It's time to step up to the plate and "build" my first airplane. I've been flying ARF's for a few years now, have a great collection from .40's to a 50cc Pitts and now I want to take the next step and start building my own. My problem is the same with most kit builders I talk to, in that there just aren't a lot to choose from. For my first couple of builds, I'd like to have a factory kit, so I can progress eventually to bigger and better and unlimited(?) designs with laser cutters.
Anyway...I'd rather not build a simple high wing, trainer type airplane. I have an Edge, Extra, Suhkoi, or maybe a Yak in mind, in a .40-.60 size. Yes, since you're already thinking it, I can fly them. And I've been flying long enough, and breaking things long enough to have the know how and tools for the project. I need you builders to guide me to a good building, good flying, good looking manufacturer besides CG, Tower and TF. Not that there is anything wrong with these at all, but they have all been done at my field.

Shoot me some options, and don't stick to the airframes I already said. I need to plan a couple of winter projects now, so the wife doesn't get sticker shock in October!

Hi reincarnate,

Are you channeling Shirley McLean?

http://www.bridiairplanes.com/crew/

Try these for great quality wood and plans. They however do require "building" as they are not a SIG type where you throw some ca into the box shake well and a model aircraft appears but they are all great flyers.

Cheers,

Colin

Venture 60 by Bruce Tharpe....excellent kit, excellent plane!

Simce you have some flying skills, I would recomend something like a Sig Somthin' Extra or a Great planes Cap-232. These would be good for a first build since they are good designs and have excellent instructions. You most likely won't be bored flying them either.

My last build was the [link=http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=SIGA5116]Fourstar 40 Kit[/link] and I love it. It's a low wing tail dragger and is gentle or aerobatic if you so choose.

I have a build thread here on RCU too if you want to read how NOT to build it

Seriously, it was a good build, I was just in too much of a hurry and didn't take the time to read through everything several times before doing a part.

Good luck and post your build here for others too.

Not all the Sig kits are like that. Many are true builder's kits, like the Smith Mini-Plane. I currently have an out-of-production Sig Liberty Sport on the bench and it is definitely a builder's kit.

I checked out the Bridi site. Some great looking models. Keep the suggestions coming. I'm adding all to my favorite to keep track of them, so keep 'em coming!

Dude, I'll second and third the motion for a Somethin' Extra. With a Saito 82 in the nose. Probably the nicest "Fun-Fly" engine/airframe combo out there. The kit is really fun to build, very complete, and you'll learn a lot that can be used on more complex builds later. This kit has also been heavily documented on RCU; lots of info and help available for it.

DON'T get a Bruce Tharpe kit as a first build!!!!! It'll ruin ya for all the rest - Bruce's kits are the very best, so you should struggle and curse through a few of the others first. That way you'll have a real appreciation for it!

Great Planes is now back in production with the UltraSport 40 and 60 as well as the Super Sport 40 and 60. These kits really are great airplanes.