Sopwith 1-1/2 Strutter (oz1239)

About this Plan

Sopwith Strutter. 48in span near-scale C/L stunt. WWI Biplane model.

Quote: "Looking for a large stunt model to suit that 5cc - 10cc engine? Why not build this near scale 48in version of the famous Sopwith two-seat fighter?

NO AEROPLANE had a more peculiar name than this first of all the famous two seater fighters. There is no known authentic source for the unusual title of 1-1/2 Strutter, but a study of the aircraft and its novel centre section strutting displays the obvious reason for this nickname which has eventually become an official title.

Designed in 1915 by Fred Sigrist and known First of all as 'Sigrist bus', the Sopwith '1-1/2' first went to No. 70 Squadron in May 1916, and saw extensive action during the Battle of the Somme. This was the first aircraft to have a synchronised Vickers machine gun as standard equipment and was built in large numbers in home and overseas (4,500 built in France). It was an outstanding aeroplane and served in British, French, American, Belgian, Russian, Rumanian, Japanese services.

We selected the type as one of the eight most suitable subjects for control line stunt way back in the Aeromodeller of February, 1952. Brian Sichi of Ayr in Scotland was influenced by this feature and built his prototype for a brand new Frog 500. With this amount of power it certainly proved itself a fine flier and capable of mild aerobatics. For full stunt, it needs one of the American 35 motors, and we venture to suggest that this combination of model and engine would be excellent for entry into most stringent of all controline acrobatic contests.

What could be better then, than the Sopwith 1-1/2 Strutter, perhaps further embellished with the many details included in the long and interesting account of the full size aircraft's history by JM Bruce in Flight of September 28th, October 5th, 1956?

It is best to start construction with the components after which this aircraft has been named. The 1-1/2 struts for the centre section can be made of soft wire, preferably bird cage wire which is tinned for convenience of soldering and obtainable in 16 and 14 swg sizes. Also bend up the undercarriage leg assemblies and fasten to their retaining blocks and bulkhead F2. Assemble the forward bulkheads F1, 2, 3 and 4 on to the engine bearers and mark out a set of longerons for appropriate spacer positions..."

Supplementary file notes

Planfile includes article.

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