Posting here from Beginners section....

This questions probably been asked a lot, so i'm asking once again , between an extra 300S and an Edge 540 of the same comapny and the same size, lets say 50 size, which would the better plane to do Pattern AND 3D both?

Actually the question is which one is the easier of the two since either would be my first scale aerobatic model? (been flying other planes)

personally i am leaning towards the Edge 540 just because i like the design, and that would probably be the wrong approach to get a serious plane. I have heard of the limited skills of the edge 540 in pattern but better capabilites in 3D and vice versa for the Extra 300S. Also the Edge 540 is less prone to stalling and therefore able to land slower. But then how does it excel at 3D, isnt 3D basically stall maneuvers?

Your opinions and suggestions would help a lot.

OK, First, I have a Lanier Edge, and I can boldly say that it is the best plane in my basement. It isn't a 50 size, but it flies just as the others do........ I think.
It does pattern and 3D greatly, and it is SUPER stable.

I haven't ever flown an Extra 300S, but they are nice planes.

I think that either one will do. However, I have experience with an Edge 540.... so 1 vote for the Edge 540.

P.S. 3D maneuvers aren't stall maneuvers. They are maneuvers that real planes can't do, or at least aren't meant to do. However, some of the 3D maneuvers involve stalling.

An Extra is a better all around plane... it excels in the precision stuff much better than an Edge.

Get an extra 260, it is mid wing, low knife coupling and good at both pattern and 3d. Flies like a pattern ship almost. Good stuff.

Now not to be picky or anything, but Stinger, name one 3d manuever that doesn't involve a stalled wing. Also, full scale edge 540's can pull out of a hover, so I guess 3d flying could become full scale stuff.

If it's your first aerobatic scale plane and your new to 3D--then just get either one and go burn fuel.

You really can't have BOTH worlds in a plane. You either buy a 3D plane or you buy a pattern plane.

A pattern plane is set up totally different than a 3D plane. Those are two totally different disciplines. Pattern is smooth with very little control input and not much deflection on the control surfaces. 3D is completely opposite. Huge control deflections on the surfaces.

Pick one. You can't have both in one plane.

If you want to get really good, then get a bigger plane (70--80" ) and go fly pattern for a couple seasons. Then buy your 50 size 3D plane and tear it up.

Doc, may I interject a question to the fellas, how does the Katana figure into the mix? At most meets and contests the Extras and Yaks make up most of the population. I've not flown a Katana but I'd love to get my hands on one.