I jst finished building a Super Balsa Bandit and it was pretty good fit compared to others...but it was definetly not anything spectacular. One thing about BV is his innovation of changing the norm. This is my first BV bird, and i am astounded at his bypass/engine setup. It truly looks great "under the hood". Also, his wood selection is great, and really feels strong compared to others. Thats about it. As for manuals, i really dont need much more than whats in his manual, but what i have always heard of his manuals is that a dumby could build off them, and i dont find that the case. There was a lot left for the builder to interpret. Now- on his behalf, this is an older manual, because i have seen newer ones and they are totally different. Just my 2. Nick