FREE PRO-PLAN THIS ISSUE!
CHILLI BREEZE EP AEROBAT VOL.67 NO.1 JANUARY 2024
www.modelflying.co.uk
RAD DIO CONTROL MODELS AND ELECTRON NICS
Hot H Sttuff CHILLI BREEZE GOES ELECTRIC E
PETTIGREW’S PLANES
LIGHTWEIGHT SCALE DESIGNS
DACTYL
DENNIS BRYANT FLYING WING
PLUS II TWISTER BO-105 - MINI SCALE HELI ON TEST II INDOOR EDF - SMALL ELECTRIC JETS
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Welcome
elcome to the January 2024 issue of RCM&E. It may be the New Year in the world of publishing but as I write this, in real time, it’s early November. So, first things first, there’s the important job of wishing all our readers and advertisers Season’s Greetings and a Merry Christmas. Hopefully you’ll be reading this just before the big day, so here’s a full glass raised to you all! With salutations duly given, let’s take a brief look at what we have prepared for you in the January issue of RCM&E, starting with our regular columns. In this month’s ‘Scale Gliding’, Chris Williams resumes his slope-side bungee launching experiments. But first he reports from June’s ‘White Sheet’ scale fly-in. Next is ‘Make It Scale’ in which Danny Fenton looks at modelling logistics as he kits out his new modelling van, before Shaun Garrity covers another batch of vintage model topics in ‘Retro Ramblings’, plus he offers up a full-size Gopher R/C model plan. This time we have a new column for you to enjoy called ‘The Insider’, as John Stennard kicks off a semi-regular feature dedicated to indoor model flying. Then it’s over to ‘One Man & His Shed’, inside of which Dave Goodenough looks at the benefits of strengthening airframes with those little triangular pieces of balsa or ply called gussets. This month’s centre fold Pro-Plan is a real treat as Mike Delacole brings his popular ‘Chilli Breeze’ aerobatic design from the 1990s bang up to date with electric power and by fitting a 2.4 receiver and small servos. Our feature articles start with ‘Ivan Pettigrew’s Planes’ in which Mike Roach pays homage to a master scale model designer. With ‘Skewer Your Hinges’ Dick van Mourik shows how to make sure your control surface hinges stay put before introducing his ‘Dactyl Mk. II’, an updated version of Dennis Bryant’s Dactyl flying wing. In ‘Indoor EDF–Going Smaller’, John Stennard sets himself a challenge to make RCM M&E 4 | RC
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some small, simple and light EDF models for flying indoors in spaces smaller than an average sport hall. Wrapping things up with this month’s reviews, yours truly reports from the RCM&E photo studio with a look at a selection of small R/C models. First up is ‘Two Up from XFly’; XFly-Model’s latest kits are a smaller version of an existing P68 semi-scale twin and a stylish flying wing called the Eagle which sports twin 40mm EDF in pods on its wingtips. Then, starved of my usual flying fix due to windy weather I enjoy taking the latest Twister mini helicopter for a spin. This one is a well detailed scale model of a MBB BO-105 and it’s a real peach. Oh, I nearly forgot! This month you may spot a slightly new look to many articles as we’ve finally let Mortons Media’s talented team of designers off the leash so that they can put their own stamp on things rather than working within the previous style guide inherited from our previous publisher. I hope you approve of the new look and enjoy reading it all. Happy Flying!
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Editor: Kevin Crozier
Mortons Media Group, Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6JR kcrozier@mortons.co.uk
PRINT AND DIGITAL The whole package – just £5.50 per issue for a printed and digital version www.classicmagazines.co.uk/subscription/RCM
www.modelflying.co.uk | January 2024
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On the cover Photo: Keith Jackson
Much has changed since the original Chilli Breeze, designed by Mike Delacole, was published in RCM&E back in 1994. One of the biggest changes has been the emergence of electric power, so Mike has redesigned the Chilli Breeze for brushless power and modern R/C gear whilst keeping the original dimensions and construction methods.
RCM&E 6 | RCM
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32
Contents
Regulars 8
20 46 92
94 95
Features
SWITCH ON
22
Our latest round up of model flying news, plus a look at some products to buy when post-Christmas shopping
COUNTERPOINT
A selection of new gadgets, kits and bits for you to buy ALL WRITE
86
Our updated list of model shows, events and competitions for you to visit over the next few months Sell off your unwanted airframes and engines or maybe buy a few new ones
NEXT ISSUE
DACTYL Mk. II
Dick van Mourik updates Dennis Bryant’s ‘Dactyl’, a flying wing with provenance
INDOOR EDF–GOING SMALLER
Columns
28 SCALE GLIDING
TWO UP FROM XFLY
XFly-Model’s latest models are a small version of an existing semi-scale twin and a stylish twin EDF flying wing. Kevin Crozier takes a closer look
TWISTER BO-105
32
38
Starved of his usual flying fix due to windy weather the Editor enjoys taking the latest Twister mini helicopter for a spin indoors
64
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... and receive Ronny Bar Profiles – British Two-Seaters of the Great War FREE! See page 62 for details
Dick van Mourik shows how to make sure your control surface hinges stay put!
