The Control Line Board is the only one with no posts yet, so I thought I would break the ice.
Until recently I had never flown a control line model before. If I were to built and fly one, I knew what it would be. The small SMALL FRY by Ron Prentice, as it appeared in the February 1985 issue of Aeromodeller.
And for a very simple reason, it is CO2 powered.
So, after many years of putting it off, time came two years ago wheen I decided to build it. And power it with a Telco, of course.
The plans were from my original copy, but the plan is also available here
https://outerzone.co.uk/plan_details.asp?ID=13405
Construction was very easy and quick, here are a few pictures from various steps.
structure finished, ready for covvering
covered in blue and yellow esaki tissue.
The model was taken twice to the gym.
The first time it did not take off because the dolly I built was too heavy and the model could not gain enough speed. It was in fall and the low temperatures did not help a lot either.
The second time, with a much lighter dolly and some other refinements, it flew. First in the hands of experienced CL flyers, then I took it as well.
Duration is limited (again, cold weather) but the fun wasn't.
Obviously, not a born CL flyer. But practice makes the master, so next time it should be better...
George
That is really nice and is the first time that I have seen a CO2 powered control liner! 8)
And by the way, anyone with a first name of "George" has to be alright. ;D
-- George :)
Quote from: g_kandylakis on Jan 08, 2026, 03:37 PMThe second time, with a much lighter dolly and some other refinements, it flew.
Obviously, not a born CL flyer. But practice makes the master, so next time it should be better...
George
George, could you please post a picture of the lighter dolly? Also maybe the plane on the dolly? Maybe expand on the refinements you mentioned?
Great post! Indoor CL + CO2 CL quite inspiring.
Hi Paul, welcome!
yes, gladly
The initial dolly had much more wood, this is simple 3mm balsa. The wheels are from Sleek Streek models, reminiscent of my childhood years (the family's first model was a Sleek Streek in the 70s)
The refinements had more to do with the CL handle and the adjustment of the lines to ensure a proper position and tension, plus adding guides under the left wing for the lines. Probably simple and self understanding for CL fliers, but completely new to me.
I did have with me two of the most experienced CL fliers in Greece during those tests, now they fly indoors as well.