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Introduction

Starting in the dawn of recorded history and continuing to this present day, man has patterned his construction pastimes and artistic ability basically on the precise image of objects and persons known to him. The primitive cave man scratched crude drawings on the walls of his house, using as subjects his family, his enemies or the wild beasts he encountered. Centuries later, the ancient Egyptian hobbyist may have carved small models of the Nile barges and galleys to sail in small puddles which, in his imagination, were beautiful lakes. Still later, the Roman probably relaxed by constructing working models of such war machines as catapults and battering rams. Today, as for a century, New England fishermen pride themselves on their fine ship models of renowned historic craft which have sailed the seas to fortune and adventure. Both operating and exhibition models Old Ironsides and many other famous ships have been built.

In this age of aviation, hobbyists are turning to the air for enjoyment during their leisure hours by building and flying model aircraft in ever increasing numbers. Here again, the basic impulse is to construct a miniature version of a famous historic or modern airplane, whether it be a fighter, transport, or even a private plane visible at any local airport.

The early days of this educational entertainment saw the hobbyist satisfying his initial desire by constructing replicas of existing or pioneering airplanes. The enjoyment of constructing and flying these craft was supplemented with the romance of the exploits, records, and development of the prototype airplane. Nothing can give the builder more pride than to point out to admiring friends the history and achievements of the subject of his handiwork.

With the advent of flying-model airplane contests, and lavish prizes offered, concentration was directed towards the flying ability rather than to the appearance of the model until, eventually, miniature aircraft began to lose all resemblance to full scale airplanes. This transition was caused by designing the models solely for such specific predetermined performance in contest events as endurance, speed, and stunting ability. Obviously, models in each of these classes require special features to enable them to attain maximum efficiency in that group. This frantic search for special-feature model designs clouded any thought of adapting replica aircraft to specific purposes. Even sporting models, which are intended only for normal flying enjoyment, were specially designed for no other reason than force of habit!

Much attention has now been directed toward groups of scale-model enthusiasts who have taken the time to search out and evaluate full-scale aircraft designs in order to select airplanes which would become outstanding performers in model form. Replica aircraft that attain well over one hundred miles per hour, some that stunt as well as the specially designed contest performer, and others that possess the stability of free-flying endurance craft have been built and flown. These are increasing in popularity daily because of their fine, realistic appearance coupled with a high performance ability.

The romance of these craft intrigues many model builders who are not familiar with the requirements of stunt or speed models and thereby lose much of the entertainment offered by their hobby. Countless others, young and old alike, are attracted but feel that these replica aircraft are too difficult to construct and fly. Perhaps they have already reproduced their favorite plane in model form and became disappointed because the performance was not as anticipated. It is with these groups in mind that this book has been written.

In a previous volume, The Model Plane Manual, the author pointed out the fact that model building, as a hobby, contained the power to decrease juvenile delinquency, possessed psychological therapeutic benefits, and assisted in technical vocational preparation. Despite these assets, model airplanes are built with one objective in mind. The end result is clean, wholesome enjoyment for millions of men and boys, as well as girls and women.

It is the purpose of this volume to attempt to contribute in some small way to the pleasure of those interested in this exciting and yet relaxing hobby, whether they be novice or expert. Much effort has been made to present the material in such a manner that those who are totally unfamiliar with model aircraft will meet with success with their first model and be able to continue through to more complicated designs employing twin engines and jet propulsion.

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