jet aircraft of the 1960s. This is an awesome performer that looks fantastic in the air and is capable of long flights. It can be built in an evening by a more experienced builder. It is also a great “advanced” project for your budding aviation enthusiast.
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/woodenshoe-aviation-kits/f104-cartoon-jet-starfighter
20" WS Ramrod, $35.00
This 20" span Ramrod by Alexandre Cruz is a great flying replica of Ron St. Jean’s legendary gas model. Mild power setup allows excellent performance with easy 90 second maxes in E20 configuration.
https://jhaerospace.com/product/micro-ramrod-e-20-capacitor/
22" (?) WS Cloud Tramp Short Kit, $11-19
A Volare Products laser cut short kit of Charles Hampson Grant’s classic stick model – the Cloud Tramp. This is a BASIC Short Kit of the Cloud Tramp. It comes with laser cut 1/20″ sheet flying surfaces, re-engineered wing saddle and wheels, and plans/instructions.
Optional items include: 8″ Chinese Prop (+$1), an 8″ Superior Props Cloud Tramp Prop Blank (+$8). The builder provides: Propeller (possibly from the options), prop shaft and nose bearing, 1/4″ square balsa, 18″ long, wire for landing gear and tail hook, rubber motor.
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=cloud-tramp-short-kit
Links to other Sites mentioned in this episode:
https://thegeebee.com/
https://www.modelaircraft.org/amainaction
https://deluxematerials.co.uk/products/model-lite-balsa
https://rclibrary.co.uk/files_titles/1119/FlyingScaleModelsWWII.pdf
Episode 19 delves into the subject of "basic modelers' survival needs", and specifically plans. John also includes a smorgasborg of new products, some letters to American Modeler Magazine from 1959, and an update on the status of the Albatross project. Also, some local hobby shop shout outs!
New(er) Products for May 2021
Hummingbird Model Products
E-Nostalgia T-Bird 200:
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/e36-electric-ff-power-models/e-nostalgia-t-bird-200-36
Blizzard E36:
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/e36-electric-ff-power-models/blizzard-e36-by-john-osullivan
White Esaki Japanese Tissue, 17.5 x 23.5 inch sheets:
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/new-products
Carbon Booms (3 types):
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/carbon-booms
Nostalgia Wakefields:
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/nostalgia-wakefields/toto-1952-wakefield
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/nostalgia-wakefields/surprise-wakefield-by-rene-jossien
John Morrill’s Miss World’s Fair Embryo
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/embry-endurance/john-morrills-miss-worlds-fair-embryo
1/2 Flying Cloud Wakefield
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/half-a-wake-short-kits/half-a-flying-cloud-wakefield
3 Old Time Rubber Short Kits
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/otrubber/vargo-wock
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/otrubber/verdi-rocket-short-kit
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/otrubber/elite-skyrocket-ama-one-design-model-for-2019-29-span
Peanut Scale Version of the Isermann Mr. Smoothie
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/peanut-kits/p-nut-scale-version-of-the-isermann-mr-smoothie
Free Flight Glider Kits and Parts for: Catapult, Handlaunch and Towline
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/catapult-gliders
All Sorts of Digital and Paper plans available for purchase (Sport, Old time, WWI and WWII Scale as Well as Peanut Scale)
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/plans
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/paper-plans-for-purchase-1
Vintage Model Company
Centurion Rubber-Powered Free-Flight Kit
https://www.vintagemodelcompany.com/31-centurion-rubber-powered-free-flight-aircraft-kit.html
Aerowerkes/DPC Models
https://dpcmodels.homestead.com/whatsnew.html
Ozark Model Aviation
Grumman Guardian Short Kit
http://www.ozarkmodelaviation.com/proddetail.php?prod=grumguard
Grumman Guardian Prints
http://www.ozarkmodelaviation.com/products.php?cat=8&pg=3
Volare Products
Geo-Embrysol Embryo Laser Cut Short Kit
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=geo-embryosol-embryo-laser-cut-short-kit
Zephyr Embryo Laser Cut Short Kit
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=zephyr-embryo-laser-cut-short-kit
HepCat Old Timer Laser Cut Short Kit
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=hepcat-short-kit
HepCat 3D Printed Noseblock
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=hepcat-3d-printed-noseblock
FREE FLIGHT SUPPLIES – Mike Woodhouse
https://www.freeflightsupplies.co.uk
Paul and Ralph Bradley's Model Airplane Hangout
http://parmodels.com
New Products!
