Peter George
Sep 22, 2002, 01:00 AM
<p><big>Introduction</p></big>
<blockquote>My name is Peter George. I will be co-writing the LiftZone's scale column with Tom Pack. Tom and I hope to cover all the bases on the subject of scale sailplanes and aerotowing.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I got into scale soaring as a result of aerotowing in 1996. I have hardly flown anything else since! Electric models and hand launch gliders, both of which I truly love, have gathered dust in my hanger.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I have wanted to build scale gliders ever since the first time I saw one fly. It was back in the mid 1980's when I was just getting into RC (radio control) sailplanes. I went to a fun fly and saw local modeler, Steve Hall, flying a scratch built Schweizer TG3. As I recall the model was about 120-inch span, which was the largest I had seen at the time. The TG3 seamed to float effortlessly around the sky, and flew more realistically than any scale model I had seen before. I knew I had to build a scale sailplane someday.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I had always planned to build scale models, as they have always been my passion. I built many scale plastic models as an adolescent, and transitioned to flying models in my teenage years. I flew rubber powered free flight and control line models. At the time, in the early 70's, radio gear for models was way out of my budget. Later in the 80's when radio gear become more affordable, I decided to try RC.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I began with gliders both because I was intrigued with powerless flight and because they where inexpensive, since all you needed was two or three servos. Little did I know what I was getting into, especially considering that my latest ship has 14 servos!</blockquote>
<blockquote>My first model was a two channel polyhedral glider. I then moved on to multi channel TD (thermal duration) ships and contest flying. The main activity of the local RC soaring clubs were TD contests, and the idea of flying scale sat by the wayside for several years.</blockquote>
<blockquote>By the early 90's, I was bored with TD contests, so I decided to try my hand at powered scale models, both electric and glow. I still thought about scale gliders, but my experience with many types of scale models led me to the conclusion that the bigger models flew much better and more realistically. That is to say, they flew closer to a scale speed. Moreover, is that not what scale models are about, realism in flight! I know it is for me. The only problem with the larger models was how to launch them.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Here in the St. Louis, Missouri area, there are no suitable slopes for big models, and winch launching them, although possible, was not a thought that excited me. Test flights are always scary with a new model, and test flying an expensive model on a winch sounded stressful to my heart and possibly to the airframe too. I have seen a scale model fold its wings on a winch.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Finally in the mid 90's, I started hearing about aerotowing, first from friends of mine in North Carolina, and then from articles about aerotowing, written by Robin Lehman. Robin's articles really inspired me. Finally, I saw a way to and safely launch the larger models easily. I bought my first model from Sailplanes Unlimited. It was a 1/3.75 Roke ASK-18. I finished the model just in time to take it to the first Elmira Aerotow put on by John Derstine. I cannot remember having so much fun flying models as I did that weekend! The first flight was the least stressful test flight I have ever had. The "18" towed easily and thermalled like a dream. From that point on, all I could think about was scale sailplanes and aerotowing!</blockquote>
<blockquote>Since then I've flown at every Elmira aerotow, events all around the US and a few abroad as well. I visited the Wasserkuppe, in Germany, and flew at the Rodermark aerotow, as well as the Acro Cup aerobatic event. I have also slope soared in Switzerland at Hennenmoos pass. Scale sailplanes have become my passion!</blockquote>
<blockquote>I now have three scale ships and two tugs, as well as the trailer to haul all of it. I also host an annual aerotow event near St. Louis called Oc-Tow-Berfest. I know, a shameless plug!</blockquote>
<blockquote>As a scale columnist for the LiftZone, I plan to cover many scale sailplane and aerotowing related subjects. I'll also be reporting on events and hope to be able to answer your questions as well.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Well now that you know who I am. Let's start at stage one, deciding what to get.</blockquote>
<p><big>Here is what you need to know about getting started in scale radio controlled soaring.</p></big>
<blockquote>(<strong>Please note:</strong> Before we begin, I would like to point out that I do not recommend a scale sailplane model to anyone who has not flown or built a radio controlled model airplane before.)</blockquote>
<blockquote>Before you get your head in the clouds dreaming about that giant scale radio controlled sailplane you have always wanted to buy, there are a few decisions you will have to make.</blockquote>
