Hi-Ball (oz13917)

About this Plan

Hi-Ball. Hand launch glider.

Quote: "Hi-Ball, by Don Chancey.

Hand launch glider is one of the most popular events around Dallas. Here is a glider that usually comes out tops. Several people have tried the Hi-Ball and it has come up with a remarkable record. When built correctly, the Hi-Ball is rugged and should withstand a few bad launches.

Hi-Ball was originally designed about four years ago by a good friend and modeler, (Kit) Carson Bays. Through the years, the airfoils and stab and rudder sizes have been changed slightly, but the basic outline is still the same. The Hi-Ball is no newcomer to the flying field.

The only thing drastically wrong is the fact that it thermals so well that once you hang lift with it, it is usually gone for good. In the past two years or so, over thirty have been lost. Dethermalizers of all kinds have been tried in a futile attempt to save models, but most failed because of being thrown off. Maybe you know of a sure-fire DT system for hand launch gliders. If so, please let me know about it.

The most important thing in flying gliders is the launch. The three most important factors for a good launch are as follows:

(a) A good glider. We believe the Hi-Ball will suffice here.
(b) Good physical condition. Do push-ups until you can do fifty. Then taper off to about twenty-five. These should be done as quickly as possible. Two to three months before a meet, start throwing tennis balls for at least an hour at a time. It is with the aid of the tennis balls that a good launching technique is achieved.
(c) Good mental attitude. Think to yourself, I can throw higher and higher. This is usually good for another few feet, and after all in this game every inch counts.

All this may seem like a lot of work, but if you love gliders as I do, you will agree that it is worth it.

Construction: One of the most important factors in building gliders is the selection of your wood. I usually use a piece of 1/4 x 3 x 18 in (the lightest I can obtain) and glue on a piece of 1/4 x 1 x18 in of about 6-8 lb density for the leading edge. Allow to dry thoroughly.

While the wing blank is drying, make the templates for the tips and stab. The rudder can be drawn from the stab template. Next, cut the blank to shape and sand all around. You are now ready to start shaping the airfoil.

Mark off 4 in from each tip and draw lines perpendicular to the leading edges. Now taper the tips to about 3/32 at the extreme tip, leaving them 1/4 in at the joint to be. Now draw a reference line about 1-1/8 behind the leading edge parallel to it. This will be your high point..."

Direct submission to Outerzone.

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