Good evening all! I am waiting for my training project to come in as I decide what is the best build for a first timer? I am 29 in the Charleston, WV area. I had my heart set on the 7A. However, after research I’ve became interested in the 12iS due to its short(er) build time. The 20 gallon fuel capacity is a set back. My main mission(other than quality time with my wife and sons) for the aircraft are cross countries to SC and FL. Any advice and/or mentorship is appreciated.
Happy Flying!
There are BUILDERS and there are FLYERS. This forum is blessed with a high percentage of BUILDER/FLYERS. Your tough task is figuring out which group you fit in.
Here is a possible path you might consider;
1/ find & buy a good 6A (or similar priced RV) to fly. You immediately get your RV flying fix & you get to introduce your family to all the benefits of having a RV. You have a tangible example to intice your kids to become helpers in the dream RV (10? 7A?) project later.
2/ get an empennage kit and start the dream project right away, get your helper's hands busy.
3/ cost of the 6A and a full Vans kit ( emp thru finish kits) is roughly an equal investment to a fully completed, flying, well equipped 7,8,9,14.
4/ when it comes time to get the expensive build items (engine, avionics, etc.), sell the 6A to finance those major purchases.
5/ at this point you & your family will be highly motivated to finish the project!
Not really something we want to think of, but;
If you falter in the project somewhere along the path, you can be comforted knowing that there is a good resale market out there for incomplete kits.
Good luck with whatever path you choose!