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Why do you build and or scratch build?

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Why do you build and or scratch build?

Old 11-22-2012, 12:16 AM
  #51  
guamflyer
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

OMG....I thought I was the only one...I more than once/always spend every waking moment designing the plane....my boss says it's my porn..building and flying...We are related somehow...

SLOPE FAST - SOAR DEEP

guamflyer
Old 11-22-2012, 12:18 AM
  #52  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

This thread did produce the desired effect.
"Because I can" is a great answer. Simple, succinct and unprovocative and to the point. Just the facts ma'am....

I am old enough to know
1) when I am being baited, and
2) to know modeling when you had to build to fly.
NOALTERNATIVEEXISTED NOTEVENFORTHEFILTHYRICH1% JERKS.

I bought one RTF a Hobbico/Cox Cessna with a Sanwa radio in 1980. That is where R/C started for me.
C/L? as a kid Cox and Wen-Mac but I didn't keep flying.
That foamie was marginal so I built a Drifter 2. Then I learned to fly taking a halt in 1992.

I had built the normal Comet/Guillows kits for 1/2A C/L and I never considered another RTF or ARF plane. After I built that Drifter building was the only way.
When I returned toRC in 2008 somebody kidnapped all the kit makers. SoI had to scratch build.

That is why I scratch build - the kits are gone now. As well as a huge choice of subjects I can use to stretch the envelop both my engineering and stick skill. As a friend says a rock with an engine on it will fly, he was talking about the RTF stuff that teaches little to nothing without more effort than expending money.

Before this age in youth based instant gratification as a demand I scratch built back in the 1980s when no one kitted a plane I wanted or in the appropriate size for an engine I had.Seeking a new challenge when RC sport was getting stale.

That is how my first scratch built RC aircraft came about, A Zero to suit an OS 20 I had. And I'll be d*mned, it, flew right of the board! I had to modify the cowl but other than that I was very pleased.

This is too great a hobby to ever expect this Gyrene to tolerate anyone talking stupid about something that could harm my avocation without saying something here and face to face.

Semper Fi

Old 11-22-2012, 01:16 AM
  #53  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?


airboss45
God Bless You BROTHER!!!!
Sounds like we walked similar trails at different times. Man My Heart goes out to all fellow vets.The country will soon forget but the Vets won't.

I had some so called "readjustment issues" too in the 1970s. I too found a large part of recovering my internal peace came of modeling aircraft.As therapy indeed. Trying to reopen a comm link to my Maker helped too. Only by Grace brother.

Physically except for a busted up left knee the damage was not demonstrable to the VA. They four times have peed down my neck and told me it was raining.A common experience to most Vets of my era. I resent that.Why?Because less than my best effort was chargable in the UCMJ but VA has never shown me anything close to a best effort. Save your parades and showplace Gong shows. I don't need it.

Vets know the value of Liberty because they paid a price for it, those that never defended freedom can only think they know what liberty is. And they forget it was earned and preserved by others for their sake.

Just for me, I had thought I could come home and return to being who I was. He never came home and it took me a long time to see that fact.

The whole experience cost me my first love for my Government and I still have a reservior of hurt from being abused by civilians,Americans whenI came home.
I resent the fact that the media and the politicians placed the "blame" for their own mistakes and lies on the Vets.

It was a full decade before I could put my discharge on my wall. I was never ashamed of srvice rendered but tired of pukes looking down on me for an honorale service rendered whenI could easily have gone toCanada. I was really REALLY angry when the Beltway Jerks were pardoning the non-hackers for desertion and evasion in 1976. My Brothers and Sisters were done wrong in that.

I knew I was on the road to recovery in 1993 when in a class at PU (Purdue) a young fool said to me and the class "Anyone that went to Vietnam got what they deserved!" and I did not automatically whup his a** right then and there - damn the consequences. I excused myself and went to pee, smoked a cigarette and settled myself and returned to the class calm. Just another dumb ignorant yuppie to be sure. Undeserving of my best effort and the a** whupping would have done no good.
It was an eye opening thing revealing progress in "normal" behavior. I just saw you can't fix stupid and ignorant.

I was and am a bunch resentful of ignorant citizenry potificating on things they know NOTHINGabout. The TV never ever told the tale in truth.

I ramble on.

