I'm still playing with the basics of rocket-assisted gliders. Here's a question: which is better (or easier) - boost gliders or rocket gliders? Boost gliders seem the most straightforward because they use an essentially "box stock" glider and haul it up behind a boost pod. Rocket gliders, on the other hand, have the advantage that they are one piece; easier to track and maintain.
Right now, I'm working on hand-launched glider construction. My plans are to first build it light (and make it fly!), then build it strong, then make it into a boost glider. I'm also building rocket gliders at the same time, but I have to follow other folk's designs. I've started with Geo. Gassaway's Xebec (and similar - plans from JimZ), but will start on some sliding-wing designs next month. I'm also limiting *most* of the engines to 14mm. I've flown several 18mm powered boost pods, and they did well, it's just less stressful when you get a ground loop instead of a vertical boost. I followed one of George's recomendations and went with a much longer boost pod when I made a Flat Cat. It weather-cocked slightly, but was fairly vertical. Glider did great (I've found that a little nose-light on first flights is a good thing!), but lost the boost pod (tall grass).
Anyone else enjoy the delights and frustrations of gliders?
(btw - you folks need to review the links on your pages - a whole lot of them are dead now - all of the Geocities links are, certainly)