Merry Christmas Travel Tips!

December 23, 2012

Merry Christmas from Paul's Hobby Hangar!

We have all heard that song.. 'Grandma Got Ran Over By A Reigndeer! But Santa ran over by an Airliner??? Wonder what ATC would say about this? Merry Christmas!

How to make your holiday flights jolly

From 'On The Go With Amy!

Long lines, lost luggage, storm delays-flying during the holidays can quickly turn you into Scrooge. But if you follow these tips, you'll still be in the holiday spirit when you arrive at your destination.

Lose the layovers Avoid stopovers, especially in airports such as Denver, Chicago, Detroit, and Minneapolis where weather delays are common. If a connection is necessary, fly through a Southern hub such as Dallas, Charlotte, or Phoenix, where you can at least eliminate the possibility of weather being a problem.

Check in at home Most airlines' Web sites now make it possible for passengers to print out bar-coded boarding passes at home.

Beat the traffic If you live far from an airport and have an early flight, stay at an airport hotel the night before; some allow you to park your car at the hotel until you return. Check www.bestwestern.com.

Reserve parking During the holidays, airport parking lots fill up fast. Luckily, you can reserve spaces ahead. Even better, ask a neighbor to give you a lift or arrange for a shuttle.

Avoid gift glitches Leave the presents unwrapped because security measures may require wrapped packages to be unwrapped. Another option: To avoid gift wrapping late into the night after your arrival, mail gifts ahead.

Carry on some fruitcake—and a sandwich Food is nonexistent on most flights these days so bring a sandwich from home and a holiday treat to keep yourself in the spirit.

Entertain the kids...or just yourself Play holiday movies such as Polar Express and Elf on the DVD player; bring paper, stickers, and crayons to make holiday cards; and pack travel Scrabble but play with new rules—holiday words only.

Spread the joy Pack a box of chocolates to pass out to other passengers, or bring a treat for the flight attendants.

Bedeck your bag The last thing you want to deal with is a piece of lost luggage so tie a red ribbon around the handle.

Review: DYNAM A-10 Warthog

Courtesy of MyCoolRC.com

HOME

Main Product Review Page

A10 Rx ready (needs Rx and Battery) at Nitroplanes

Nitroplanes Coupon Code

Dynam A-10  Review

Build:
Build was straight forward to me.  You can use the included glue.  I prefer to let the glue sit for a minute before bonding the surfaces. I also stress that you should dry fit everything first.  One additional thing is to hook up ALL of the electronics and test it before building.  On mine, I did pull the fan off and balanced it with a magnetic prop balancer.  Since I fly off of Grass, I elected to not install the landing gear so I could belly Land.  I also added some holes up front and on the top rear to allow more airflow.  This plane has ZERO air flow internally which you should have for the battery and the ESC.  Adding holes are a must!  Some people have added Fiberglass or CF spars to the rear stabilizer. I still have not done so. I try to fly scale with mine.  You must however add in 3-4mm of UP elevator prior to maiden as the angle of attack of the wing requires you to do that or mount the rear stab with a matching downward angle of attack. The build is less than an hour and your ready to maiden.  I used the recommended CG.

Flying:
After Maiden (Hand Launch) I put in 2 screws into the bottom of the wing to mark CG finger points, then marked the battery position for future flights. It flew well and hand launching was easier than I expected.  You should have a 2nd person hand launch it if you elect to hand launch.  The plane is heavy for it's size but the wing is generous and with dual 64mm fans, it will suck up power from the 2200mAh 3S that I used (I used a Gens Ace 2200mAh 3S 25C pack) I recommend you do most of your flight at 1/2 throttle and reserve the full throttle for climb outs.  Doin so, I set my timer for 5 mintues and don't fly beyond the 5. This plane truely is impressive in the air just from the looks. I can do loops and rolls no problem. It does not have a high thrust ratio like the Concept X or the Meteor though so fly ahead of the model. We later put a 4S 1800mAh as well as a heavier 4S 2200mah pack and the speed increase was noticable but the stock wings can't take it in a high G turn. Wings will snap.  You have to use the full throttle sparingly because it will overheat the motor and/or ESC.

Durability:
Well, I wanted to get other's opions on the plane and loaned it out to sever others.  One had a mishap and broke the nose some.  No bother, he glue'd it on and it was back in the air. Some people have added CF rods to the wings and stabs to stiffen things up in a mishap or added straping tape to the bottom of the main wing to sustain tigher loops better.

Conslusion:
This plane is a blast to fly and draws much attention at the field.  It looks really scale in the air (especially with the landing gear removed) and belly lands/hand launches pretty well.(do not twist your wrist like you throw a football). This so far is my pick for the best "first EDF" ever. .

RCGroups thread on the Dynam A-10





Slower flight

Killer Plane's Butcher Bird! AWESOME!

Courtesy of www.killerplanes.com

OH.

MY.

GAWD. 