I guess one can never really "recover" from living intimately with mayhem as a mode of operation. But we learn to do the things we must and I hope to listen to the voice of what Lincoln called the better angels of our nature.

Overall I know I am a better human being for reopening the freq to God. I know I am a better human being for having been in the USMC. Why? To really be man of peace, one must have been a man of war.

I would hide any of my people if a draft ever becomes real again. Unless it was a real war for survival and if the Sons of wealth were drafted FIRST. The Fortunate Sons go first.
Or to put it in the phrase of that long ago day: "I'll be right behind ya Lt."LOL
142088
4677
Jim
PS I almost forgot one of my favorite sayings: God loves a grunt.
Old 11-22-2012, 02:01 AM
  #54  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Well, today is thanksgiving. the Game is on tonite. so for now i need to start eating. lets see here. how-about-a cup of early morning tea and muffin covered with "balsa dust". YUM! will work more on that fuse today. i have a small Cessna 150 [pilot kit] from way back on the boards. it's a surprise build for my 30 year old son. he soloed in a 150 many years ago call sign [N11393]. he now fly's left seat for United. i may go electric power. if i can figure out how to downsize pictures, i will post them asap. don
Old 11-22-2012, 06:33 AM
  #55  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Just let me say that I too miss having the choice of building from all those available kits so long ago now.... I scratch build today and for many years now because it is the greatest pastime I have ever found. I always design and see my way through the end before I ever pick up that first stick, but I do it in my head, I mean I don't generate drawings; once I visualize things in my mind I just start building on the board until the finish and the first flight, I eat, drink, and sleep with it on my mind until it's finished and the maiden flight is over. After that I am not all that attached anymore, I am ready to move on to the next prototype with the same drive as the last one. I guess its the chase that drives me, not really sure. For the last decade or so my primary focus has been developing the lightest giant scale airframes on the planet and spending thousands of hours posting pictures and construction and design information associated with these hyper light airframes. Anyway, it is what I love to do... You all have a great Thanksgiving Day!

Bob
Old 11-22-2012, 08:10 AM
  #56  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

I am lucky enough right now to have a very good shop space. It is a very large garage I rent seperate from where I live. Many times I am too tired to get over there after working all day, but i get there anyway usually. Once I walk in the door, a calmness an happiness flows through me. Always so glad I "made it" to the shop.

My favorite thing to do is listen to my internet radio and frame up an aircraft. Carving, sanding and shaping is my favorite part of a build. I have a lifetime of projects lined up as well. All of this stuff seems to be what keeps me sane.

The thing about flying, I love it too, but it can be a bit nerve racking sometimes. Especially with the large complicated models that take so long to build.


Interesting about the Dick Sarpolous designs. You can see the CL influence in his work. Light weight, straight forward, and great flyers. This is a pic of his Mig 3. Plans from AMA mag. It is on its 3rd paint scheme now. Amazingly good flyer. This was the white and red plane landing in my previous post.
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Old 11-22-2012, 08:16 AM
  #57  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

142088

Thank you for your service and as a veteran myself I looked up to you vietnam vets as my heros as I was growing up. Today during the holidays I spend time at the local Vet hospital and love talking to the old timers. They have some great stories and best of all they enjoy the time you spend with them. Anyways Happy Thanksgiving to all you modellers out there and here's some pics of my lil scratch build project
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Old 11-22-2012, 08:20 AM
  #58  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

I enjoy building as much as flying. I started at a time when r/c kits were rare and expensive. To this day, I build my own cars, guns, computers, homes, whatever I can. As far as ARFs go, I guess if there is a market for them, so be it, but they are not for me. Mostly I build from plans, this is the cheapest way I know, and the most satisfying. 142088, THANK YOU for your service to our country. I can only imagaine the frustration of dealing with young know-it-alls who make stupid comments like you described. Maybe a comeback like ...son, your ignorance is showing. You might wanna close your mouth now...
Old 11-22-2012, 12:28 PM
  #59  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

I can't say much more than has already been said but cannot resist commenting.

Since something like 1947 I have been into modeling when balsa was as rare as hens teeth. and cardboard was used to make formers and used bambo stringers. Kits did not fly at all! My dad was my mentor he built fantastic models.
I have several arfs and some are exceptional flyers though the generally all look the same. none the less I hope they last for a while longer I need the parts.

but nothing I know gives me more satisfaction than scratch building. WHY? damnifIno, damnifIcare! Building to my own specifications cannot be defined it is what I do!!! OH yea The ooooh aaaaah factor at the field kinda helps.

