The RingStreakster is a Flight Streak wing on a Ringmaster fuselage.
I can lower weight from 32.6 oz to 31 oz by using the Flight Streak monopod LG.
Worthwhile?

FWIW, I'm trying to learn basic maneuvers so it's not fine-tuning for a few more points. 

Terry

It should be fine either way, but might be more sprightly with the monopod.  If it's convenient, try it each way.

Terry,

1 oz. out of 30 is a significant weight savings, especially for someone learning to do the maneuvers.  Even 1/2 oz is noticeable.

If you fly off smooth grass, I would recommend you abandon the landing gear, hand launch, and enjoy take the weight savings.  Set the prop so that it is horizontal during the landing when the air blows it towards compression.

BTW, I have a 25 oz. Ringmaster w/ an OS 20 FP.  The weight makes for a good performing model which is EASIER to fly that a heavier equivalent.

Hope this is helpful

Jim Hoffman

I think the ability to attempt correct takeoffs and not tip over on the inboard wingtip greatly outweighs the the value of saving an ounce, particularly on an airplane with the (pretty decent) Flite Streak wing. The Skyray wing is nearly identical aside from lacking the "fixed flaps" and it will fly pretty well even at the kit weight of about 36 ounces, as long as you have a good engine. Almost all of the local Flite Streaks have conventional 2-wheel gear. And, there's no reason to make it weigh more. I think the cut-in-half-and-rebent Hallco gear on the Skyray, plus the new spoked wheels, weighs less than the single-wheel gear that came with it.

   For a Ringmaster I might have another opinion, but even then, one of the best-flying Ringmasters I have ever flown was a stock kit-wood version with a full, opaque dope finish, that probably weighed around 30 ounces - with a 15FP.

    Brett

In Texas last year, my rm with 25la weighed 24oz.
Joe Gilbert's with a brodak 25 weighed 23oz. Somehow his flew much better.... Lol

Ps, i flew in intermediate. Don't want anyone thinking i think I'm in any way at that level. However, i did issue the threat that next time he and i fly together, i would compete in his class... I better keep practising!

My 2 local(ish) flying sites are both grass so tip skids or belly landings aren't issues.
I guess if an oz or 2 were really significant, take-off dollies and grass fields would be the norm.

Terry

I stand corrected Tim - I thoroughly confused Brett's remarks.
Maybe correct balance between weight/power is the important point when the plane is already built.
Building light isn't to be discounted when one has the option.

Terry