 

This 1200mm FW-190 is far nicer even than it looks- solid high-impact plastic front end, retracts with sequential wheel cover doors, flaps, lights,  prop-mounted motor cooling fan, side cowl exhaust ports, and massive amounts of detailing. (That's a 12" prop on there, by the way)  beautiful styling and workmanship, LOADS of power (the most powerful 3 cell plane in it's weight and size class!), and handling that gives you true fighter performance- a perfect flyer that puts other planes in it's class to shame! I was, at first, unhappy with the short gear- until I flew it. As a flying machine, this FW-190 rules! My thought is that the designer is a truly talented airframe man! If you've ever flown the other HC warbirds, you'll know what I mean. His choice of props was always wierd, for some reason (you need to change the props on all his birds to bring out their truly amazing flight characteristics) and they did change the prop on this one- the prop on this plane is one of the most efficient on any warbird of this class- this plane gives 4 cell speed on a 3 cell setup- it truly ROCKS!

 

 

 

I could go on and on about this truly gorgeous plane that was almost never built! The designer I mentioned is Mr Liang of HC Hobby, the guy who designed the HC Hobby Mosquito, B-25 (the first one that everyone else like FMS copied) and the truly elegant HC A-10 The 20 people who saw the original sole run of these FW-190s have been chomping at the bit ever since.

 

OUR WAIT IS OVER!

 

The moulds for this gorgeous plane were purchased by Top RC,who began production in November 2011,with some improvements,beleive it or not! Better prop, Carbon Fiber Wing Spars, bigger motor, just to name a few. We now carry this plane! WOO-HOOO!

 

 

Get your TopRC FW-190 today! I'll wager that you'll be contacting us about how nuts you are about this plane! You can select extra stuff from the menus above, like Crashproofing, extra props, (the plane comes with one prop), extra prop spinners, batteries, etc. There's a selection to have us enlarge the battery compartment if you want to fly it with a 2650 or 3000mah like I do (we move the battery location and reinforce the compartment with plastic plates) This baby fairly SCREAMS with a 3000mah 3s 25c battery- that's what I have in her on the video. Did I say WOO-HOOO yet?

 

I have one last thing to say- I like to sling planes around like they're in a dogfight or coming after something on the ground, and I love doing that at full throttle. Here's my tip of the day- if I were going to purchcase only one warbird of this size class (around 1200mm), I can tell you after flying loads of them-  I'd get this one. Nuff said.

 

The REAL last thing: After getting the production run of these planes, I have a few more comments. This plane is THE best packed plane I have ever seen. The BOX is made of better foam than some planes, and, unlike any other plane I've seen, has a complete cardboard box with a complete foam inner box. All the parts are REALLY secure and protected, to the point that major damage done to one of the boxes (which scared us badly) didn't affect a single part of the plane inside. The quality of everything this company does is simply top notch- I haven't ever seen a better overall product in the RC plane world. After getting loads of Dynam planes damaged (inside the undamaged box!) during shipping, this is a refreshing alternative- a plane, and all it's parts and packaging, done with forethought and care. Details like the HEAVY DUTY plastic front end have to be seen to be believed- there is simply no other foamie I've ever seen built like this one! BIG round of applause to TopRC!

 

The specs:

 

1200mm wingspan

 

Retracts with sequential doors and wound spring suspension

 

Split Flaps

 

7 channel control- ailerons, elevator, rudder, motor, gear, flaps, lights

 

1600g flying weight (1900 with MAX Crashproofing and bigger battery - MEANING: steady, stable, realistic FIGHTER performance and handling

 

2200mAh 3s 20c battery

 

40A ESC

 

12 x 7 x 3 Prop

 

BIG 400w Brushless Outrunner Motor

 

Navigation lights

 

HEAVY DUTY resilient plastic front end- the entire thing, up to the cockpit!

 

Heavy duty EPO foam

Contact Steve at  www.killerplanes.comfor ordering info!

Special Price and FREE OFFER on Orange R610 Spektrum 6 Channel Receiver!

Orange R610 Spektrum DSM2 Compatible 6Ch 2.4Ghz Receiver  SPECIAL FREE OFFER!

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NEW! OrangeRx Spektrum DSM2 Compatible 6Ch 2.4Ghz Receiver 

***This Does come with a Binding Plug***

Compatible with all Spektrum DSM2 transmitters.
The new range of OrangeRx receivers are built using original components and MCUs and with state of the art SMT automation to ensure a quality product each and every time.
All OrangeRx receivers are QC tested before leaving the factory.
The OrangeRx will work with ANY Spektrum DSM2 2.4Ghz transmitter
The OrangeRx 6ch is only 3.7g in weight and 19.5x30x10mm in size. Great for small planes, helis, parkflyers or even medium sized sport planes.Key features.
Super light weight 3.7g / 9.8 grams with case!
Compatible with DSM2 aircraft radio and module systems
6 Channels
Compact design 19.5mm x 30mm x 10mm, with case 43x22x13mm
Short 29mm antennas for mounting in almost any location.
Input voltage: 3.7~9.6V
Included.OrangeRx-6 DSM2 Compatible receiver
Note: This is not a Spektrum Receiver but is Compatible with any Spektrum 2.4gHz, JR 2.4gHz DSM2 Transmitter.
The Spektrum and DSM2 Brand is Trademarks of Horizon Hobbies USA

SHIPPED FROM THE US FOR... New Lower Price! $12.99 includes shipping

Leave Us a Message and Get a Pair of Deans Connector's for FREE!

