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New! Now the Edge is available with the new technology used on the SchpotDorker LT.
The Edge can now be ordered in a light version. The new Edge LT is over 6 ounces lighter
than the original version and still has the same strength for hard pedal launches on the
winch. The new all Kevlar trailing edge and special built up light tails not only decrease
overall weight, but give the Edge Light a better overall feel. Handling is more sensitive
with the Edge Light signaling thermals much better. (see below for pricing)
The Edge is just that on the cutting edge of performance and it will give you an edge in
your competition flying. The Laser 3MC and the Edge share many features. The computer designed
and optimized quadruple taper platform is similar to the Laser, but the Edge starts with a
10" root chord, which results in more wing area
The epoxy glass and Kevlar fuselage is a wonderfully crafted, streamlined beauty that
sports a nosecone for ease of entry and strength. The fuselage has been field tested to
minimize the drag induced throughout the Edges speed range. It has a long tail moment and
a generous fin for directional stability.
All flying surfaces are composite. The wings are made of spider foam first panel then a
special blue foam tip and have a specially designed spar system to give the best
combination of strength and low weight. The wings are finished white on the top with
natural black finish on the bottom to maximize visibility. Edegs now come with integral
Kevlar hinged surfaces so no more hinge tape!
As with the Laser
3MC and all our top of the line composite sailplanes, we were inclined to use nothing
but the best components, and our hardware is top shelf. We include a carbon fiber wingrod,
high strength fiberglass control horns and litesteel rods for smooth slop-free response.
As with all NSP kits, all hardware and instructions are supplied for the modeler.
The SA7036 airfoil has great penetration and a surprisingly efficient glide. We have found
the Edge as with the Laser 3MC to launch very high and have the ability to range farther
than any sailplane in its class. What most surprised us was the sinkrate. The Edge is not
only able to reach those faraway thermals, but is also able to work the lightest lift. The
stabs use the SD9026 airfoils designed by Dr. Selig. This airfoil minimizes the deadband
around zero angle of attack, which is common to symmetrical airfoils, and results in
greater controllability at all airspeeds. As with all our composite sailplanes the stabs
have high aspect ratio along with generous area, again to enhance controllability.
Flight performance is just as you would expect from such an advanced design. You get a
flat reaching glide; slow speed handling equal to the SD7037 floaters. The Edge while
having a nice slow speed with minimum sinkrate will easily speed up giving you the reach
you need to work distant thermals. We have found that generous movable surfaces are more
effective, both at the slow speeds so important to landing as well as working those small
tight thermals. The rudder area is also enhanced. These changes make a noticeable gain in
performance, whether you're thermalling at slow speeds or covering distances in search of
lift.
Sal Says:
I really like the Edge! Very easy to fly and a definite performance advantage over the triple taper wings. I like the floating glide and the ability to range with just a touch of down elevator. The efficiency of the wings really becomes noticeable when thermaling. The Edge just wants to stay up in a thermaling turn even with very moderate up air. Turn efficiency is the best of anything I have flown. I do think this and the Laser are the best we have to offer and may be the best TD sailplanes we have ever done!
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