Well, fellows, I am very glad that someone somewhere has brought forth some free-flight to the entire core of AMA members. It has been some years since I launched a FF, like about 40 years +/- a couple. I still have a love of that discipline. While I agree that this article is confusing, it at least opens a door to a technical information that the current electric foam fliers have never dreamed of. IMO that is a good thing.

Now I would like much if the FF folks would explain the Discus Launch for Hand Launch Gliders. I have requested both FF folks of AMA and FM to do so. No Results, other than not interested.

Back in the late '60s until about 1975, I could strong arm a Sweepette (Lee Hines Indoor and outdoor basic design) up to a good 150 ft (estimated by a number of folks). I placed a number of trophies on the shelves. (BFD!) I had several original designs but they never bested the sweepette for competition. FF has also become extremely technical in its operation. Today's AMA 1/2 A FF is well beyond the technical FAI machines of 20 years ago.

Thanks AMA/MA for bringing some of this back to light.

If it prints, this is the second Fly-off Flight that won the USAF World Wide class C FF in 1967, and same went on to win "C" FF, the Chicago Aeronuts AAA FF contest, Bong Field WI, 1968.
You guys just need to build some HLG and 1/2 A stuff and discover a whole 'nother world of model aviation.