RABID MODELS TOOLS: HINGE SLOT CUTTER AND EDGE SANDERS
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
New Products That Are Worth a Closer Look
WHEN BUILDING or finishing a model, the right tool can make all the difference. Hinging and shaping the control surfaces on a “sheet” tail section can, at times, be challenging, especially on a smaller model.
Working with fellow modelers, Rabid Models has developed a line of tools to assist with these processes. The company’s Centerline Marker/Hinge Slot Tools are designed for both balsa and foam surfaces and help with cutting the slot for a CA hinge. There are six different sizes (four for balsa and two for foam) that fit over the surface.
Each has a slot that is centered in the tool that allows for a #11 blade to be inserted, making the cutout for the hinge. There is also a “window” so that the modeler can ensure that the slot is aligned on the sheet where the builder had marked the hinge location.
After the hinge slots have been added, the leading (LEs) and trailing edges (TEs) of the surface will need to be shaped, and Rabid Models has a tool for that as well. Shaped sanding sticks (with sandpaper already added) are available in several shapes and sizes. There are rounded tools for LEs and angled ones for TEs.
With a few passes along the outside edge, the control surface will be uniformly shaped and ready to be finished. Both the hinge tools and the sanders are offered in multiple options so that modelers can choose which best meets their needs.
New Products From the Modeler’s Mall
High-Speed HS-628MG and High-Torque HS-648MG Analog Servos @ $34.99 from Hitec RCD
Tel: (858) 748-6948;
website: www.hitecrcd.com
Joining Hitec RCD’s collection of economically priced analog servos, the new HS-628MG and high-torque HS-648MG servos are set to become the company’s most popular duo yet!
The high-speed HS-628MG analog sport servo is an updated version of the powerful high-speed HS-625MG and is the perfect choice for applications that require a fast and strong standard-size servo. Utilizing Hitec’s M/P and metal gear-train technology, it’s fantastic for larger airplanes and 1/10-scale sport vehicles.
The high-torque HS-648MG analog sport servo is an updated version of the HS-645MG and it is a perfect choice for larger sport airplanes or monster trucks and buggies that require a durable, high-torque servo. It offers one of the strongest gear trains available in any servo.
Both servos feature the industry-standard 25-tooth outline spline with a 3mm hex screw and metal gears for maximum durability.
Eclipse 360 BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE @ $449.99 + S&H from Horizon Hobby
website: www.horizonhobby.com/blade-2
An innovative blend of futuristic looks, the Blade Eclipse 360 BNF Basic helicopter with AS3X and SAFE technology is an eye-catching addition to any RC pilot’s collection. With a fully molded and painted EPO foam body wrapped around a high-performance airframe, the Eclipse is designed to be capable of smooth hovering plus scalelike and sport flying for the intermediate pilot. It is also capable of aerobatics and even mild 3D in the hands of experienced pilots.
The expertly tuned FC6250HX flybarless control system includes optional-use SAFE technology, plus Panic Recovery to bail out at the push of a button if it’s ever needed. The brushless main and tail rotors are connected to a Spektrum Dual Smart ESC that delivers real-time telemetry data to AirWare-equipped transmitters. It’s compatible with common and popular 3S 2,200 mAh to 3,200 mAh LiPo batteries. Digital, metal-gear servos, an aluminum head block, and carbon-fiber main rotor blades deliver reliable and precise control. The body is equipped with LED navigation and landing lights, along with hard mounting points for the low-profile skids that provide a streamlined “gear up” look. Install the included wheel set for a different look and ground-handling experience.
The Eclipse is ready to bind to your favorite full-range, six-plus-channel Spektrum DSMX/DSM2-compatible transmitter that is programmable for helicopters. The battery and a compatible charger are also required for completion.
Boomerang ATOM Turbine Jet @ $3,399 + S&H from Boomerang RC Jets
Tel.: 765-548-3757;
website: www.boomerangrjets.com
The Boomerang RC Jets ATOM is a fully composite sport jet that is capable of the most extreme maneuvers! With the flip of a switch, thrust vectoring can be activated for flips, spins, and hovering. Turn thrust vectoring off and the jet is precise and graceful.
The ATOM’s hinges are all skin or “live” hinges, and the control horns are painted and preinstalled. The large top hatch is a one-latch system and makes assembly easy, giving a modeler room to work while building, with lots of space for equipment.
The stabilizers and vertical fin are removable, as is the wing for easy transportation and storage. The carbon-fiber wing and stabilizer tubes provide added strength.
A composite, 98-ounce fuel tank and thrust pipe are included, as well as high-quality landing gear with brakes and a full hardware set. Available in four color schemes, the lightweight ATOM can be flown with a 100-size turbine up to 160 size. A 130- to 140-size turbine will fly the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale F3S RC Jet pattern maneuvers with ease while keeping the weight light. For hovering, a 160-size turbine is recommended. A nine-plus-channel transmitter, nine-plus-channel receiver, the turbine, standard and mini servos, the Universal Access Transceiver, and batteries are required for flight.
