Quick Build RV-3?

Tony Spicer · #1 08-26-2015, 01:56 PM

Wasn't all that long ago that many VAF RV-3 fans were saying that if Van would only do a QB -3 they would build one in a heartbeat. Had the S&F tornado in 2011 not totaled my -3, I would most likely still be flying it. Apparently I lacked what it would take to build a second one, so I eventually chose to build a Panther instead. It's currently at the 90/90 stage. The most RV-3 like version of the Panther started flying a couple weeks ago and now has about 10 hours. Short wings and a O-320. If you would like to see how it stacks up against the RV-4, have a look here. You'll find a total of three flight reports in the link.

Tony

rvbuilder2002 · #2 08-26-2015, 05:33 PM

I have followed the Panther with interest.
Good to see some others getting completed and flown.

The comparison to an RV-4 isn't all that surprising.... I think an RV-3 of similar power would compare to the RV-4 pretty much the same way.

Lowrider · #3 08-26-2015, 05:40 PM

Why the Panther rather than an RV-3? I looked on their web site and couldn't find any size on the Panther cockpit width.

I'm building a Patrol/Cubbish LSA now but was focused on the RV-3 when I get done. Panther is really another option but if we can get thru this silly 3rd class medical thing an RV-4 would be another option. I started a dash 4 in 1992 and had it done ready for the finish kit when I ran into a very mild heart attack 3 months after a 2nd class medical so I sold the 4 and had to give up my CFI.

Anyway the Panther has some appeal.

Tony Spicer · #4 08-26-2015, 06:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lowrider

Why the Panther rather than an RV-3? I looked on their web site and couldn't find any size on the Panther cockpit width.

Now that the complete kit is available, I could build three Panther airframes in the time it took me to build one RV-3. Cockpit width is 28", comparable to an RV-8.

This isn't the place to try and sell the Panther. All I'm saying is that if you're an RV-3 fan, then give the Panther a look.

Tony

KatieB · #5 08-26-2015, 07:32 PM

As I rebuild Tony's RV3B, my husband is building a Panther. He started his fuselage a couple weeks ago. Tomorrow it will be on the gear. He is catching up to me and I've got 5 years into this RV-3B build/rebuild! Anyone who has wanted a quick-build or pre-punched RV-3 should seriously consider a Panther.

Lowrider · #6 08-26-2015, 07:33 PM

Thanks Tony!

The one I'm building is 30" inside so the Panther is pretty good size. I'm intrigued by the difference in build time and that certainly makes a good argument to me. Time gets more important the older one gets so maybe the Cougar will be available to compete with the RV-4 next year when I hope to get this project in the air. I did notice the Panther kit has a lot more extra cost options than the RV-3 so that may be factor too.

Waterobert · #7 08-27-2015, 07:55 AM

You got my attention, I still like RV-3b look better, but quick build time is very tempting.

ChiefPilot · #8 08-27-2015, 09:06 AM

I've been somewhat interested in the Panther as a project, especially the "sport" flavor, but I'm not sure I understand the anecdotal reports especially when compared to an RV-4.

For example, a specific RV-4 (160hp, fixed pitch Catto) I am acquainted with has a 10% lower wing loading, a slightly lower span loading, a slightly better power loading, and slightly higher top speed. The math would suggest that not only does the RV-4 have a better instantaneous turn rate (~64º/sec vs ~54º/sec for the Panther Sport) but also a significantly smaller instantaneous turn radius (~162ft vs. ~215ft for the Panther Sport).

It's much more difficult to obtain sustained numbers mathematically, but the lower wing loading, lower span loading, and better power loading of the RV-4 would imply better sustained turn rate/radius performance as well. I would be curious as to the roll, pitch, and G onset rates of the Panther.

I'm still very much interested in an RV-3 as a follow-on project to my -6A, but the Panther Sport is interesting...

Mike S · #9 08-27-2015, 09:06 AM

Joe----------welcome to VAF

ppilotmike · #10 08-27-2015, 09:31 AM

I looked at the Panther at Osh and reviewed it's specs. Being a bigger guy (in girth), I liked the slightly larger cockpit width of the Panther, but, for me, it's still the 3 that I long for. While the build time required is one aspect of a 3 project, you just can't beat the nimble feel and crazy wide operating envelope of Van's "best bird." Plus, it looks as great as it flies.