Specialist V (oz6724)

About this Plan

Specialist V. Radio control sailplane model.

Quote: "Specialist V. High performance sailplane designed for sport or competition. By Kevin Flynn.

The first prototype of the Specialist V was built early in 1971 simply because I wanted something that looked different from the usual sailplane. The model also had to resemble a full-sized glider, one of my favorites being the HP-14. So, after numerous drawings and a few cold ones, or maybe the other way around, I arrived at the final design for the Specialist V.

The prototypes have all flown quite well in light wind conditions, but really come to life in a strong breeze. Here are a few of its particular do's and don'ts:

1) The glide is excellent.
2) It penetrates extremely well.
3) It can make about a 70 degree bank in a thermal without dropping its nose.
4) It can fly inverted!
5) It will almost roll...
6) It is extremely sensitive to elevator control so keep the movement to a minimum.
7) The rudders work normally and need maximum movement.

When I completed construction of the first prototype I found that the Specialist V was quite different for me. On the first flight I was banging the stick to every corner on the Kraft transmitter thinking that the model was unstable. What, in fact, had happened was that I had been flying my docile Blue Max sailplane for almost a year previously which was radically different compared to this high performance model. But, when I finally settled down and overcame my first flight 'heart failure,' I learned to fly it properly. My error with the Specialist V was one that all beginners experience immediately - over-controlling! I found that moving the stick about 1/4 to 3/8 inch in any direction was quite adequate for normal flight maneuvers. Now, without any further ado, a few tips on building the Specialist V.

Construction. Canopy. The canopy on my original model came from a Cirrus (oz8532) kit, but any large commercial canopy will fit. Be sure to use Titebond glue for all joints during construction and very soft balsa blocks for the rear turtle decking. In fact, if you want to decrease the weight even more, formers and sheeting can be substituted for the solid balsa turtle deck. Be sure to obtain medium light balsa during construction..."

Update 21/11/2016: added article, thanks to RFJ.

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