John Stennard makes some small, simple and light EDF models for flying indoors in spaces smaller than an average sport hall
MARKETPLACE
Reviews
16
68 SKEWER YOUR HINGES
80
GOING PLACES
IVAN PETTIGREW’S PLANES
Mike Roach pays homage to a master scale model designer
Have your say in RCM&E’s monthly chat room
Take a look at what’s coming in the February ‘24 issue of RCM&E
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Volume 67 | Issue 01
74
Chris Williams resumes his slope-side bungee launching experiments. But first he reports from June’s White Sheet scale fly-in
MAKE IT SCALE
Danny Fenton looks at modelling logistics as he kits out his new modelling van
RETRO RAMBLINGS
More vintage model topics from Shaun Garrity, plus a full-size Gopher R/C model plan
THE INSIDER
John Stennard kicks off a semi-regular feature dedicated to indoor model flying
ONE MAN & HIS SHED
Gussets! Dave Goodenough looks at the benefits of strengthening airframes with those little triangular pieces of balsa or ply
10
Free pro-plan 48
CHILLI BREEZE EP
Mike Delacole brings his popular aerobatic design bang up to date with electric power and by fitting a 2.4 receiver and small servos
86 January 2024 | www.modelflying.co.uk
64 RCM RC M&E | 7
Switch on
Our latest round up of model flying news and miscellany
POST CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Christmas can be a frustrating time for many aeromodellers as when asked for gift suggestions for the big day we can often be stumped for affordable answers. Yes, we’d probably all like a lovely new £500 plus kit to build or perhaps a shiny new state of the art radio to play with, but such things are often way out of reach of most people’s pockets unless you are lucky enough to have very wealthy relations. Procrastination in the weeks beforehand can lead family and friends to just give up and opt for the easy way out, often in the form of monetary gifts. But now you’ve got a few quid in your hands to spend at will, what can you spend it on before it disappears from your wallet? Here’s a few suggestions, from budget spends all the way up to larger ticket items.
TOOLKITRC M8P CHARGER £99.99 www.4-max.co.uk New from 4-Max, the versatile 600W M8P multifunctional charger/ discharger from ToolkitRC has a maximum charging current of up to 20A and is capable of charging LiPo, LiHV, LiFe, Lion, LiHV, LTO 1-8S, NiMh 1-20 cells and PB 1 - 10S. It displays both cell voltage and the internal resistance of each cell within a pack and can also be used to test Rx, servo and ESC functionality with menu selection being made via a metal scroll wheel for reliable operation. A USB Type A port allows a multitude of portable devices to be charged at the flying field. This fully featured, high-powered charger is excellent value. Visit www.4-max.co.uk to check out the full specification and instruction manual.
SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY KIT
JX SERVOS
£47.99 | www.jperkins.com
£8.50 & £12.50 www.sussex-model-centre.co.uk Available in analog and digital formats, JX servos are available in a range of sizes and have gained a very good reputation over several years thanks to high levels of precision and reliability. Extending their range, Sussex Model Centre have added two more of these fine servos to their stock, both analog and with metal gear. Priced at £8.50 the 17g, 3.5kg torque 1171MG offers a fine balance between speed and torque. Ideal for smaller models, it comes supplied with fixing screws and three different servo arms. For larger models the £12.99, 55.6g 5513MG features dual ball bearings and brings the perfect blend of power and high precision.
