![[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")
Classic Amendment
Alan Arps, fourth owner of a Starduster SA-100 that had seen better days, treads the fine line between updating the plansbuilt design and keeping it true to its era.
Learning To Weld
After years of procrastination, the author decides to jump into welding with both feet, and finds that it is an acquired skill achieved only by practice and the right mindset.
Ka-ching!
Continuing the engine rebuild after his RV-9 suffered an untimely prop strike, Bill Repucci discovers that what should have been a straightforward installation turns out to be anything but.
Starduster Too
This Starduster Too is more than just a smart-looking biplane with unique elliptical wings and eye-catching paint. Careful reconstruction and modifications have made it into one sweet-handling ride. By Ed Wischmeyer.
Geared Drives Remembered
The innovative work of Bud Warren contributed much to the homebuilt community and saved many an engine from being relegated to the scrap heap. By Rick Lindstrom.
Product Review: Dynons Handheld DX15
Dynons DX15 handheld transceiver marks the company's introduction to a crowded product category. By Paul Bertorelli
Alternative Energies
Sun n Fun 2011 opened with stormy skies and a tornado, but the Green Space area offered a ray of sunshine at the rain-soaked event. By Dean Sigler.
Down To Earth
Swapping out an engine leads to an even greater question than just finding one that fits: How do you keep it cool? By Amy Laboda.
Exploring New Territory
Venture out of your comfort zone every so often, because stretching can be fun.
Light Stuff
Roy Beisswenger takes a look at how you too can join the league of record holders in the ultralight world.
In Case You Missed It
Eyes That Can See Around Corners
As builders of our own aircraft, we know there are many enclosed areas inside...
Big Screen EFIS
How you choose might depend on panel space and your control set preference—but the choices are extensive!
Texas Sport Cub
The Texas Sport Cub’s combination of classic good looks and today’s technology will appeal to those who are looking to rekindle an old flame or those hoping to initiate a new love affair; by Marc Cook.