Build and fly for the fun of it
Written by Fitz Walker Old School Model Works Javelin As seen in the October 2020 issue of Model Aviation. Review
Bonus Video
At A Glance
Specifications
Flying weight: 5 pounds, 9 ounces
Wingspan: 60 inches
Length: 49 inches
Wing area: 710 square inches
Wing loading: 18 ounces per square foot
Radio: Spektrum DX8 G2
Receiver: Spektrum AR637T sixchannel telemetry receiver
Servos: Hitec HS-225BB; Hitec HS-322HD
Recommended power system: .25 to .51 glow engine or equivalent brushless motor; 3S or 4S LiPo battery
Motor used: BadAss 3515-940 Kv brushless
Speed controller: 85-amp BadAss Rebel
Battery: BadAss 4S 5,000 mAh LiPo
Airfoil: NACA M12
Pluses
- Well engineered and easy to build.
- Great flying characteristics.
- Unique looks.
Minuses
- Some minor typos in manual and on the plans.
- Motor mount box (see text).
Manufacturer/Distributer
Old School Model Works
(513) 755-7494
THERE IS SOMETHING special about highwing sport airplanes. The configuration is not intimidating and almost trainerlike, yet it is capable of a fairly high degree of aerobatics. It is a "comfort food" type of model if you will—a lowstress airplane that you can fly anytime and on a whim.
This seems to be the philosophy of the Old School Model Works Javelin, a .40-size glow/electric high-wing sport airplane kit. It’s an all-original design that invokes the merging of fun-fly performance with Pattern aircraft influences wrapped up in a stylish, if somewhat angular package.
Nearly every wood piece that is not a balsa stringer is laser cut—even minor parts not normally thought necessary to bother with lasering. I inspected the kit contents and all of the parts were of good, consistent-quality wood.
I counted roughly 24 sheets of laser-cut parts in addition to numerous balsa and basswood sticks. All of the precut parts are clearly labeled with intuitively named, engraved lettering. Both the balsa and plywood parts sheets were cleanly laser cut.
A generous amount of hardware is included; the only items I needed to purchase were wheels and pushrods. The plans come rolled in two sheets, with one each for the wing and fuselage parts. The manual is 18 pages, with each step featuring an associated black and white photo. Those who like more color in their life can download an electronic copy of the manual, complete with color photos, from the manufacturer’s website.
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