![Trimming composites gets the full PPE job. [Credit: Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-2.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "A Few of My Favorite Tools")
![Lowell Farrand spent years serving as an FAA DAR and is in the EAA Hall of Fame. He offers sound advise to builders. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/unnamed-4.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Think Like a Builder")
![Author Bill Wilson takes a break from measuring and cutting the Lexan windshield during his Onex build. [All Images Credit to Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Think Like A Builder")
Drill Guide for Canard Install
Neighbor Phil Hooper's Velocity RG project is making serious progress. With the installation of the canard, it's now almost a complete airplane (sans engine,...
Non-Marring Fluting Pliers
Are your fluting pliers leaving scratches in the aluminum? Here's an easy and quick fix. Cut three pieces of shrink-wrap. Place one on each...
Build A Spark Plug Resistance Tester
Checking resistance is an important part of plug maintenance. By Michel Suire.
Material Matters-Aluminum
Aluminum is usually marked by the manufacturer to indicate the alloy and temper. The markings may also include the lot number and the...
In Case You Missed It
The Home Machinist
Home Machinist Bob Fritz had been looking for a way to compare the effectiveness of various screw extractors he had accumulated in his toolbox, and he found a willing test subject in a Cessna 170s 60-year-old gas tank.
Repetition
Repetition is a big part of building an airplane. Fortunately, for many builders, it is also good for the soul.
Aero’ Lectrics
From outlet convertors to button switches and parts to make your own temperature sensor, Jim Weir gives an overview of his favorite electronics sources and what’s available to make the heart of your inner geek beat a little faster.
A Baker’s Dozen
Vic shares his decision process for both choosing another RV-10 as well as choosing some of the “upgrades.”