I am the process of deciding on an airframe for 2007 WJM qualifying. On my shortlist are the Avonds F16, Composite ARF Mig 15 and Skymasters Hawk. These are all relatively simple models with proven flying pedigrees and dozens have been built. I do not wish to invest in a large model with all of the attendant cost and transport implications.

On reviewing the static scores at the 2005 WJM I was somewhat surprised at the results achieved by examples of the above types.

Photo one shows a SM Hawk in Saudi display colours, now bearing in mind that the SM Hawk does not purport to be a competition scale model in its supplied form, from the photograph, this model displays what to me are serious omissions ie. No cockpit detail, no outer gear doors, incorrect noseleg door, no noselight or pitot,mains oleo on wrong side of leg, no antenae, the seams around the intakes have not been filled and general lack of surface detail.

All of the above , apart from possibly the oleo leg can be rectified with some work to the basic model,

In contrast the second and third photos show an Avonds F16 and a composite ARF Mig 15 which both seem to be better examples of a competition model than the Hawk, they both appear to have reasonable surface detail, cockpit detail and scale landing gears and doors.

The static scores were, F16 872, Mig 1000 and Hawk 1085. Which did surprise me.

I anticipate that some of you will respond by saying the Hawk had better documentation. I can't see how good documentation could improve what seems to me to be a fairly ordinary scale model!

So, I would be interested to hear what you think, particularily potential 2007 WJM competitiors and past participants.

John