T.O.M., agreed on the control surfaces, but only after a couple seasons worth of hard learned lessons.

It looks to me like the directions for the size planes these smaller (but still very powerfull) gas engines are run in haven't quite caught up with the requirements the gas engines impose on the airframes. Unfortunately, rookies like me are following them assuming they'll work. From what I've read over and over again here on RCU, as well as experiences gained the hard way, there have been MANY maiden flight/early test flight disasters because of a lack of good information in the directions regarding (or maybe emphasis placed on)the issues you mention above? Like: At what point is the kit hardware not sufficient? Exactly how heavy is "heavy enough" - for my application? What does "right" look like?

My thought earlier was the 8-10" pitch props wouldn't help this (lack of good directions) issue one bit. The faster speeds generated by them only increase the potential for flutter, and they aren't all that desirable a prop for 3D anyway.

Also, and maybe much closer to being on point, ground clearance issues may start popping up (using the standard gear) when you get into the 18, 19, and 20" props. Just a heads up if that thought hasn't registered yet... FWIW