Simitar (oz10187)

About this Plan

Simitar. Radio control sport model. Flying wing design for .049 power.

Quote: "A Half-A flying wing with quick response and near full-pattern capabilities. Easy to build and repair, the Simitar requires a minimal flying field size and yields about thirty-two flights per quart of fuel. Simitar by Bill Evans.

The Simitar is a product of the '70s energy crisis and the nation's general conservation effort. With the recent problems having to do with shortages of fuels and materials and the resultant high prices, more economical models seem to be a wise choice for many modelers. Small aircraft generally cost about one third as much to build, maintain, and fly, than their much larger counterparts. Therefore, there are some of us who could not enjoy R/C flying if we were unable to realize the advantages of smaller low cost aircraft. The significant features of the Simitar that you will enjoy are:

(1) Easy to build and repair.
(2) Most any .049 will provide ample power,
(3) Response is quick.
(4) Landing gear installation is not required.
(5) Fuel consumption gives about 32 flights per quart at 6 plus minutes per flight.
(6) Flying field size is minimal.
(7) Dead stick landings are a breeze due to the excellent glide characteristics.
(8) Near full pattern capabilities.

The disadvantages that we have noted are:

(1) The small size, combined with high speed, make orientation at distances difficult for inexperienced pilots.
(2) Large radio gear may be a bit cramped.

Several design requirements were kept in mind for the Simitar. Those were:

(1) The wing span must be 48in or less.
(2) Construction must be quick and simple.
(3) Stall speed must be less than 10 mph.
(4) Maximum power .049.
(5) Two channel radio to be employed.
(6) Weight must be 20 ounces or less to minimize damage in the event of impact.

Flying experiences with the Simitar have been most rewarding and pleasurable from the very first. Hand launches are made from a standing position, and no running start is required when using a TD .049 for power. After the first launch of the initial prototype a bit of down elevon trim was applied and it was off in a normal climbing attitude. Inside and outside loops were tight and tracking through the loops was good. The rolls, twenty-five or more, made it seem like the ship was attached to an electric drill! Four point rolls, due to a lack of rudder control, as well as tail slides, are not practical for this ship. Inverted flight and tight turns however were very easy. The most satisfying first flight experience was the dead stick landing, since the glide was excellent, very flat and gentle and, much better than expected..."

Supplementary file notes

Article, thanks to hlsat, JHatton.

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