Brodak 'Nobler' or RSM 'Thunderbird II' which is the better flier??

[Ron Varnas]

Hi All,

Just after some opinions on which model
from the kits, Brodak 'Nobler' & RSM 'Thunderbird II'
would be the better flier, all things being done correctly
on the building & finishing side, plus a good flying weight.

I'm keen on both but just one would take me ages to build,
let alone start on another kit later

Ron V

*ps  Only really interested in building the kits as they come,
       no mods or deviations because 'this had that in 19.. etc'

[Jim Kraft]

I have not built the T bird, so cannot comment on that one. I did build a Brodak Nobler, and it is a fine flyer. If you are a heavy builder ( just my opinion ) the Nobler will fly fine in the 44 to 50 oz. range, whereas I believe the T bird would fly much better at a lighter weight. My Nobler came in at 46 oz. with a Fox 35, and flew well. I do believe the T bird would be an excellent flyer if the weight is kept in line as I have seen some that flew very very well.

[FLOYD CARTER]

I will vote for the RSM T'bird.  The kit has excellent wood, and as a plus, the model flies very well (like a T'bird should).

Floyd in OR

[Leo Mehl]

I would like to through in the Green box Nobler in this mix. This is a RSM kit and I believe it flies better than the other two.

[Randy Cuberly]

Of the two choices you've listed they are both good flyers.  The t-bird however is slightly larger and has a more efficient wing, hence will carry more weight.  The Brodak (Original Nobler has a lot of wing assemetry and can be a pain to trim.  As mentioned above I would have to suggest the 57', Green Box Nobler as a better flyer than either of the other two and the Geseike Nobler another small step up from all of those.  All are Classic Legal.  My money would go for one of Steve Moon's UHP Geseike's.  I've built all of these airplanes in the past and although they are all good there is no contest as to which is the best flyer.

Randy Cuberly