Eclipse Experiences

[Steve & Cindy Kessler]

Don,

I have two Eclipses (#2 Eclipse is under construction) and one Fantasy.  My #1 Eclipse now has less than 15 flights.  I had a fellow FAI flyer go thru the new FAI pattern with it.  I fly masters.  We both have Smaragds as our main planes.  We both agree the Eclipse flies every bit as good as my Smaragd-z with one minor exception.  The Eclipse has a little less frontal area on the fuse and does not slow down as quickly as the Smaragd.  I think I'll be able to make adjustments in my flying to compensate.  Snaps and rolling maneuvers are identical to the Smaragd.  In fact, I simply used my Smaragd throws and transmitter settings on the Eclipse.  I only had to make adjustments on the snap settings.  All other aspects fell into place.

The basic kit is only $499.  This is a steal considering the wings come sheeted.  All of my kits have had excellent fiberglass and sheeting quality.  The fuse is some three to four ounces heaver than a Smaragd.  I compensate by substituting Bolly landing gear,  BPG CF wing tube.  I do also use the ES CF pipes.  All in all, I am able to build the plane at 10# - 0oz to 10# - 3oz.  This compares to my Smaragd at 10# - 1oz.  Why pay $1200 to $1600 for a Smaragd or Partner kit when you can have two to three Eclipses for the same cost.

I have started a thread on RCUniverse on "Eclipse building tips".  There are some photos posted of modifications I have made.  I plan to use the Eclipse in the 2004 Masters pattern wars and see if my fortunes can improve.  I give the Eclipse two thumbs up.

Steve Kessler

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Don McCullough 
  To: discussion at nsrca.org 
  Sent: Sunday, February 29, 2004 2:45 AM
  Subject: Eclipse Experiences


  After seeing the ad for the A Model Eclipse in the latest K Factor, it seems like a good candidate - and priced right. Anyone out there have any experience with the plane or the kit?

   

  Don McCullough

  NSRCA 1520

   

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