E-flite’s EXTRA
A built-up balsa profile that proves not all small 3D models are the same!
By Jim Vigani
AT A GLANCE Type:
PHOTOGRAPHY: JIM VIGANI & THAYER SYME W 46
hile I like all types of flying, I find that it is hard to beat a small 3D airframe with gobs of power for pure fun. The invest- ment is small so you can try things you might not be willing to do with a more ex- pensive setup. If you stuff it, well, it’s not such a big deal. Also, you can just toss it in the car and grab a few flights almost any time a small field is available.
I have designed over a dozen such planes that have been kitted over the years, how ever all were made using Depron foam. So when I was given the opportunity to review the E-flite Extra 330SC BP ARF, constructed from balsa, I was quite interested to check it out. I’m predominately a scratchbuilder, but it’s easy to see why ARFs have taken over the market. Building takes a lot of time, and now-a-days, time is a premium for most peo- ple. That being said, not all ARFs are equal, so when I do a review, I pay close attention to what is provided and the number of changes I might need to make to get a func-
tioning model. I have to say, E-flite’s Extra 330SC BP is very nicely done.
While examining the components, it was ob- vious the airframe was designed with the goal of minimizing the weight while maintaining ample stiffness. The wing is particularly inter- esting in that it seems almost no wood was used. Quite a well thought-out design. Compared to other ARFs I’ve assembled, the Extra 330SC BP package is very complete and can be assembled pretty much as shown in the instructions. All the hardware and fas- teners are provided, and if you have any expe- rience with ARFs, it should take only a couple of evenings to get it all together.
I was also supplied with the complete rec- ommended power and electronics package consisting of a Park 450 brushless motor, 30-Amp Pro Brushless ESC, Spektrum AR610 6-channel receiver, four DS76 digital sub-micro servos, along with an E-flite 3S 1350mAh LiPo pack. I would highly recom- mend using these components as they work very well with the airframe.
Construction: Wing span: Wing area: Airfoil: Length: Weight:
Wing loading: Motor: ESC:
Battery: Prop:
Radio: EXTRA BP
330 SC
RC 3D electric ARF balsa & ply 37 inches 441 sq. in. symmetrical 37.2 inches 21.5 ounces 7.6 oz./sq. ft. Park 450 30-amp
3S 1350mAh LiPo APC 12x6 SF 4-channel
Receiver: Spektrum AR610 6-channel Servos:
Manufacturer:
(4) DS76 digital sub-micro E-flite
Dist. by: Horizon Hobby 4105 Fieldstone Road, Champaign, IL 61822 217-352-1913
www.horizonhobby.com JUNE 2014
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