<blockquote><strong>How big a model do you want?</strong></blockquote>
<blockquote>The bigger they that are, the better and more realistically they fly! This is the adage of almost all scale model aircraft. This is true for scale sailplanes as well. That is the bigger models appear to fly more slowly, replicating the performance of the full size original. The bigger scale models are more efficient aerodynamically, can be seen higher and further away, and can cover more ground increasing your chances of finding lift.</blockquote>
<blockquote>However, before you buy that 1/3 scale monster, you have to decide how you will get it airborne. The bigger the model, the harder it is to launch. If you are lucky, you may live near a suitable slope hill, or know someone in your area with a tow plane and a field where you can fly your plane. I had neither when I got into scale soaring, and only got to fly at out of town aerotow events. I drove all the way from St. Louis to places like Elmira, NY, Fayetteville, NC, and Pensacola, FL. All were 11 to 14 hour drives, just to get a tow! Nevertheless, scale models are so much fun to fly, it was well worth the drive.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If you don't have a slope or a buddy to tow your plane, and you want to fly more than at just big events, there are smaller models that can be easily launched with a "Hi Start" bungee or with a12 volt electric winch. Just keep in mind that the launch will not be as high as with a sport model, and that this type of launching can be more stressful to the airframe than aerotowing.</blockquote>
<blockquote>There are also motor gliders to consider, and self-launching models are available with retractable electric "up and go" type systems in many sizes.</blockquote>
<blockquote>A few other items to consider about size are where will you build and store the model, and how you will get it to the field. You may have to expand your shop or buy a van or trailer.</blockquote>
<blockquote><strong>What is your budget?</strong></blockquote>
<blockquote>Something else to consider about size is cost! Without exception the bigger the model is, the more expensive it will be. Whether you scratch build your plane or not, the bigger models require more materials to complete and finish. You may need larger more powerful servos, redundant battery systems along with the chargers to charge them, and options like retractable landing gear, a "telario" on board variometer, or a handmade "Axel" pilot to finish off the detailed interior.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If your budget is limited and you have the ability to build from scratch, there are many plans available to build from by Cliff Charlesworth, Chris Williams, and others. Many of these plans are in the four-meter range, and are models of fabric-covered originals. They are light and strong enough to launch with a winch and aerotow easily. There are few if any built up kits available that are reasonably priced. Flair of England, made a 1/4 scale ASK-8 kit that was very complete, but as of this writing I don't know if the model is still available in the US. Klaus Krick in Germany, makes a few smaller scale models from 1/6 scale up to 1/4 scale. These are also very nice kits with the largest being 3.5 meters wingspan. There are larger built up kits around, but I will talk about those later. If you have the equipment and know how to make your own foam wings, there are fiberglass fuselages available from Rosenthal and Viking Models of many different prototypes.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If you want to spend more, there are fiberglass and foam models available from Multiplex and Roedel in the four-meter range that can be winch launched, but are generally more suited to aerotowing or the slope. These manufacturers really send you kits too. Many glass and foam models come with no hardware, no instructions, or plans. You may even have to come up with wood for things like stern posts or spoiler caps. However, Roedel and Multiplex both supply kits with hardware, instructions, three views, and even scale markings. These kits may require you to install spoilers or wing tubes, as well as wheels.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If your pockets are deep, the sky is the limit! You can spend hundreds or even thousands on a basic kit or an all molded finished model.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If you like built up vintage models, you can get kits from CNC that have wood wings and fuselages. Models from both CNC and Rosenthal that feature a fiberglass fuselage with a built up fabric covered wing. However, for about the same price, Rosenthal and many other kit makers offer models with glass fuses and finished foam wings.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Some manufacturers like EMS sell aircraft that require only the installation of radio gear to fly the model. They come with retractable wheels installed, interior detailing, and functional scale canopies. EMS models look great and fly well, but are not cheap.</blockquote>
<blockquote>The cost of all these models is directly related to the level of prefabrication. It is clearly a matter of getting what you pay for!</blockquote>
<blockquote><strong>Are they hard to fly?</strong></blockquote>
