Michael Barclay

Sorry, Mike, there is no build article. I just scale up from a three view and work out the construction details as I go along. I don't think that I would be any good at writing about it.

My latest scratch build using composite construction of Depron, and planked xps foam all 50g epoxy cloth covered. Built from scaled up 3 view and pics. found on internet. Model is of Avro 539. Presently fitted with wheeled undercarriage, but will probably convert to floats after test flights, hence use of foat plane fin. Scale 1 / 5. 60inch wingspan. weight 2.45 kilos. This is the second Avro 539 I have built. Last one, 40 inch span is fast, agile, and great fun to fly. Will be interesting to see any different flight characteristics of larger model. Waiting for wood prop. Plastic prop just does not look right.

Tried this on a friend's model and I want to go down the same route. No interest in drones, but the idea of FPV in my ww1 biplanes certainly appeals. I reckon return to base is essential, so will be following your videos with interest.

Pichler super board is excellent. I buy from Leeds Model Shop. Available in many thicknesses.

Thanks for interesting replies, everyone. I do intend to give it a go this season. Will let you know what I think.

Thanks for your reply and interesting video link.

Thanks for your reply. I think equipment will have moved on quite a bit since then, and YouTube videos interest me as I think it will be the nearest to real flying you can get without actually being in the pilot seat. I am surprised it has not taken off more, if you will excuse the pun.

I am thinking of 1/5th scale SE5a for my next build, and came across this guy's videos on YouTube. This really appeals to me. Anyone else tried it? Would be interesting to hear of experiences, cost, advice, etc.

I now take it as a given that if I think on something for long enough, I will come up with a way to make it a bit lighter. This thought processing also makes my building more interesting, but I know I still have a long way to go.

Whilst deciding on wire gauge for the cabane and undercarriage of my latest build, I could not help but remember a post on one of the modelling forums which usually springs to mind when making these decisions. “We are not building tanks here, build 'em light and fly 'em carefully.” Truer words have never been spoken, and this phrase saves a great deal of weight.

Now, why did I not think of that. But I did scrape through!

What was the question again?

Only 3 of us left then!

Something simple nicely executed is a joy to behold.

At 78 I thank my lucky stars for this hobby. Went flying yesterday on a cold, damp, dark, miserable day. Temp 5c. Ankle deep in mud, three seven minute flights, hands, and brain numb with cold. Back on building board today. Doesn't matter what you fly, just keep doing it.