S7 Scale Competition Strategies
The basic strategy for S7 is quite simple: build an exquisitely detailed scale model that is within 1% accurate in all the required dimensions called out in the rules, is flawlessly finished, and executes a flight profile with as many effects as possible.
Within the basic strategy, here are some points to consider:
- Pick one prototype and stick with it - only by building successively refined models of a prototype can you hope to attain the detailed data, construction jigs, and techniques to build a first-class model.
- Pick a prototype that offers sufficient avenues for special effects - an Ariane 3 can have an advantage over a Saturn V in that it can drop its boosters in flight. An Ariane 4 is even better. Do not forget to consider future growth of your flight profile - start out simple and complexify as you gain experience.
- Make sure that your model is accurate in the required dimensions to within 1%. Do not spend needless time getting the tiniest detail dimensionally accurate - it will not be measured. In fact, no dimension under 5mm will be measured. As long as details look about right, dimensionwise, that is sufficient. Do not be afraid to check the judges measurements of your model - mistakes are made.
- Add any details that you can handle and have even the weakest documentation for - in general, judges seem t favor lots and lots of details - even if out of scale. Just make sure that any added details are neat and well done. Many (most?) judges do not look favorably on poor-quality workmanship even if that is how the prototype looks.
- Painting is by far the quickest way to ruin an otherwise great model. Practice painting on scrap pieces before you even think of pointing your airbrush at your model. The type of paint to use is an individual choice, but acrylics are good because they resist yellowing. The Testor's "Acryl" line seems to be a good formulation, but like most acrylics, the first few coats should be dusted on or beading will occur. Again, practice beforehand, and make sure there are no incompatibilities with undercoats or overcoats.
- Enlist the help of a "prep buddy" before flying to assist you in getting the model ready to fly. There are many steps to getting a competitive S7 model ready for flight, and a helping hand is extremely useful. The "prep buddy" can also help make sure you don't miss a step or do something stupid. A check list may also be very useful.
- Do as much flight prepping as you possibly can the night before. It is a good idea to have your model transport box set up so that you can have all the motors loaded in the model before you get out to the field. During S7 flying the time will disappear very quickly.
- Always "go for broke" during the flight. Do not hold back some effects on the first flight with the idea of simply getting a qualified flight, then going all out on the second flight. There is a real danger of running out of time for the second flight.
- Don't build at the last moment (this is SO much easier said than done).