<blockquote>Anyone who can fly a "full house" TD sport glider or has experience with slope models will be able to handle most scale models out there. Therefore, the answer is no, they are not hard to fly. There are few differences. If you like lazy flying, then a large, light vintage model is what you want. If you like things a little more exciting, then a glass slipper ship or an aerobatic glider model may suit your tastes.</blockquote>
<blockquote><strong>Where do I get one?</strong></blockquote>
<blockquote>Obviously, you don't find these models in the local hobby shop! Most kits are made in Europe. Many are made to order. You can order directly from Hans Muller, who makes a wide variety of scale and non-scale gliders. Gerhard Bruckmann also makes many different scale models, but be prepared to wait for an order from either. You can also order models from John Copeland in Australia. He makes great flying reasonably priced models as well. There are a few people importing models to North America from several manufacturers. EMM/John Derstine sells kits from EMS, Pribek, HKM, Roedel and CNC. Shredair also sells CNC and EMS kits. S&EM magazine sells Rosenthal fuselages and kits. You can also find kits from Multiplex USA, Hobby Lobby, Hobby Club, Diamond RC, and ICARE in Canada. (If I left anyone out please let me know!)</blockquote>
<blockquote>Well that is all for this month. I hope this information will be helpful in your decision as to what scale model you want to build. Future topics will include radio equipment and power requirements, tow planes and aerotowing, a few flying pointers for those transitioning from sport models, along with many other subjects. Until then, I wish you good flying and good lift!</blockquote>
<p><big>Scale Sailplane Photo Album</p></big>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/the_author.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/the_author_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">This is me posing in front of the eagle monument at the famed Wasserkuppe in west central Germany.</td>
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</table>
</div>
<br><br>
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<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/robin_lehman.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/robin_lehman_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
</tr>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Robin Lehman, who really got the scale aerotow scene rolling, readies his Roedel Fox aerobatic model for another tow in Fayetteville, North Carolina.</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<br><br>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/petes.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/petes_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Here is Pete's newest model, a 4.8 meter span, 1/3.75 scale Ventus 2c from EMS. The model is all molded and comes with all surfaces finished and hinged. All you need to do to get airborne is mount the radio gear.</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<br><br>
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<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/gerhard.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/gerhard_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Gerhard Bruckmann launches his 3rd scale Musger MG19 from the slopes of the Wasserkuppe in Germany</td>
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<br><br>
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<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/frank.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/frank_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Frank Oeste shows off his Bruckmann 1 to 2.2 scale Swift at the Rodermark Aerotow</td>
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<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/axel.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/axel_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Axel Pfanmueller, of "Axel's Scale Pilots" fame, poses
in front of his 1/3 scale KA6, with a self-portrait in the cockpit.</td>
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</table>
</div>
<br><br>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/art_frost.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/art_frost_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">This is Art Frost with his 12.5 pound, 202 inch wingspan Jantar 2. Art bought the fuselage from Viking Models and scratch built the flying surfaces himself. There will be more info on this model in a future column.</td>
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</table>
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<br><br>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/arnold.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/arnold_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">This is Arnold Hoffman's huge 1 to 2.2 scale scratchbuilt Mnimoa about to land at the Rodermark Aerotow</td>
