Brian Hardwick

Must be my turn this time

Pleeeeeese don't forget me!!!!

Don't forget me

Don't forget me!

Hello Tony, Great article on building from plans! Having first got into the hobby as a lad many years ago, before the advent of ARTF, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of building from kits and seeing my "creation" actually fly! After a break of a few decades, I returned to the hobby (as a result of the interest of my son) and was disappointed to see that the choice of kits is now much diminished, largely I suppose because of the availability and popularity of ARTF models. Shame really - half the pleasure's lost in my opinion by going the ARTF route. Anyway, your SKY 40 article and free plan in July/Aug editions of RCME appeared just at the time I was looking for a trainer to build to fly with my son (who built and flies a Laser Models Colibri). I am currently part way through the build of the SKY 40. May I say how impressed I am with the thought and attention to detail that you have put into the plan and accompanying instructions - it's been a huge help and has made it a pleasure to build. The accuracy of the kit of CNC cut parts is also impressive. I have one question - The front fuselage former F11 is pre-drilled with four holes for the steerable noseleg support bracket (a one-piece, black component shown in photo 12). I have been unable to locate a steerable noseleg with such a bracket and wondered if you can remember where you got it from? I can get a noseleg of a different design with a different support bracket that could be used, but it means having to replace the wedge-shaped spacer that I've already fitted with a new, bigger one and drill four new holes to suit. Just thought I'd ask before going this route. If the SKY 40 build is successful and I am able to re-learn old flying skills, I fancy having a go at "Bootlace" by Peter Miller that appeared as a plan in the Jan 04 edition of RCME. That would be my first true build from a plan, as I don't beleive a kit of parts is available for purchase in this case. The advice and techniques described in your article will surely be put fully to use then! Keep up the good work! Brian