Originally posted by BUCKETOBOLTS
Considering a JK Aerotek FW190 what brand and size of engine is competative?

The Fw-190 is a very small airframe. The larger JK Aerotech designs (P-47, F4U, Zero) are more competitive and better fliers due to more wing span and area. For power, The Norvel BigMig.25 is the most powerful for the price - but has a few reliabiltiy issues. My preference is either the OS.25FX or Irvine .25.

What is the opinions of foam vs stick built planes?

Balsa is completely unsuited for a combat model.

What are the ribbons made of and attached?

Crepe paper ribbon attached with cotton string. Surf around the "Kits/Plans" section of www.rccombat.com for HatTrick Ent., he sells the Dennecrepe (better than plain crepe) streamers.

Any rules against using two sided tape on wing leading edges?

Nope, it is legal.

Any other suggestions for getting started?

Go to www.rccombat.com and be prepared to do some sufing and reading. Feel free to post your questions there as well (a lot more traffic there!).

HTH
D