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Slopesoaring Models
Most models now are ARTF or Almost ready to fly. This makes them cheap and quick to ghet going but they are not all as good as they seem. FIrstly you cannot get as much enjoyment out of them as you have not got the satisfaction of building something and watching it fly. Secondly if an ARTF has a crash then they are harder to repair. If you are looking to buy a model I would buy a kit.
KITS
When building models the best place to build them is in a shed or Garage. Preferably somewhere with a workbench. You should lay the workbench with corkboard or a soft wood to put pins into and place you plan flat. Then you can put your wood over the plan and pin it down. You need a covering iron when covering. An ordinary one would do but a specialized one is best. Finally when the model is complete you should not just launch it but test it before hand with practice glides.
West Wings Orion/Orion-E
The Orion models are an excellent choice for a beginner modeller. The wing is made from balsa which you must construct yourself and the fuselage is basla as well. There are few plywood parts only in the stong joins. The model has a wingspan of 59.5" which is ideal for Slopesoaring. The Orion-E version needs a high power motor which powers the glider to great heights and then it can glide down. The model also needs micro servos which can be bought from a local supplier such as Steve Webb Models in Frodsham, Cheshire or Woodheys Models, Sale Cheshire. Both shops have a large stock of items needed for the model. To see this model in action go to the Gallery.
Crusader Kits, Swift
This model is excellent for ameteurs.People who already know alot about flying but who are not Professional. The model is made mainly from balsa but there is little ply. It is relativly easy to build bet care is needed when covering with Solarfilm. The model uses regular servos and has only 2 channels. The lack of power is compromised by its light-weight and durability. The model has a wingspan of 72". This is ideal for slope soaring.
ARTFs
ARTFs or Almost Ready To Fly aircraft are not the best chice to make. They are good. FUn to fly and you know that they work. Therte are many good advantages and bad ones but there are good to fly.Most ARTFs come pre-built and it takes just a few hours to get it ready.
Green Sleeve 2000 Electric Glider
This model is a very good design. It is streamlined in shape and has a durable shell. The box does not include the R/C but a 4 channel one is reccomended. The model is prefitted with servos and a motor. Wingspan is 79" and the covering is white with transparent green over the ribs. At £76.55 you can buy this from Als Hobbies.Irvine Early Bird
The Early Bird is excellent for beginners. It is pre-built with a moulded fuselage and covering and can be bought cheaply from Slough Radio Control ModelsThunder Tiger Hawk
The Hawk comes with a 380ph motor which can propel you model far. This model is a good slope soarer although it can be used in parks or meadows. The model is pre-built and has a prop at the front. Yopu can buy one from Antics online store.