Review FMS ASW-17 2.5 Meter RC Glider PnP #FMS129P

5 August 2020

Bought the FMS ASW 17, 2.5 mtr glider from Mick a few days ago. The model had it's maiden flight this morning. The model comes securely packed, on opening the box it is noticeable the lack of parts from previous models I have bought. There are only 5 components to put together. The Rudder clicks onto 3 hinges mounted in the rudder post, the Elevator slides onto the fin and clicks into place. Two 9mm dia wing joiners screw into place in the fuselage. The wings then slide onto the wing joiners and securely click into place. The whole assembly takes about 90 seconds. Install your favorite receiver and battery, I used a 4S, 5000 Mah as that was all I had. I balanced the model about 10mm back from recommended. First flight, plenty of power to pull the model up in a 70 degree climb, smooth transition from power on to power off glide. The ASW 17 does fly fast. This is not a problem as the speed allows you to move around the flying area looking for thermals with the minimum of sink . First thoughts, the model is very stable in straight flight. The Elevator & Ailerons are very powerful without been excessively sensitive. The Rudder is powerful but does need a heavy hand to make it kick around. I found balancing a thermal turn with the Rudder is easy to do. As I mentioned, I did have the CoG 10mm back from recommended and found the model to be very stable. Next flights I will be moving the CoG further back, I think it can go back at least another 10mm. I set the Flaps up to maximum down I could achieve on the transmitter and mechanical on the linkage. They come down approx 85 degrees. As expected, the nose does pitch up with full Flap but is easily controlled with a jab of down. Model then settles down and does not require pitch again. Full Flap does slow the model down to a fast walking pace for landing, greasing in on the main mono wheel. Third flight I picked up two thermals and started gaining height, only leaving the thermals because they were heading downwind. The model did a noticeable nose nod on picking up the second thermal. Third thermal I picked up on the same flight was moderate - just holding height without sinking. Overall, FMS have got this model right, good power system and excellent handing. I don't know what the wing section is but the ASW 17 will hold it's own and climb out in a strong thermal. Can not wait until summer arrives now. ASW 17 is highly recommended, go and see Mick and buy one.
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