Mini Blitz and Micro Blitz (oz12408)

About this Plan

Mini Blitz and Micro Blitz. Radio control sport model(s). Delta layout.

Note this plan show 2 models. The Mini Blitz has wingspan 20 in, the Micro Blitz has wingspan 15 in.

Quote: "Mini and Micro Blitz. DS Ridgway introduces a pair of diminutive deltas for small model fun. Better get those eyes tested before you fly.

These two pocket sized models have been evolved from a series of delta winged designs of varying proportions. The delta planform is well suited to typical UK weekend weather, ie ROUGH!

Being one piece models, they are easy to transport (a large pocket will do!) and cost virtually nothing to build. Both can easily be built in an evening, whilst still leaving time to go to the pub! They can handle quite windy weather. I've flown the Mini Blitz in conditions which have grounded many .40 sized models. They can be flown in a very spectacular manner, are accurate to fly and a pint of fuel lasts a hell of a long time. And best of all, they are pretty well indestructible.

Construction: Read the flying instructions? Welcome back - now select good tight but firm wood. The design of these models makes them exceptionally strong. The most damage you are ever likely to do is knock off a fin - or twol

Start building the wing flat on the plan. When dry, round off the LE and tips, then sand top and bottom with a large flat sanding block. Cut out holes for the R/C gear, trial fit the servo tray etc. Assemble the fuselage sides on F1, ensuring accurate alignment. Add reinforcement behind F1 and the engine bearers (if applicable). Add any cross pieces then fill the bottom in with cross grain sheeting. Sand corners. If you are using film, cover the fuz at this stage. Mark the position of the fuselage accurately on the wing and glue in position.

Covering and finishing: I use film (Solarfilm, Fibafilm), but remember Solar-film does not like diesel fuel! A polyester film is OK though. Do use a dark contrasting colour for the underside of the wing, with a bright colour on top and liberal doses of florescent trim.

Add hatches, elevons, fins. Add R/C gear, ensuring that the sliding tray is as slop free as possible, but free to move along full travel. Move the battery pack to obtain balance. There now, what a mammoth task!

Flying: Set movements as per plan. Use 50% rates for launch. With delta models the thing to avoid is under powering, and as we are limited by weight and size of engine, it is imperative to keep the weight down - do try to keep to the weights shown.

Once trimmed the model is very easy to launch solo, going away like a dart, straight and true. But if you are unsure, ask an experienced launcher so you can get on the sticks quickly. The launch should be from a firm steady push, straight and level or only slightly elevated. Avoid large inputs of up elevator until flying speed is attained.

Once trimmed get the rates off and watch out for a spectacular roll rate! As with all deltas keep loops large and rolls fast. Landing a delta is dead easy. Just keep applying more and more up to flare out - no danger of tip stalls here.

I'm sure you will get a tremendous amount of enjoyment out of flying these spectacular models. For money to fun ratio they are unbeatable."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Update 19/08/2020: Added later nostalgia article 'Mini & Micro Blitz' by Shaun Garrity, from RCME Dec 2017, thanks to SimonUglow. This also covers conversion to electric power.

Note photos 004 and 005 are the work of Shaun Garrity.

Supplementary file notes

Article.
Article (2017).

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