Apex F3L 2m RES Glider
Description
The wing utilises a tubular main spar layout with construction principles derived directly from the Purito platform, for ease and accuracy of assembly. Structural design prioritises torsional stiffness, load consistency under launch, and repeatable build accuracy.
The kit follows the established Purito construction methodology and is optimised for precise, low-tolerance assembly.Ballast System
Internal ballasting is implemented through the wing spar, positioned directly at the model’s centre of gravity (CG).
Typical flying weight: 380–480 g
Additional ballast capacity: up to 90 g, installed via the canopy
This configuration allows rapid mass adaptation without CG shift.Flight Characteristics & Measured Performance
The APEX has been validated through competitive flying and direct comparative testing against lightweight Purito setups.Launch performance
- Identical launch heights in calm conditions
- Slightly improved launch altitude in headwindGlide & penetration
In zero-air comparative tests from equal launch height:
- Flight time: no measurable difference
- Distance covered: 30–40% greater for the APEX
This confirms higher average airspeed at equivalent sink rate.Wind performance
The airframe allows operation at a significantly higher base speed while maintaining controllability, providing improved penetration and working range in moderate to strong wind.Geometry & Specifications
Wingspan: 2000 mm
Wing chord: 190 mm
Tip chord: 104 mm (5 different airfoil sections used across the span)
Wing area: 34 dm²
Wing configuration: 3-piece design
Airfoil: Proprietary in-house design by Eser Kismir
Fuselage length: 1280 mm
Ready-to-fly weight (F3L version): approx. 380–420 gFor more info and a very nice build log see this RCGroups thread.
| Recommended RC | |
|---|---|
| Rudder & elevator servos | KST X06, CHA DS06 |
| Spoiler servos (2) (frames for KST X06H included) | KST X06H, CHA DS06 |
| Receiver | 4-5 channel receiver to match your transmitter |
Reviews 2
Good kit, good balsa, acccurate cutting of all parts and easy assembly. Very quick shipping.
I received an example of the APEX last fall, and brought it home with me from Europe. I built it over the winter, and have been flying it ever since. As the happy builder/flyer of several Puritos, I had no issues building this kit. Design changes from the Purito represent either (1) weight savings, or (2) simplified structure. I would have enjoyed having plans, but they were not necessary, and the instructions answered every question - especially after I read them again, only carefully! I spent significant time getting the airplane trimmed, but the process included radio problems. In the end, the airplane flies very well as designed and built. I see it as noticeably faster in cruise flight than a Purito, for pretty much the same sink rate - exactly as claimed by the designers. Handling is quick and positive. The large, late-Purito-derived spoilers bring it down very well. Mine launches right alongside every Purito I have managed to fly with. It's expensive, but I found it an excellent model. If you are a sport flyer, there are other airplanes for less money. If you are a serious flyer, you will want the APEX.