SPECIAL BONUS! Leave a Message on our 'Shout Box' Message Widget on the Right Side of the Page and you will get a FREE 'Deans' Gold Plated Connector Plug Pair! Shipped with your order just for leaving us a message! 

Order yours here through PayPal... 






...Or you can order through our RC Universe Listings here: 

Orange Spektrum R610 6 Channel Receiver, Guaranteed to Bind $12.99 includes Shipping and Tracking! 

Binding Instructions here: http://paulshobbyhangar.blogspot.com/p/binding-instuctions-for-orange-spektrum.html

Amazing Turnigy Orange Receiver 6 Channel R610

The Amazing Orange R610 6 Channel Receiver!

These Turnigy Orange R610 6 Channel Receivers are the best value receiver available!

Here's a Link for ordering direct from Hobby King :

 Order Direct from Hobby King HERE!

Or Visit our RC Universe Marketplace and Buy Direct from Paul's Hobby Hangar! 

Shipped from the USA with Tracking for JUST $12.99    No Long Shipping and Customs Hassles!

  Order Direct from Paul's Hobby Hangar CLICK HERE


 Binding Instructions CLICK HERE

 
SPECS:
Compatible with all Spektrum DSM2 Air transmitters.
OrangeRx receivers are built using original components and MCUs and with state of the art SMT automation to ensure a quality product each and every time.
All OrangeRx receivers are QC tested before leaving the factory.
The OrangeRx will work with ANY Aircraft Spektrum DSM2 2.4Ghz transmitter
The OrangeRx 6ch is only 3.7g in weight and 19.5x30x10mm in size. Great for small planes, helis, parkflyers or even medium sized sport planes.
Key features.Super light weight 3.7g / 9.8 grams with case.
Compatible with DSM2 1024/2048 aircraft radio and module systems.
6 Channels.
Compact design 19.5mm x 30mm x 10mm, with case 43x22x13mm.
Short 29mm antennas for mounting in almost any location.
Input voltage: 3.7~9.6V.

Satellite port included. (Increased redundancy and link strength)
Two CYP chips used. Making it a true outdoor receiver system.
Warranty.12 Month replacement guarantee!
Included.OrangeRx R610 DSM2 Compatible receiver

NOTE:
1) Accepted by the MAAA in Australia, see the MAAA MOP58 for guidance.
2) This is not a Spektrum receiver, nor is it a copy of a Spektrum Receiver.
The Spektrum brand is a trademark of Horizon Hobbies USA.
3) Price of this receiver may fluctuate (up or down) due to cost of electronic components.
4) This is not an underground manufactured fake Spektrum receiver. OrangeRx quality is guaranteed.

THE DYNAM FW190! Reviewed by KILLERPLANES.COM

THE DYNAM FW190!
The beautiful Dynam FW-190 is here! They've improved on their basic fighter design by upping the size, weight, and power train of this baby (and the Messerschmitt), and it definitely makes a difference! This is a gorgeous rendition of the famous WW2 German fighter designed by Kurt Tank- this plane still makes my skin tingle when I see it flying! Can't see one in an airshow in the States? Make your own airshow! Do your loops and rolls, and then some- this baby does great combat aerobatics, and with the Crashproofing Kit installed it can easily handle VERY high stress aerobatics- the kind that wlll snap your wings if you don't have the kit! We built up our sample plane with a larger battery, the MAX crashproofing kit, and extra nose weight. The result is a 1900g fighter that is fast and furious, and skids into turns like the real thing- check out the flying in this short video, and then order your own with Crashproofing, and make a video of your own!
The Dynam FW-190 shown above and in the video was repainted by Steve. See our "How To" videos on Yootoob to find out how to paint your plane like this, and lots of other stuff that will keep you busy on those rainy afternoons that you can't actually FLY the thing!

Specs
Wingspan: 1270mm
Overall Length: 1110mm
Wing Loading: 53.7g/d㎡
Flying Weight: 1450g (1900g with Crashproofing)
Servo: 4 x 9g
Speed Controller: 40A
Motor: BM3720A-KV500
Features
Detail and scale appearances
Detailed pilot
Retractable main gears
Large and easy accessible battery compartment
Powerful brushless motor matched with a high quality Detrum 40A ESC
Highly affordable ARF package for values!

Visit www.killerplanes.com for more info and to ORDER YOURS NOW!!!

GEICO Skytypers Airshow Team

The World Famous GEICO Skytypers Airshow Team is a flight squadron of six vintage WWII airplanes performing precision flight maneuvers at select airshows across the US. The diverse flying expertise of the team members aligns perfectly with the unique components of their overall performance.