I have flown just a few times in the past four or five years but not a day go's by without building on my mind. The pics are to show I am not blowing smoke./
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Old 11-22-2012, 04:11 PM
  #60  
NoOneFlysAtMyClub
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Here are three more.

The delta is a modified Lanier Shrike. Airfoil thinned to 8%, wingspan shortened by one rib bay,
fully sheeted, carbon tube spars, new fin shape, Tettra tank, glassed and painted. Paint is left
over from a Harley Screaming Eagle trike conversion I did for a customer. Looks wild in the sun.
Had a Jett .40 on it. Will soon have a TT .46 with Jett tuned muffler.

F-18 is a Juno (old Direct Connection) kit. Power is a Super Tigre .90. Still not
done with trim. I have to create it one piece at a time.

The Hots is from the pull out plans that came in Model Airplane News about ten years ago.
The whole plane was built using wood from my scrap wood box. The covering is also from left overs,
as is the landing gear. The radio equipment was all stuff I had on hand. The only thing I had to
purchase was the fuel tank.
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Old 11-22-2012, 06:30 PM
  #61  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?


ORIGINAL: 142088

Preface: bla, bla, bla......
I wish I had those 2 minutes of my life back.

Kurt
Old 11-22-2012, 07:23 PM
  #62  
ARUP
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Can't get this from china! Some may opine the reason. I just think it's cool!
Old 11-22-2012, 07:46 PM
  #63  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?


ORIGINAL: ARUP

Can't get this from china! Some may opine the reason. I just think it's cool!
Very cool!!!

Bob
Old 11-23-2012, 11:22 AM
  #64  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Want more than a belly button ( every body has one) airplane.
Old 11-23-2012, 02:27 PM
  #65  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Those are some of the most awesome paint jobs I have seen in a long time. Your Juno rc F-18 makes me regret selling my kit last January.
What spinner is on the F-18? What type of paint? How did you mask the diamonds in front of the canopy?

I'm looking for a 2" diameter which is just as sharp looking.
Jim
ORIGINAL: NoOneFlysAtMyClub

Here are three more.

The delta is a modified Lanier Shrike. Airfoil thinned to 8%, wingspan shortened by one rib bay,
fully sheeted, carbon tube spars, new fin shape, Tettra tank, glassed and painted. Paint is left
over from a Harley Screaming Eagle trike conversion I did for a customer. Looks wild in the sun.
Had a Jett .40 on it. Will soon have a TT .46 with Jett tuned muffler.

F-18 is a Juno (old Direct Connection) kit. Power is a Super Tigre .90. Still not
done with trim. I have to create it one piece at a time.

The Hots is from the pull out plans that came in Model Airplane News about ten years ago.
The whole plane was built using wood from my scrap wood box. The covering is also from left overs,
as is the landing gear. The radio equipment was all stuff I had on hand. The only thing I had to
purchase was the fuel tank.
Old 11-23-2012, 09:20 PM
  #66  
NoOneFlysAtMyClub
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Jim,

The F-18 is covered in Dull Monokote Gray. The red is Monokote too.
The spinner is a Tru-Turn Ultimate. It is painted with Sherwin-Williams industrial primer, the clear coated with
urethane flat clear. Pretty close to the Monokote. The diamonds, both red and white, are cut fro Monokote,
one diamond at a time. Very tedious. The rest of the trim is very detailed and will take some time to cut.

We had a house built and will be moving in this week. Honey do list should take a couple of weeks to
finish, then I can get back to modeling.

Tony
Old 11-23-2012, 09:41 PM
  #67  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Iwouldn't have guessed it as a monokote finish. I can't see a seam anywhere onthe finish.Nice trim job around the canopy, it really does look painted.