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<br><br>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/the_authors.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/the_authors_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">The author's Ventus 2c. EMS models come with scale operating canopies and a nearly complete interior. Pete added a few control levers and instrument faces to complete the interior.</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>My name is Peter George. I will be co-writing the LiftZone's scale column with Tom Pack. Tom and I hope to cover all the bases on the subject of scale sailplanes and aerotowing.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I got into scale soaring as a result of aerotowing in 1996. I have hardly flown anything else since! Electric models and hand launch gliders, both of which I truly love, have gathered dust in my hanger.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I have wanted to build scale gliders ever since the first time I saw one fly. It was back in the mid 1980's when I was just getting into RC (radio control) sailplanes. I went to a fun fly and saw local modeler, Steve Hall, flying a scratch built Schweizer TG3. As I recall the model was about 120-inch span, which was the largest I had seen at the time. The TG3 seamed to float effortlessly around the sky, and flew more realistically than any scale model I had seen before. I knew I had to build a scale sailplane someday.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I had always planned to build scale models, as they have always been my passion. I built many scale plastic models as an adolescent, and transitioned to flying models in my teenage years. I flew rubber powered free flight and control line models. At the time, in the early 70's, radio gear for models was way out of my budget. Later in the 80's when radio gear become more affordable, I decided to try RC.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I began with gliders both because I was intrigued with powerless flight and because they where inexpensive, since all you needed was two or three servos. Little did I know what I was getting into, especially considering that my latest ship has 14 servos!</blockquote>
<blockquote>My first model was a two channel polyhedral glider. I then moved on to multi channel TD (thermal duration) ships and contest flying. The main activity of the local RC soaring clubs were TD contests, and the idea of flying scale sat by the wayside for several years.</blockquote>
<blockquote>By the early 90's, I was bored with TD contests, so I decided to try my hand at powered scale models, both electric and glow. I still thought about scale gliders, but my experience with many types of scale models led me to the conclusion that the bigger models flew much better and more realistically. That is to say, they flew closer to a scale speed. Moreover, is that not what scale models are about, realism in flight! I know it is for me. The only problem with the larger models was how to launch them.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Here in the St. Louis, Missouri area, there are no suitable slopes for big models, and winch launching them, although possible, was not a thought that excited me. Test flights are always scary with a new model, and test flying an expensive model on a winch sounded stressful to my heart and possibly to the airframe too. I have seen a scale model fold its wings on a winch.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Finally in the mid 90's, I started hearing about aerotowing, first from friends of mine in North Carolina, and then from articles about aerotowing, written by Robin Lehman. Robin's articles really inspired me. Finally, I saw a way to and safely launch the larger models easily. I bought my first model from Sailplanes Unlimited. It was a 1/3.75 Roke ASK-18. I finished the model just in time to take it to the first Elmira Aerotow put on by John Derstine. I cannot remember having so much fun flying models as I did that weekend! The first flight was the least stressful test flight I have ever had. The "18" towed easily and thermalled like a dream. From that point on, all I could think about was scale sailplanes and aerotowing!</blockquote>
<blockquote>Since then I've flown at every Elmira aerotow, events all around the US and a few abroad as well. I visited the Wasserkuppe, in Germany, and flew at the Rodermark aerotow, as well as the Acro Cup aerobatic event. I have also slope soared in Switzerland at Hennenmoos pass. Scale sailplanes have become my passion!</blockquote>
<blockquote>I now have three scale ships and two tugs, as well as the trailer to haul all of it. I also host an annual aerotow event near St. Louis called Oc-Tow-Berfest. I know, a shameless plug!</blockquote>
<blockquote>As a scale columnist for the LiftZone, I plan to cover many scale sailplane and aerotowing related subjects. I'll also be reporting on events and hope to be able to answer your questions as well.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Well now that you know who I am. Let's start at stage one, deciding what to get.</blockquote>
<p><big>Here is what you need to know about getting started in scale radio controlled soaring.</p></big>
<blockquote>(<strong>Please note:</strong> Before we begin, I would like to point out that I do not recommend a scale sailplane model to anyone who has not flown or built a radio controlled model airplane before.)</blockquote>