• Team - They are the only civilian squadron currently appearing at airshows and flying WWII aircraft
• Aircraft – SNJ-2 – of the 11 remaining planes still in existence, the team uses six of these
• Performance – Low level precision formation flying combined with a thrilling aeronautical demonstration highlighting the unique capabilities of the aircraft while adding a richness to the history of aviation and its core foundation
• Skytyping – like nothing else – giant billboards in the sky precisely painted by a team of expert pilots

NEW - In-Formation a Behind the Scenes Webisode Series Featuring the GEICO Skytypers

(This link will take you to our YouTube Channel)

Click here to learn more about Skytyping.

Piper Cub... The Worlds Best Airplane! AND Some Piper Cub Swag!

Courtesy of www.airpigz.com

Click this Piper Cub screenshot to see an awesome video of aviation perfection 

 I got an email today from a friend with a link to this Piper Cub video from Sleeping Dog Productions... wow, these guys have done a really great job capturing the essence of the Cub. So it was an easy decision to let y'all know about their work. Click either of these two screenshots to go directly to the video on their website. (lots of other great vids there too)

 This video does a lot to help explain the kinds of things I've shared over the last two years about what makes the Cub so special. All of my Cub time is actually in a 90hp Clip Wing version, but everything that makes a full span Cub so fabulous is still there in the short wing conversion... and then some in my estimation.

 Seeing the joy that people experience in the Cub is exactly why I think we need a real Cub revolution in America. We need lots of flight schools all over the country teaching people to fly in simple, cheap-to-operate original J-3 Cubs that cost $50,000 or less, and that's in good enough shape to work their tail off. With super-low operating costs and more smiles-to-the-hour than any Cessna 150 could ever deliver, a Cub revolution could inject the big missing element in modern General Aviation... pure passion for the simple beauty of flight.

 Maybe it's just me, but modern LSA's just can't inspire the same love for flying that a 1940's yellow Cub can. So I'm still hoping someone will spark a nostalgic revolution of authentic Cubs that are affordable, beautiful, and most of all - a perfect joy to fly.

   

Get Some Piper Cub Goodies from Paul's Hobby Hangar

 

 

 

FPV Made Easy!

DIY: The RCModelReviews FPV Backpack

 AN EASY TO BUILD AND USE AIRBORNE FPV SYSTEM

By now most readers will have seen the RCModelReviews FPV backpack in action and many of you have expressed an interest in building one for yourselves.

Well here is where that information will be published.

What does it do?

The FPV backpack is a simple device that contains a 200mW 5.8GHz video transmitter, a 5V UBEC, a voltage regulators, a voltage dropper/filter for popular 9V-12V cameras, a low-cost board-camera and an optional microphone.
In its cheapest form, this will probably cost you little more than $50 to build but if you want best results, I highly recommend investing an a decent board-camera -- which will likely bring the price closer to $80 or $90 - but the results will be stunning!
By building all this functionality into a single unit that can be attached to virtually any model by a strip of velcro, it becomes cost-effective to fly a whole bunch of different RC planes (or boats or cars) using FPV.
The system is designed to work from a 3S lipo, usually the same lipo that powers your ESC and motor but in the case of a larger model that might have an IC engine or a 4-6S lipo, a small separate 3S pack can be used.

What you'll need

The heart of the system is the tiny 200mW 5.8GHz video sender modules which can be purchased online from a number of sources. The price of these modules varies from US$15 to US$20, depending on your source.
It is this module that converts the video and sound signals into a radio-frequency transmission that is received on the ground and used to send the video to your FPV glasses, visor or screen.
Although these modules claim to be 200mW, I'm not so sure they're actually that powerful but right now I don't have any equipment to confirm that suspicion (test gear for working with 5.8GHz signals is very expensive). Never the less, these modules work very well for the kind of short/medium-range FPV for which this system is designed.
These modules require 3.3V of power -- any more and the magic smoke will come out -- any less and the range will be considerably reduced. For that reason, the backpack has a 3.3V regulator on its circuit-board that ensures the modules are properly fed and watered (so to speak).
While this regulator could have been designed to accept the full 11.1V of a 3S lipo, that would have meant making it bigger, heavier and wasting more of your battery's power as heat. For that reason, a cheap 3-5A SBEC is used to drop the full battery voltage down to 5V before it goes into the 3V regulator on the backpack. A simple solution to an otherwise complex problem.
The circuit board also contains a second regulator, this one delivers a safe and constant 9V for the camera. By using this regulator, the problem of interference from the ESC is eliminated, where the backpack is powered by the main flight battery. It also means that the camera tends to run a little cooler -- which is a good thing.
Of course no FPV system is complete without an antenna and the RCModelReviews FPV backpack uses the popular clover-leaf, circularly polarized antennas developed by a gentleman calling himself IBCrazy. These are super-cheap to make and work much better than the traditional black plastic-covered dipoles that ship with most commercial FPV systems.
And, of course, you'll need a camera. See the RCModelReviews YouTube channel for the reviews of several cameras and decide for yourself whether you'll be able to get away with a cheap "under $20" camera, or whether it's worth spending an extra $30 for the "top of the line" high-resolution CCD camera with "wide dynamic range".
Finally, there will be a few cables and connectors to make up -- but these are pretty straight forward.

