Reprint from ethernet.

The VF3 has been thoroughly tested and changed and comes from a long, extensive line of designs from Mike Hester. This plane has been tested through the FAI 2011 sequences and shows NO weaknesses. In fact, it does some things that have to be seen or experienced first hand.

Q: So where does the plane excel?

A: The VF3 presents extremely well. It's VERY large (by today's standards) and has an extremely unique drag profile. The plane is very well balanced in it's areas and force distribution. One thing to be aware of is that the fuselage side area is almost as much as the wing itself. The plane rolls like nothing else. Slow rolls are like cheating. With enough speed, no rudder correction is needed. Knife edge loops require no stick correction until the final quarter, and even then only if it's a very tight loop. Large Pattern style knife edge loops can be done with rudder and throttle only.

Integrated rolling manuevers in the FAI sequences were of primary concern. We wanted to design a plane that makes flying the figure M with integrated roll on center (bottom) as easy as could possibly be. (for example). We have definitely achieved this.

One other thing we worked hard on is the way the plane handles in the wind. Especially the bumpy turbulent kind. This was achieved by going with somewhat thicker flying surfaces and thicker trailing edges, coupled with a very clean overall design. Look around the world today and you'll see how many other designers are taking this direction. It works! in fact it handles wind possibly better than anything else currently available. Previously unheard of in a plane of this size. Does this mean it's a piece of cake to fly in the wind for a beginner? Not really, you still have to wind correct. but it does take some getting used to, because it takes so little. A little correction goes a LONG way.

The downlines are as slow as you want them to be. We have found ourselves having to ADD power in downlines. This is a great benefit as the plane doesn't wallow and leave itself to the mercy of the wind, but drives through and penetrates while giving the pilot plenty of time to work the manuever. Be advised though, if you are used to flying a small, fast plane, this takes some getting used to.

What this means is that now you can use an inexpensive 2 stroke and not have to worry as much about finding a prop to slow the plane. Let the plane do the work!

Snaps are extremely clean. Breaks and exits are almost a given.