Editor's Picks
THE BEST SCALE ARFS
by the staff of Model Airplane News
In the course of reviewing the dozens of new models that come out every year, we frequently remark how far ARF technology has come in just a few years. That got us to thinking: if we had to pick our favorite scale ARFs, which planes would we pick? What started as an around-the-watercooler conversation quickly developed into an idea for this feature story. We sat down, talked it over and started to compile a list.
Unlike in many previous comparisons, we intentionally have not limited the models to a particular style, size, or price. Nor have we limited ourselves to new models; we wanted to see how the tried-and-true designs stacked up against the cutting edge in ARF development. We laid down only three rules: to qualify for consideration, a model had to be reasonably true to scale; it must have been reviewed in Model Airplane News (we wanted to have enough experience with the plane so we'd be able to give it a fully informed endorsement); and last, it must have been in production at presstime (after all, it would be cruel for us to wax poetic about a model you can no longer buy!).
Then we whittled away until we had what you see here-a list of what we think are the best ARFs on the market, bar none. We focus on the highlights that make each stick out in our minds; for detailed specs and building tips, check out the reviews of the individual planes. We rate the planes in the categories that we feel are most important to scale ARF pilots, concentrating on aspects of scale realism, quality and flight performance. To level the playing field, we devised a "value" rating that encompasses the other scores and takes purchase price into account (see the "Report Card"). If you have been considering a scale ARF for your next project, this is a great place to start looking. If you haven't, see whether the next few pages will help you change your mind.
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PRICE: $400 WINGSPAN: 60.5 in. ENGINE: .90 to 1.20ci HIGHS LOWS VERDICT |
| I can easily say that this is the best flying model I have ever built! Considering that the Ultimate Biplane comes with its engine cowl, cabane struts and canopy already installed and its wings are both one piece, I found it hard to fault this kit in any way. In the workshop and at the flying field, this model gets very high marks for quality of materials and hardware as well as craftsmanship. Add an instruction manual that is as good as they get, and you have the best ARF ever. – Jerry Yarrish | |
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| RESULTS
Unanimously, we chose the Dave Patrick Ultimate Bipe as our overall favorite, and Kyosho's fabulous Gee Bee keeps things interesting in second place. Both averaged an "A"; the Ultimate ranked slightly higher, but the difference was too small to be seen in letter grades. The others are listed in the order in which they finished in our scoring. We were surprised at just how close the results were-proof that all of these ARFs are great, and that any one would make a worthwhile addition to your squadron. |
