![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=534&h=462&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")
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AdobeStock_125628775.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Roll Recovery, Part 2")
Free Flight
When testing a new avionics component in your homebuilt, you must be prepared to deal with any consequences that may develop.
Light Stuff
Dave Martin samples one of the three PiperSport LSA models introduced at the Sebring Expo, and finds it to his liking.
Letters
Us and the Media (Best Letter) I was disappointed to see the first letter to the editor in the recent issue (June 2010)...
What’s New
American Legend Aircraft debuts two additions to its line, Belite wins award at Sun n Fun, Richard Collins book reissued and Pro-G hub earns PMA. Edited by Mary Bernard.
Expanding Current Technology
The Fourth Annual Electric Aircraft Symposium gathered an elite group of movers and shakers who are doing some exciting things with electric motors and other fuel-efficiency technologies. By Marc Cook.
Safety is No Accident: Lancair Designs
Author Ron Wanttaja uses NTSB data to illustrate how Lancair designs of all varieties stand in the ratings of aircraft accidents vis--vis other homebuilts.
Detail Man
Master craftsman Andy Paterson's innovative finish work on a Glasair Sportsman polished the airplane to near perfection.
Hiring Help With Avionics
Larry Anglisano makes the case for homebuilders getting professional assistance with complex avionics installations.
Vacuum Bagging for Homebuilders
Pleats, punctures and vacuum loss, oh my! Patrick Thomson addresses all of these potential problems and more in the last installment of his series on vacuum bagging at home.
In Case You Missed It
Kitfox with a Rotec
The Rotec-radial-powered Kitfox Super Sport taps into our nostalgia for radial engines but with a modern touch.
