Don't think I want to get into that plane for #2. Looks nice though.

The Flyboy 50 is basically a World Models Rambler 45 with a different covering scheme sold under the Wings Maker name. It is an EXCELLENT flying airplane. In fact, it may be my favorite. It flys like it is on a rail and mine hauls a** with a .55-AX and 11x8 prop. The pictures on both the World Models and Wings Maker sites do not do it justice either.

Having said that, it is not a good second plane in my opinion. It is light and lands pretty gently but it has a pretty fast roll rate and can be a little sensitive if the throws are set too high. Also, retracts are something a new pilot doesn't need to hassle with (same goes for flaps if you ask me).

The list RCKen put together is pretty good. It's based on experience from him and a lot of other people. Hopefully the GP Cherokee can be added to the list someday. I imagine there will be some feedback and possibly an RCU review soon (I'll volunteer...). Sure, some of the planes listed might not be the most attractive but that beautiful scale project should probably be saved for a time when a pilot has more flight experience. That's just how I see it anyhow. I know others may disagree.

Well, I've narrowed it to the Pacific Aeromodels Knockabout Cherokee and the Nitromodels Super Low Wing Trainer. I'm trying to find a manual for the Nitromodels plane; that will probably help me to make a decision. I really love the looks of the Knockabout, and can get the plane and building materials for under $200 shipped.

I imagine these two planes perform pretty similarly? Close in weight, wing loading, size, etc. Biggest difference I see is the cowl.

I don't think they have them online. You will be very disappointed when you see it. Their manuals are pretty bad. A guy at our club actually had a manual for a Cessna 182 packed in his Super Chipmunk ARF. Go figure. The planes are hit and miss too, usually with bad hardware. Personally, I'd stick to a reputable manufacturers like Great Planes, Hangar-9, Sig, Goldberg, World Models, etc. I'm not familiar with Pacific Aeromodels so I can't really say how they are.

Chuck, you got me. I read mixed reviews about Pacific Aeromodels planes, and couldn't find anything about flying the Knockabout. I found a Pulse XT 40 for $150 w/ free shipping, and of course found all kinds of great reviews on this plane, and it's by a reputable company like you suggested. It should be here in a couple of days! I'm psyched!

Good choice.

You know, I get so excited over these things! So I ordered my new plane, but I know I won't even start assembling it until I move in June. By the time it's ready for servo and engine installation, or at least by the time it's ready to fly, I might be able to save up enough cash to get a flight pack and Magnum engine for my Nexstar, and put the OS in the new bird! I was looking at the entire cost of assembly, but if I just buy what I need from the LHS (glue, supplies) as I need them, I can save room on the card for a nice order from Tower.

I am so excited to have a 'sports car' lined up for #2! It's going to be a lot of fun

FatOrangeKat:

Why'd you even bother asking and waste our time - you seem to have ALL the answers, especially for a NOOB with a Nexstar. LOL.(BTW Nexstars are junk)