Midwest Sweet Stik 40 54" Laser-Cut Short Kit

Overview

The Midwest Sweet Stik 40 is one of the most beloved sport models in RC history, renowned for its superb flying characteristics and straightforward construction. Designed by Pete Frankenthal and originally kitted by Midwest in the 1980s, this model has earned a reputation as arguably the best flying Stik design available. With a 54-inch wingspan and 595 square inches of wing area, the Sweet Stik 40 offers a perfect balance of performance and practicality.

This Varlocity Laser & Models laser-cut short kit provides the precision-cut components required to begin construction, allowing builders the satisfaction of completing the structure using traditional techniques. The kit is ideal for modellers looking for a rewarding sport project that delivers exceptional flight performance.

About the Model

The Midwest Sweet Stik 40 features a traditional built-up construction using balsa and plywood. The late version, presented here, is considered the easiest Sweet Stik to build and is quite a bit simpler than the original design. The model is designed for .30 to .45 two-stroke glow engines or equivalent power, and four-channel radio control.

The basic structures use conventional modelling tools and materials, and the techniques are straightforward. The plan includes full-size templates for all required parts. The model is a great flying plane, with many builders noting its smooth, fast, and capable performance. It is an excellent choice for fun fly raffles, with its mid-size, powering options, sport performance and fun factor making it widely attractive.

Features

• Precision laser-cut balsa and plywood components
• Based on the original Midwest kit design by Pete Frankenthal
• Traditional built-up construction
• Accurate rib and former profiles
• 54-inch wingspan for excellent flight characteristics
• Designed for .30-.45 glow or equivalent power
• Four-channel control (aileron, elevator, rudder, throttle)
• Proven flying characteristics
• Simplified late version for easier building
• Manufactured by Varlocity Laser & Models

Why You'll Love Building It

• Traditional stick-built aeromodelling that's enjoyable from the first rib to final covering.
• A rewarding project for builders of all skill levels.
• Arguably the best flying Stik design available.
• Excellent sport performance with a wide flight envelope.
• A proven Midwest design that has stood the test of time.

What's Included

• Precision laser-cut balsa wing ribs
• Laser-cut plywood formers
• Laser-cut fuselage components
• Wing ribs
• Tailplane components
• Fin and rudder components
• Lite-ply structural parts
• Additional laser-cut structural components shown on the original plan

Only the precision laser-cut wooden parts are supplied.

What's Required

Mandatory Items

• Original Midwest plans - Available separately on Outerzone
• Strip wood
• Sheet balsa
• Plywood sheeting where required
• Building board
• Adhesives
• Covering materials
• Hinges
• Control linkages and pushrods
• Hardware
• Power system
• Radio system

Recommended Equipment

• .30 to .45 two-stroke glow engine (or equivalent electric power)
• Appropriate propeller for chosen engine
• 4-channel radio system
• Standard servos
• Appropriate fuel tank
• Spinner

Verified Specifications

Recommended Equipment

• .30 to .45 two-stroke glow engine (Super Tigre .46, OS Max .46 AX, or equivalent)
• Appropriate propeller for chosen engine
• 4-channel radio system
• Standard servos
• Appropriate fuel tank
• Spinner

These recommendations are based on the original design documentation and common building practice. Builders may select equivalent modern equipment to suit their preferences.

Builder Notes

• Suitable for intermediate builders with some experience in traditional balsa construction.
• This is the later, simplified version of the Sweet Stik, which is easier to build than the original.
• Many builders recommend not putting dihedral in the wing for improved flight performance.
• Some builders have used 3/16 balsa for fuselage sides and bottom instead of lite ply.
• Consider using two aileron servos in the wing instead of torque rods for better control and setup.
• Use wing bolts to hold the wing on instead of rubber bands for a cleaner installation.
• Be aware that the plane can come out quite nose-heavy with modern engines. Consider mounting the servos further back or using a heavier tail skid to achieve correct CG.
• One builder noted moving the firewall back 50mm to accommodate a 30cc petrol engine with a Pitts-style silencer and carburettor through the firewall.
• Dry-fit major assemblies before gluing.
• Maintain accurate alignment throughout construction.
• Balance the completed aircraft carefully at the recommended centre of gravity.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does this kit include the plans?
  No. The original Midwest plans are required separately and are available as a free download from Outerzone.
• Is hardware included?
  No. This is a laser-cut short kit only.
• Is this suitable for beginners?
  Some experience with traditional balsa construction is recommended.
• Can it be covered with film covering?
  Yes. Iron-on film is suitable and commonly used.
• Can modern radio equipment be used?
  Yes. Modern radio systems are entirely suitable.
• Does the kit include strip wood?
  No. Strip wood and sheeting must be supplied by the builder.
• What engine is recommended?
  The design is intended for .30 to .45 two-stroke glow engines or equivalent power.
• Is this the late version of the Sweet Stik?
  Yes, this kit is based on the later, simplified version which is easier to build.

Safety & Disclaimer

This product is a precision laser-cut short kit. Strip wood, hardware, covering materials, adhesives, electronics, power system and building supplies are not included unless specifically stated. Builder experience is recommended. Power system recommendations are suggestions only and should be selected to suit the completed aircraft and intended flying style. All specifications are based on the original Midwest design documentation and are subject to builder interpretation. The manufacturer accepts no responsibility for the final assembly, airworthiness, or operation of the completed model. The builder assumes all responsibility for the safe construction and operation of the model aircraft.