1/4A Helicopter Duration - what model??

[Bernard Cawley]

This year’s NRC includes 1/4A Helicopter Duration. With the only real motor available having a 3-second delay, I’m wondering what models folks are using for this. Whatever it is, it probably needs to be piston-launched as well.....

Thoughts?

[John Eric Thompson]

This year’s NRC includes 1/4A Helicopter Duration. With the only real motor available having a 3-second delay, I’m wondering what models folks are using for this. Whatever it is, it probably needs to be piston-launched as well.....

Thoughts?

The best kit that I have found that works well without a piston is the Apogee Mini-Copter: https://www.apogeerockets.com/Rocket-Kit...40en0ngn32

I was wondering about if we are even allowed to use pistons any more since the FAI states against their use at the WSMC:

FAI for 2020 states:
“4.3.4 Launching – the tools
The initial installation should not provide a model with any velocity or pulse change, except that caused by the engine(s) of the space model contained in the model. It is forbidden to use mechanical, pyrotechnic devices built into the launcher. In the categories of models S1, S2, S5 the start should be with the usual launch device (atmospheric electric ignition of the engine of the first stage). Any launchers for launching models classified as gas-dynamic devices (a pipe moving in relation to a fixed piston) or devices operating in accordance with the principle of a powdered battery are not allowed to participate in the competition. No part of the equipment launch design should lose contact with the ground.”
 
So I am assuming that this year’s NAR NRC will not allow piston launchers either.

[Bernard Cawley]

There is a rules change proposal in the current NAR rules change cycle to limit pistons and another to disallow them. The proposals have not yet been voted on and whatever comes out of it will not affect this year’s NRC up through NARAM-61. After that, though - well, it depends on how the votes go.

Specifics on how that works and timing here: https://www.nar.org/contest-flying/rules...n-process/

So yes, pistons are currently allowed and will be through at least August 3rd.

That Apogee kit is where my thoughts have gone so far....I was fishing, with my post, for alternatives really.

[John Eric Thompson]

There is a rules change proposal in the current NAR rules change cycle to limit pistons and another to disallow them. The proposals have not yet been voted on and whatever comes out of it will not affect this year’s NRC up through NARAM-61. After that, though - well, it depends on how the votes go.

Specifics on how that works and timing here: https://www.nar.org/contest-flying/rules...n-process/

So yes, pistons are currently allowed and will be through at least August 3rd.

That Apogee kit is where my thoughts have gone so far....I was fishing, with my post, for alternatives really.

Thank you for the clarification on the piston launcher ruling.  I have a QCR piston launch system and a Sunward hobbies floating piston system and was looking forward to using them during this years NRC year.  When I read the FAI ruling, that made me wonder if NAR would allow them for this year.  I have not found any other light weight helo kits other than the Apogee kit.