best scale ARFs: We fly'em before you buy'em!, The

Model Airplane News, Sep 2002

Editors'

In the course of reviewing the dozens of new models that come out every year, we frequently remark how far ARF technology has come in just a few years. That got us to thinking: if we had to pick our favorite scale ARFs, which planes would we pick? What started as an around-the-watercooler conversation quickly developed into an idea for this feature story. We sat down, talked it over and started to compile a list.

Unlike in many previous comparisons, we intentionally have not limited the models to a particular style, size, or price. Nor have we limited ourselves to new models; we wanted to see how the tried-and-true designs stacked up against the cutting edge in ARF development. We laid down only three rules: to qualify for consideration, a model had to be reasonably true to scale; it must have been reviewed in Model Airplane News (we wanted to have enough experience with the plane so we'd be able to give it a fully informed endorsement); and last, it must have been in production at presstime (after all, it would be cruel for us to wax poetic about a model you can no longer buy!).

Then we whittled away until we had what you see here-a list of what we think are the best ARFs on the market, bar none. We focus on the highlights that make each stick out in our minds; for detailed specs and building tips, check out the reviews of the individual planes. We rate the planes in the categories that we feel are most important to scale ARF pilots, concentrating on aspects of scale realism, quality and flight performance. To level the playing field, we devised a "value" rating that encompasses the other scores and takes purchase price into account (see the "Report Card" on page 32). If you have been considering a scale ARF for your next project, this is a great place to start looking. If you haven't, see whether the next few pages will help you change your mind.

MRC/ALTECH

EZ P-51D

PRICE: $360

WINGSPAN: 54.7 in.

ENGINE: .40 to .70ci

HIGHS

> Spectacular covering detail.

> Excellent flight performance.

> Very complete package.

LOWS

> Instructions are a bit rough.

VERDICT

The benchmark for scale covering detail has quality and performance to match.

FROM THE PILOT'S LOG

What grabbed my attention most about MRC's Mustang is the covering. We've remarked about the EZ line's innovative laminated Mylar-over-foam covering in previous issues, but this plane takes it to a new level. The brushed-aluminum finish, with its ultra-realistic weathering, rivets, warning labels and so on, is just amazing for a mass-produced model. The beauty isn't just skin-deep, either, underneath is a well-crafted P-51 that gives you a lot for the money (including retracts). -Matt Boyd

GIANTSCALEPLANES.COM

STAUDACHER GS 300

PRICE: $599

WINGSPAN: 90 in.

ENGINE: 3.7 to 4.2ci

HIGHS

> Superior flight characteristics.

> Easy to set up plug-in wings.

> Smooth, flawless covering.

LOWS

> Instructions are sparse.

VERDICT

Unlimited fun from this unlimited aerobatic giant.

FROM THE PILOTS LOG

When it comes to giant-scale aerobatics, the red, white and black Staudacher GS 300 from Giantscaleplanes.com is a 90inch showstopper. The GS 300 was introduced in an almost-ready-to-cover version, but it is now available as an ARF and is one of several giant-scale aerobats available from this company. Professionally hand-crafted of balsa, foam and plywood, the Staudacher is strong where it needs to be and has a modest wing loading for its size. For sport aerobatics or full-blown 3D maneuvers, the GS 300 delivers. -Gerry Yarrish

GREAT PLANES

PIPER J-3 CUB

PRICE: $190 (without floats), $45 (float kit)

WINGSPAN: 81 in.

ENGINE .40 to .70ci

HIGHS

> Unflappable, scale Cub flight manners.

> Lots of plane for the money.

> Completeness of kit and available floats.

Lows

> Strut hinges are weak.

VERDICT

This Cub looks good and handles great on land or sea and in the air.

FROM THE PILOT'S LOG

A Cub is like a worn old pair of slippers; it isn't flashy, but you'd be hardpressed to find a more comfortable design. And when you model a plane that's as universally recognized and revered as the J-3 Cub, you'd better get it right. Great Planes did, and that is why it made our favorites list Everyone is impressed with the fabric covering, and I really like all the goodies that come with the kit-not to mention the optional floats, which were specifically designed for it. -Jaime Lagor

YELLOW AIRCRAFT

SUKHOI SU-31M

PRICE: $398

WINGSPAN: 72.5 in.

ENGINE: 1.20 to 1.SOci

HIGHS

> Top-grade materials and construction.

> Ries like a Sukhoi.

> Authentic Sukhoi looks.

LOWS

> Large cowl requires more mounts than are supplied.

VERDICT

If quirky looks and ultra-performance are your thing, you can't do better than this.

FROM THE PILOT'S LOG

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and when you behold the Yellow Aircraft Sukhoi whirling and spinning through unlimited aerobatic maneuvers, you'll never again disparage it for its "distinctive" style. Personally, I like its "anti-cool" character, and no one can knock its quality or its performance. -Matt Boyd

ARIZONA MODEL AIRCRAFTERS

FOKKER DR. 1

PRICE: $425