Why the delay?

Right now I'm finalizing a couple of small but important details in respect to the backpack design (testing, testing, testing) to ensure that it's as close to a 100% reliable design as is possible to produce.
To this end, I have removed one of the regulators and replaced it with a simpler and more reliable method of reducing the voltage fed to the camera.
Under extensive testing at elevated operating temperatures I found that there original 3-terminal regulator was getting too warm -- so I've ditched it in favour of a charge-pump setup using a diode and capacitor (don't worry -- unless you have a background in electronics your eyes should have glazed over just then).

So, bookmark this page now and come back in a day or so when the final design, bill of materials and other details will be posted.
Discuss this subject in the RCModelReviews Forums

The Amazing Orange R610 6 Channel Receiver!

The Amazing Orange R610 6 Channel Receiver!

These Turnigy Orange R610 6 Channel Receivers are the best value receiver available!

Here's a Link for ordering direct from Hobby King :

 Order Direct from Hobby King HERE!

Or Visit our RC Universe Marketplce and Buy Direct from Paul's Hobby Hangar! 

Shipped from the USA with Tracking for JUST $12.99    No Long Shipping and Customs Hassles!
  Order Direct from Paul's Hobby Hangar HERE:

 Binding Instructions HERE: 

 
Compatible with all Spektrum DSM2 Air transmitters.
OrangeRx receivers are built using original components and MCUs and with state of the art SMT automation to ensure a quality product each and every time.
All OrangeRx receivers are QC tested before leaving the factory.
The OrangeRx will work with ANY Aircraft Spektrum DSM2 2.4Ghz transmitter
The OrangeRx 6ch is only 3.7g in weight and 19.5x30x10mm in size. Great for small planes, helis, parkflyers or even medium sized sport planes.
Key features.Super light weight 3.7g / 9.8 grams with case.
Compatible with DSM2 1024/2048 aircraft radio and module systems.
6 Channels.
Compact design 19.5mm x 30mm x 10mm, with case 43x22x13mm.
Short 29mm antennas for mounting in almost any location.
Input voltage: 3.7~9.6V.

Satellite port included. (Increased redundancy and link strength)
Two CYP chips used. Making it a true outdoor receiver system.
Warranty.12 Month replacement guarantee!
Included.OrangeRx R610 DSM2 Compatible receiver

NOTE:
1) Accepted by the MAAA in Australia, see the MAAA MOP58 for guidance.
2) This is not a Spektrum receiver, nor is it a copy of a Spektrum Receiver.
The Spektrum brand is a trademark of Horizon Hobbies USA.
3) Price of this receiver may fluctuate (up or down) due to cost of electronic components.
4) This is not an underground manufactured fake Spektrum receiver. OrangeRx quality is guaranteed.

Crazy F-86 Pilots 526th FBS USAFEurope

Courtesy of TJDOZIER1 on his YouTube Channel.
 
One of the first Air Force Squadron to make videos. This one is about the arrival of the "new" North American F-86F Sabre jet. This was made by the 526th FBS (Fighter Bomber Squadron),"The Black Knights". This film was made at a USAFE base in Germany in 1953.



I was aware this video existed and eventually found it to post here, because my dad was a "Geiger Tiger". The "Geiger Tigers" were the 498th FIS (Fighter Interceptor Squadron) and flew th F-86D model.The F-86 "D" model was know as the Sabredog. The "Tigers" had a motto to which in part said, "We can beat any man, from any land, at any game that he can name, for any amount that he can count". So the "Tigers" were not going to sit by and let lessor squadrons take the limelight.

So the "Tigers" soon produced their own movie, titled, "Oh How They Flew". That video is also available on my page here on youtube. The "Tigers" movie became an Air Force hit, achieving almost "cult like" status. So great was the demand for their film, that the Air Force hired Hollywood professionals to re-make the movie for mass distribution within the Air Force. There are probably only 3 or 4 locations in the world that have both of these videos. I am proud to one of those.

This video is dedicated to Maj. Gen. Jones E. Bolt, CO, 526th Group.
(He is driving the Cushman scooter at the start and end)

http://www.flybynightvideos.com
 

Killer Planes... The Originator of CRASHPROOFING!

PUSH THE ENVELOPE with a CRASHPROOF PLANE!

With our planes you'll stay IN the air and OUT of the workshop!  

How? With the

BEST CRASHPROOFING IN THE WORLD!

We'll be uploading our hundreds of planes and other products over the next few weeks, when our grand opening happens! (Hang in there!) Until then, click on "PLANES" on the right for the ones you can purchase now. Yes, you'll find the AMAZING HAWKFIGHTER there. HALLELUJAH!

