'Tis the season

Model Airplane News, Dec 2002 by Sharp, Debra

EDITORIAL

This has been a banner year for RC modeling; we've seen an avalanche of new products-from prebuilt, giant-scale aerobats and turbine-powered trainers to easyto-assemble backyard flyers and more! The only problem with having so many great choices is how to figure out which models to buy next, so to help you fill out your holiday "wish list," we've come up with 25 dream gifts that would even bring a smile to Ebeneezer Scrooge's face! Turn to page 26 to see what the editors have chosen as the hottest end-of-year gifts.

While you're in the holiday spirit, why not choose a gift for yourself from our "Hot Field Accessories" guide? From chargers to carrying cases and glow igniters, these gadgets will make your flying time more successful and enjoyable.

EUROPEAN JET SCENE

This month, foreign correspondent and scale columnist Dick van Mourik reports on one of the biggest jet modeling events in Europe, "Jets over Pampa." This annual Belgian meet draws more than 100 pilots and some of the best scale models in Europe, including F-15s, DC-lOs and BAC Strikemasters. For an inside look at the latest international jet models, read Dick's article starting on page 34; for even more jet photos from Pampa, see our "Click Trip."

ON THE WORKBENCH

Saving weight is one of the most important aims when you build an electric model, but few lightweight, scale spinners are available. In this issue, electrics designer and contributor Mark Rittinger shares how he makes vacuum-formed spinners for his scale models. As Mark notes, "You'll be surprised at what you can create with some sheet plastic, plywood and a little practice!"

If you're looking for a bigger project, check out John Simmance's Solaris biplane. This traditionally built, IMAA-legal model features beautifully detailed CAD plans and is ideally suited to a .90 to 1.20-size 4-stroke. Complete building instructions are online in a "Click Trip," and laser-cut parts are also available (see page 90 for details).

MICRO SCOUT

Do you think a Bristol Scout that weighs less than 1 ounce and can be flown in your workshop is fiction? Don't tell that to Matt Keennon, an AeroVironment engineer who has a passion for designing and building micro RC. To see his miniature model up close, flip to this month's "Final Approach" on page 178.