Jim
Old 11-23-2012, 09:50 PM
  #68  
NoOneFlysAtMyClub
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Thanks very much!!!
Old 11-25-2012, 07:42 PM
  #69  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

I do it because i dont like being one with the crowd. Everything i build, i build because i like it. And i like ODD, not commonly seen airplanes. The other reasons is bc im to cheap to pay top dollar for chinese stuff, and bc there aret any arfs that i like that are good enough to withstand my scrutiny.
Old 01-20-2013, 08:46 PM
  #70  
Roger Gray
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Well I can't stand it, I love scratch building also. I do use plans and any of the methods used by almost everyone found within these pages. I'm 66 years old and got into scratch building after a couple of arfs and the one kit build. Back when I was in my last years of high school, I flew 1/2 A control line Firebabys with my school buddies, we had our own club and didn't know it. I got them to bring their push mowers to my house and we would mow the acre lot next door then we had a flying field! All of had the same Flybabys. Fun days. Later in my early 20's and newly married I built a Nobler kit control liner plane and never flew it , our first baby clamed all my timeat work and any spare funds weren't used for hobbies. I gave it to a kid down the street when we made our first move. Many years later, came my retirement and a lot of time and a little money. A move to the country , close to a lake I love to fish, gave me something to do, I thought. One evening setting on the back porch I heard and old familure sound-the scream of a 2cycle nitro engine about a quarter mile away. I turned to my wife and said "I'll be back later". My life took a marvelous turn that afternoon. I'm back into modeling and love it. I love spending time on my planes one at a time, building to completion. I am amazed everytime someone ask how many hours I spend building a certan plane-I usually say "you mean days don't you" and they often get the gest of what I mean. I BELIEVE THE TIME SPENT IS THE JOY OF BUILDING FOR ME. I DON'T HAVE ANYTHING ELSE TO DO. It keeps me busy, sharpens my mind, and gives me great satisfaction! I have started to build Sea and float planes that I fly off my lake. Those fun days are back!
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Old 01-29-2013, 05:10 AM
  #71  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

I liked building what wasn't available. Plus, the models I had interest in weren't in kits.

They still aren't!

And yes, you like having something really different.

Charles
Old 01-30-2013, 04:15 PM
  #72  
Roger Gray
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

Charles would you give me the email address for your graphics business? Roger Gray
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Old 02-07-2013, 05:51 AM
  #73  
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Default RE: Why do you build and or scratch build?

there are a couple of reasons why I would rather scratch build than go the ARF route,
As I own a few ARF's, I have found their quality is a bit suspect. And it is safe no matter which ARF you decide to buy, 99% of them are assembled at the same place, probably by people who get paid 20c an hour and are not building aircraft for the love of it. Also scratch building gives you the option of choice of balsa, glue, and the freedom to over engineer your build if you wish, and I find it very therapeutic and rewarding.
 
I have a high quality ARF P-47 from a big well known reputable company and the place where it was partly built is different from the place I thought it was built. This in turn made me strip the covering and rebuild various parts of the airframe as I was not happy with the build quality and the balsa used and the lack of glue used was a bit of a worry.
Old 01-28-2014, 01:15 PM
  #74  
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I'm considering getting back into the hobby and craft of designing and build RC aircraft. I've been out of it for about 20+ years. I've been trolling the various forums and a bit bewildered by all the changes and attitudes of flyers. I personally liked the challenge. Once I got over the knee-knocking of test flying, it was off to the next. Crash? So what? I tended to design and build to withstand minor rough landings and protect the radio system. I liked to concentration required to use basic design standards and make the modifications to the current project.

Yes, there was many a day that I sat or stood around and shot the bull with others in the club with little or no flying. I enjoyed the companionship and commonality. We had a retired pharmacist in the club who loved to bring his old timer planes with a little 4-stroke, He would get it up and glide it around way-way up for what seemed like forever. I think he only lost one plane after getting too high and far away.

Of course it was much more simple back in the early 90's. No foam except for wing cores. 2 or 4 stroke glow engines. Gasers were just coming out. ARFs were available ( I did buy one) but RTF and BNF? I had a Webra .40 ABC engine with a tuned muffler that was always awesome. Futabas were great radio control systems and the most common in the area but the professional pattern people tended to stay with, if I remember correctly, Pro-Line. 6 channels were supreme and we had what is now called standard analog servos. There were some high torque servos around but minis and micros - again huh? I look at the torque specs for today's servos and micro ball bearing 6V servos would pound one of old standards into the ground. Apologies - I drifted OT a bit.
Old 01-30-2014, 07:21 AM
  #75  
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ARFs are built for people with the attention span of a gnat. You fly it a half dozen times or less and its time to buy a new one. Materials are as sparse as possible to lower costs and offset the rise in labor costs overseas to the point the airplane is very flimsy.

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