Norseman III (oz6352)

About this Plan

Norseman III. RC pattern plane.

Quote: "The end result of a long line of experimental prototypes, the Norseman III is the ultimate in total performance for multi-channel contest aircraft.

Like most good things, the Norseman is a product of evolution rather than revolution. It started back in 1959, after becoming dissatisfied with the Astro Hog (oz4756). I sat down to evaluate ideal design configurations, and came up with a taper-wing ship called the 'Dice'. This design and subsequent modifica-tions was built in large numbers by the local flyers.

The basic faults of this original design, resembling a Curtis P-40 in its early configuration, were bulk and weight. It was, however, successful in that it provided major wins in contests over a period of several years.

In 1961, I built several of Hal de-Bolt's original Simplex - since re-kitted as the Viscount (oz5659). The new design experimentations included full-span ailerons, light weight and quick construction. Last season we departed from the Viscount's basic concept, which resulted in the Norseman, as presented here.

First came the inverted engine, which cleaned up the front end literally as well as visually, besides providing the ultimate in accessibility for the engine and nose gear.

Next, we evaluated the moment arms originally used in the 'Dice' - arriving at a slightly longer nose for grooving and penetration. At this stage, I was still using a full symmetrical section and board wing shape.

This season marked the final stages of refinement. I returned to the semi-symmetrical wing, but utilized a blunt leading edge section to smooth out the pitch maneuvers. These changes were accompanied by a slight overall reduction in size as well as wing area. The result was a light, compact, and easy to transport aircraft, with pleasing lines and extremely fast and smooth. Another advantage was its outstanding performance in either a wind or in calm air. The Norseman is as simple to construct as a multi ship can possibly be, and perhaps even more important, it is consistent. Several have been built, and every one has flown off the board with only minor adjustments being necessary.

Now that you have the history, let's turn to the construction. I'm sure you will find it a pleasant surprise, and in addition, will be in for a really exciting flying season with the Norseman III.

Construction. A very unique system has been devised to provide a simple, strong, and true fuselage. The top block is cut to shape and hollowed out, but without rounding off the outside edges. This will allow the top block to sit flat on the bench. By the use of a set square; the bulkheads can be glued squarely into posi-tion. If the top block has been accurately cut and the bulkheads glued squarely into position, a perfectly true fuselage will result. After installing the bulk-heads, add the motor mounts and fuel tank...."

Hi Everyone - This is Ron Chapman's NORSEMAN RC Pattern scanned directly from my issue of the Feb 1964 RCM. It seems to be a 64in wingspan for this early winning Pattern model. Steve WMD - this has been submitted to outerzone. Enjoy,

Direct submission to Outerzone.

Update 10/09/2017: Replaced this plan with a clearer copy (text & interpage gap restored), thanks to davidterrell80.

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