George Reich Albatross progress!
Other podcasts with free flight material!
Mike Kirda's Esaki tissue endeavor!
John discusses new products, the progress on his George Reich Albatross Project, and new ways to bring your old, worn out bottle of CA back to like. We save the best for last though; a wonderful time with Mr. Scale himself, Dave Platt. Dave and John discuss old-school free flight, engines, his how-to video series, and the Battle of Britain. We also discuss his means of being an efficient model builder, i.e. "Good enough for who its for".
Dave's bio can be found here, on his website:
https://www.daveplattmodels.com/index.htm
Dave Platt sold his R/C kit manufacturing company to Bel Air Kits in England. (I have two of his 1/5 scale short kits, the Zero and the FW-190. They are fantastic!)
http://belairdigital.co.uk/itemsection.asp?id=13
Dave still sells his videos (they are also fantastic and come highly recommended by yours truly). As mentioned in the podcast, he is selling his Scottish Aviation Bulldog from his "Devil in the Details" video series for $3000. Delivery is not available, the buyer must pick it up.
https://www.daveplattmodels.com/Videos/index.htm
New Products for the Month of February:
AIO TIMER MODULE CASE, from $10.00
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/timers-for-free-flight/aio-timer-module-case
Now available from Texas Timers:
- a) RPO (Remote Pinch Off Timer). Click on the RPO button on the left.
- b) ESC (Electronic Speed Control). Click on the Electric Accessories button and scroll down.
http://www.texastimers.com/
Peanut Scale Nesmith Cougar Model Kit ($25.99)
https://www.wind-it-up.com/collections/scale-model-kits/products/pp-7?variant=29348762976320
BABYSHARK – MANHATTAN CABIN PLANS ($10) Short Kit ($35)
https://jhaerospace.com/product/babyshark-manhattan-cabin-short-kit/
BIFURCATION – OPEN PENNYPLANE ($40)
https://jhaerospace.com/product/bifurcation-open-pennyplane/
TOP BANANA 200 ($75) 1/2A or E36
https://jhaerospace.com/product/top-banana-200/
TOP BANANA 800 ($180)
https://jhaerospace.com/product/top-banana-800/
YO HO – 1/2A NOSTALGIA GAS ($50.00) 1/2A , E36 or E-Nostalgia
https://jhaerospace.com/product/yo-ho-1-2a-nostalgia-gas/
Esaki Tissue
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product_cat=esaki
Gene Smith's 21.5 inch WS Cessna Cardinal 177RG monoplane.
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=cessna-cardinal-177rg-short-kit
AMA Beta ($29.95)
https://amaflightschool.org/BETA
Shout outs:
Stunt Hangar You Tube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC96GB5l5-lNYSEtieSfFFCQ
House of Balsa Micro CA Tubing
https://houseofbalsa.com/6ft-ca-micro-tubing
320 piece CA Glue Micro-Tips Kit, Plastic Squeeze Bottles, Extender Precision Applicator:
https://www.amazon.com/Hysagtek-Micro-Tips-Applicator-Dispensing-Dispensers/dp/B0899TCL4P/ref=psdc_14138150011_t3_B082Z39PMV
Show Notes:
- Brian Eggleston is assisting the estate of Sorj Ranta dispose of his extensive collection of engines, building materials, models and aeromodelling magazines. (the wood reportedly is already sold).
Sorj competed in the F1B and F1C categories at the World Championships held at Cranfield and Leutkirch in 1955 to 1961. Several of his engines have already sold and have been featured here and other related sites on Facebook. A Google Drive file that gives pictures of some of the engines is located here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/13q-r1ogZsfuAQXWYHB6FhWX9s3RNv4WX?usp=sharing
If you are interested in having the latest engine list and suggested prices, or other items, please send Brian a request by Messenger along with your current email address. Please contact me for Brian’s email, if you do not have access to Messenger.
