WWII US Fighter Christmas ornament collection

P51D Mustang

F4U Corsair

P47 Thunderbolt

F7F Tigercat

All 6” in width, 1/8” thick and take around an hour to print each on a standard Ender 3 Style machine, newer tech machines like the Bambu would be even quicker.

Files are up on CG Trader & Cults

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F7F Tigercat
P47 Thunderbolt

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F4U Corsair
P51D Mustang

Sunlu PLA is my main go-to for Filament anymore, they have an excellent 8 pack of colors @ 250G each.

P-51D Cookie Cutter 3D Print

Make cookies or Play-Doh in the shape of one of America’s favorite fighter planes the P-51D Mustang. Recommend using food-safe PLA if used on Cookies.

Print time is under 2 hours on a Standard Ender 3 style printer.

For 3D print and model files check out the Cults & CG Trader links below

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CARBON makes an excellent Food Safe PLA option:

Smart phone charger stand 3D Print

I’ve printed a few of these phone charger stands now and they are very useful.

This charger stand will hold and charge large iPhone’s and other models. Use a 3.5 – 3.625″ wireless charger.

Anker PowerWave Pad Lite + Wireless Charging Pad available from Walmart is an ideal option.

The 70º tilt angle allows you to use and watch your phone while its charging.

Can use normal PLA and 3D Printers.

An Ender 3 can print the gcode in around 7 hours, a more advanced printer like a Bambu would cut this time down a lot.

Models / Files are available on:

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MIKA3D Gold / Copper / Silver combo pack makes for a great PLA option to print out the cell phone holder

2023 Aviators Holiday gift guide – Top 10

#1 Bose A20 Aviation Headset with Bluetooth Dual Plug Cable

Bose has been a market leader in aviation headsets for a while now

No matter why you fly, the Bose A20 Aviation Headset is engineered to improve the experience. It provides acclaimed noise reduction and clear audio with active equalization. Plus, a comfortable fit with minimal clamping force that makes even your longest flights more enjoyable. Features for this model include a high-performance electret microphone with a Bluetooth audio and communications interface, wired audio input, customizable audio prioritization and intuitive operation for plug-and-fly convenience.

  • 30% greater active noise reduction than conventional aviation headsets. Connectivity Technology: Wired/Wireless
  • 30% less clamping force than conventional aviation headsets. The ergonomic control module includes an auxiliary audio input with intercom/AUX priority switching, ideal for dedicated GPS and traffic warning systems
  • Clear audio with active equalization. Simple, intuitive headset operation plug it in, turn it on, go flying
  • Now with Bluetooth audio and communications interface for connectivity with your communications and navigation devices
  • Customizable audio prioritization control lets you mute an audio signal when receiving a communication, or mix the two together

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#2 DC-4 5 panel wall art

I have a similar 4 panel DC-4 wall art panel, its quite impressive in person and a must for aviation decor,

5 Panel 20×20inches ,

Cotton material,with hanging accessory kit Gallery wrapped and stretched with wooden frame on the back,ready to hang High quality printed canvas stretched and stapled to durable shrink resistant frames

high quality canvases which are designed specifically for canvas printing,

10 years will not fade The best presents for your relatives and friends.

A perfect wall decorations paintings for living room,bedroom,kitchen,office,dining room,bar etc

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#3 Tinyhawk 2 II RTF Kit FPV

The Tinyhawk is a great entry into both drones and FPV, this kit gives you everything you need to get started in this very fun hobby.

Included is the aircraft, transmitter, FPV goggles, battery(s), Charger & extra props

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#4 Pilot Blanket

Perfect gift for any pilot:

  • ★ Size:50 x 60 inches, perfect size suitable for all people.
  • ★ Material: Anti-pilling flannel.
  • ★ Quality Fabric: Made of anti-pilling flannel, more comfortable and warm. Light weight, durable, and can be folded compactly. Completely resist shrinkage and wrinkles. Our blanket has a velvety fuzzy feeling, soft touch, anti-pilling, anti-wrinkle, anti-allergic, and non-shedding characteristics. Very suitable for those who are prone to allergies and asthma! With this blanket, you can have a sweet dream at night and maybe unwilling to get out of the fluffy bed in the morning.
  • ★ Washing: Machine wash and hand wash, quick-drying, easy to care, durable, do not use bleach!
  • ★ A Great Gift: Tailor-made gifts for Birthday. It’s a gift that will hold up over the years.