And now for something just a little different. From UGears’ Mechanical Models series comes this beautifully produced laser-cut flat-pack kit of the Space Shuttle Discovery. With parts that simply press out of their carrier frame and need no glue to assemble, the build is absorbing and satisfying in equal measure. Working features include opening cargo doors, retractable undercarriage, hinged RCM M&E 8 | RC
control surfaces, a Hubble Telescope launch mechanism, moveable telescope solar panels and aperture door, and a clever system that tilts the model as it seemingly hovers above its stand. As a functional display piece and an intriguing diversion from flying models this is something you can enjoy putting together when the weather closes in and prevents your outdoor R/C pursuits. www.modelflying.co.uk | January 2024
Get in touch kcrozier@mortons.co.uk
TOP RC SPITFIRE & BF109 £91.99 each | www.jperkins.com Top RC’s 4-channel, RTF gyro-equipped Spitfire and BF109 are ideal for small flying fields and make a perfect dogfight double pairing. Made from crash resistant EPP with a 17.7” (450mm) wingspan they’re available in both Mode 1 and Mode 2 and benefit from an updated colour scheme, canopy hatch and removable wing for easy radio access. Highly detailed, beautifully presented and supplied with everything needed (including AA batteries for the Tx) these 1S warbirds have an impressive performance and offer a very healthy 12 to 15-minute duration. Priced at £91.99 each.
G.T. POWER V6 300W DC CHARGER
SPARMAX ARISM MINI AIRBRUSH KIT
£62.99 | www.jperkins.com
£199 - £225 | www.airbrushes.com Ideal for beginners through to professional airbrush users and suitable for a wide range of applications, the Sparmax ARISM Mini Kit includes an ARISM Mini Electric compressor, Sparmax MAX-4 Airbrush with 0.4mm nozzle and needle combination, plus Sparmax Cleaning Pot with built-in airbrush holder. Operating on 220-240V and measuring just 17.5 x 9 x 18.2cm the space-saving, compact compressor – available in a choice of eight colours - is designed for workbench applications and is also highly portable. Complete with a 2m braided hose this low maintenance, single-piston unit ( fairly quiet in operation at around 49db) belies its size with a powerful working pressure of up to 28psi and is suitable for use with a variety of airbrushes. January 2024 | www.modelflying.co.uk
LIGHTWEIGHT TX CASE £22.75 www.sussex-model-centre.co.uk Anyone who’s dropped their transmitter will be very aware as to the value of a good carry case to cosset this most valuable item of R/C hardware in the event of gravity taking over to detrimental effect. Measuring approximately 260 x 260 x 110mm and weighing about 380g, this lightweight example from Pichler is an ideal candidate. Being of high quality and impact resistant with soft inner padding and a carrying handle it’s suitable for most transmitters and at a very reasonable price.
This powerful, palm-size 12V DC field charger will comfortably replenish 1 - 6S LiPo, LiHV, LiIon and LiFe packs along with 1 - 16 cell NiMH and NiCad packs, plus 2 to 24V Pb batteries using a charge power of up to 300W at a charge current of between 0.1 and 16A; capability that sees a 6S 5000mAh EDF battery charged - outdoors - in just 45 minutes. Featuring a 2.4” high definition colour screen and an input range of 7 – 28V, which allows a raft of LiPos to be employed as well as 12V car/ leisure batteries, this is a very capable unit. RC RCM M&E | 9
Two up from Xfly Words & Photos: Kevin Crozier
O
ver the last year or so we have reviewed several XFly-Model kits, a recently introduced brand of foam model aircraft which are being imported into the UK by CML Distribution. The models we have tested so far have proven to be very well made and, without exception, they have all flown well. Featured here are XFly’s latest models and, to be honest, they couldn’t be more different. The 850mm P68 is a smaller rendition of the 1400mm Twin Nova which I reported on in the March 2022 issue of RCM&E, whilst the 1019mm wingspan Twin Eagle is a futuristic flying wing with a 40mm electric ducted fan fitted to each wingtip. For review models that arrive via the RCM&E office, we first like to present them to our readers with unboxing shots taken in the studio. With a packed issue to publish each month some photo shoots RCM&E 10 | RCM
can take a while to organise and I regret to say that whilst these two small models were waiting to shine in front of the camera the last of the autumnal fine flying weather rushed by, to be replaced by strong winds and sharp showers. So, unfortunately, they remain grounded until a brief calm weather window arrives. With Christmas approaching fast and recognising that these neat little models would make perfect gifts for some readers to put on their wish lists, we have taken the rare step of reviewing them both together, up to the point of taking them to a local club field to test fly and to take flying shots. A full flying report on both models will follow when
XFly-Model’s latest models are a neat, smaller version of an existing semi-scale twin and a stylish twin EDF flying wing. Kevin Crozier takes a closer look conditions allow. Following the old adage ‘If it looks right, it will fly right’ then both aircraft look like they will provide to be great fun when they finally make it into the air. In the meantime, let’s look at each of them ‘out of the box’, starting with the P68.
www.modelflying.co.uk | January 2024
TESTING, TESTING |Small electric models
XFly’s P68 is available in red or blue trim as shown on the box artwork.
Props are counter rotating to stop any torque effects.