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New Products:
BMJR Models:
https://www.bmjrmodels.com/new-model-kits
Their website lists the following as new: Buzzard Bombshell, Civy Boy E-36, Hoosier Hot Shot, Texan 484, Perky Jr., Raven 450, Waco CG-4 and Witch Hawk 500
Vintage Model Company: (open each link and sort by "Newest Items"
https://www.vintagemodelcompany.com/free-flight.html
https://www.vintagemodelcompany.com/free-flight-experienced.html
https://www.vintagemodelcompany.com/simple-free-flight-models.html
J&H Aerospace:
Ken Grub's ECHO P-30 – FULL KIT $55
https://jhaerospace.com/product/echo-p-30-full-kit/
P1T01 ELASTIC (indoor/outdoor) CATAPULT LAUNCHED GLIDER - 7.9" WS, $6
https://jhaerospace.com/product/p1t01-elastic-catapult-launched-glider/
Mini Cat’s Meow Indoor CLG kit comes with catapult and parts for three gliders. $45
https://jhaerospace.com/product/mini-cats-meow/
PROTEGE 2021 ELASTIC LAUNCHED GLIDER (XPS styrofoam) (2020-2021 SCIOLY DIVISION B rules) Kit builds 3 gliders for $50
https://jhaerospace.com/product/protege-elastic-launched-glider/
SUPER PROTEGE – LEGAL FOR ELASTIC LAUNCHED GLIDER (2020-2021 DIVISION B rules) Kit includes catapult and parts to build 3 gliders for $75
https://jhaerospace.com/product/super-protege/
Retro RC and Campbell's Custom Kits:
Comet Sparky 32" kit for $55
http://retrorc.us.com/phantomfury-3-3-1-1-1-2.aspx
Ozark Model Aviation:
Douglas A-20 Completely redone blueprints featuring accurate part patterns and simpler/cleaned up structure.
38" wingspan. Twin rubber or electric. New plan rendition. Canopy set available.
Canopies: $10
Planset Price: $10.00
https://www.ozarkmodelaviation.com/proddetail.php?prod=newA20
Ben Buckle Kits:
Hepcat, 48" WS, $90
Diamond Demon, 48" WS, $90
https://www.benbucklevintage.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=1_8
Other Items
Sig Manufacturing - Comparison of Bass vs. Spruce:
https://sigmfg.com/collections/basswood
John begins the show with a tribute to Bill Hannan, who passed away on December 14, 2020.
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Also, status of his Albatross O/T model project, with details on John's plan for the spar construction.
Laser cutting by Jerry Galland: http://www.cuttinglight.com/contact/
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This month focuses on model airplane designer and author Bill Dean. Thanks to Roger Simmonds for allowing me to use the information from his website Jetex.org
Bill Dean Biography:
http://archivesite.jetex.org/history/hall_of_fame/dean.html
New Products:
J&H Aerospace:
https://jhaerospace.com/product/polly-b-glider/
Carl Rambo's Poly B Catapult or HLG - 17" in WS kit is $40. Design features a removable wing (for storage) and a screw type adjustment for wing incidence. Kit includes hand selected contest grade balsa.
https://jhaerospace.com/product/mercury-short-kit-only/
New short kit of Albert Hatful's (Keil Kraft) 36" WS Mercury rubber model is available for $30; plans are $10
https://jhaerospace.com/product/maxout-ix-embryo-endurance-full-kit/
Maxout IX embryo full kit just released
https://jhaerospace.com/product/half-scale-jabberwock-gollywock-combo-short-kit-w-plans/
Combo short kit for 1/2 size Gollywock and Jabberwock w/plans is $20. Flat WS is 15.75"
https://jhaerospace.com/product/tornado-legal-for-2021-science-olympiad-helicopter-rules/
https://jhaerospace.com/product/twister-so-helicopter-kit/
Twister and Tornado helicopter kits for the Science Olympiad. Kits are $50 with parts for 3 helicopters and $60 with parts for 2 helicopters, respectively.
Retro RC and Campbell's Custom Kits:
http://retrorc.us.com/retroemoth-1-2-1-3-1-1-5-2-1-2.aspx
New laser cut kit for the .020 replica of the 1941 Aerbo. Pylon configuration with a diamond cross section fusleage. Complete kit is $63, but both a short kit and the plans are available separately
Volare Products:
https://volareproducts.com/blog/?product=yakovlev-yak-3-peanut-short-kit
Peanut Scale, laser cut YAK-3 short kit (includes vacuum formed canopy and spinner) for $16. You can also download the printed tissue template from his website, no charge.
