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SPITFIRE IN MY WORKSHOP
Although many have likely seen the amazing work of David Glen and his 11-year journey of constructing his 80-inch wingspan Spitfire masterpiece, which resides in the Royal Air Force Museum in Great Britain, his inspiration to take on this project comes directly from RC aircraft modeling.
It was an RC model designed and built by Rob Millinship that provided the spark that led David to take on the project. Rob’s design was like many RC model aircraft, in that he aspired to design and construct a good-flying model and deviated slightly “in the interests of making a practical-to-build structure with reasonable flying characteristics.”
Rob’s design, available as a kit from D.B. Sport & Scale Limited, would also become the basis on which to create David’s model. The difference was that David’s model would not take flight, so accuracy was the primary goal. The model could be constructed without concern regarding its weight.
Another interesting thing about David’s aircraft is the fact that at the request of then-Director General of the Royal Air Force Museum, Dr. Michael Fopp, the model was to be anonymous and represent the aircraft itself, rather than a specific unit or squadron. In doing so, it allowed a greater opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into constructing the Spitfire that would have been partially obscured by paint.
David’s writing is entertaining and enlightening about the requirements of a project such as this. He includes a bit of history and humor as he takes us through his journey of this ambitious project and its challenges, and clearly hopes to inspire other builders along the way.
Two topics covered in the book that will be of interest to scale modelers are the details about constructing the cockpit with its high level of detail, and the information about fabric-covering and rib-stringing techniques used for the rudder and elevator.
The construction of the cockpit is described in the book as first completing the interior, and then building the rest of the model around it. Many details about fabricating the instrument panel are provided in the book.
Regarding the covering, the author used Solartex for the rudder and elevator, and although it is only mentioned on two pages, the six included photos provide a brief overview of the process he used.
Each of the nine chapters in the book provides an overview of topics covered, allowing one to easily reference a certain topic. Chapter 1, for example, covers a “flatpack” fuselage, the fuselage frames, sidewalls, longerons and intercostals; the instrument panel; detailed fitting out; control column assembly; stencils and placards; and the pilot’s seat.
The book includes many quotes including this one that provides a glimpse into how involved the construction process was: “Out of the tens of thousands of individual items and components that make up the model, there is only one concession to commercial procurement: so close in shape and dimension were the rubber balloon tyres discovered in a hobby shop that it would have made little sense not to fit them.”
David also provided this advice when looking back on the project: “If you covet your time or like taking shortcuts, stick to building kits. Model making can be nothing if not obsessive.”
The author’s other advice also seemed relevant: “I necessarily put the ultimate goal to the back of my mind. So when I am working in the cockpit for example, I focus on making a model of the control column, or instrument panel, or pilot’s seat, and so on. That way I mentally break down the challenge into bite-size chunks where there is a beginning and an end measured in weeks or months rather than years.”
At the end of the book, the author also provides some photos and details about his life outside of the Spitfire project, including being a volunteer restorer of veteran warbirds, a private pilot, and, obviously, a model maker. We also get a glimpse of other modeling projects that he has undertaken.
The hardback book with dust jacket spans 192 large-format pages, and has 240-plus captioned color images and 20 mono images/diagrams. David’s writing and the excellent photography of Roger Hancock make the book enjoyable to read as well as visually appealing. Anyone who appreciates building from scratch, or specifically has interest in the Spitfire, should consider adding this book to his or her library.
Messerschmitt Bf 109 @ $133.50 + S&H from BMJR Models, Box 1210, Sharpes FL 32959; Tel.: (321) 537-1159; website: www.bmjmodels.com
The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was one of the first modern fighters of the World War II era and included features such as all-metal monocoque construction, a closed canopy, and retractable landing gear. It was the most-produced single-seat fighter aircraft in history, with 33,984 airframes manufactured between 1936 and 1945.
BMJR’s 52-inch wingspan Bf 109 is a semiscale Control Line Aerobatics (Stunt) model that was designed by Jack Sheeks. It was first published in the April 1970 issue of Flying Models. The aircraft can be embellished with scale detail and still retain the capability of flying the precision Classic and modern AMA Stunt Pattern. The Bf 109 has a flying weight of 47½ ounces using a Brodak .40 engine.
HFP-30 Digital Servo Programmer and Universal Servo Tester @ $79.99 + S&H from Hitec RCD, 12115 Paine St., Poway CA 92064; Tel.: (858) 748-1767; website: www.hitecrcd.com
Hitec RCD’s lightweight HFP-30 Digital Servo Programmer and Universal Servo Tester is packed with advanced features, including end-point adjustments, failsafe, and overload protection. It utilizes a large, easy-to-read LCD screen. It efficiently programs all Hitec digital servos, including the HS-5XXX, HS-7XXX, brushless HSB-9XXX, and the latest D-series. The HFP-30 Digital Servo Programmer and Universal Servo Tester operates on a wide voltage range of 4.8 to 8.4 volts, and is a must-have accessory.
Ventus 2cx and 2cxM Scale Gliders with 4.4m Wingspans @ $999-$2,099 + S&H from ICARE/ICARUS, 890 ch. D’Anjou, Unit 1, Boucherville, QC, J4B 5E4, Canada; Tel.: (450) 449-9094; website: www.icare-rc.com
ICARE is pleased to announce the release of two new versions of the Ventus high-performance scale glider, the Ventus 2cx and the Ventus 2cxM. Both versions are available with a divided four-piece wing that makes transportation easier. Each wing half breaks down into two pieces, making it shorter than the fuselage. The Ventus 2cxM also comes with a preinstalled, fully operational self-launch unit. It only requires a five-cell LiPo battery.