Main kit components. Not a lot to assemble here!
P68: SMALL SCALE TWIN
Unlike the Twin Nova previously mentioned, which for some reason is blessed with a name unrelated to the full-size Vulcanair P.68 on which it is clearly based, this little 850mm twin electric model proudly carries the P68 moniker from the off. As you can see from the pictures it’s a kit of very few parts, but those that are supplied arrive very well pack ed in another masterclass of polystyrene foam packing by XFly, with each component snugly secured in closely moulded compartments. It may not be the most environmentally friendly way of transporting a model aircraft but there again such well thought out packaging does greatly improve the chances of an XFly-Model reaching the end customer with everything in one piece, hence greatly reducing wastage caused by kits damaged in transit. The one-piece wing comes fitted with twin 1806-1900kV motors, each connected to its own 20A ESC. The 4.5 x 4-inch three-blade propellers January 2024 | www.modelflying.co.uk
are counter-rotating to eliminate torque effect and the model is claimed to be nicely aerobatic when powered by a 3S 800-1300mAh LiPo. Flight duration should be between five and ten minutes. Battery connection is via an XT-30 plug, however if you don’t have any suitable XT-30 equipped packs then adapter leads are readily available or can be easily made to suit. The fuselage is pre-fitted with a steerable nosewheel, but the instructions do say that the undercarriage can be left off for hand launching and belly landing on grass. For a small model like this that would probably be my preference, not least to save a bit of weight from the wheels, albeit only a few grams as they are neatly moulded sponge foam types. However, there doesn’t seem to be an easy way to release the grubscrew that retains the nosewheel steering arm, right down at the tip of the nose. So, for the first flights I will fit the main gear, a simple bent wire affair that clicks into its slot in the belly of the aeroplane. If the nosewheel is taken off, then
all that will be needed is to ream out a small hole in the foam adjacent the steering arm through which to feed a suitably sized Allen key. But first, I want to get those all-important flying shots with the foam at the nose kept in pristine condition. One last thing to mention before moving on to assembling the P68 and that is that it is available in two colours, red or blue.
Twin motors are wired up and ready to fit to an XT30 equipped LiPo. RCM RCM&E | 11
Tail end showing the rudder hook up. A simple Z-bend does the job well on this small model.
A look inside the servo bay. Pushrod lengths can be altered by loosening the grubscrews in the quick connectors before nipping them up tight when the control surface is at neutral.
A short Y-lead is provided to connect the ailerons. Note the servo lock extensions.
LiPo access is via the magnetic hatch between the wing and the windscreen.
9g servos do the pushing and pulling. Aileron trim can be altered by squeezing or pulling apart the U-bend. Or just use the Tx!
No fancy names for this part of the P68. According to Vulcanair’s website they are simply ‘up turned wing tips’.
Next, it’s time to power up the tail servos, either after fitting a receiver or by using a servo tester and centring the elevator and rudder at their neutral positions. There’s plenty of space for a small receiver just forward of the servos which is best fitted using a small patch of Velcro or double-sided servo tape. With the Rx fitted and the tail servos tested the wing can be attached using a pair of those 2.6 x 12mm screws. Being such a small model, you’ll probably want to keep it in one-piece, in which case the LiPo is easily accessed by a magnetically secured hatch in the top of the fuselage just forward of the wing mount. A large patch of hook and loop tape is provided to secure the battery, but you’ll need to provide your own fixing for the receiver. Your chosen LiPo can then be trial fitted, moving it around in the spacious battery bay
to achieve the recommended balance point of 30mm back from the leading edge of the wing. With a wing chord of just over 110mm this should provide a good starting point for the first flights. All that remains now is to check that the control surfaces are moving in the correct directions and to set the rates up as per the manual, or to your own personal preference if an experienced pilot. Rates are shown as 6mm/80% on low rates and 8mm/100% on high rates across all control surfaces. With that done the 850MM P68 is ready to fly and our review model now sits patiently waiting for a suitable weather window…
ASSEMBLY
With only three main components to bring together - fuselage, wing and horizontal tailplane – assembly is a quick and easy job. The well-illustrated manual, in English at the front and repeated in Chinese at the back, is probably going to be quickly glanced over by most owners but it’s well worth keeping, if only to reference the comprehensive ESC instructions that it contains if required at a later date. The manual also provides essential information such as the CG and control surface settings. First job is to click the main undercarriage into place after which the tailplane can be inserted in its slot and secured with a 2.6 x 12mm screw. You’ll also need to jiggle the elevator pushrod through one of the holes in the control horn before fixing the tail in place; the third hole down is the recommended starting point. Keen to be up and away! A simple 4-channel radio is all that’s needed for this one.
