![[Credit: ChatGPT]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/What-did-you-miss-Topaz-Gigapixel-4x-scale.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Last Bits"){kind=tracking}
![The best builders learn to combine both mindsets. They build like engineers but think like future mechanics. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0037.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Building vs. Fixing")
![[Credit: Wikimedia Commons]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/F-117_Nighthawk_Front.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Odd and Unusual Aircraft")
![After nearly 75 years, the basic Tailwind design remains sound. [Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_4636.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "The Wittman Tailwind")
![Trimming composites gets the full PPE job. [Credit: Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "A Few of My Favorite Tools")
Aero ‘lectrics
Repairing a malfunctioning headset may be not only inexpensive, but completely doable.
Wind Tunnel
Thrust-line adjustment is a powerful tool for tailoring flying qualities, but it’s complicated.
Bullish on Weight
For Red Bull racing professionals, reducing the engine weight in their aircraft is serious business. We can learn from their experience.
Van’s RV-14
The latest RV prompted quite a buzz. So what exactly is different about this roomy two-seater—and how does it fly? Taking off from the Van’s factory in Oregon, Paul Dye samples the new design.
Editor’s Log
Change is inevitable, and, in the media world, it’s coming at us hard and fast. Editor in Chief Mary Bernard considers the trends.
What’s New
Sunbeam light from AeroLEDs, dealer agreement for Titan EXP engines, Snap-on LED Hybrid Light and Pioneer Aircraft’s new wood grip.
Building Efficiently
You'll be flying your finished aircraft much sooner if you manage your time, parts, workspace and tools efficiently.
The Dawn Patrol
When the National Geographic Channel throws down an aviation challenge, The Dawn Patrol answers the call.
Alternative Energies
They may be largely unknown today, but two French brothers were among those exploring battery-powered flight in the 1880s. By Dean Sigler.
In Case You Missed It
Taking Care of Old Pushy and Pulley
Modern propellers do a good job of converting engine horsepower into thrust, and are generally tough and sturdy. But every prop needs care. Steve Ells looks at the top prop-care tips.