Diel’s Engineering:
https://www.dielsengineeringinc.com/laser-cut-kits.html
Laser Cut version (kit #19-LC) of his 1/24 scale FOCKE-WULF TA-152H is now available. Model has 23-11/16” WS (Hal Cover's 1974 contribution to MB's series Flying Scale Models of WWII)
Dumas Products:
https://www.dumasproducts.com/product-category/plane-kits/new-release-planes/
#339 F4F Wildcat (30″ Wingspan)
#341 Fairchild PT-19 (30″ Wingspan)
#340 Ryan STA (30″ Wingspan)
Stan Buddenbohm:
Email: buddenbohms@gmail.com
VEE 17 Redux CLG kit $55 each plus $9 shipping. Will combine shipping for up to 3 kits.
GTS Free Flight (Sevak Malkhasyan):
Email: gtsfreeflight@gmail.com
GTS FreeFlight YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLQLkEFwfeW95Kh8_hzYR9w
GTS E-20 Kit $85. Features a built-up wing from laser cut balsa and bass ribs and a tapered carbon fiber boom.
Ozark Model Aviation:
New Website: https://www.ozarkmodelaviation.com/
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Plans of Interest:
Bill Dean's Supermarine 508
https://outerzone.co.uk/plan_details.asp?ID=6224
Bill Hannan's FAI Peanut
https://outerzone.co.uk/plan_details.asp?ID=6095
John and Bernard cover the F1 provisional classes and the F4 (free flight scale) provisional classes. Should the F1S rules be changed to allow auto surfaces? Or should F1S remain locked down?
John discusses the progress of his 80" Albatross project. Will ignition engines rule once again?
Coupe d'Hiver: https://www.hippocketaeronautics.com/ff_ou_cdhiver.htm
The FAI F1 Sporting Code: https://www.fai.org/sites/default/files/documents/sc4_vol_f1_freeflight_18.pdf
The FAI F4 Sporting Code: https://www.fai.org/sites/default/files/documents/sc4_vol_f4_scale_14_rev_1.pdf
FAI competition results: https://model.wings.rs/competition.php?id=482
Tonda Alfery's Tigercat: http://www.minimakety.cz/dvacetinky/reports/2009/OpenScale/index-en.php?img=42&nick=G1
Bob Holman Plans: http://www.bhplans.com/GMPg1.html
(The George Reich Albatross is at the bottom of this page)
Jim O'Reilly Model Plans: https://www.jimoreillymodelplans.com/prodserve.htm
(He did the CAD re-engineered plans for the Albatross)
John and Bernard Guest delve into the mysteries of the 7 FAI (Fédération Aéronautique Internationale) free flight classes. John watched the documentary FLOAT and provides a review (he liked it!) Easy-Built Models - New Kit Offerings: https://easybuiltmodels.com/ff31.htm#gsc.tab=0
https://easybuiltmodels.com/ff08.htm#gsc.tab=0
https://easybuiltmodels.com/pd13.htm#gsc.tab=0
Easy-Built Models - Japanese Tissue Offerings: https://easybuiltmodels.com/esaki#gsc.tab=0
37" Rubber-Powered Model Airplane - 1931 Babcock - Anatomy of a Trim Session https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjuiXaBQK00&list=UU5lXh5HZ62N8s7urLVoOVxg&index=25&t=122s
Have a Question or Comment? My email address is freeflightfan66@gmail.com.
Where did September go? John's projects are stacking like cordwood, now the big question is where will he find the space to build an 80 inch wingspan O/T gas model? John "shows" how he uses a Dremel Moto Tool as a spindle sander on print wood parts.
We then discuss the August FAA UAS Symposium, and what could be in store for the outdoor free flight hobby. (Something that I forgot to mention, but Bernard addressed in the last episode is that the we essentially know that all models under 250 grams (.55 pounds) will be exempt. And of course indoor models are also exempt.)
Errata:
1) It was not the RC Roundtable podcast that referenced the Bugatti 100P racing plane; it was the On the Bench podcast episode 93, at the 39:19 mark when Ian discusses the 100P kit he built. (another plastic modeling podcast!)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bugatti_Model_100
2) The George Reich Albatross is not planked; I confused it with Henry Struck's 1940 KGS pylon job.
3) I mentioned my Instagram Page but failed to provide my username: FREEFLIGHTFANATIC.