DATAFILE
Name: Model type: M Manufactured by: UK distributor:
P68 ARTF electric twin XFly-Model CML Distribution www. cmldistribution.co.uk RRP: R £134.99 Wingspan: W 850mm (33.5”) Fuselage length: F 645mm (25.4”) Flying weight: F 400g (14.12oz) Wing area: W 9.54 dm2 (147.25 sq.in.) Wing loading: 38.5 g/dm2 (12.62 oz/sq.ft.) Servos: 4 x 9g Motors: 2 x 1806-KV1900 ESC: 2 x 20A Recommended battery: 3S 800-1300mAh Connector type: XT-30 Channels: Four Functions (servos): Ailerons (2), elevator (1), rudder (1), nose leg steering (1), throttle (via ESC) Required to fly: Transmitter, receiver, LiPo
www.modelflying.co.uk | January 2024
TESTING, TESTING |Small electric models
As with the P68, the Eagle twin jet is available in two colours. This time it’s red or green.
Wingtip mounted EDF pods give Eagle a futuristic look. Using differential thrust from each to give a yaw effect will be interesting to try out!
The moulded tray that the Eagle comes in is almost the same size as the model. So, it may be a good idea to keep it for storing the wing to save it from hangar rash.
EAGLE: EDF FLYING WING
Belly of the beast showing the ribbed finger grips and the protective plastic landing plates on the nose and under the radio bay. Wing tip skids are also fitted to the EDF pods. Bold stripes on the model’s underside will help a lot with orientation whilst in flight.
Now here’s something a little different! Looking like something from a sci-fi film, the 1019mm wingspan Eagle sports two 40mm Electric Ducted Fan (EDF) pods on its wingtips. XFly market it as their ‘first hand-launch racer’ so maybe we will see groups of these sleek flying wings engaged in some club level pylon racing soon! If you and your clubmates are brave enough to take this on, do let me know. Powered by a 4S 1800-2200mAh LiPo those twin 12-blade fans are said to give the Eagle more than a 1:1.5 power to weight ratio, making for easy hand launches, whilst wear resistant plastic skids on the underside of each motor pod and also at the nose and under the belly b allow for belly landings without an undercaarriage.
Close up on one of the 12-blade fans. Should give a nice whoosh!
DATAFILE
Name: Model type:
Eagle RTF electric twin flying wing Manufactured by: XFly-Model UK distributor: CML Distribution www.cmldistribution.co.uk RRP: £159.99 with gyro, £139.99 without gyro Wingspan: 1019mm (40”) Overall length: 383mm (15”) Flying weight: 650g (22.93oz) Wing area: 19.5 dm2 (302.25 sq.in.) Wing loading: 35 g/dm2 (11.47 oz/sq.ft.) Motors: 2 x 1413-KV5000 ESC: 2 x 20A Servos: 2 x 9g Recommended battery: 4S 1800-2200mAh Connector type: XT-60 Channels: Five Functions (servos): Elevons (2), rudder (1), throttle (via ESC), rudder (speed differential) Required to fly: Transmitter, receiver, LiPo, optional gyro
With that sort of power to weight ratio I’m going to adapt the expression I mentioned earlier by saying ‘If it looks fast, it will fly fast!’ XFly say: ‘With a streamlined, aerodynamic profile, a special EDF configuration and set-up assisted by the custom gyro (optional), the Eagle is capable of delivering differential speeds, performing rolls, flat spins, inverted flat spins and other challenging manouevres, with a top speed of 110MPH plus.’ Sounds exciting! January 2024 | www.modelflying.co.uk
RCM RC M&E | 13
FACTORY ASSEMBLED
Like the P68 and other XFly kits, Eagle is supplied in a moulded tray inside an outer cardboard box only this time there’s only one part. That’s right, its fully factory assembled and needs no further assembly. The only job required is to fit a five-channel receiver to operate the elevons (aileron and elevator mixed), the throttle via the ESCs, as well as ‘rudder’ by use of differential thrust from each fan – wow! If that’s not enough then you can fit the matching gyro, the mode of which is controlled by a fifth channel. This unit is optional but can be supplied as standard with a slightly more expensive version of the kit. Thankfully we’ve got one of those too otherwise I have a suspicion that things could get very interesting come flying time! The gyro equipped version comes fully wired up to each motor and the separate elevon servos so all that is required is to connect your receiver to a bunch of jumper wires that are clearly labelled with their respective functions. The gyro allows for Gain Adjustment via Ail and Ele pots but is set to default settings at the factory so is best left alone for the first flights. It offers three different flight modes controlled by a switch matched to your fifth channel: •
• •
Lock mode – the onboard LED flashes and in flight, when no control inputs are given, the gyro helps maintain the current flight attitude. Off mode – the LED is off and in flight the pilot has full control of the aeroplane. Stabilised mode – the LED is always on and in flight the gyro helps correct and stabilise the controls. This mode is recommended for 3D flying.
