On Fri, 16 Dec 2005 18:59:13 -0600, Cal Vanize
wrote:


Thinking of building. Have been looking around and not found the kind
of selection I though was available.

Once a year the magazine Kitplanes lists all kitplane manufacturers
and their planes. It consumes nearly the entire issue as there are
hundreds of planes. Each listing indicates price and basic peformance
parameters. This would be a great place to start.

Next, realize that there is considerable risk in buying/building a
kitplane. Many kitplane manufacturers go out of business. Many also
produce kits of questionable quality either through incomplete
instructions or parts. I believe this risk can be lowered by going
with a kitplane manufacturer that has been in business for a long
time, and who has shipped a lot of kits. Spend time at airports, and
you will see the kitplanes that actually fly. Those are the best bet.

Also, check with and join your local EAA chapter, as they would be a
great resource while you are building. If everyone in the chapter has
built Lancairs, you may want to consider the same. If everyone in the
chapter has built RVs, again consider the same. The local knowledge
base is important.

Have fun,
Nathan