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Handlaunch sailplanes are smaller sized planes that usually range in weight between 7 and 15 ounces. These sailplanes can be launched merely by throwing to get altitude, known to the 'sailplane purist' as Hand Launch Gliders or HLG, or by using a towing mechanism from the ground such as a long rubber band known as a hi-start or with an electric winch. While HLGs can be more difficult to construct due to their, typically, lighter construction, their ability to teach soaring skills has no equal. HLGs are sometimes entirely built of light balsa, while others can and are built of a composite of carbon fiber, epoxy, and foam. Which is a 'better' for HLG? It depends on the design of the plan form and the correct use of the composite 'technology'. I've personally owned more than 20 planes that were in the handlaunch category. I didn't know the older ones I built before 1980 were 'handlaunch' at the time (1973-1980), as I had never heard the term until the early 80's. I scratch built them using my own airfoil design (I didn't know who Michael Selig was either). I created the airfoils by drawing them by hand on a piece of 1/8" plywood and sanding 'em until they were 'just right'. Some flew better than others, but I didn't ask why, I just flew. I almost never did V-tail designs until much later as there weren't any computer radios out yet and the only way I knew to do a V-Tail to use a 'mixer' to do it. Today, lots of the modern handlaunch designs use V-tails for the tail section. Some of the kits offer either a conventional tail or a V-Tail in the same kit.
Here's some tidbits to carry around with you when dreaming of flying your HLG:
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Here's a list of, well known, tried, and/or tested handlaunch sailplanes:
Micro (Mosquito) Handlaunch(handlaunch planes with wingspans less than 40")
DLG(Discus Handlaunch Glider)
Novice(handlaunch planes are not really for beginners (except the DAW S1-26)
Intermediate
Advanced/ Contest/ Not For Beginners
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![]() © 1997-2007 Randy Carr Last Modified: December 28, 2006 |