Combining requirements for cross country and aerobatics in the same ship is
a tough challenge.

Your Puchacz is aerobatic, so why not just do acro in that ship and leave
the other to XC? In that case, I'd go for the Duo, they are really
wonderful XC. The expense certainly is an issue. If it wasn't for the
lousy euro exchange rate, I'd have one, right now. Even the used ones are
outrageous.

My personal choice for a mixed mission ship is the ASK-21. It does
aerobatics reasonably well, climbs well, and runs decently. It's easy to
fly, easy to care for, robust, and reasonably priced. Hard to beat all
around, even with ships that cost considerably more. I enjoy mine
considerably.

Regards,



Mark Lenox


"John Brenann" wrote in message
...
We are considering the purchase of a DG 505 as our
top end cross country and aerobatic training glider.
Our budget and delivery requirements, preclude consideration
of either a DG 1000 or a Duo Discus at this time.
Any feedback concerning glider handling on the ground
and in the air would be appreciated. How well does
the 505 handle weak weather conditions? How effective
are the dive brakes, wheel brake etc? ( Off field landing
capabilities.)
Our Club fleet composition right now: 3 Blaniks, Puchacz,
Twin Astir, Hornet, Junior, LS 4, Jantar and Std. Astir.
Will the DG 505 require any unusual transition training?
Thanks in advance. JB