If you’re a beginner, you'll LOVE this.
If you’re an experienced flyer, you'll probably love it even more.

Here at Killer Planes we’ve got loads of GREAT planes and accessories, and the most important aid you'll ever find for keeping your plane in the air-

!! THE BEST CRASH PROOFING IN THE WORLD !!

Our Carbon Fiber CRASHPROOFING KITS, with our unique CFF (Carbon Fiber Framework) design,  are available for every plane we sell, as well as some popular planes sold elsewhere. This is the CUTTING EDGE of RC aircraft protection, giving you the peace of mind only available to pilots with NO FEAR! Want it in milspeak? We're the "premier mechanism for avoidance of traumatic deconstruction of aircraft due to aggressive decelleration events". Sounds like music to a defense contractor, don't it? Check out this video and become a believer!
Let’s face it: your flying skills may lapse sometimes, but gravity ALWAYS works. CRASHPROOFING is the only thing that lets you do “wacky flying” without fear of excessive damage. Your plane belongs in the air, not on the workbench! After you get used to it, you’ll find yourself laughing when you snag  a wingtip in the grass and do airplane cartwheels.
The only way to achieve this state of bliss is CRASHPROOFING. Anybody that says a foam plane without it is “crash resistant” is from another universe. Where you and I come from, foam needs some help, and we STRONGLY recommend installing a CRASHPROOFING KIT in ALL of your planes.Want to know how the planes perform with Crashproofing installed? Better. Why? The more rigid your airframe, the better control you have, period. Crashproofing adds 10% weight to gain 500% strength - it's like you putting on 15 pounds and then being able to do a bellyflop from the roof - and walk away laughing. Every plane you see us flight test has one installed! To see more about this, click on CRASHPROOFING.

Reflecting on the Reno Tragedy

Final Flight Of The Ghost - Video By Jason Schillereff

Final Flight of the Ghost from Jason Schillereff on Vimeo.

This is a video of Jimmy Leeward's final race. This video shows no impact with the ground, just the events leading up to the accident, segments of this footage have been turned over to the NTSB to help with the investigation.

 This recently uploaded video from Jason Schillereff shows the Galloping Ghost and Jimmy Leeward in their final flight. The crash is not shown (thankfully... I wouldn't have posted it if it was) but we do get a clear view of the airplane when the trouble first appears. The small rolling actions followed by the pitch up (and the tailwheel extension) add to the questions about what exactly happened. There's always the possibility that we'll never know exactly what happened, but I'm confident that the continuing investigation will eventually bring all the details to light.

 The video begins with the Unlimited racers from this heat starting their engines and then their takeoffs. I encourage you to watch all this, especially Jimmy's takeoff in the Galloping Ghost. I believe watching this takeoff shows how completely competent and in control Jimmy was with the Ghost. There's no question that Jimmy Leeward was an exceptional pilot and was very much in his element in the Unlimited races at Reno.

 Beyond what is seen when the trouble begins as the Ghost is completing the turn into the home stretch, I won't speculate.

 We continue to pray for those injured from the accident (some still critical), and of course for the family and friends of those who were injured or lost their lives.

HobbyZone Champ RTF Micro RC Airplane Review w/ Video!

Champ RTF Review

We have all had dreams of mounting wings and taking flight and the Champ RTF does just that! This extremely easy to use aircraft model is the ideal remedy for almost any aviation longing you might have. In fact the Champ RTF is so easy to use that you could even teach yourself to fly it. This recreation of one of the best known of all aircraft types, the tail wheel airplane, is in itself an experience of history for new flyers and a delicious taste of nostalgia for any veteran. The Champ RTF is a perfect teach yourself aircraft model and will give any user hours of unending fun.

Champ RTF Features

• Fully assembled and ready for flight
• Small and Lightweight
• Spektrum 2.4GHz DSM2 technology
• 3.7V Li-Po battery
• Includes DC Li-Po charger plus batteries

Fully Assembled

The Champ RTF comes completely assembled. The little plastic aeroplane needs no initial elbow grease to get it going. Even the batteries for the model are provided! All you have to do is pull it out and enjoy hours of fun!

The Champ has a scale wing rib detail plus a steerable tail wheel to enhance your experience of using the Champ RTF.

Lightweight and Durable

Thanks to the small size of the Champ RTF, it can be flown in almost any tight space (so long as there is enough room for takeoff). Even a measly backyard would be as good as a World War 2 battlefield with the Champ RTF at your command! Its lightweight and durable construction almost make crashes fun! It does not wreak havoc or burst into a flaming inferno as it comes down, it is a very, very safe model (that is not to say that you should buy one just to crash it in your backyard!). The Champ RTF is designed for ultra easy control. No other model aircraft of its class can have you feeling like a ace pilot in as little time. In fact 2 or 3 flights is usual more than adequate for making a pilot out of you. These easy controls are not just to attract a newbie or two, they also help pros develop their skills and learn new tricks.

