Been there and done that.

Nothing more frustrating than to go down to the
field to get a little practice only to see both planes
crash within 20 feet (repeatedly). I quickly came
to the realization that if I can't get them up (in the air)
it is a waste of time and at a contest with any pressure
and nerves the results would probably be only worse.

Weight are 3 lbs 6 oz. for Lemon ( #5) (ailerons)

3 lbs 8 oz. for Lime (#6) (flaperons)

How strange, I've flown hundreds of rounds of SSC combat, and launching really isn't a problem these days. The Avengers are good flying planes and you shouldn't have a problem as long as you give them a good strong level toss in to the wind. In the last 6 years of flying combat in all the various classes, it's been years since anyone used a launcher and that was just in 2610 with some older designs.

I would be a fool to doubt your experience.
and NO I didn't check the national score sheet.

But until I get more experience it may be a
method that will work for me, after all if the
flight lasts less than 7 seconds instead of the
full 5 minute round I would think the total
cuts I might get would be limited ( cough: very limited ).
So if using a launcher puts another target... errr [X(]
I mean plane in the air, I will try that approach.

Any thoughts on if a round tank would have less fuel foaming
compaired to a flat sided tank ??? (less contact area)

True, I actually meant to add a "if it works for you though..." in there. I'm just saying that I suspect you're having trouble with your throwing technique more than anything. (I've noticed that a surprising number of guys who actually have flown a number of contests still have lousy lauching technique, and can get in to real trouble in a tailwind or strong crosswind situation). But it's not the plane, it's the guy throwing it. (and you don't have to be an olympic spear chucker to get a good lauch, I'm sure not).

As for the fuel foaming, I have no idea about the rount tank, it might work. But I'd look at getting a little foam around the tank first, unless you have the round tank already. Getting a round tank mounted well could be an issue as well, you don't want it flying off the first time you slap wings with someone. But I've seen several guys with round tanks, usually in the .25 classes, so I don't think there's any reason not to use one.

Also, are you actually getting air bubbles in the line between the tank and the needle, and did you rule out pinholes in the lines and do a pressure check of the system? Sometimes pinholes can be really hard to find, and nearly impossible to see.

Yes launch technique is important, ie : the guy who hit the on/off switch at launch and went from - launch to loop to lawndart
and cleared the spectator all in less than 3 seconds, or the one who launched, lost control, saved it, lost control again, saved it again, repeated it twice more and then joined the furball and had fellow competitors running sideways and trying to fly as they did so, and spectators moving for cover quickly!!!

So having wittnessed these things I think I might try a launcher.

The fuel lines are all new but not tested, but foaming is in the tank.
Will attach pictures of the two set ups, both have a double layer of double stick foam tape between the tank and fuse and a velcro strap (see photos)just wondering if the less surface contact area with the round tank will help.

I would say the double stick foam tape is your problem. Its not thick enough. Get some 1/4" or 1/2" foam rubber under the tank. Those Mac pipes help a bit on power but don't have the tuning of a mouse can. Also your planes are heavy this will make for a tough launch. My avengers usually weigh in at 2lbs 14ounces.

Scott Stringham

Will try the round tank first, directions do not mention any foam,
just 2 layers of double stick foam tape for dampening.

Just weighted a bare wing, sans ailerons, receiver, aileron servo and covering
and a ready to go fuselage and it came to 2lbs 12 oz.
By the time I add ailerons , servo, receiver, covering, elastic bands,
control surface hardware,hinge material I can't see making 2lbs 14 oz.

Just weighted my battery pack and it was 1.7 oz (AAA NiMH). A 2/3 AAA might save .5 of any oz.

Now I realize on the first two I went with full lenght bidi hinges on the ailerons
and straping tape hinges would be lighter (man, that bidi is heavy!!!),
I also used strapping tape for the spar wrap instead of bidi on the first two to
try and save weight.

I just don't see saving half a pound from where I'm at .