Almost ready to fly: Warbird guide

Model Airplane News, Sep 2001

Don't rush; take your time, and if you can't figure something out, ask an experienced builder for help. It's easier to do it right the first time than to correct a mistake later on.

Do use the correct tools. Use the proper screwdriver for the job. If you have to tighten a nut, use a wrench of the correct size-not pliers that can slip and damage the part. Use sharp hobby knives (always dispose of dull blades safely).

Don't forget that this is supposed to be fun! If you get frustrated, stop what you're doing and take a break! Get a cup of Joe or head for the USO club and relax awhile. Don't take shortcuts when building any airplane.

Do find a wingman! It's always more fun to fly with a friend. Remember that the best part of being an RC fighter pilot is chatting with the other pilots about how well you can fly your warbird.

World Miniature Warbird Association

So you have a brand-new, shoot-'em-up warbird and you're tired of dogfighting with all the local Ugly Stiks and other slow-moving targets. What are you to do? Well, you can go to an all-warbird fly-in and check out what the other military-minded modelers are up to. Attending such events is a great way to make friends and further enjoy your warbird.

The World Miniature Warbird Association (WMWA) is dedicated to building and flying RC models of the world's combat and defense aircraft. There isn't any size restriction, and all military aircraft models are welcome.

Each year, the WMWA holds the Scale Warbird Classic Fly for its members. This year, they met at Crosswind Acres Airport, Drums, PA. The organization has about 60 wings across the U.S. and abroad. To find out whether there's a wing near you, check out the WMWA site at www.aero-sports.com/warbirds, or contact Dino DiGiorgio, P.O. Box 175, Succasunna, NJ 07876; (973) 584-6096; DinoD999@aol.com.

Let's go racing

Warbirds can be used for racing, too. The Scale Warbird Racing Association (SWRA)-an AMA group-is dedicated to those who enjoy the competition of unlimited "Reno" racers. its members are interested in developing and improving scale warbird racing. The group organizes pylon racing for sport-scale RC models of reciprocating-engine military and unlimited racing aircraft.

SW RA racecourses are designed to be suitable for most RC fields; the models fly counterclockwise around two pylons in front of the pilots and parallel with the runway. A variety of classes allows newcomers and experts to compete at their particular level of skill.

Basic rules

Eligible aircraft: scale models of heavier-than-air, military fixedwing, piloted aircraft that were in production after January 1, 1937, and non-military aircraft that have raced in the Unlimited class at the Reno or Mojave Air Races.

Minimum displacements

-single-engine aircraft: 30ci for 2-strokes; :40ci for 4-strokes.

-multi-engine aircraft: minimum combined displacements: .50 (2-stroke); .80 (4-stroke).

Maximum displacements

--single-engine: 1.20 (2-stroke); 2.40 (4-stroke).

-combined multi-engine displacements: 1.80 (2-strokes); 3.60 (4-strokes),