Deposit made and debating Model B vs Model 5

[dramsey]

My name is Dennis Ramsey. I live in South Carolina. I have built a Lancair IV which I now have over 1200 hrs on and a Just Highlander which I had about 330 hrs on when I sold it to buy a bearhawk kit….not realizing the time delay in receiving the bearhawk kit…ooops. But the good news is I have lots of time to research what I want to build. I put a deposit in for a model B in February but am stilll thinking I want a 5. Mark indicated to let him know by next February. The extra size of the model 5 and gross weight sound appealing. Does anyone have a weight and balance sheet they would share for a finished Model 5 that shows the stations for all the seats. I would like to run the numbers at my different loadings. Also I may contact 5 builders to see if they are receptive to a visitor to take some measurements. I am pretty excited about the Bearhawk. In the meantime got to clear a velocity SERG kit out of my hangar that I thought I wanted to build until I realized i was too big for it.

[geraldmorrissey]

You might consider getting a set of drawings for both planes and get to know the structure. Much will be revealed. Sell the drawings you won't need.

[jaredyates]

The closest kit may be Tyler down in Charleston? You'd be welcome to come visit our 4-Place in Hickory, NC.

[kestrel]

If you are thinking of a 6 cylinder, build the 5. If you are thinking of a 4 cylinder, build the B.

[svyolo]

The 5 is a B with 60-80 lbs extra structure. But it was meant for a heavier engine. The heavier engines and used props are cheaper and more plentiful than the PV Lycomings. A 5 is more capable, and if you are willing to go used engine and prop, actually cheaper. If you want all brand new the B might be cheaper. I am finishing up a B, but if I was starting a project I would do a 5 with a used engine and prop.

I am happy with my choice. But I would choose a 5 now.

[Tyler]

I'm finishing up the fuselage on my 5 and am down in Charleston. As soon as the paint is done I'll be getting the seats, carpet, windows, panel etc. back in and you would be able to get a good idea of what that all looks like if you want to stop by.