Hi,
I have been around R.C. for about seven years now and would be considered a scale and warbird buff who also likes to sport fly now and then. The first time I saw a pattern plane fly I noticed that the pilot "chopped" the throttle killing the engine just before the wheels touched. I have seen quite a number of pattern planes since then and have observed this to be a common thing for pattern pilots to do. I have always wondered what the purpose of killing the engine before touchdown is. I don't want to appear to be dumber than I really am so I have quietly asked a couple of the guys I fly with about this (they're not pattern guys either) and have been given answers like "They do it to keep from damaging the prop" or "Aw, they're just showing off". These answers don't make sense to me. I don't want to damage props either so I try my best not to land on them and I don't think it takes any special talent to cut the throttle trim while landing. I never hear pattern guys talk about this killing the engine thing so I think maybe they're sworn to secrecy like K.F.C. employees who have to promise never to divulge the Col's secret reciept. So, how about it guys? Is anyone willing to enlighten me or do I have to take up pattern flying to find out? I sure hope not 'cause I don't think I possess the dedication or disclipine I feel is required to be a good pattern pilot. Thanks in advance to all who are willing to share the answer.
Respectfully.
Steve