How To - Hand Launch an X-UAV Mini Talon

The Mystery Solved!

I get asked a lot about launching the X-UAV Mini Talon because for many, it has been a real challenge. Starting sometime in 2016 X-UAV started sending a build sheet with the kits showing the CoG at 76mm. This is completely incorrect and X-UAV has confirmed it is an error on their part and they will "correct soon". Earlier Mini Talon build sheets as well as the earlier planes which came with CoG decals clearly show the CoG at either 55mm or 60mm from the leading edge at the wing root.

Additionally, the current on-line manual (as of 18 January, 2017) from the makers of the plane, X-UAV, show the CoG to be at 55mm back from the leading edge. This makes some sense as at 55mm, this is very close to the spar center where one would expect the CoG to be. You can see the current X-UAV manual at their link here: http://www.x-uav.cn/upLoad/news/month_1510/201510131701388529.pdf

To add to some of the confusion, there are many who claim putting the CoG on the servo wire exits (68mm) is the best position and while it does fly well, using this position could still have a tendency to tip stall on launch if you do not throw it correctly and very fast. Many have posted they have crashed on launch using the servo wire exits.

Having said all that, I strongly recommend starting first with the CoG position of 55mm until you get everything sorted and you are well practiced at launching. Then start moving it back to where it suits your flying style. Personally I like 60mm.

As far as throwing the plane, there are many ways to do this and this short video shows my method.

Cheers! Mark

18 January, 2017

X-UAV Documentation

Here are some images of the build sheets from three different models:

November 2015
pic1

June 2016
pic2

September 2016
pic2

See Also

TBA