![The Zenith CH701 outside the hangar at SMX, fresh from paint. The stars-and-stripes theme marks America’s 250th and the CH701’s 40th anniversary. [Credit: Carson Stilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMG_1726.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Zenith CH 701: A Proof of Concept Homebuilt on a Budget")
![Builder and pilot Mark Farver stands alongside his Continental IOX-340 powered RANS S-21. [Credit: Mark Farver]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Copy-of-build-38-Topaz-Gigapixel-2x-scale.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Cross-Country in a Homebuilt RANS S-21 Outbound to Oshkosh"){kind=tracking}
![[Credit: Mike Davenport]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Over-Stave-Lake-3.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Glasair Sportsman 2+2 Build Part 3")
![Coming in for a landing at Humberd’s Farm [All Images Credited to Jon Humberd]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/9-1.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Overcoming Setbacks on the Zenith 750SD Xtreme")
![Humberd and his daughter using the 701 for some farm duty transportation. [All Images Credited to Jon Humberd]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/1-3.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Builder’s Spotlight")
Effect of Fairings on Speed
Compared to the high cost of horsepower, reducing drag is a much less expensive way to go faster.
Tricked-Out Tailwheel
T3 suspension system eliminates relaunches when touchdowns are a bit too firm.
Homebuilt Accidents-Comparing the Rates
A true head-to-head comparison with production aircraft is difficult to achieve.
Under New Management
An inside look at EFII's all-new electronic engine control system for Experimental Lycomings.
Pioneer Mechanics in Aviation
A book by Giacinta Bradley Koontz covering the history of early and notable A&P mechanics. Reviewed
Rapid Prototyping and Experimental Design
Sandwich panels, part 5-a simple, accurate method for molding flanged parts.
Ask the DAR
Repairman certificate eligibility, ELSA mods, flying at civil twilight, fuel cap engraving.
In Case You Missed It
The Home Machinist
What do you do if you want to cut a longer-than-usual taper? Well, first you'll need to create a simple tool from some round stock that will provide target zones for your dial indicator, and then you may need to buy some more tools-what a shame! Home Machinist Bob Fritz takes you through the process. Hint: Choosing the right Morse Taper is critical.
Archive: October 1996
Our cover subject for the October 1996 issue was Bobby Cox’s highly modified Pitts...
![[Credit: Jon Humberd]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/20-2.jpg?w=324&h=160&crop=1 "Epic Is Back")
All About Avionics: Wire Stripping and Crimping
Wire stripping and crimping might seem like a basic skills, but when done improperly can have nasty consequences. Stein Bruch gives an overview of the proper tools and methods you'll need to keep your avionics humming.