raptor5900 - for your info - Here's a weight sheet on a project I did last fall that's on my website [link=http://www.rcaerobats.net/2M_Viper/Viper_Weights.htm]Viper Weights[/link]. Examine it pretty closely, and you'll note that the signifcant weights that add up quickly are those that you can do NOTHING about; servos, cables, switches, motor, etc.

By spending lots of extra bucks, you can choose LiPo battery w/regulated switch to save two ounces. Carbon Fiber gear in lieu of Aluminum, usually 5 or more ounces for about $100, TruTurn lightened backplate spinner, extra $15, saves about an ounce or so. CF wing tube instead of alum, usually about 3 or more ounces saved, about $70...

There's a lot of weight savings potential for any pattern airplane...it's just a decision of the overall VALUE of the "dollars per ounce" that you want to spend.

In any case - as others have said - keep the wings as light as you possibly can, and that means getting the very best sheeting you can. Many use Lone Star hobbies out of TX - they have super light that you can buy, expect for the Panacea (or any plane in that size range) about $65 - 75 in sheeting costs. But it will be LIGHT. As for thin laminating resin - I've been experimenting with some very thin "decopage" epoxy I bought at the craft store for about $14. It is watery-thin, soaks into the wood very rapidly (so the wood would need the hairspray treatment first), but seems like it MAY work. Haven't built a wing yet, but testing parts looks good. Other than that, the West Systems IS the way too go - visit a local sailing or boating shop - they may have it in smaller quantities.