Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Custom Cutting and Laser Engraving Solutions

Just received my customized transmitter case from Custom Cutting and Laser Engraving Solutions by Mike Bargman. The finished quality is fantastic. Mike is a good communicator, he shares proofs before engraving to ensure accuracy.  Mike can customize the inside of the case to meet your needs. I opted for a standard configuration that accommodates my 32MZ or 18SZ plus tools and batteries.  If you desire a quality TX case please contact Mike at Custom Cutting and Laser Engraving Solutions.








Sunday, January 19, 2025

BJ Craft Strato, Texas Winter Project

In mid-December 2024, I took delivery of an early release version of BJ Craft's Strato. Like the previous BJ's ARC kits I built, the fit and finish, balsa quality, and prep work are very well done.  Given the recent low temps here in SE Texas instead of flying, I am making steady progress on the Strato. The plan is to outfit it using the same/similar products and methods that proved successful with other BJ designs I completed.

Here is a list of items I currently plan to use...

  • Futaba
    • 32MZ
    • 7108rx (2) using PBR-12x
    • HPS-704 aileron
    • BLS173SV elevator
    • S-A501 rudder (pull-pull) vs tail-mounted servo
    • S.BUS
    • SBD-3 decoder
  • Power setup
    • PCK 4-bld
    • D3 controller
    • Falcon carbon spinner
  • Landing gear
    • PT carbon mains
    • Self designed tail wheel
    • Central Hobbies Titanium axles
  • F3AU removable battery tray
  • Batteries
    • TP 10s 5000mah/6000mah ProLiteX and FAI
    • TP 2s 910mah ProLiteX
  • Radio South hinges
Notable design differences compared to the Invitation, Epilogue and Anthem.
  1. More narrow fuse
  2. Taller fuse between the T-can and Fin
  3. Flat bottom fuse vs rounded
  4. Elimination of sub-fin molded into fuse
  5. Smaller T-can wing

A few progress pics...