This is a Log of the build progress for Bearhawk #870
I spent 2 years researching the kit/homebuilt aircraft market, there are so many excellent designs and kits around and it could get confusing. I enjoyed looking at the various designs but found that there are not too many 4 seater options. I nearly went for the CH801 from Zenith but I wanted a plans aircraft and not a kit.
My suggestion is to isolate your requirements first and then do your research based on that. The basic requirements for my 'dream plane' were:
STOL (Short Take Off and Landing)
4 Seater with space.
Great flight characteristics.
The airframe should not require expensive tooling.
Good, clear, no nonsense plans.
A following on the net and a good information resource pool.
I finally found all this in the Bob Barrows design.
The Bearhawk beats most similar sized aircraft in almost every aspect and the most complex tooling required is a 8' bend brake (which can be hired)
I ordered the plans in the UK and spent around 6 months studying them before returning to South Africa - my home in December 2005. I started my build in February 2006 intending to put at least 2 hours into the build a day. I have been fortunate enough to be in a position to put 2 - 3 hours into the build 5 days a week.
You're welcome to take a look at my log, as at August 06 I have invested around 300 hours into the build, I am enjoying it and I am in a great routine. I get up early and put the time in before a normal working day.
December 07 update: I now have 1550 hours invested in the Bearhawk (16.5 hours a week) and around $7500 in materials. I have 1 completed wing and 1 almost complete.
My suggestion is to isolate your requirements first and then do your research based on that. The basic requirements for my 'dream plane' were:
STOL (Short Take Off and Landing)
4 Seater with space.
Great flight characteristics.
The airframe should not require expensive tooling.
Good, clear, no nonsense plans.
A following on the net and a good information resource pool.
I finally found all this in the Bob Barrows design.
The Bearhawk beats most similar sized aircraft in almost every aspect and the most complex tooling required is a 8' bend brake (which can be hired)
I ordered the plans in the UK and spent around 6 months studying them before returning to South Africa - my home in December 2005. I started my build in February 2006 intending to put at least 2 hours into the build a day. I have been fortunate enough to be in a position to put 2 - 3 hours into the build 5 days a week.
You're welcome to take a look at my log, as at August 06 I have invested around 300 hours into the build, I am enjoying it and I am in a great routine. I get up early and put the time in before a normal working day.
December 07 update: I now have 1550 hours invested in the Bearhawk (16.5 hours a week) and around $7500 in materials. I have 1 completed wing and 1 almost complete.
