Kevin's RV-12 Build : More Tools

Saturday, December 23, 2017

More Tools

This Wen 10" band saw came with the stand and was the best value I could find at 235.00. I ordered it through Home Depot.

I don't buy much from Harbor Freight but this buffer was 36.00 after the 20% discount. I'll put the 3M Scotchbrite deburring wheels on it when I get them. The stand was 25.00 and is sturdy and of good quality.

Why build an RV-12?

My plan for many years was to build the RV-14. But when I looked at the overall picture of building and owning an RV-12 instead of a 14, this is what I found:

Age. I'm 60 (in 2019) and Light Sport gives me more options to keep flying down the road medical wise.

Mission. I'm mostly a fair weather flyer (CAVU) and typically fly less than 300 miles cross country. Most of my flights are daytime, solo or one passenger, in the local area.

Time. Building the RV-12 is a simpler build compared to the other RV kits, typically completed in about half the time.

Money. I've noticed that as time marches on, everything costs more, not less! The RV-12 costs less to own and operate, burns 4.5 to 5.0 gph auto gas or 100LL, has lower insurance rates, removable wings so it can be stored or trailered and I can do the condition inspections. A win win financially.

Desire. Yes I wanted to build the aerobatic 200 mph RV-14, but I'll be content burning holes in the sky, giving rides to others, doing touch & go's and enjoying those beautiful calm CAVU mornings in a slower more affordable airplane! In my case less is more!