One of the main reasons I got into this hobby is to scratch build airplanes. The one I plan to start soon is the Pitts Model-14 as seen in the July 06 "Model Airplane News" mag. I plan to double the size and convert it from electric to glow. I'm interested in any thoughts and suggestions from other builders. At present I'm a day or two away from ordering the plans. I'm not going to use the short kit. I want this to be totaly from scratch. From what I've read so far I may have to break down and buy the cowling and canopy. Will have to wait and see when the plans arrive. Anyone else building one or have built one of these? If so, how'd the build go? Any pointers or tips? Does the plane fly as good as it looks? I suppose I could put all this in one of the regular forums but as you can see, I am subject to being long winded and thought I'd post it here. I'm anxious to get started but I don't care how long it takes to build. I won't rush it. To me, building is at least 60% of the enjoyment. I really enjoy working with my hands. I'll keep a build log posted and will attach photos if I can get my camera to cooperate with the computer. All replys are not only welcome but encouraged.
More later.

the wiz

hi all,
well, now i'm the proud owner of a new to me, used 4" mini table saw purchased from ebay. can't wait till it gets here.

here's a tip for those of you who like me have limited work space and budget. when you find yourself in need of a disc sander or drum sander try this. put your 1/2 in drill in your bench vise (be carefull not to over tighten the vise). get a sanding pad designed to be used by a drill. chuck it up apply sandpaper, lock the trigger down and instant disc sander. drum sanders are also available at your local hardware store. anyone with tips such as these please add to the blog. till next time.

happy landings

1st: welcome one and all to what i hope will become a source for information for builders and flyers of all skill levels. i spend a great deal of time at the computer both for business and pleasure, some days more than others but i'll try to keep this blog as current as possible.

2nd: i'm a firm believer in free speech so by all means say anything you want to say but please "no flameing". i know i'm not the only comic out there and can't resist the urge to take advantage of a good set up so have some fun. let go the humorus of your nature. got a joke? post it but please take your neighbors feelings into consideration.

3rd: the smartest man,,,or woman in the world doesn't know everything. they know where to look it up. if you have a question about building, flying, micro aircraft to large scale models, ask it here i'll try to find the answer for you and all i have time for. i promise to give an honest effort and answer and credit to whom credit is due.

4th: share you knowledge. don't wait for a question to be asked. show off a bit. share tips and tricks covering the full range of building and flying. help me make this blog as interesting, informative and entertaining as possible.

now,,, to start it off. "the wiz" is a nickname i got not because of my expertise at building aircraft but because of what i can do in a production studio. it just kinda stuck.

i'm currently building a hanger 9 j3 piper cub. i love the look of it. i fly it a lot (...Continue Reading