Mike Hurley

This six-part series focuses on the construction of an original-design 35% Extra 300LX. A model this size is certainly not for everyone and in the long run can get quite expensive to complete. Even if you're not interested in building this airplane don't let that stop you from getting some useful information from these articles! These airplanes are state-of-the-art for performance RC, so the information presented should interest most modelers. 

We cover topics from foam sheeting techniques to computer radio basics. And, if you decide that this is the aircraft you've been waiting for, you can purchase the plans and build along with us. 

We'll highlight techniques and tips in the articles and also offer a step-by-step instruction manual with detailed photos via the AMA Internet site as a PDF download. You must have Adobe Acrobat to view these pages. Click the icon to download Acrobat Reader software.

Editor's Note: The following article by Mike Hurley is intended to supplement his Model Aviation Giant Scale series, "Project Extra." This online article details the construction of the Extra with complete, step-by-step building instructions and supporting photos. "Project Extra" is a six-part series that debuted in the January 2003 issue of Model Aviation and on Model Aviation Online.

Please note: Many of the photos that accompany each section are large files. They may take several minutes to download.

To read the print versions, you must be a member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics or a Model Aviation subscriber.

Click here for options concerning this ground-breaking series.

Additions, notes, or corrections from the author. Please read these notes
and check back here often for updates as they are posted. Updated May 22, 2003.

Project Extra Part 1: Getting Started from the January 2003 issue of Model Aviation.

Project Extra Part 4: Control Systems from the April 2003 issue of Model Aviation.

Project Extra Part 5: Covering and Paint from the May 2003 issue of Model Aviation.

Project Extra Part 6: Setup and Flight Preparation from the June 2003 issue of Model Aviation.