<blockquote>Before you get your head in the clouds dreaming about that giant scale radio controlled sailplane you have always wanted to buy, there are a few decisions you will have to make.</blockquote>
<blockquote><strong>How big a model do you want?</strong></blockquote>
<blockquote>The bigger they that are, the better and more realistically they fly! This is the adage of almost all scale model aircraft. This is true for scale sailplanes as well. That is the bigger models appear to fly more slowly, replicating the performance of the full size original. The bigger scale models are more efficient aerodynamically, can be seen higher and further away, and can cover more ground increasing your chances of finding lift.</blockquote>
<blockquote>However, before you buy that 1/3 scale monster, you have to decide how you will get it airborne. The bigger the model, the harder it is to launch. If you are lucky, you may live near a suitable slope hill, or know someone in your area with a tow plane and a field where you can fly your plane. I had neither when I got into scale soaring, and only got to fly at out of town aerotow events. I drove all the way from St. Louis to places like Elmira, NY, Fayetteville, NC, and Pensacola, FL. All were 11 to 14 hour drives, just to get a tow! Nevertheless, scale models are so much fun to fly, it was well worth the drive.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If you don't have a slope or a buddy to tow your plane, and you want to fly more than at just big events, there are smaller models that can be easily launched with a "Hi Start" bungee or with a12 volt electric winch. Just keep in mind that the launch will not be as high as with a sport model, and that this type of launching can be more stressful to the airframe than aerotowing.</blockquote>
<blockquote>There are also motor gliders to consider, and self-launching models are available with retractable electric "up and go" type systems in many sizes.</blockquote>
<blockquote>A few other items to consider about size are where will you build and store the model, and how you will get it to the field. You may have to expand your shop or buy a van or trailer.</blockquote>
<blockquote><strong>What is your budget?</strong></blockquote>
<blockquote>Something else to consider about size is cost! Without exception the bigger the model is, the more expensive it will be. Whether you scratch build your plane or not, the bigger models require more materials to complete and finish. You may need larger more powerful servos, redundant battery systems along with the chargers to charge them, and options like retractable landing gear, a "telario" on board variometer, or a handmade "Axel" pilot to finish off the detailed interior.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If your budget is limited and you have the ability to build from scratch, there are many plans available to build from by Cliff Charlesworth, Chris Williams, and others. Many of these plans are in the four-meter range, and are models of fabric-covered originals. They are light and strong enough to launch with a winch and aerotow easily. There are few if any built up kits available that are reasonably priced. Flair of England, made a 1/4 scale ASK-8 kit that was very complete, but as of this writing I don't know if the model is still available in the US. Klaus Krick in Germany, makes a few smaller scale models from 1/6 scale up to 1/4 scale. These are also very nice kits with the largest being 3.5 meters wingspan. There are larger built up kits around, but I will talk about those later. If you have the equipment and know how to make your own foam wings, there are fiberglass fuselages available from Rosenthal and Viking Models of many different prototypes.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If you want to spend more, there are fiberglass and foam models available from Multiplex and Roedel in the four-meter range that can be winch launched, but are generally more suited to aerotowing or the slope. These manufacturers really send you kits too. Many glass and foam models come with no hardware, no instructions, or plans. You may even have to come up with wood for things like stern posts or spoiler caps. However, Roedel and Multiplex both supply kits with hardware, instructions, three views, and even scale markings. These kits may require you to install spoilers or wing tubes, as well as wheels.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If your pockets are deep, the sky is the limit! You can spend hundreds or even thousands on a basic kit or an all molded finished model.</blockquote>
<blockquote>If you like built up vintage models, you can get kits from CNC that have wood wings and fuselages. Models from both CNC and Rosenthal that feature a fiberglass fuselage with a built up fabric covered wing. However, for about the same price, Rosenthal and many other kit makers offer models with glass fuses and finished foam wings.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Some manufacturers like EMS sell aircraft that require only the installation of radio gear to fly the model. They come with retractable wheels installed, interior detailing, and functional scale canopies. EMS models look great and fly well, but are not cheap.</blockquote>
