Jeff,
Thanks for your thoughtful and helpful input. I think my plan makes even more sense given your experience. If I build the DB ARF with the 55 AX I should have a great flying sport plane that will be capable of getting me started in pattern as a novice. My old club in PA had a history of pattern flyers (Tony Frankowiak was a founding member many years ago) and there are several pattern flyers in the club recently I joined in Hot Springs (Mike Harrison) who can mentor me in precision flying. I have a Tower Kaos that I have been flying for years and got an Extreme Flight Vanquist E a few years ago that is capable pattern plane and a joy to fly. I also have a Joe Bridi kit for a 60 sized "Killer Kaos", which is the plane originally planned for the OS 61 SF-P. I prefer precision aerobatics to 3D for sure, and now that I'm retired I have time to focus on that. I have been very impressed with the video of the Dirty Birdy in flight.
Jim
Last edited by JimDFlyer; 02-20-2014 at 11:12 AM.