Harbinger Build

[ARUP]

So... David... this is the Harbinger. What else is to come?

[Sled-Works 1]

I really like the orange but that decision is a ways off. Still designing at this point...and trying to channel my inner Mike Kelly. Cut the wing spar tops and bottoms on the table saw Tuesday and will cut the last couple plywood fuse former doublers over lunch today. Should be able to laser cut the wing spar formers tomorrow. I am definitely running with the wild spoilers as they are so unique.

In the photo below the trailing edge carbon and balsa sandwich is forming up. Should help look a little more scale than a clunky 1/2" wide balsa trailing edge. Surprisingly strong. - David

[Mosquito]

Excellent David! I was excited just looking at your plans and now we can see it being built. Great job. I will be tuning in frequently.

Tim

[ARUP]

Nice! You doing the orange? It has 'crazy' spoilers'!

[kjkavaney]

David, blow up your plans for a 6 metre and burn me a kit...I have the room to do one !!! kevin

[Sled-Works 1]

Hello Len - I wish my house was big enough to handle a 6m version. Hope you build it soon. The forward swept wing, wing struts, fixed wheel, tandem canopy, classic tail feathers, and the elegant sweeping fuselage...the Harbinger has it all. - David

[lenb]

I love the Harbinger.
Maybe 5 or 6 years ago I had Tony Elliot expand some plans to a 6m version. I never built the model, hope to someday.
Thanks for posting.

len

[Sled-Works 1]

For quite some time I have been making plans to build a Harbinger and well, that time has come. Numerous builders have made models of this bird so there are many fine examples out there for reference. Quarter scale plans by John Watkins are available through Traplet and then there are plans for a 2.9 meter version designed by Vincent Besancon that are available at Reroplane.com. His build log is exceptional, his building skills are amazing, and he was very helpful when I contacted him.
So after comparing the two plans, a number of three view drawings, and what photos and articles I could find online, I drew up my own set of plans and am now laser cutting a kit.

This is my first build log so it may take some time to get comfortable with it. - Sled

4 meter wingspan, 71” long fuse, ailerons, spoilers, elevator, rudder, tow release

NACA 4410 at root
NACA 4413 mid-wing
NACA 4409 wingtip