I think the Hog Bipe is a much easier build than the Smith. I also think the Hog is an easier to fly bipe. I much preferred flying the Smith. I used an OS 45 fsr and a S.T. S-45 in mine. I can't tell you exactly how many flights I had on the Smith, but it was over 600. What a great flying airplane! The only real short coming for the Smith is outside manuevers. Its a great platform to learn rudder. It does a beautiful slow roll, responding well to top rudder application. I loved to slip it in on landings. It was one of the best windy weather planes I ever had. I learned more from flying it than any other plane I have ever got to fly. It also fit in the car fully assembled. While in college, it went to the flying field several times a week and was my main plane for over two years. I flat wore the covering off ( micafilm) from so many flights. I finally retired her, and still have it in the attic from 26 years ago.

I havent built a Hog Bipe, but have flown several. They fly nice. I would say it is not as aerobatic. It does handle better on the ground. It does have coupling issue's. I think it would make a great first bipe.

Wanting more aerobatics, I went to Skybolts and Ultimates after the Smith. All of them are worth the build.

What a great looking Jungmeister. I need to get one of them going for myself.... I have always heard they fly so good.

turbo