A 4S 1800-2200mAh LiPo sits on a ply tray fitted amidship and is secured with a hook & loop buckle strap. I’d also recommend securing
Radio bay is all wired up ready for a 5-channel (minimum) Rx and a 4S LiPo.
Close up on the pre-wired gyro.
ESCs are covered by louvred plates to provide ground protection and good cooling.
Direct elevon connections terminate in ball-links.
the pack with some additional Velcro, making sure to spread a thin layer of epoxy onto the ply plate to provide a smooth surface for the model side of the tape to adhere to. The battery can then be moved around to get the CG spot on at the recommended 162mm back from the tip of the nose. I wouldn’t be tempted to muck about with your own CG settings with this one – well, not least until you have a good few flights under your belt with it! Likewise, I’ll be sticking to the recommended dual rate settings, which are all fully detailed in the dual language English/
Chinese instruction manual. One last thing to mention and that is that two colour schemes are available – red or green. STOP PRESS!
A nice flying day arrived sooner than expected so both the P68 and Eagle have successfully flown. I’ll be reporting on the flying qualities of each model in the next issue. ■
“I wouldn’t be tempted to muck about with your own CG settings with this one”
A final look at the 40MM Eagle flying wing before the off ! RCM M&E 4 | RC
www.modelflying.co.uk | January 2024
Twister BO-105 Starved of his usual flying fix due to windy weather the Editor enjoys taking the latest Twister micro helicopter for a spin Words: Kevin Crozier Photos: Kevin Crozier, Andy Harrold
I
n the April 2021 issue I reviewed the Twister Ninja 250. This small pod and boom, fixed pitch helicopter, with its 250mm diameter main rotor, has become one of the mainstays of my indoor flying fleet. It is guaranteed to raise positive comments every time it is flown and tends to disguise my somewhat rusty helicopter flying skills. Circuits in my club’s basketball size hall, plus figure of eights and nose in hovering can all be flown with ease. So when I saw that J.Perkins were set to introduce a new four-blade, flybarless scale model to the Twister range, a neat rendition of the chunky but attractive MesserschmittBölkow-Blohm BO-105, I quickly put it on the RCM&E review list.
Latest addition to the Twister range is this neat rendition of the chunky but attractive Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm BO-105.
Too good to resist. This fine flying shot was supplied by Twister’s UK distributor, J. Perkins. RCM&E 16 | RCM
www.modelflying.co.uk | January 2024
TESTING, TESTING | Micro scale helicopter
BO-105 is available in two colour schemes, grey/red (Royal Navy Rescue) or yellow/red (Coastguard Rescue). Our review model is the Coastguard version.
“Snugly nestled in upper and lower vac-formed trays the contents are well protected”
Neat flip tox box is worth keeping for storing and transporting the BO-105.
BOX SET
Supplied in a flip top box the BO-105 comes with a pre-bound four channel 2.4GHz Tx, a 2S 350mAh Li-Ion battery with integral charger, USB charge lead, toolkit and two spare blades. Snugly nestled in upper and lower vacformed trays, the contents are well protected. The model is supplied with a 2S lithium-ion pack to get you started but my experience with the Ninja suggests that I will probably want to invest in an extra pack or two as both models are likely to get flown a lot during an indoor flying session. To this end the lower tray has four battery slots in total which, if fully populated, will keep your BO-105 flying for several flights. Spare packs are available from J Perkins stockists for £13.99 RRP each.
Box contents.
UP CLOSE
Available with a grey/red (Royal Navy Rescue) or yellow/red (Coastguard Rescue) bodyshell, the Twister BO-105 is quite a faithful representation of the full-size machine, complete with a four-blade main rotor and a fin mounted tail rotor. I chose the Coastguard scheme simply because I reasoned that the bright yellow body would show up better when flying down at January 2024 | www.modelflying.co.uk
High mounted tail rotor, just like the real thing.