Spektrum™ DSM® technology

One thing which sets the Champ RTF apart from its competition is its use of the extraordinary Spektrum 2.4GHz DSM2™. This means that the radio systems used in the Champ RTF are the very same Spektrum 2.4GHz DSM2 technology which is not only trusted but also widely used by many experienced RC pilots all across the globe. The use of this outstanding bit of technology allows you to enjoy absolute and complete freedom from any sort of cumbersome signal interference whenever and wherever you choose to take wings and fly. But if you thought that this is only for rookies and that once you have mastered the art of model aeroplane flying you can abandon the Champ RTF once and for all, think again! The Champ RTF’s transmitter can be used to fly some of the Bind-N-Fly ultra micro aircraft from ParkZone and Blade. A full catalogue of which models these are is widely available on the net.

Li-Po Battery

The Champ RTF runs on a very efficient 1S 3.7V 150mAh Li-Po battery which gives you hours of fun before you need to recharge. Even the DC Li-Po charger is included with the Champ RTF.

Pros and Cons of the Champ RTF

Pros

The airplane comes pre-assembled and is easy to manoeuvre so it’s ideal for beginners.

It’s very durably constructed so it can withstand crashes.

The Li-Po battery gives you a good 10-15 minutes flight time before it loses power.

The DSM2 radio technology ensures you won’t experience signal interference when operating the plane.

The included controller can be used to control some other planes from ParkZone and Blade.

Cons

Being light makes the plane sensitive to wind, so it is only suitable for flying in a light breeze, but not stronger winds.

The connectors on the battery are small so you need to be careful when connecting it to the plane.

Remote Control Helicopter Reviews Final Thoughts on the Champ RTF

While the Champ RTF is extremely useful for new flyers, it is also excellent for any age group; an 8 year old can have as much fun with it as an 80 year old. This really does make the Champ RTF live up to its name and be a model to have a look at.

We highly recommend the Champ RTF for beginners who are looking for their first RC plane.

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CAT CAPTION CONTEST!

 You can Win a FREE 13 Piece Precision Knife Set!

Come up with a Funny Caption for the picture above and WIN!

These Knife Sets sell fo $3.99 plus $6.99 flat rate shipping minimum at Harbor Freight and up to $17.00 (believe it or not! ) on EBay.

To Qualify for the Drawing:

The Rules: 

1) Post your entry by leaving a message at the Message Box on the right column of the page

2) Enter as many caption contest entries as you like!

3) The winner will be announced here after a suitable number of entries are posted, but contest will end within a month of this post. 

4) Keep it clean!

 

Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version - REVIEW!

Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version Review

All of us flying enthusiasts will be very familiar with the name ‘Syma’ and the S031 RC would probably be very high on the list of most popular Syma products. But now things just got that much better because the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version is out and ready for take off! This extraordinary new model is far ahead its predecessor in almost every way, Syma has really outdone itself with this little piece of aviation fun. The Syma S031G RC Helicopter is equipped with a lipo battery which not only takes performance to new heights, but also extends flight time much, much more to include hours more fun for you.

When we remember the Syma S107 and the older Syma S032 we are tempted to believe that we had seen the very best, far from it! The Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version has much greater range manoeuvrability and power than its smaller ancestors.

Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version Features

• 3 Channels
• 24″ Frame
• Gyro control for precision control
• Ideal for outdoor flying
• Can fly forwards, backward, left and right
• Features LED Light
• Li-Po Battery operated for enhanced performance

Large Frame

The Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version is no ordinary toy helicopter. It is a 3 Channel Helicopter and measures about 24 inches in length.

Li-Po Battery for Enhanced Performance

The powerful new Lipo battery gives the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version much greater power and range. Most importantly it increases battery life to make your experience last that much longer and be so much more enjoyable.

Thanks to the new lipo batteries in the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version your fun can be extended outdoors even in not very mild climate. Because of the added power, the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version can manage strong winds better than most other helicopters of its size, which makes it perfect for new flyers to practice with and earn their spurs as pro pilots.

LED Lights for increased Visibility

New helicopter flyers need not fear losing sight of this helicopter because the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version is equipped with bright LED lights which make the helicopter visible wherever it is within its range.

Gyro Controls for Precise and Safe flying

Thanks to its gyro controls, the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version is much safer to fly as compared to other more unwieldy helicopter models. Its twenty four inch frame is very conspicuous even at quite a distance and because of its strong aerodynamic design it is much easier to use. This frame is also supported by a strong alloy used to build the model and the unique design renders the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version as attractive to look at as it is fun to fly.

The extraordinary manoeuvrability of the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version allows it to fly forward, reverse and even right and left.

Pros and Cons of the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version

Pros

The gyro control is excellent and requires only very slight trimming.

The alloy structure of the helicopter is very sturdy and robust so it can withstand crashes without being damaged. However, we advise flying near grass and not hard surfaces so the landings will be softer.

