Hey everyone. I've done a few scratch builds with dollar tree foam. I started with a kit for a FT Sparrow, then build an FT3D, Scout, Bushwacker and a commuter from scratch. I have A and C power packs. The planes have all been really cool, but they don't tend to last very long. The scout lasted almost a year, but I finished the bushwacker about a month ago, the first thing to go on all my aircraft has been the landing gear, and the bushwacker, although it seems like its a more robust landing gear, its started to bend and collapse on landings after about maybe 20 landings. I'm wondering if its just me or if everyones scratch builds last a similar amount of time. I have no experience with factory built airplanes but I have to assume airplanes from horizon and other manufacturers last longer?
Welcome to the forum. I’ve had almost the same experience as you. I did start with a factory Champ but since then have build only foam board models. This hobby is a huge time bandit but with the isolation I have plenty of time, especially during the spring weather we’ve had. Crash ‘em all the time but the build is as interesting as the flying. I use DTFB but wouldn’t hesitate to buy the white maker foam at the higher price & I think I will do exactly that to see if it’s more sturdy. I’ve had problems with DTFB.
Forum advice has helped me a lot. I was advised to & now fly sans landing gear, don’t need it. I build models like Bloody Barons & motor gliders where it’s only in the way. I’m currently building a Cub & ordered wheels because, well, it’s a Cub. As for Cubs, I love ‘em. I wanna build a huge one if I can. Maybe balsa & foam combined, but I need build practice & better flying skills before I try it.
Even if factory planes last, I’m still a crasher. SAFE & gyros that fly the plane for you don’t impress me. I’ll buddy box with an experienced flyer, but I’m also good with flying the best I can & gently landing in a tree or on the prop, even in a swampy puddle. It’s all good & the crashes are cheap to repair or rebuild. I’m sure I’ll eventually catch on, maybe just notch up a skill level.
Build, Fly, Crash & Repeat!
Good luck with the hobby. Please post your results for us.