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#5 x20hd transmitter

Get the ultimate RC Transmitter available on the market today:

  • Built-in near 0ms latency HD digital video transmission system (720P 60FPS) – Supports working with HDZero VTX Race V2, etc. (Note: the range is dependent on the VTX power setting in use.) – Supports HDMI Output – 5.8G circularly polarized directional external antennas
  • Built-in TD 900M/2.4G Dual-Band Internal RF Module Supports Multiple Working Modes – 2.4G ACCST D16 Mode (Compatible with ACCST Receivers with D16 V2 or later FW) – 2.4G ACCESS Mode (Compatible with ACCESS Receivers) – 900M ACCESS Mode (Compatible with ACCESS R9 868/915MHz Receivers) – Capable of simultaneous working under ACCESS mode – 2.4G&900M TD Mode (Compatible with TD Receivers)
  • Super-low latency and long-range control with telemetry – Up to 50 to 100KM range and down to 4ms end-to-end latency ● 800*480 Color Touch-Screen Displays ● 6 Quick-Mode Custom Buttons (Front) and 2 Momentary Buttons (Rear) ● Lite Type External Module Bay ● Built-in 6-axis Gryoscope Sensor ● All CNC Metal Trim Knobs
  • Haptic Vibration Alerts and Voice Speech Outputs ● Supports Recharge System for 2S Li-ion Battery (USB Type-C Interface) ● High-speed PARA Wireless Training System (Compatible with FreeLink App3.0) ● High-Precision Hall-Sensor Gimbals with All-CNC Metal Panel ● ETHOS: The more powerful, Flexible and Intuitive OS for your radio. – Clear and Intuitive UI Design
  • Supports Dual Operation Modes of Radio Display (Touch and Non-Touch) – Supports Multi-Language Switching – Hardware/Software Version and Factory Version Detection – Supports running LUA Scripts
  • Backlit touchable LCD resolution: 800*480 ● Compatibility: ACCST D16 & ACCESS & TD series receivers ● Resolution & Frame Rate of HD VTX: 720P 60FPS

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#6 Estes 2 rocket starter kit

Great way to get started with rocketry, you know the other hobby where stuff flies beyond airplanes, helicopters, drones etc. :

  • There’s no thrill quite like launching a model rocket, watching it streak skyward, reach peak altitude, and then return gently to earth. When you build them, the thrill is even better than ever. Thanks to Estes model rocketry, kids can explore the wondrous world of science while experimenting with different combinations of rockets, engines and accessories to better understand how rockets reach outer space.
  • SKILL LEVEL: The Amazon is an easy-to-assemble, Beginner level rocket with pre-colored parts. The Crossfire ISX is an Intermediate level rocket which will help a budding rocketeer develop some basic model building and finishing skills.
  • RECOMMENDED ENGINES: Amazon : B4-2, B4-4, B6-2, B6-4, C5-3, C6-3, C6-5 ; Crossfire ISX : A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, C6-5, C6-7
  • PROJECTED ALTITUDE: Amazon : 600 ft. (183 m) on a C6-5 ; Crossfire ISX : 1150 ft. (351 m) on a C6-7
  • ESTIMATED ASSEMBLY TIME: 1 Hour (painting and glue drying time not included)

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#7 Wall Art Prop

6′ prop for your pilot cave:

  • Wood propellers used to be replaced as often as tires and old ones were usually taken home to be transformed into memorabilia, like a clock for example.
  • Our assortment of early flight artifacts dates back to a time when pioneers conquered the air.
  • All propellers are sculpted in wood, distressed and finished in an aged, smooth patina.
  • Fascinating home décor and a continuation of a flight tradition.
  • The product measures 73.2 L x 5.9 W x 35 H inches.

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#8 Ender 3 Neo Max 3d printer

This is the 1st 3D printer I got and its an excellent choice from the beginner all the way up to a full print farm

  • [Achieve Creative Freedom]: With a build volume measuring 300 x 30 x 320mm, the new Creality Ender-3 MAX Neo allows you to print large projects in one go.
  • [Easy Setup]: 6-minute assembly; The built-in CR Touch auto-leveling kit and color touch screen with rotary knob takes the Ender 3 Max Neo to a new level of ease of use, making it a great 3D printer for beginners.
  • [Improved Experience]: The Ender 3 Max Neo comes with belt tensioner on both X-axis and Y-axis for easier maintenance. In addition, Equipped with silent TMC2208 board and filament run-out sensor, it brings you a smooth 3D printing experience.
  • [Enhanced Stability]: By installing a second Z-axis lead screw, it stabilizes the X-axis gantry and prevents gantry sagging on the Ender 3 Max Neo. The upgraded components are easier to print, improving the printing quality.
  • [Dual Fan Cooling]: Better heat dissipation reduces the chances of filament blockage so that it improves the overall printing precision when you print big. Compared with ordinary 3d printers, the printing speed is faster, which can reach 120mm/s.

