fcnorton wrote:
I'm SERIOUSLY thinking about buying a HpH 304C/CZ as my first
sailplane. Am I nuts?

I'm a 1000+ hour power pilot that's been flying off and on for almost
30 years. My last plane was a Mooney 251 in 1992. I have NO time in
single seat sailplanes because I'm trying to fast track my add on
license and have spent all my time in a 2-33 getting ready for the
check ride.

The training system is the US is rather different to the one we operate
here in Australia, so I can't really comment on that side of things.

However, I would strongly urge you to spend some additional time with a
cross country gliding instructor once you have your licence. There are a
couple of critical things that will significantly improve your enjoyment
and safety. It's possible that these are covered to some extent in your
training, though.

First of all, some time with a cross country soaring instructor will
give you more insight into and skills in soaring. This will mean you are
more likely to stay airborne (particularly when the conditions become
marginal) and will have a good skill set as a base from which to build.

Second, out landing training is crucial - paddock selection training and
actually doing an out landing make a huge difference to confidence
levels when trying to cut the 'apron strings' and depart the home airfield.

All the best with whatever aircraft you select - you're getting involved
in the second best thing in life!

Robert