I think it is totally appropriate to talk about planning for the fuse now. Chad has done a "bang-up" job on the tail for us, and we can all take that great beginning and do with it what we please. As well, it should be noted that I don't think there was an intention to only go with what others are coming up with here. So, of course, we are not all waiting on laser cut kits here.

While some are still working on the TW and tail plane in general, we can start talking about planning the fuselage now, in force, I think.

We can consider several main versions in my opinion. One with a flush firewall mount, and one with the existing Royal type engine mount. If I am to cut my own bulkheads, I intend to incorporate some modification to include control rods, e.t.c.. I think we can also have two building techniques incorporated, namely: Half shell on the board, and jig built with full formers. For what it is worth, I am going to build a jig, and have the whole thing framed solidly in that manor. There is nothing against the other technique, but I just prefer having a unitized structure built on a jig during the sheeting process. I think it also goes with the original Royal plan, and traditional techniques for scale warbirds used to this day. We are using a traditional plan for this, and so I think it will be valuable to all to learn how that is done. You can build any old scale plan once you learn how to build a jig, and I think it will create some independance on building any future planes for all of us. The big kit manufacturers, and some plan designers, use the half shell technique, it is valid. I think it is personal preference, but, the Royal plan is conducive with the least mods, for jig-built.

Per the conversation on exotic materials for the cockpit, and central structure "tie ins" I am curious. One good thing about the Royal, and I have to mention Luke's thoughts, is that the Royal is made for a scale cockpit. This was one area where the Brian Taylor was vastly hindered. I would like to consider those recommendations. Best regards to all, Eric