![[Credit: McFarlane Alaska]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/McFarlane_tailwheel.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "McFarlane Alaska Absorbs Backcountry Favorite T3 Tailwheel")
![Making rare use of my drafting tools for the internal timing. [All Images Credited to Andrew Robinson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/P1010535.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Conquering the Magneto, Part 2")
![The integrated ECLIPSE NG features a very sunlight readable display that shows the engine and all flight data organized in one or more pages. [Credit: Fielden Aero LLC]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/1_Screenshot_.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "FLYBOX Avionics")
![[Credit: Radiant Technology]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/550095_5165745cc27748a598699799d796fd94mv2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Radiant Technology Unveils SafeGyro")
![[Credit: Dynon]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/EMS-stand-alone_HDX.png?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Dynon Unveils Scalable Engine Monitoring for Kitbuilders")
Builder Demographics Evolve as Participation Patterns Shift
Participation in homebuilding remains strong, but the way people engage with the process is evolving, and so is the character of the community.
A Note From The New Editor
The primary focus of a new editor at a magazine like Kitplanes is where the work happens—not in an office, but in a garage,...
60 Years of Aircraft Spruce
Celebrating 60 years at AirVenture 2025, Aircraft Spruce’s Jim Irwin shares how the company grew from spruce lumber to a one-stop aviation parts source.
Zenith Aircraft Workshop Class and Fly‑In Gathering in Michigan
Hands‑on Zenith kit workshop and fly‑in set for October 10–11, 2025, in Howell, Michigan.
Unairworthy: Prop Blade Root
Neglecting constant-speed propeller overhauls can lead to hidden damage—like blade root wear from poor lubrication or extended inactivity.
Wings Over Willamette Returns With STOL WARS Thrills
Wings Over Willamette & STOL WARS returns Aug. 16–17 with forums, youth activities, and backcountry action at Oregon’s Independence State Airport.
Sonex Highwing at AirVenture
Sonex displays its first high-wing model at AirVenture 2025. The aerobatic Highwing blends utility, access, and top-tier handling with 130-HP power.
AirVenture in the Mirror
Leaving Oshkosh is always a bittersweet experience—on the one hand, we’ve been here for seven days, showing up at the field just after sunrise,...
In Case You Missed It
SeaRey LSX Amphibian
Progressive Aerodyne has a new version of its kitbuilt amphibian, the SeaRey LSX, and the updates to the design live up to high expectations. By Ed Wischmeyer.
Matching a Tailwheel to the Terrain
The right tailwheel can keep you out of trouble in the backcountry.