Sorry for taking so long to get back to this one, but its been manic round here recently.
I have been lucky enough to log a number of flights on the original turbine Stinger. I even took it to Florida jets at the start of the year. Now whilst I really enjoyed flying it, and said at the time that it was probably the best P20 model that I was flying, I just couldn't help and think there was something missing. I thought long and hard, and when Marc came to me and asked if there were any changes that I could suggest. I only had one.... and that was to make it bigger. Not much! Such a little. I was really hoping to try and expand the Stinger so it could get away from this small model type feeling that it had. I dont know how to put my finger on it, but models such as the original stinger, or the Habu 32 just have that small model feel/ feedback through the sticks. Its almost as if the wing loading is too high.. yet both models would behave well and not be super aggressive around the stall. I was hoping to get a more solid and locked in feel to the improved stinger, whilst maybe being a little lighter loaded.
Marc and I bounced ideas back and forth and eventually a figure of 5% was settled on. We didnt want to grow it loads and move away from the fast, precise sport jet style of flight, but just enough to make a difference. No mean feat when you consider this meant a entirely new set of moulds would need to be made. I have to admit to being a bit nervous that this might not make any difference, after all that work [X(]
The good news is that it has, and its made lots of difference. Right from the get go, I knew the new Stinger was spot on. It feels loads more locked in. Especially on the ailerons. It tracks better, less fidget ( Even in the less than calm 80 deg cross wind) Slow speed flight was now even better and more predictable. The Stinger now bleeds speed so much quicker than before. The only down side if any, is that I dont seem to remember it needing as much knife edge mixing... although I could be wrong and would need to look at the old radio set up to be sure.
All in all, a huge success in my opinion. I am delighted with how this project has evolved, and get a feeling that a Stinger Mk2 might be finding its way into my fleet next year ( Although mine is going to have a tad more power )
Nice one Marc, and anytime you need it airing, you know where I am!
Regards Al