Scott Anderson's Me-262 Swallow

Scott brought a 20 inch span scale Me-262 Swallow acquired from Horizon Hobbies.

The UMX  Me 262 is an EDF jet supplied as a Spektrum “Bind and Fly” and has a AS3X gyro stabilization.  The wingspan is a massive 21” with a total flight weight of 275g (9.8 ounces).

Power for the two mighty 30mm diameter fans comes from a 3S-600 to 850 mAh 30C flight battery.

Scott says this small model is a nice change of pace from his ¼ scale and 1/3rd scale models.

It has been flown off the runways at the Jordan TCRC Model Air Park.  Performs smooth takeoffs/landings and touch and goes.

Scott says he gets about six(6) minutes off a 600mAh battery.  So far, this model has about 6-8 flights off of smooth runways.  Scott plans to remove the gear and hand-launch it for winter flying!

David P. Andersen’s New Book!

Dave Andersen introduced his latest book on RC model building techniques with a focus on Giant Scale Aircraft.

The content is a compilation of previously written David P. Anderson building lessons with new sections on the prototype building of the Andersen Designs ¼ Scale Hawker Hurricane by Jeff Quesenberry, Roy Maynard, and Chuck Hamilton.

The book is published by and distributed through Amazon.  Scott purchased a hardcopy version and received it within a week of order.

PLANES GONE BY Pres. by Karl and Brook Hansen

Karl & Brook Hansen came down from northern Minnesota to share their latest updates to the Planes Gone By, LLC Model Business.  They are operating this family owned business to provide laser cut kits that were favorites for decades, but are no longer in production.

Recently Brook purchased the ShyShark Brand of kits and is updating the laser cut files to be able to produce them as well. They are starting with the 1/9th scale TBM Avenger & the F6F Hellcat kits that are expected to be available in January 2025.  All of the molded and fiberglass parts are made in Minnesota.

One unexpected challenge has been ROBART Retracts closing their doors.  There has been a scramble to validate alternate suppliers for the 1/9th scale warbirds as well as the larger Giant Scale designs.

Karl suggests that you can source the retracts as a direct fit from Sierra Retracts. Also, HighViz Hobby has purchased the former Robart line and is hoping to start production back up in 2025.  If you want to modify the mounts, Pheonix Models sells a rather nice set of 50cc-60cc gear (electric) for a good price.  Check out their website under retracts sets.