Gene,

I'm not sure why you want to make it super-light, but it flies like a champ when built stock.

I have seen a couple without the half-cowl, and with flat wing tips. Can you say UGLY?

Mine has a mere OS 15 FP and weighs 35 ounces wet, yet it goes like stink and is definitely not for a rookie. If you make a true rocket out of it, I hope you've been practising your Ta'chi...