Customer Feedback

   "In 1970, some flying pals and myself found some old Scientific model kits at the local hobby shop. It was raining outside, and we decided to build these as a Rainy Day project. Mine was the "Little Mercury", a sporty little job with a low wing and open cockpit. It took lots of sanding, but came together nicely, and flew very well. I had that little airplane for 30 years, 'til my neighbor's boy crashed it in the street in front of our house.

   Fast forward to 2004. The Blackhawk Co. had been advertising the Musciano kits for some time, so I called Larry at the Blackhawk Plant. I explained my desire for another Little Mercury, and after a very pleasant conversation, one was on its way.

   When it arrived, I was skeptical as to its fidelity to what was-and-had-been: would it be of the same quality as we were used to in a simpler time?

   The kit was a surprise indeed. Wing is a pre-shaped airfoil that just has to be sanded round at the leading edge, fuselage nicely milled out and ready for final finish. Tailfeathers are cut out as in the high-zoot kits. Wood is of the 'hand-selected' type! The wheels are aluminum with neoprene-treaded tires, look just like Banners. Hardware kit is complete, don't have to retrofit anything! Bellcrank, landing gear wire, wheel retainers, pushrod, it's all there, and ready to go. Even the decals are real! Waterslide, like the original, but new. Included on the plan sheet are Larry's phone number and the website for support.

   I have prepped a special Black Widow for this one, and am making an aluminum cowling. Aerogloss paint again, I have some saved. It's nearly winter here, and I am looking through the catalog for my next one. It will be the Pitts Special, but bet it won't fly like the Little Mercury!"

Mike Lauerman