Scale detail is comparable with a good quality plastic kit. RCM RCM&E | 17
Impressive four blade flybarless rotor head is a miniature facsimile of those found on much bigger scale model helicopters.
the far end of my local sports hall. The overall appearance is very realistic and I would think that this good looking aircraft would compare very favourably to a static plastic kit of similar 1:48 scale. It is well painted, with neatly moulded panel lines and sports several scale features such as dummy turbine exhausts and the distinctive rear stabiliser with twin fins. Under the canopy the BO-105 shares the same state-of-the-art electronics as the Ninja 250. It offers six axis gyro stabilisation, with novice and advanced flight modes. There’s also auto take off and land modes, coupled to a well-behaved attitude hold system. The 2S battery provides flight durations of up to fifteen minutes, but if you push that to the limit then you’ll be pleased to know that the BO-105 also incorporates auto shutdown programming which will land this small scale helicopter safely on its skids.
At rest the blades droop a bit, just like the hinge-less rotor fitted to the full-size helicopter.
The USB charge lead plugs into the hard cased Li-Ion pack. Four bright blue LEDs light up when fully charged.
The battery’s switch needs pressing to power up the model, after which the white LED in the nose will illuminate, showing that the model is ready to go.
CHARGED UP
Charging the two-cell lithium-ion pack is performed using the supplied USB lead. The instructions call it a USB charger, but it looks like a conventional USB lead to me, so I think the battery pack must include the actual charging circuit. But don’t quote me on that! When plugged in up to four bright blue LEDs will flash and the pack is fully charged when all four are lit and remain steady. The transmitter is powered by four AA batteries (not supplied). Unlike some small Ready to Fly packages this one doesn’t mandate the use of alkaline cells, so I happily loaded up some NiMH rechargeables which work fine. The model’s battery pack can then be pushed into place in its slot under the helicopter’s nose. The Ninja doesn’t have a power switch, but the BO-105 battery pack does and it needs pressing to power up the model, after which the white LED in the nose will illuminate, showing that the model is ready to go. Time now to switch on the Tx and follow the arming sequence in the well written instruction booklet. It is worth noting that the Tx is supplied as Mode 2, but it can be easily reconfigured to Mode 1 if required. TAKE OFF
There are two ways to take off. The easiest is to press the ‘Co-Pilot Assist’ button (marked A) on the left shoulder of the Tx. The blades will then spin up and the model RCM M&E 18 | RC
Transmitter is small but works well and is powered by four AA cells. Right shoulder B button changes flight modes. Press the A button on the opposite shoulder for auto take off and landings.
will climb to around 1.5 metres, although you still need to be ready to control the heli to counteract any drift. At this point the model settles into a high hover, waiting for you to take full command. Be aware that if you touch the throttle during take-off then that control instantly reverts to the pilot. The second way is a normal rise off ground. The sticks are both pulled into their opposing lower corners, which starts the rotor at low speed. When you are ready you can increase power and control the take-off from the ground up. IN FLIGHT
When switched on the BO-105 defaults to Novice Flight Mode. In flight this offers full control of the model but with reduced
movements to soften the model’s response. In this default mode the model is easy to fly, and I was soon flying circuits and figures of eights with ease. Nose in hovering was a delight too, savouring the effect of that bulbous scale nose pointing at me. Alternatively, you can press the B button on the right shoulder of the Tx. This engages Advanced Flight Mode which gives you full control. In calm conditions I couldn’t say that I noticed much difference but when the air started to move around bit due to turbulence created by some fixed wing models then the BO105 definitely became a bit more demanding on the sticks and I soon switched back into Novice mode. She remained perfectly controllable, but the scale effect was spoilt so I landed her to wait for the gaggle of Sopwith biplanes to finish their www.modelflying.co.uk | January 2024
TESTING, TESTING | Micro scale helicopter
Nose in hovering is a joy for any competent heli pilot.
“Twister BO-105 is a great little model that flies really well”
DATAFILE Name: Model type:
Scale: Manufactured by: UK distributor: Website: RRP: Main rotor dia.: Length: All up weight:
BO-105 RTF scale micro helicopter 1:48 Twister J Perkins Distribution Ltd. https://www.jperkins. com £89.99 256mm (10.07”) 235mm (9.25”) 95g (3.35oz)
straffing runs up and down the hall. The original Twister usually takes this sort of turbulent air in her stride but the BO-105 was clearly a little shaken and stirred and, whilst still easy to control, it was getting bounced around more than her sibling. I also have to admit that, until now, when flying the Ninja at our club indoor sessions, I had completely forgotten about Advanced Mode. I just switch her on and fly. Maybe that’s why my Ninja flights, smoothed out by Novice Mode, always seem to get quite a few admiring comments! So, no doubt I’ll end up doing most of my flying with the BO-105 in its default Novice flight mode too! LANDING
As with take-off there are two ways to get the little BO-105 back on the ground. The easiest way is by pressing the Co-Pilot button (A) on the left of the Tx. Provided that the heli is within ten feet of the ground it will reduce power and lower itself gently to the ground. Or you can just land her yourself. When the model has touched down and you reduce the power to zero the blades will wind down rather than just cutting abruptly. This stops the model from toppling over due to any remaining torque from the rotor.
