Notice that the props are made from styrene cups. Peter made two sizes to see which flew better. The larger one flew as long as 20 seconds

Dear Fiddlers Green Crew, As an indoor modeler for many years I have built many balsa rubber powered scale models. So I couldn't resist the challenge to modify a FG paper model into a rubber powered flying model. My favorite subject was the L-1 9 Birddog on behalf of the immanent good flying characteristics of this aircraft. I built both FG models, the 12"span and the 9"-span, and they both FLY! (more below)

The most important point was to keep them really light. Normal printing paper of 80 g/m2 was too heavy. So I choose 60 g/m2 stock for the fuselage and 40g/m2 paper for the wing and tailplane. Only reinforcement was a very light balsa spar in the wing and music wire in the landing gear. And of course balsa wheels and a balsa front end for the bearing. Prop is made from a little plastic cup and a toothpick. Total weight of the little L-1 9 is 3.2 g without motor, but with a little ballast. The big one turned out 7.0 g.

The best flight times until now are 20 seconds. I hope to do better with more practice, as trimming is not easy. When I should do 30 seconds or more I let you know. I send you some pictures of the models, also in flight.

I think to stick with the Birddog and build a lighter model with transparent windshields for even more scale like appearance. It would be fantastic, if you could design a white-red version of this fine aircraft. What a show, when it flies by. Excuse my bad English, I am German and French speaking. (4/8/02)

You're doing just GREAT Peter... thanks for all that.., Chip