Written by Here is another great model from Multiplex, the Multiplex Dogfighter
Multiplex Dogfighter in mid flight
The Build
I purchased the RR version from Slough Radio Control models as I was struggling for time and just wanted to get something new in the air. The “RR” (ready for radio) version comes with aileron and elevator servos pre installed along with the motor and speed controller. The fuselage was fully assembled with the two halves joined together. All it took was glueing the rear parts of the plane and a few hardware fittings and it was done. I’d say within 2 hours this plane was ready to go except about another hour to add the decals if thats your choice.
I am a big fan of the new Hobbyking Nanotech flight packs which I use in my Trex 450 and other models so I set the C of G up for that pack which need no extra ballast which is a bonus as I hate wasting weight just to get the C of G correct. I run with Spektrum gear and I already had a spare Orange RX receiver and sattelite so in that went too. All in all this model is so easy to put together that I can’t really offer any tips or tricks.
The First Flight
Have a look at my YouTube video.
You can see that on the first flight it was very windy with gust over 30mph so not ideal but I thought Id give it a go. The stock power system that comes with the RR version is a perfect match and the first take off was not an issue. In fact I gave it too much throttle which resulted in a bit of a torque roll but I soon got it level and into the wind and gained some height. The first thing you notice is that the power to weight is awesome with unlimited vertical climb outs. Down wind and flat out this model is very quick. The roll rate from the ailerons is significant but not over harsh and the elevator was perfect. I did a couple of laps around the field but decided that it was too windy to give this model a proper test so I brought it down for another day. The second flight was much better as it was much less windy. Half throttle and a good firm throw and off she went. What really surprised me was that despite the speeds that this model is capable of, you can really slow it down before it drops a wing making landings an absolute doddle.
In Summary
This model is not for beginners, its just to agile and too quick, but if you like flying such models the fabulous Multiplex Funjet, then this will be right up your street. The build is mega easy and the RR version not only offers great value, but is a very good spec with some very good hardware included in the price.
Here is my set up for this model
Multiplex Dogfighter RR Version – some example links below
Buy Multiplex Dogfighter RR from Slough RC Models – £169.99
Buy Multiplex Dogfighter RR from Modelspot.com – £169.99
Here is a link to the flight packs I use (allow a couple of weeks for delivery)
Link to the Hobbyking Turnigy nano-tech 2200mAh 3S 35-70C flight pack
These are just great value for money
Here is a link to the Spektrum Compatible receiver that I use in many models
Link to the Orange RX R610 6 Spektrum DSM2 compatible receiver
Link to the additional satellite receiver (Orange R100) compatible with the Orange RX6 R610
Most of the Turnigy Flight Packs from around 800mAh to 3000mAh come with whats known as an XT60 connector. I was very reluctant to try these to start with as used Deans connectors on everything but I gave them a go a few months back and have never looked back. They are much easier to solder onto a pack than a Deans connector and after having a Deans connector fail in flight I looked at options. So far I am very pleased with the XT60 connect and have now replaced all of my packs that run at less than 60A peak or around 20-40A normal use with these.
Here is a link to the where you can purchase the XT60 connector
Link to XT60 Connector Pack
Here is the official Blurb
Get racing – if you’re up to it!
The outstanding features of the real dogfighter are speed, agility and precise response to control commands – and that includes this model! If you’re capable of handling this level of performance, you’ll soon have your nose in front when racing, as well as holding the best cards for a classic dogfight. Classic, precise aerobatics – naturally!
Fast dives followed by maximum-speed passes just above grass-level – fantastic!
Chop the streamer in a combat bout – that’s what it’s for!
Float in slowly to a gentle landing – wonderful! And all this with the aggressive look and sleek lines of a Reno racer, or the machine behind the racer – a fast WW II fighter.
DogFighter – undiluted adrenalin!
- Low minimum speed
- Spectacular top speed
- Extremely neutral handling and accurate response to control commands for precise aerobatics
- Very robust thanks to ELAPOR® construction
- Detachable wing for ease of transport
- Removable canopy for easy battery swap
- Velcro strap for secure battery retention
- Downthrust and sidethrust can be accurately fine-tuned
- Two decal sheets included: “Racer” and “Fighter”
- High-performance brushless motor, speed controller, elevator and aileron servos already installed in the RR version
- Rudder function can be retro-fitted very easily; all parts (except servo) included.
- High level of pre-fabrication: fit the tailplane, apply the decals, install the receiver, go fly!
- Wing loading: min. 34 g/dm²
Specification:
- Wingspan: 882 mm
- Overall length: 812 mm
- All-up weight: approx. 850 gWing area: 19.07 dm²
