![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")
Combustion Pressure and the Future of the Aero Engine
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook looks at the changes within Lycoming and how they affect kit builders, as well as Superior Air Parts future since Thielert's bankruptcy.
Build a Bear: Keeping It Real
Dave Prizio and his Build-a-Bear crew get the Texas Sport Cub ready for flight testing, and take to the skies.
Dual Time
Its a stool! Its a set of chocks! Its both. Chuck Deiterich shows you how to craft one with PVC pipe, plywood and some hardware.
Aero ‘lectrics
Vibration is not good for engines, airframes or instruments. Jim Weir explains how to fashion vibration analysis equipment for less than retail cost.
Wind Tunnel
Aerodynamic flutter has been a recent concern in the homebuilt world. What exactly is flutter? What causes it? Barnaby Wainfan clarifies an often misunderstood and potentially dangerous phenomenon.
All About Avionics
Stein Bruch reviews the airborne weather choices for the homebuilder, using technology undreamed of only 20 years ago.
Datalink Weather: Long-Term Exposure
Marc Cook relates his experience, more than four years' worth, with XM-sourced inflight weather.
Buying Used Lightning Detection
Avionics guru Larry Anglisano examines the market for used lightning-detection gear.
In Case You Missed It
Firewall Forward: New, Used, Something Else?
For some builders, new aircraft engines may just be out of reach. Dave Prizio explains what to look for in a used Lycoming or Lycoming-type engine along with what you need to consider before buying.