Two of ICARE’s Super Scale gliders, the ¼-scale Ventus 2cx and Ventus 2cxM, feature a 4.4-meter wingspan and many details including upholstered seats. The canopy is finished, fitted, and painted. All a builder needs to do is add a scale pilot.
With precut and hinged control surfaces, and the wings and control surfaces covered in Oracover, the model is comfortable on a slope and can be winch launched, but it is best for aerotow or a self-launch system. Airbrakes, functional retracts, and servo wires are preinstalled. Regular, micro, mini, and sub-micro servos are all required to get the Ventus 2cx or Ventus 2cxM into the air.
Factory Pre-Balanced Propellers @ $2.05-$3.39 + S&H from Master Airscrew, 3219 Monier Cir., Rancho Cordova CA 95742; Tel.: (916) 631-8385; website: www.masterairscrew.com
If you’re tired of spending the time and effort trying to balance new propellers, look no further than Master Airscrew’s revamped RC aircraft propeller lineup that now includes Factory Pre-Balanced Propellers for aircraft with exceptionally tight blade weight tolerances of 0.01 grams or better.
One focus with propellers is safety. Unbalanced propellers can cause bearings to wear, jeopardize flight performance, and pose safety risks to the pilot as well as spectators. Required for regular propellers, balancing is often overlooked because of lack of experience and the time it takes to balance them. Master Airscrew Factory Pre-Balanced Propellers can be recognized by the red sticker and are available in several designs and sizes. More sizes will be added.
Thermal Soaring Master Class Training Video @ $19.95-$24.95 + S&H from Radio Carbon Art Productions, Box 464, Lewisburg PA 17837; Tel.: (888) 834-2261; website: www.radiocarbonart.com
Paul Naton’s newest video in his Thermal Soaring series, Thermal Soaring Master Class, will help you learn Thermal Soaring techniques that help the professionals stay in the air all day and win contests.
This two-hour, high-definition training video is presented in a classroom format and includes 18 detailed sessions that cover a variety of subjects from Reading Wind Patterns, to Dirty Thermaling, to Thermal Structures, to Advanced Energy Reading. Paul’s video is valuable to anyone, at any skill level, who participates in Thermal Soaring.
The video is available as a region-free DVD that was created from a digital HD master onto DVD-R media, in a format that works in any player or computer. It is also available as a high-quality digital download. All three of Radio Carbon Art’s Thermal Soaring training videos can also be purchased together at a discount.
Dualsky Motors and ESCs @ $24.99-$159.99 + S&H from Redwing RC, 1614 Headland Dr., Fenton MO 63026; Tel.: (636) 600-8735; website: www.redwingrc.com
Dualsky Motors and ESCs are now available from Redwing RC! Dualsky motors are ideal for 48-inch EPP/wood hybrid airplanes or any aerobatic aircraft weighing 3 to 5 pounds. Designed to increase performance while maintaining low weight and a low current draw, the Dualsky 3542, 4250, and 5050 motors now have higher-quality magnets, better bearings, and a decreased air gap to increase efficiency and performance. They include the mounting hardware, propeller adapters, and bullet plugs.
The Dualsky XC-45-LITE ESC is economically priced and perfect for 2S to 3S LiPo-powered aircraft. Compatible with the Dualsky ProgCard V2, it has a 60-amp burst rating and works well with the Dualsky XM 3542 950 Kv motor.
The XC6018BA V2 and XC10036HV ESCs have soft, linear control characteristics and minimal internal resistance. Both are easily programmed using the optional ProgCard or the USB link. The 60-amp ESC works well with the 4250 500 Kv motor, while the 100-amp ESC is perfect for the 5050 480 Kv motor.
Pro Quad 100-Watt Battery Balance Charger @ $299.99 + S&H from Venom Power, 14028 N. Ohio St., Rathdrum ID 83858; Tel.: (800) 705-0620; website: www.venompower.com
Venom Power gives us the lowdown on the new Venom Pro Quad 100-watt, 7-amp, four-port AC/DC Battery Balance Charger.
Building on the success of the Pro Duo charger, the Pro Quad is the ultimate solution for hobbyists looking to quickly and conveniently charge multiple battery packs.
The sleek, space-saving design is great for valuable bench space and provides four complete charging circuits, each with a dedicated 100-watt integrated power supply. Discreetly located on the back of the charger are two 2.3-amp USB charging ports to power all of your USB devices. Menu navigation is easy with a five-button control interface and a bright, backlit LCD screen.
All of the most common battery chemistries are supported, including LiPo, LiHV, LiFe, Li-Ion, NiMH, NiCD, and lead acid. A complete assortment of charge leads is included, as well as extra-long balance leads to safely charge while using a LiPo sack.
Jeti Pro Power LiPo Batteries @ $14-$149 + S&H from Esprit Tech, Box 360815, Melbourne FL 32936; Tel.: (321) 729-4287; website: www.espritmodel.com
Jeti Pro Power LiPo batteries are bringing a new element into the mix, as LiPo battery technology continues to push new boundaries. Power and performance at a great price are not to be ignored!
Available in packs for 30C 1,300 mAh, 2,100 mAh, 2,700 mAh, and 3,300 mAh; 35C 5,000 mAh; and 60C 4,400 mAh and 5,000 mAh, Jeti Pro Power LiPos are designed specifically for the demands of the latest power plants, as well as extreme 3-D flight. Simply put, premium power no longer comes at a premium cost with these LiPo batteries, available through Esprit Tech.