4) The EEA open letter was not addressed to the FAA; it was addressed to Chairman Shuster and Members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
Products:
Guillow's Arrow: https://www.guillow.com/arrow.aspx
Hummingbird Model Kits Piaggio PC 7: https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/dimers/piaggio-pc7-dime-scale
Jim O'Reilly Plans: https://www.jimoreillymodelplans.com/
Cutting Balsa Parts:
Merkur Blades: https://www.razoremporium.com/merkur-klinge-moustache-eye-brow-safety-razor-blades/
Tweezerman Blades: https://www.tweezerman.com/callus-shaver-replacement-blades.html
Marcel Lavoie's A Faster Method For Stick Fuselages: http://smallflyingarts.net/articles/faster-stick-fuselage/index.html
FAA Remote ID Regulations:
FAA/AUVSI Symposium: https://faauas.auvsi.net/faa2020/home
Remote Identification of Unmanned Aircraft Systems:
www.regulation.gov Remote ID comments page: https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=FAA-2019-1100
EAA Open Letter: https://www.eaa.org/eaa/news-and-publications/eaa-news-and-aviation-news/news/~/media/b2be56d8904c40ccb945147411e45f69.ashx
AMA/EAA/AOPA/Wing letter to the FAA: http://amablog.modelaircraft.org/amagov/files/2020/09/AMA-AOPA-EAA-Wing-joint-industry-letter.pdf
Plastic Model Mojo, Episode 20: http://www.plasticmodelmojo.com/
AMA Podcast, Episodes 52 and 53: https://www.modelaircraft.org/podcast
John and Bernard Guest of Hummingbird Model Products discuss the intricacies of FAI F1A, F1B and F1C Free Flight. Bernard discusses his plans to begin podcasting about free flight as well. We can't wait!
Bernard also provides some insight as to how we can make our contests more exciting to the next generation of model aviators.
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/
Winner of the P-47 giveaway was Paul Graf with his correct answer: Jack Benny's alligator was named Jeannette.
Can model aviation bring people together?
Here are some links to events, airplanes and people and businesses discussed during this podcast
PNW FF Championships: http://willamettemodelersclub.weebly.com/northwest-free-flight-championships.html
Fab February Lost Hills: http://www.lhffmaa.com/
Babenko F1C Models - No Website?
Piaggio P.c.7.:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piaggio_P.7
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/dimers/piaggio-pc7-dime-scale
Paul K. Guillow's Arrow: https://www.guillow.com/arrow.aspx
South Africa's Jix Hobbies: https://jixhobbies.co.za/
Calgary, Alberta's Model Land Hobby Shop: http://www.modelland.com/
Ross Jahnke's E-20 Salt Peanuts: https://freeflight.org/product/salt-peanuts-e-20/
Italian Aircraft are Beautiful:
https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/196288/macchi-mc200-saetta/
John goes to and participates in his first free flight contest. Plus a discussion on the history of models and manned flight development in the 19th century. Also, a final reminder to enter the contest givaway.
Stay tuned for references and websites!
John "sits down" with one of the greats; historian, writer, author and model designer Bill Hannan. Where do we begin? You'll just have to listen! We also cover new products, the reopening of the Guillow's Factory, status of John's Sopwith Camel project, and 3 three new kits to go in his stash.
The Diels Engineering P-47 kit contest give away will go through the end of July. Listen to the end of this podcast for hints to the questions.
Bill Hannan's autobiography:
https://www.modelaircraft.org/sites/default/files/files/HannanWilliamCBill.pdf
Penaud Alphonse biography, written by Bill Hannan:
https://www.modelaircraft.org/sites/default/files/files/PenaudCharlesAlphonse.pdf
New Products:
https://hummingbirdmodelproducts.com/scale/32-inch-thomas-designs-vagabond-kit
http://www.texastimers.com/
https://www.bmjrmodels.com/free-flight/raven-450
Don’t forget to email John your answer to the trivia question! Email is: freeflyingfanatic@gmail.com
John sits down with Dave Diels, purveyor of fine scale rubber powered free flight kits. His repertoire of kits includes rarely modeled Japanese subjects. We talk old school modeling, the trials and tribulations of kit manufacturing, CAD, Corsairs and Thunderbolts. Not to mention Jack Benny and alligators. Enjoy!
