Lame name I know, subject to change, but it's gotta be called something.

While rehabbing my knee, since I can't get out to the flying circle, I've been working on several new projects; this is one. 

30" span, 200 sq. in. area, 4.5 oz. as it sits, shooting for under 8 RTF.  I plan to power it with a Norvel .061.

Nose picture, #8, shows provision for engine offset--wedges cut from the legs of a spring clothespin.  Very hard stuff, no crushing here!

Next 3 pics, my over/under adjustable LO guides, just in case anyone's curious.

Next 3 pics, my tipweight box made from the neck/lid of a water bottle, ditto.

Last pic, copper wire-laced LG, a little lighter than the bolts-and-straps I've used in the past.

Pretty much ready to cover and paint; thought I'd get some pictures of the bones while I could.

--Ray

Hey Ray,

Who knows what those pain pills influence?  Actually I had to try about 3 different kinds, none particularly compatible with my chemistry apparently, and then gave up and just used ice packs to keep the knee numb.  Two weeks after surgery and feeling much better!

--Ray

John, I believe it's .056. I'm shooting for a finish weight of <8 oz.  For my bigger 1/2As (LittleAxe for instance, 10-11 oz.) I use .063  to which I have added a spreader bar.  On the small, light planes designed around the Cox production engine--5 to 6 oz. airplanes RTF--I have gone as light as .047. For my Frankenstone Arrow (one of my "bigger" 1/2As) I used formed alum., my favorite, although I don't know how it compares weight-wise.  Didn't think to weigh it when I got it formed up. For that matter I've never weighed wire gear either. Sitting so close to the CG it probably doesn't matter anyhow unless it's critical and you're trying to shave off grams. 

--Ray

Thanks Larry, that's a good possibility.

You may have noticed your wing construction there.  I have another framed up with more traditional construction; I may cut into it and add spars if the covering doesn't stiffen this one enough. 

--Ray

Yeah well, sorta "3/4A" really.  I know some contests allow .061s in 1/2A stunt and combat too for that matter.  But I don't fly competition anyhow so I can call it what I want...fly on any line length I want...by any rules I want...in fact I can proclaim myself Champion of my back yard if I want.  Yeah, maybe I'll do that.

Point being, it's designed to fly (and well) with an .049 if one so desires. If you guys can put a .60 in a .40-sized plane I guess I can put an .061 in an .049-sized plane.

Sorry if I sound a little peevish, my knee hurts. And I can't get out and fly so I'm a little grumpy.

--Ray

Hey Ray, it looks good to me.  Also is there really that much difference between an .049 and a .061?  Just think in England I think 1/2A is up to an .099.  Besides the only events it matters in is official AMA events.  By the way if you get a set of plans drawn up let me know.  Have fun.  DOC Holliday

ditto on the wasp.  Its pulling my 30" plane with no issues at better than 50 mph with a 6X2 APC