Just off on another Coastguard mission.
IN SUMMARY
The Twister BO-105 is a great little model that flies really well. As with its sibling, the Ninja 250, it’s not festooned with unnecessary features, but those that it does have, like the Co-Pilot and Flight Modes, work extremely well. Top marks again to Twister and J Perkins for another well sorted small helicopter, especially one that looks so good thanks to the well detailed scale body and four-blade rotor head. ■ January 2024 | www.modelflying.co.uk
Anyone who has mastered the basics of flying model helicopters should find the BO-105 easy to control. But she is best flown in calm conditions. RCM RC M&E | 19
Counterpoint All Write
A selection of new gadgets, kits and bits for you to buy
XFLY TWIN OTTER 1800mm
£439.99 & £499.99 | www.cmldistribution.co.uk
NEO CN GRAVITY FEED DUAL ACTION AIRBRUSH £105 | www.airbrushes.com
Retaining many scale features of the full-size, XFly’s 70.9” (1800mm) span version of de Havilland’s popular twin-engine utility aircraft is a top-drawer, scale-like PNP ARTF that flies as good as it looks. Sharing the same STOL (Short
Take Off and Landing) capability as the full-size, the model also sports pre-installed landing lights which, in conjunction with the vibrant yellow/blue colour scheme, assists visual reference in gloomy skies. The spacious, clear glazed cockpit provides the ideal environment for FPV installation and a two-piece wing, removable nose and stabilisers make for easy transport, assembly and storage. Powered by a single 6S 5000 - 6000mAh LiPo, the twin 3541-KV550 motors / 3-blade props / twin 40A ESCs set-up provides plenty of power and duration, the combination seeing the model ease through aerobatic manouevres including loops, four-point rolls and inverted flight. Two versions are available. For ground operations the £439.99 version features shockabsorbing metal front landing gear and a rigid main undercarriage for easy ground handling. But if flying off water is in your sights then £499.99 buys a float-equipped Otter. Both versions require your choice of Tx, Rx and LiPo.
Designed to deliver soft, effortless coverage at low air pressures, NEO for Iwata airbrushes are the ideal choice for many types of spray applications. With an adjustable spray scale of 0.3mm to 25mm, the NEO CN Gravity Feed Dual Action airbrush has a detachable 0.24oz (7ml) fluid cup and lid that’s large enough for colour mixing, and an additional 0.10oz (3ml) colour cup that’s ideal when using small amounts of spray medium. With an optimal working pressure of 8 – 20psi only a small air compressor is required, making NEO an affordable option for general purpose spraying and those new to airbrushing.
ARROWS AVANTI
£179.99 | www.jperkins.com
SEAGULL BIRD DOG
£639.99 | www.jperkins.com
Suitable for 35 - 40cc engines or equivalent electric power, Seagull’s new 98” (2.5m) span L-19A Bird Dog has authenticity in spades thanks to its impressive size, scale, detail and rugged utility looks, plus working LED landing and navigation lights for good measure. Further realism can be added by adding detail to the voluminous cockpit, with its hinged door, which RCM M&E 20 | RC
cries out for a custom makeover. Beautifully engineered in ARTF format using laser-cut balsa and ply, and covered in high-quality matt Oracover, quick-release plug-in wing panels make rigging and transport a breeze, whilst low-bounce wheels will help reduce the effect of any rough terrain that this beautifully crafted, evocative model may encounter.
If you’re in the market for a good-looking, top performing 50mm EDF sport jet – maybe your first of the type - take a close look at the 25.2” (640mm) span Arrows Avanti. Sporting Arrows’ highly regarded, jet-like 50mm 11-blade fan and 2627 4500kV brushless motor combo, this 3S fuelled, undercarriage free slick ship also sports a pre-installed Vector six-axis gyro and is sure to appeal to anyone seeking smooth, torque-free aerobatics, benign handling and ‘go where you put it’ performance. The EPO airframe comes with pre-installed fan, motor, 30A ESC, gyro and 3 x 9g digital servos, keeping assembly time to a very keen 30 minutes. Add your choice of four channel Tx and 3S 1300 – 2200mAh LiPo and cast skywards from an easy hand launch… and enjoy! www.modelflying.co.uk | January 2024