Ugly Stick Plane: A Classic, Reliable, and Easy-to-Fly Model Plane Design

The ugly stick plane is a classic model plane design that has been used by hobbyists and professional pilots for decades. Its unique and simple design make it an especially reliable and easy-to-fly option, making it a popular choice for pilots of all skill levels. The plane was first created in the 1960s by a man named Phil Kraft, who was looking to design a plane that was both easy to build and easy to fly. His design, with its symmetrical wing and high wing position, proved to be incredibly successful, and the ugly stick plane has been a popular choice among model airplane enthusiasts ever since. Whether used for leisurely flights or high-speed competition, the ugly stick plane has proven its worth as a reliable, adaptable, and endlessly fun aircraft. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and features of the ugly stick plane, as well as the joys of building and flying this classic aircraft.

History of Ugly Stick Plane

The ugly stick plane was first introduced in the 1960s by Phil Kraft, who was a model airplane enthusiast and also a well-known author in the field of model aviation. The unique design of the ugly stick plane helped it to quickly gain popularity among hobbyists and professionals alike. Here are some key milestones in the history of the ugly stick plane:

• 1966- Phil Kraft designs the first ugly stick plane prototype
• 1970- Top Flite begins selling a kit version of the ugly stick plane
• 1989- The AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) recognizes the ugly stick plane as a “Classic Airplane”
• 1994- The Great Planes Model Manufacturing company purchases the rights to the design and begins producing their own versions of the plane

Today, the ugly stick plane remains a popular choice for model airplane enthusiasts all over the world. Its classic design has been recreated by many manufacturers, including Great Planes and SIG, and can be found in a variety of sizes and formats. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, it’s never been easier to get started with building and flying your own ugly stick plane.

The ugly stick plane design is relatively simple, but it offers a number of features that make it an excellent choice for pilots of all skill levels. Here are some of the key features of the ugly stick plane:

• Symmetrical wing design: Provides excellent stability and control in the air
• High wing position: Makes the plane very predictable and easy to fly
• Straight-forward construction: Makes it easy to build from plans or kits
• Large control surfaces: Helps the plane to be very maneuverable in the air

In addition to these features, there are a few interesting facts about the ugly stick plane that make it an even more fascinating design:

• Phil Kraft named the design “ugly stick” because of its unconventional and asymmetrical shape
• The ugly stick design was later used as the basis for the classic “trainer” style of model airplane, which is still used today as a beginner-friendly design
• The ugly stick has been modified over the years to be more aerobatic, faster, and more powerful, but the original design remains a favorite among enthusiasts

With its unique design features, easy construction, and recognizable shape, it’s easy to see why the ugly stick plane remains a beloved classic among model airplane pilots. You can purchase ugly stick planes and parts from different brands on towerhobbies.com, horizonhobby.com and other hobby stores.

Building an Ugly Stick Plane

Building an ugly stick plane can be a fun and rewarding process for hobbyists of all skill levels. Whether you’re building from scratch, or using a kit, here are the basic steps involved in building your own ugly stick plane:

1. Gather Materials – typically balsa wood, glue, and hardware will be needed
2. Print or Buy Plans – plans are available online or in model plane magazines, or kits can be purchased which include plans
3. Cut the Wood – templates can be created based on the plans and used to aid in cutting
4. Build the Wing – typically built in two halves and brought together later
5. Build the Fuselage – typically constructed with a longeron design, sandwiching the wing and tail in between
6. Install and Connect Radio Control Components
7. Finish the Model – sand, paint, and decorate the plane to your desired customizations

There are also many resources available on the web to help guide the building process. Some websites offer kits, plans, or building tips for the ugly stick design, such as:

• balsaworkbench.com – Offers plans, kits, and materials for a variety of model airplane designs, including the ugly stick.
• rcgroups.com – An online community of model airplane enthusiasts with a dedicated section for the ugly stick plane and building tips.
• airfieldmodels.com – Offers a detailed guide to building the ugly stick plane, including templates and tips for customization.

Overall, building an ugly stick plane can be a fun and rewarding project for anyone interested in model aviation. With its detachable wing and durable construction, the ugly stick design is a reliable and versatile option for pilots of all skill levels.

Ugly Stick Plane for Competition

Although the ugly stick plane was originally designed as a simple and easy-to-fly model, it has proven to be a popular option for competition flying as well. Here are some ways in which pilots can modify and optimize their ugly stick planes for competition flying:

• Upgrading the Engine – installing a more powerful engine can increase speed and overall performance
• Adding Aerodynamic Devices – such as a vortex generator or winglets, can help improve stability and control in the air
• Reducing Weight – removing unnecessary components and using lightweight materials can help improve speed and maneuverability
• Modifying Wing Design – modifying the size, shape, or incidence angle of the wings can influence flight characteristics
• Using Advanced Radio Control Components – such as high-end servos and receivers, can provide faster and more accurate control during flight

There are also many competitions and events held specifically for the ugly stick plane. Here are a few options for those interested in competition flying:

Whether flying for fun or competition, the ugly stick plane remains a popular and versatile model aircraft design. With its dependable flying characteristics and adaptable design, it is no wonder that this classic design has stood the test of time.

Ugly Stick Plane for Fun

For most hobbyists, flying an ugly stick plane is simply a fun and enjoyable pastime. There are many resources and options for those interested in building and flying an ugly stick plane:

• Kit Planes – there are many pre-made kits available for purchase online or at hobby shops
• Plans – builders can purchase plans for the classic ugly stick design, or modify and create their own designs
• Online Communities – there are many online forums and communities dedicated to building and flying the ugly stick plane
• Events – local clubs may host events and competitions for ugly stick planes
• Tutorials – there are many instructional videos and tutorials available online for building and flying a variety of ugly stick planes

Here are a few websites and resources that may be helpful for those interested in building or flying an ugly stick plane:

No matter how you choose to build or fly your ugly stick plane, it’s sure to provide endless hours of fun and enjoyment for pilots of all ages and skill levels.

Conclusion

The ugly stick plane is a classic design that has stood the test of time in the model aircraft world. Its unique wing design, high position, and symmetrical shape make it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced pilots alike. Whether building your own kit or purchasing one pre-made, the process of creating your very own ugly stick plane is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Additionally, participating in competitions and events adds an element of challenge and excitement for those looking to take their flying skills to the next level.

Overall, the ugly stick plane is an excellent choice for anyone interested in model aircraft. Its simple yet reliable design and popularity within the community have made it a staple option for many pilots. Whether you’re flying for fun or competition, the ugly stick plane is a great choice that won’t disappoint. So why not give it a try and start building and flying your own ugly stick plane today?