I suppose it depends on how you define it. The USA-1 is a great flying plane. So is the Shark 45 and several others are great planes. Easier probably to define the ones that were toads than the great ones. Also, it depends on how well built it is and how it's powered. A heavy USA-1 doesn't fly very well.

Is the USA-1 the Greatest Classic Stunt plane ever designed??

What say y'all??

Jim Pollock,   

it is awful purty..check the photo on the AS TIME GOES BY...today?

While the USA-1 may be the absolute most beautiful classic ship ever,(I for one, definitely think it is), the Nobler would have to take it based on track record and overall influence on the sport.

But, if I had to pick the most beautiful classic ship of all time, it would be a toss-up between the USA-1 and the Novi 4.

My vote for greatest Classic plane is the USA-1.  It was used by Billy (with fuselage mods) up until he built his Thunderbolts.  He piped it and called it the Junar (the white one using a straight copy of the USA-1 wing), and at least his first Geo-XL.

The plane will fly in, and can win, anything short of the Walker Trophy at the NATS.  How many other Classic planes can still do that?  There are many extremely good Classic planes, but the USA-1 tops the list.  If you ever get one set up right and at the right weight, you just might agree.  Of course, personal preference still makes the decision.

Big Bear