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Build a balsa glider that launches upward with its wings folded along the fuselage, then opens them near the top of the climb to glide down. Rick Schertle’s Make: project provides laser-cut files and a print-scale template for hand-cut parts, along with assembly, tuning, and safe-launch guidance. Its 1–2-hour build time is the author’s estimate, not a timed test.
How the folding-wing glider works
A handheld rubber-band catapult sends the glider upward while its wings are folded back against the fuselage. As the glider slows near the top of its climb, the wings swing open; the model then descends in a glide. An upward launch matters: the glider needs to slow enough for the wings to open.
Choose a way to make the parts
| Method | What you need | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Laser cutting | The project’s downloadable CDR or DMG files and access to a laser cutter. | Builders who can use a laser cutter and want machine-cut parts. |
| Hand cutting | The print-scale PDF, a straightedge, a sharp hobby knife, and the listed saw and other hand tools. | Builders without a laser cutter who are comfortable cutting and fitting small parts by hand. |
The original article also mentioned a pre-cut kit sold through Maker Shed at the time of publication. Its current availability is not established, so the downloadable files are the documented route for making the parts from stock.
Materials and tools
Materials
- 3/16-inch balsa for the fuselage and 1/16-inch balsa for the wings.
- 1/8-inch acrylic or hardboard for the wing pivot; the project calls for 3/64-inch holes.
- Aluminum sheet for the wing clips, or flattened soda-can aluminum as an alternative.
- Stiff wire for the U-shaped straddle wire; Schertle used lightweight 18-gauge floral stem wire. A straightened large paper clip is another suggested option.
- Wood dowels, including a 1/4-inch dowel for the handheld catapult; a penny for nose weight; staples; glue; plastic tubing; two rubber bands; and fine sandpaper.
- Super glue or CA wood glue are suggested for quick bonds that do not expand. Plasti Dip is mentioned as a way to protect the nose.
Tools
- Hobby knife and straightedge for hand-cutting the thin wing stock. The author advises against using a scroll saw on 1/16-inch balsa.
- Drill and bits, rotary tool, metal file, needle-nose pliers, razor blade, sandpaper, and a scroll or coping saw for other parts of the build.
- Tin snips if cutting clips from soda-can aluminum; a laser cutter is optional if using the project files.
Build the glider
- Cut the wooden parts. Use 3/16-inch balsa for the fuselage and 1/16-inch stock for the wings. Follow the template and its grain-direction guidance for the tail surfaces. For hand cutting the wing stock, use a sharp knife and straightedge.
- Make the pivot. Cut it from 1/8-inch acrylic or hardboard and drill the specified 3/64-inch holes. Smooth its edges so it wears less against the balsa.
- Form the wing clips. Fold them from aluminum sheet and cut the notch for the pivot. Flattened soda-can aluminum is an alternative.
- Assemble the fuselage and tail. Fit the tail surfaces, penny nose weight, plastic tube for the small wing-control rubber band, and dowel wing stop as shown in the project instructions.
- Connect the wings. Fit the pivot and U-shaped straddle wire so the wings can move from their folded launch position to the open glide position. The straddle wire can be bent later to adjust the wing angle of incidence.
- Make the handheld catapult. Loop the larger rubber band over a 1/4-inch dowel. Follow the project’s diagrams for the exact attachment and launch-notch arrangement.
Test and tune the glide
Before a high launch, test the model over soft grass. Adjust the straddle wire in small increments, then repeat the glide test:
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#1 Best Overall
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- If the glider descends in repeated dips and stalls, bend the straddle wire forward.
- If the glide is too steep, bend the straddle wire backward.
If the wings do not unfold in one quick motion because the clips rub against the fuselage, spread the straddle wire slightly so it pushes the wings outward.
Launch safely
- Choose a large open area, such as a ball field, away from trees. Grass is preferable because hard landings on concrete or dirt wear down the balsa.
- Flip the wings up, then fold them back along the fuselage with their tips above the horizontal stabilizer.
- Hook the catapult band through the fuselage launch notch.
- Point straight up, pull back, and launch. Never aim the glider at a person or any other target.
The project describes the handheld launcher as suitable for ages 10 and up, while warning that the model is fragile. That is the author’s project guidance, not a regulatory age classification.
Rank #2
- Durable EPO Foam: Made from EPO foam, this hand glider is incredibly flexible and nearly indestructible, ensuring longevity and protection during crashes.
- Impressive Flight Distance: This glider can glide for over 75 feet, offering great performance and extensive outdoor fun in your backyard or local park.
- Generous Wingspan: Features a wingspan of 22.75 inches, providing stable and smooth flights, making it ideal for both kids and adults who enjoy flying toys.
- Ready to Use: Requires no glue or tape for assembly. Simply snap the parts together, and you're ready to go. Easy and hassle-free setup ensures more flying time.
- Hours of Enjoyment: Careful use can provide hours of flying fun. Its durable construction means you can enjoy endless outdoor adventures without worry.
What the project says about the glider’s history
Schertle’s Make: article dates Jim Walker’s original Folding Wing Interceptor to 1939 and associates it with the American Junior Aircraft Company near Portland, Oregon. It reports that the U.S. Army used the gliders as artillery-practice targets during World War II and that 232 million models were produced over the company’s lifetime. Those historical details, including the production figure, are reported by the article; they are not independently verified here. The article also says Frank Macy made his final reproduction of the original Interceptor in 2004.
The article attributes this observation to Paul Bradley, who it says added micro remote-control units to the glider in 2004: “With modern micro R/C a much lighter weight model could now be made.”
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Rank #4
- -Efficient folding propeller, metal spinner and functional flaps
- -Carbon fiber reinforcement throughout the entire model
- -High-power brushless power system compatible with 3S or 4S Lipo batteries
- -Efficient aerodynamic design for extended flight times up to 10-30mins
- -Fast and easy assembly - no glue required
Rank #3
- 【DIY Foldable Paper Airplane Kit】Combine the power unit with interchangeable paper fuselages to create various airplane shapes, encouraging hands-on creativity and assembly skills.
- 【Gyro Stabilizer for Stable Flight】Built-in gyro technology helps maintain balance during flight, reducing sudden drops and making it easier for beginners to enjoy steady gliding.
- 【Easy-to-Use Remote Control】The dedicated remote offers responsive control with simple operation, helping young enthusiasts develop hand-eye coordination and concentration during outdoor play.
- 【Educational Science Learning Experience】Through assembly, adjustment, and flight, users can learn basic aerodynamics and mechanical principles, combining fun with practical knowledge.
- 【Durable & Beginner-Friendly Design】Sturdy construction with landing gear helps protect the plane during takeoff and landing, making it a reliable choice for parent-child outdoor activities and practice sessions.
Sources
- Make:, “Folding-Wing Glider: Rockets Up … Glides Down!” by Rick Schertle, dated December 18, 2012, with a September 30, 2022 date also displayed. Source for the project instructions and the attributed history.
- Academy of Model Aeronautics Flight School, “Folding-Wing Glider: Rockets Up … Glides Down!” Attributes the introduction to Rick Schertle for MAKE and links to the full project.
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