Balsa USA 1/6 Scale Sopwith Pup by Larry Kruse

Larry Kruse built this 1/6th scale "Sopwith Pup" from the Balsa USA kit.  Larry says it was a very rewarding build from a kit with excellent wood, precise die-cutting, and clearly illustrated instructions.  The "Pup" is powered by a Saito .56 four-stroke engine and has a Futaba FASST 6 EX 2.4 GHz radio installed for guidance.  It also has a RAM machine gun sound system actuated by a micro-servo and switch.  The model is covered with Solartex Antique and Olive Drab.  Insignia and markings are from Callie Graphics and the pilot figure is from the English firm, Pete’s Pilots.  By careful positioning of the servos, batteries, and tank, the model balanced on the recommended c.g. with no additional weight.

Motor Moth by Truman Cross

Truman Cross has been busy with a small scratchbuilt freeflight model. This model started out as a free­flight canard which flew but not well, so Truman reversed the wing and stabilizer that yielded better results. When the plane was properly configured and flew well he glued all in place except the wing so it could be adjusted for trimming. The motor is a Power Up, originally for paper airplanes, and is powered by a capacitor. The fuselage is 15 inches, and the span 12 inches. Camber for the wing comes from 1⁄16 ribs at the tip joints. The angle of the tips and the rib profiles are matters of experimentation. Airframe weight is four grams and the motor/capacitor unit is 7.5 grams. A saddle for the motor mount allows it to be adjusted as well. The model shown here went OOS and Truman has nearly lost two more.

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