Wow! Really good build thread of a complex model. Great job!
Just out of curiosity what was the most commom type of R/G at the competition, Swing wing, T slide, pop elevator...?
Without a doubt, the most common I saw had hings held aft during boost and allowed to slide forward at burnout. All of the ones that beat my time were of such a design as were all the shreds.
Mine was the only swing wing I saw.
I didn't see this thread back in '11 when you flew, so I'm glad you brought it back! A truly impressive build, especially for having little glider experience. Most people start with sliders, and I have never flown anything but. I've always been a little intimidated by the swing wings.
I know that this is probably already done, but typically, glider guys also put a lighter (red, orange, etc.) on top so that it contrasts with the ground after landing. All black on top is easier to see than bare balsa, but not as much as a brighter color. You can also add strips of mylar tape for that shiny glint.
As for your "I won because the other guys didn't get theirs back," that's what we call "flying the field," though the term also encompasses the weather conditions. If there are trees/obstructions/high wind, the first priority is getting a model back.
Oh, and a quick suggestion with the burn string/rubber band. I used to just wrap the string like that until it got caught in the grain of a tail. You can imagine the results. Now I use small hooks made from 1/32" music wire. I've attached a picture showing where they are on the one of my slide wings. Basically anywhere you need to make a corner in the string, place a hook. Especially for a C-RG, the added weight is negligible, but the reliability increase is definitely there.
The 3D image of the hooks shows how I mount them to the boom. You never want to press anything into the boom (pylon and fins are OK) except perhaps at the very front and very back. These hooks have two legs on them to glue to the sides of the boom. A wrap of thread with some CA helps tremendously.
Nice looking John. Congratulations on the victory! You'll surely be able to see it a good deal easier with the dark colors.
I could never get swing wings to go up straight. They always flew in an arch.
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