My first Pee Wee plane - The Little Gem

Wow Theo , You are moving on with that build ! I have that plane in my Q so I also would like to know it flys ? Is that wing going to fit that fuse hole? Looks big

Lookin’ good, Theo.  You should have plenty of fun with that.  Here’s the one I did a couple of years ago.  It flew well, but like all planes I build, I flew it a few times, and then it went on the wall as I built more planes to test fly.  At first, I was a little worried that it'd be really squirrely, since the bellcrank holes are only about 1 1/8" apart.  But, it was okay after I got a toss on launch.  But, on 18 foot lines, this thing was FAST! I tried counting, and it seemed like I was doing about 2.5 second laps.  This was with the standard 4.5x2 Cox prop.  The MAN article says to use the 3 bladed prop if using a stooge for great verticals and for speed.  I don't even want to know how fast this thing would be on the 3 bladed prop.   From my experience, about 25 foot lines would be appropriate for these.





Looking forward to seeing your finished work.

The Easily Distracted Mark

Yes, that is one sweet little plane. Well, you certainly did not let any dust settle before  starting your build! It's like you're making up for the lost time in postal travel. I checked Outerzone for plans, the "little gem" they have is not even close to yours. Where did you get the plans ?

Never mind.....I found them. Why is it always the last place you look is where you find something?

Theo,

I built one a few years back. It is a decent flyer, very twitchy though so keep the control throws to a minimum. Also make sure the elevator hinge is very flexible. Mine wasn't at first and it was hard to control. Run time is relatively short, I used the 3 blade prop on mine. It's very quick, but cheap fun.

Thanks for all the comments and info thus far guys.

Roger, Getback and Marleysky:
I will surely try and get a video of the flight. Yes the wing fits in the fuse hole. I think it is just the photo that makes it look like that. Glad you found the plan. I must say the plane is building quite easy.

Mark:
Thank you for showing me the one you built. That is a great looking plane. Yes I am sure on 18 foot lines this will be rediculously fast. I was thinking of using 25 foot lines. I am sure it will still have anough pull. I am going to use the standard 4.5x2 Cox prop. I do not have any 3 bladed props. Wow, 64 grams all up. That is light. It sounds like you are like me. I have not even maidened my Lil Satan I built a year ago.

Ron:
Thanks for showing me your plane as well. Looking really good. My elevator hinge feels good, but I will make sure it moves freely. I am going to use the prop that you sent me.

Here is my progress:









It is now 25 grams built and ready for covering and paint.

Theo