Monday, November 23, 2009

VQ Black-Fire EP Delta Rocket 100 ARF

I'm not 100% sure if this is new or not, but I found it on Hobby People's site recently (related to a sale): http://www.hobbypeople.net/gallery/159908.asp.

The instructions were 90% ignored during the build because:

1. It's very, very easy to build
2. Some visual references (i.e. servo orientation) were off

Needless to say, this is a fast and fun little wing to fly! Here are some pics to describe just how easy this was. By the way, this build literally took about 30 minutes tops. Here's the breakdown:
  • 5-7 minutes for the 5-minute epoxy to dry for the top fins
  • 5-7 minutes for the 5-minute epoxy to dry on the bottom fins
  • a minute to screw the motor in
  • about 5 minutes for the servos/linkage/zero settings).
  • about 5 minutes to get the CG set to factory specs
Here are the final specs on the built wing:
  • Powered by 3S A123 1100mAh battery
  • 1450kv motor (Axi 2208 clone) - up to 12A
  • 8x3.8 prop - this is a bit on the large side, but amp draw does not exceed motor/ESC capabilities
  • AUW: 465g
  • 6-7 minutes of flight time, possibly more with throttle management
All stickers and coating came pre-applied. Event the elevons had their hinges pre-glued (yes, I tested it out quite a bit before trusting).

Finished product (bottom - before being screwed to the top half)

Finished product (top - & completely assembled)

Top half after screwing motor into firewall



The two halves are mated (there's a lip that catches in the front - and a bolt in the aft end).

Canopy comes with magnets installed and ready to roll!


Ample battery space

Make sure to add about 2-3 mm of upward angle prior to maiden flight


Motor installed and all set to go!

All in all, a VERY fun little wing! If you want to see drill-bit-crazy rolls on a small and low-cost wing, this is it! It doesn't flex like foam (it's all wood and monokote). I'm a foam fan, but at the price this came at I HAD to try it. Needless to say, I toss it in the truck before no matter what else I have with me out in the field.

Happy and safe flying!

Jeff