Long Shot

Wingspan: 1500mm

Type: Discus launched glider

Description
I first came across discus launched gliders on Salisbury Plain in 2006. I was there for a spot of free flight flying when suddenly, whoooosh, up went an original Long Shot - a dramatic introduction if ever there was one. The most dramatic bit being the ease with which the owner gained height from the launch. I was hooked there and then.

However, it was more than a year before I ventured to buy a Long Shot, by which time the Czech manufacturers had brought out the Long Shot II. Compared to the gliders I used to fly as a teenager the LS is fantastic, being very light, very slippery, and very efficient. As my first flights were in November on a cold but clear and sunny day, all I can say is roll on the spring and summer when the thermals can really develop. The LS stays up on the merest hint of a thermal, so I am looking forward to some long flights.

As for the DLG technique, there is no doubt that it is a great way to launch, but it definitely requires practice, and if you want to be competitive, you also need to be fit. At first I found that about 70% effort produced the best launches. Anything more and the model was likely to go sharply to the left, ie. I held on too long before releasing, or too vertical, (haven't a clue why)! Some launches made me laugh so much that I had trouble flying the LS, and on some occasions I had trouble picking up the machine in the air after launch, especially if it went behind me! The warnings given my the manufacturer about making sure not one was in front or to the side when launching should be taken seriously. The LS might only weight 300 grams or so, but it is a is sharp-edged model, that flys very fast at the point of launch.

As for me, I think it is down to the gym for some upper body exercises. I wonder if they teach discus launch technique?


*Graham's Catia - competition for the spring?*	*A Blaster II - an electrified HLG*

February 2008
The weather is still cold, but on sunny days the Long Shot will maintain height when it is launched into good air. The technique is very similar to that employed by free flight glider flyers. Set up the glider, and then just wait for the right conditions to launch. If there is no real thermal activity, you can just practice the throwing technique.

The pictures below where taken by Dave Palmer on a cold but very clear February day at RAF Odiham.

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