<blockquote>The cost of all these models is directly related to the level of prefabrication. It is clearly a matter of getting what you pay for!</blockquote>
<blockquote><strong>Are they hard to fly?</strong></blockquote>
<blockquote>Anyone who can fly a "full house" TD sport glider or has experience with slope models will be able to handle most scale models out there. Therefore, the answer is no, they are not hard to fly. There are few differences. If you like lazy flying, then a large, light vintage model is what you want. If you like things a little more exciting, then a glass slipper ship or an aerobatic glider model may suit your tastes.</blockquote>
<blockquote><strong>Where do I get one?</strong></blockquote>
<blockquote>Obviously, you don't find these models in the local hobby shop! Most kits are made in Europe. Many are made to order. You can order directly from Hans Muller, who makes a wide variety of scale and non-scale gliders. Gerhard Bruckmann also makes many different scale models, but be prepared to wait for an order from either. You can also order models from John Copeland in Australia. He makes great flying reasonably priced models as well. There are a few people importing models to North America from several manufacturers. EMM/John Derstine sells kits from EMS, Pribek, HKM, Roedel and CNC. Shredair also sells CNC and EMS kits. S&EM magazine sells Rosenthal fuselages and kits. You can also find kits from Multiplex USA, Hobby Lobby, Hobby Club, Diamond RC, and ICARE in Canada. (If I left anyone out please let me know!)</blockquote>
<blockquote>Well that is all for this month. I hope this information will be helpful in your decision as to what scale model you want to build. Future topics will include radio equipment and power requirements, tow planes and aerotowing, a few flying pointers for those transitioning from sport models, along with many other subjects. Until then, I wish you good flying and good lift!</blockquote>
<p><big>Scale Sailplane Photo Album</p></big>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/the_author.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/the_author_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
</tr>
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<td width="100%" align="center">This is me posing in front of the eagle monument at the famed Wasserkuppe in west central Germany.</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<br><br>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/robin_lehman.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/robin_lehman_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">Robin Lehman, who really got the scale aerotow scene rolling, readies his Roedel Fox aerobatic model for another tow in Fayetteville, North Carolina.</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<br><br>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/petes.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/petes_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
</tr>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Here is Pete's newest model, a 4.8 meter span, 1/3.75 scale Ventus 2c from EMS. The model is all molded and comes with all surfaces finished and hinged. All you need to do to get airborne is mount the radio gear.</td>
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/gerhard.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/gerhard_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Gerhard Bruckmann launches his 3rd scale Musger MG19 from the slopes of the Wasserkuppe in Germany</td>
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/frank.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/frank_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Frank Oeste shows off his Bruckmann 1 to 2.2 scale Swift at the Rodermark Aerotow</td>
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/axel.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/axel_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">Axel Pfanmueller, of "Axel's Scale Pilots" fame, poses
in front of his 1/3 scale KA6, with a self-portrait in the cockpit.</td>
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/art_frost.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/art_frost_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">This is Art Frost with his 12.5 pound, 202 inch wingspan Jantar 2. Art bought the fuselage from Viking Models and scratch built the flying surfaces himself. There will be more info on this model in a future column.</td>
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/arnold.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/arnold_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">This is Arnold Hoffman's huge 1 to 2.2 scale scratchbuilt Mnimoa about to land at the Rodermark Aerotow</td>
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<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/the_authors.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/sep/scale/the_authors_t.jpg" border="2"></a></td>
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<td width="100%" align="center">The author's Ventus 2c. EMS models come with scale operating canopies and a nearly complete interior. Pete added a few control levers and instrument faces to complete the interior.</td>
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