There is a variety of methods and CG devices from simple finger tips to pencils in a board, fancy sometimes expensive 'CG Machines to even hanging techniques with plumb bob pointers. This is definately not a case where one size fits all. All the methods have their advantages and disadvantages and this is directly related to the airplane configuration and size, even the builders physical condition can have an effect on which method he may want to use for any given airplane.

I have used all the methods and the choice depends on the airplane of course. The most common that works fine for many airplanes is the Great Planes CG Machine, I recently supplimented one of those with the New Sig balancer (in the picture) which I really like but I do confess its biggest appeal to me is that it is a 'Real' kit just like an airplane that took a few days to properly build.

Now don,t get me wrong I still use sometime just fingertips and this brings us to the reason I responded: When using fingertips and you have a desired point where you have made a mark on the airplane with which is your target balance point. Instead of just marking the point make tiny little pip of epoxy on the surface or even a pinhead inserted in the wing.

This makes it very easy and accurate to ballance with nothing more than your fingertips. Your finger will feel the pip and be in the perfect location.

Of course this is no help if you trying to locate the existing CG and measure it. Less common but also useful as your set up skills progress. For this the CG devices with scales are more functional for the average airplanes.

John