Size Matters
In Control Line flying, larger planes tend to be easier to fly than smaller planes, so they don't crash as often. On the other hand, they are more expensive, so crashes are more costly. Another thing to consider is that smaller models won't take off of grass, so if your club's field is grass, smaller models will need to be hand launched.
.049 - .074
Commonly referred to as "Half A," airplanes in this category are the least expensive way to get started. Some model designs have built up wings, but many have balsa sheet wings. Models in this size range usually fly on 35 to 40 foot lines, and will probably need to be hand launched if flying over grass. Engines are available from Cox Hobbies and Brodak.
.15 - .25
Planes in this category typically have around 200 to 300 square inches of wing area and fly on 52 foot lines. Usually, wings are of built up construction, though some designs have sheet wings. This doesn't seem to be a very popular size range, at least in my experience. Note that a modern .25 like the Fox .25 BB or OS Max 25 LA will do a very good job flying older planes that were disigned to take up to a .35, for example the Ringmaster.
.29 - .46
This is the size range I would recommend for a first Control Line airplane. A good plane for this engine range will have 400 to 500 square inches of wing and fly on 60 foot lines. These planes are large enough to fly smoothly and usually have plenty of power and large enough wheels to take off of grass. There are many kits available in this size range, as well as many designs available as plans for those who like to scratch build. Good engines in this size range include the Fox .35 Stunt, Brodak .40, and OS Max .40 and .46 LA.
.51 - up
Models and engines in this category are big and expensive. Planes in this category can usually fly on 70 foot lines (or longer) without any problem. Until a flier gets into expert Stunt or Scale, there is no good reason I can think of to build a model in this size range. In my opinion, a beginner would be much better served by a smaller plane.