The Li-Po battery gives you approximately 12 minutes flying time and also provides enhanced performance.

Cons

It isn’t suitable for flying in windy weather.

Remote Control Helicopter Reviews Final Thoughts on the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version

The Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version is definitely something any helicopter enthusiast should take a look at. While a newbie can learn the art of flying, an experienced pilot can hone their skills and perfect their tricks using this very safe, yet very controllable model. The Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version is certainly the best, or rather the only possible successor to the hugely popular older Syma S031.

If you are new to flying we recommend that you get the Syma S107 first for indoor use, and then later get this one after you have some flying experience.

Although this is a very safe model, it is advisable that the Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version is not suitable for pilots under the age of fourteen. But otherwise this is certainly a helicopter which can tickle anyone’s love for flying.

Syma S031G RC Helicopter with Lipo battery Newest Version reviewed by Remote Control Helicopter Reviews

Red Bull Stratos & Felix Baumgartner Successful At Over 71,000' (With Video)

Felix Baumgartner ready to leave capsule at over 71,000' on 3-15-12 (photo: facebook)

 I was really excited when I first learned about the Red Bull Stratos project and Felix Baumgartner's plan to attempt to break Joseph Kittinger's amazing high altitude jump record of 102,800' from 1960. My dad started skydiving in 1958, so the incredible jumps of Joe Kittinger were part of household talk when I was a kid. But when the Stratos project went on hold in late 2010 due to a legal battle over how this new project had been conceived (see story here), I lost a lot of my interest. But with yesterday's test jump from over 71,000 feet that launched from Roswell New Mexico, and the success that has been achieved thus far, it's hard not be excited again. (apparently some sort of out-of-court settlement got the project back on track in mid 2011)

 I'm guessing there will be some extensive freefall video available before long, but for now the video below gives a good overview of the project and the jump from yesterday.

 It's pretty much off-the-scale-cool that Joe Kittinger is involved in the Stratos project encouraging Felix along... and it's great to see that this new project has helped bring attention to Joe's amazing accomplishments from so long ago. And the Stratos project is more than just a stunt. The next generation of pressure suits are being tested here, and then there's that interesting idea that Felix may indeed go supersonic when he gets to the big jump planned for 120,000 feet. I don't know if there's really anything interesting or useful to be learned from a man in a pressure suit falling at supersonic speeds, but I guess we won't know until it's done!

 For more details on the Red Bull Stratos project, check out:

RedBullStratos

facebook.com/RedBullStratos

FelixBaumgartner.com

facebook.com/felixbaumgartner

Blue Angels Rockin' The A-4 Skyhawk!

Me trying on the A-4 Skyhawk cockpit at the Hiller Museum in San Carlos California

 Technically my wife and I are on vacation right now in California to visit my mom, but you always gotta squeeze some aviation in whenever you can. We actually planned to spend our first day seeing the tourist sights in my birth city of San Francisco before we headed up farther north to where she lives, but since it was raining in the city we decided we'd make a quick stop by the Hiller Aviation Museum on Wednesday. We stumbled onto the museum location on Tuesday night when we went looking for dinner shortly after we arrived at SFO... I honestly didn't realize that the museum was so close to where I had lived for a while when I was a kid back in the 60's. All I knew was that it was somewhere in California.

 This great little museum is located on the San Carlos airport about 10 miles south of San Francisco International Airport, and it's well worth the time and effort to stop in. I'll put up a detailed post on the museum before long, but for now I have two interesting things to share. First, I didn't even know that my avgeek friend @adamcanfly had a trip to SFO in the works, but I found out via twitter shortly after we arrived that he had just departed from SFO headed back to home. How weird that we just missed each other when we were both so far away from our homes in Indiana and Kansas. But imagine my surprise when on Wednesday, after we made a last-minute decision to go to the Hiller Museum (which I didn't even realize was in the area we were gonna be) and we sign their guestbook at the entrance we see the entry before us is Adam's from his visit the day before! The randomness of this occurrence is hard to wrap my head around! The only thing that could have been better of course is if we had both been there the same day rather than one day after the other.

 The other thing to share is my simple opportunity to sit in the A-4 Skyhawk cockpit that's not only on display at Hiller but is set up so you can hop in and give its fit a try. So I hopped in to see how it felt. I was surprised how snug it was, but that really gave me an awesome thought for how much this jet fighter must have felt like something you were wearing rather than a big machine you were sitting in. The short nose and snug cockpit made me realize the amazing feel of power that a pilot of such an airplane must have. Most of us never get this kind of extreme experience, especially as the sole occupant of a jet fighter. All I can say is: wow.

 So to drive that awesomeness home a little more, here's a sweet old school video of the Blue Angels flying the A-4 Skyhawk. The video appears to be from 1986 when the Blues turned 40 and were preparing to retire the A-4 and bring the F-18 onboard. I remember seeing some of the A-4 performances back in the day, but watching this video makes me realize that the Skyhawk rocked as an aerobatic platform for the amazing U.S. Navy Blue Angels!