https://www.dielsengineeringinc.com/
https://www.facebook.com/thegreatesthobbyshop/
Jack goes Into the vault (1961)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgqj6PW0pR8
Nakajima Type 91:
Beautiful models by Chris Parent:
http://www.gryffinaero.com/models/ffpages/ffgallery/parent/parent.html
Nate Sturman plans:
https://www.dielsengineeringinc.com/nate-sturman-1.html
Nate Sturman plan of the Type 91:
https://www.dielsengineeringinc.com/files/120053765.png
John sits down for a conversation with Dr. Chris Gilbert to answer questions on mental health and staying safe while maintaining hobby activities during the mandatory stay at home restrictions. When is it okay to order supplies (guitar strings, glue, perhaps a new model kit)? Generally, is maintaining a healthy state of mental health through continued hobby activities essential, and when is the ordering and delivery of provisions ethical? Are we helping or hurting the US Postal Service?
Dr. Chris’ Psychology Today article is titled "7 Ways to Emerge from COVID-19 Stronger and Happier".
https://www.psychologytoday.com/hk/blog/heal-the-mind-heal-the-body/202004/7-ways-emerge-covid-19-stronger-and-happier
John discusses new products as well as the modeling career of Bill Warner, who passed away in March, 2020. The September 1969 Model Airplane News is this episode's Vintage Magazine Spotlight. John talks about the Dave Platt and Chuck Gill method of carving wood propellers.
Bill Warner Biography:
https://www.modelaircraft.org/sites/default/files/files/WarnerBill.pdf
National Free Flight Society (NFFS) https://freeflight.org/
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New (?) Products
Peck-Polymers Skiptown Cadet
https://www.wind-it-up.com/collections/sport-model-kits/products/pp-47
Peck-Polymers Sky Bunny
https://www.wind-it-up.com/products/pp-41?_pos=1&_sid=a60d00732&_ss=r
Vintage Model Co. (Sheffield, England!)
https://www.vintagemodelcompany.com/contact-us.html
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Magazine Issue of Curiosity (Vintage Magazine Spotlight):
September 1969 Model Airplane News
Plagiarist Construction Article
https://outerzone.co.uk/plan_details.asp?ID=10771
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Episode 5 Plan of Interest (Bill Warner DH 85 Leopard Moth – Rubber Power FF)
https://outerzone.co.uk/plan_details.asp?ID=9342
Carving Propellers
https://www.daveplattmodels.com/Videos/index.htm
Scale Modeling’s Black Art Series – Double Trouble Vol. 3
John’s Favorite Full Scale Plane: Boeing F4B-4
John’s Favorite Model: Bill Noonan Kawanishi K-8b
https://outerzone.co.uk/plan_details.asp?ID=11606
John sits down and talks old-school modeling with control line and free flight modeler Bill Darkow and his son. Bill designed and published three control line profile scale models; The Texas Wildcat, Curtiss Seahawk and Kayaba. The Kayaba was a WWII carrier based autogyro!
This podcast explores the history and current states of free flight modeling. If you are a model builder and flyer who has a love for balsa wood, silk, Japanese tissue, rubber, glow and ignition engines, this podcast may be for you.
In this episode, John delves into the details of and differences between two kits. The first is Sal Taibi's 1941 Brooklyn Dodger, the second being Guillow's 1966 P-40 Warhawk.
The Brooklyn Dodger was kitted by H & F Model Airplane Co., Brooklyn, N.Y.
Guillow's still produces their P-40, kit 405 LC:
https://www.guillow.com/p-40warhawk-2.aspx
Also, do balsa trees have bark and limbs? Interesting question...
This podcast explores the history and current states of free flight modeling. If you are a model builder and flyer who has a love for balsa wood, silk, Japanese tissue, rubber, glow and ignition engines, this podcast may be for you.
I'm calling this first episode "Diving Into the Fire" but it could be called Frankenstein or "Podcast by Next Year". I have put a few different and older recordings together.
In this podcast I discuss fate and history of my local hobby shops, basic modelling needs and how the means and methods of acquiring kits, plans and materials has changed over the years.
References:
Plans Sources:
https://www.airagestore.com/planes/plans.html
https://www.modelaircraft.org/ama-plan-service
https://outerzone.co.uk/
https://www.hippocketaeronautics.com/
https://aerofred.com/
I can be contacted at freeflyingfanatic@gmail.com
Music by: Unkle Ugly at https://www.youtube.com/c/unkleugly