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#9 6-pack shirt

A must have for Maverick and Goose:

  • Great gift for Christmas. Are you an aviator or know someone who is an aircraft pilot and loves piloting? Then get this funny top for pilots for someone who loves to fly airplanes. This is the perfect gift for pilots or pilot birthdays.
  • This this funny and humorous charter pilot top if you are the captain of your cockpit. THE ONLY SIX PACK I’LL EVER NEED. This top contains all the cockpit flight instruments and a funny message.
  • Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem

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#10 Pilot Cup Tumbler

Must read the Nutrition Facts on this one:

  • ✈️【The Perfect Pilot Gift】Whether you’re a pilot yourself, know someone pursuing a pilot’s license, or simply have a passion for everything aviation, this tumbler is the perfect addition to your collection. Show off your pilot wings with pride and let this tumbler be a symbol of your love for all things aviation. Not only is this tumbler practical and functional, but it also makes for a thoughtful and aviation-themed gift.
  • ✈️【High Quality-1】This stainless steel cup is made of food-grade stainless steel, bisphenol A-free, double-wall vacuum, durable, not easy to break, and rust-proof. The leak-proof lid provides added convenience and peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your drinks without worrying about spills or messes.
  • ✈️【High Quality-2】Double-wall insulation provides a vacuum insulated coffee cup with a sweat-proof and non-clotting cup appearance that can keep your drink cold or hot at the right temperature for up to 3 or 9 hours, depending on the outside temperature. This durable tumbler keeps your hot coffee steaming or cold drinks chilled for longer periods, ensuring maximum enjoyment during those long car rides or outdoor adventures.
  • ✈️【Must-Have Accessory for Pilot】Not only is this tumbler practical and functional, but it also makes for a thoughtful and aviation-themed gift. Impress your favorite pilot with this unique and stylish accessory. Surprise the special pilot in your life with this aviation-themed tumbler, inspired by the iconic fighter pilot helmet. It’s an ideal gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or any occasion that calls for celebration.
  • ✈️【With Lid and Straw】20 oz stainless steel cup with 1 unbreakable straight steel straw and 1 bent steel straw, 1 free straw brush and 1 splash-proof sliding cover.

Aerolite 103 video share

This video comes from the Jim Becker YouTube channel. He has many other videos from his 103 on his channel and is well worth checking out.

The video has one of my favorite bands Pink Floyd as the background music.

The Aerolite 103 was the October 2019 aircraft of the month, read more at:

North American A-5 – Aircraft of the Month

The A-5 is a rather unique NAVY Bomber that at a quick glance almost looks like a F-15 but was put into service 15 years before. Designed and built by North American (same company that made the P-51). While it was designed in the late 50’s much of the layout and features would be seen on aircraft that are still in use today.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_American_A-5_Vigilante

Beyond its very large size for a NAVY Carrier aircraft was its original weapons and fuel layout that featured a center bay where both where stored in a center tube and jettisoned aft rather than simply dropped like most aircraft.

There are a few aircraft on display and I would like to see on one day, a full list of locations is on the Wiki page above.

The A-5 has some decent YouTube coverage from Dark Skies, Simon Whistler and others.

For RC model coverage outerzone has one plan

https://outerzone.co.uk/plan_details.asp?ID=11693

Amazon has a few paperbacks and posters:

North American A/RA-5 Vigilante – MINI in action No

History Galore 24″x36″ Gallery Poster, North American A-5 Vigilante p1

Vigilante Illustrated Paperback

RA-5C Vigilante Units in Combat (Combat Aircraft)

#AM

3D Print Adhesion Settings

This Video shows the 3 most critical slicer settings to get good bed adhesion on a 3D print.

I use Cura by Ultimaker for all my 3D printing, its powerful and free, to learn more check out: https://ultimaker.com/software/ultimaker-cura/

First start by unlocking the settings for each item by doing the following

Initial cooling settings, adjust as needed:

Flow settings:

Speed:

PEI Printbed = https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08…

SUNLU PLA = https://www.amazon.com/Filament-SUNLU…

Ender 3 Neo Max = https://www.amazon.com/Creality-Max-N…

Caproni Vizzola C22 – Aircraft of the Month

The C22 was developed in Italy as a Military Trainer in 1980, The company had previous experience with gliders, in 1981 Agusta acquired a 50% stake in the program.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caproni_Vizzola_Ventura

MS Flight Sim 2020 has the C22

The C22 is a popular RC and free flight model as well

https://outerzone.co.uk/plan_details.asp?ID=10731

I would like to thank Buzz’s Facebook old magazine scan in’s for this add from the 9/93 RCM issue for the C22 made by I.T.P.

Hex Bit holder up on Thingiverse

For anyone who is interested and has a 3D printer I have a 1/4″ hex bit holder up on Thingiverse for free.

Typically used in Impact Drivers and Drills.

Each individual holder, will hold 10 standard hex bits. the tray can fit 5 holders for a grand total of 50 hex bits.

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6216417

For a quick Product Review I used the SUNLU brand of Filament from Amazon, Print quality was very good and I would Highly recommend it.

Custom Print Settings in Cura:

Initial flow 150%

Initial Speed 10mm/s

Fan off up to 6mm

#AM

F-1 Rocket – Aircraft of the Month

The F-1 Rocket first flew in 2000 and is often seen at fly-in’s.

Construction methods are similar to an RV-8 but with much higher performance along with a much larger 540 or 550 engine.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Team_Rocket_F1_Rocket

https://www.eaa.org/eaa/aircraft-building/kits-and-plans/d—g/f-1-rocket

There are some RC options that may be able to be found as a used complete aircraft or kit

https://www.greathobbies.com/productinfo/?prod_id=GPMA1030

https://www.modelaviation.com/greatplanesf1rocketevo