Overview
Peter Rake's Fokker D.VIII is a beautifully designed 1/8 scale model of the distinctive German parasol fighter of World War I. With a 42-inch wingspan and light balsa construction, the model is designed for electric power and either three or four function control, depending on the wing chosen. The design offers the excellent flying characteristics that have made Peter Rake's models so popular, all in a size that fits nicely into the back of an average family car.
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 practical and enjoyable electric scale park flyer.
Aircraft History
The Fokker D.VIII was the last fighter to enter service with the German Air Force during the First World War. Designed by Reinhold Platz, the aircraft was a parasol monoplane that was nicknamed the "Flying Razor" by Allied pilots. Originally designated the E.V (E.5), the type suffered from a series of fatal wing failures after its introduction in August 1918. The aircraft was temporarily withdrawn from service, and the main spars were found not to be to design specification.
After the problem was rectified, the Idflieg (German Air Command) ordered resumed production. Redesignated the D.VIII, the Flying Razor went on to claim the last aerial victory of the Great War. A total of 289 E.Vs were manufactured from an initial order of 400 machines. The aircraft featured a distinctive thick cantilever wing of semi-monocoque construction, eliminating the need for external bracing wires, and was powered by a 110 hp Oberursel Ur.II rotary engine. Despite its late introduction, the D.VIII was a capable fighter with a top speed of 127 mph.
About the Model
Peter Rake's Fokker D.VIII is designed to 1/8th scale, giving a wingspan of 42 inches. The model is designed to use either three or four function controls, depending on which wing is built. The plan has been updated to show the option of a brushless 'bell' style outrunner motor in addition to the original brushed set-up, requiring a rectangular 1/8 ply firewall and spacers.
The construction follows Peter's well-proven method: a forward fuselage box mated to a stick-built rear fuselage. The fuselage is largely self-jigging using the precision of the laser-cut parts. Tail surfaces are built over the plan from strip, with the rudder receiving a laminated outline of three strips of balsa. The plan includes full-size templates for all required parts.
The lozenge pattern canbe found here
Features
- Precision laser-cut balsa and plywood components
- Based on the original Peter Rake design from Flying Scale Models
- Traditional built-up construction
- Accurate rib and former profiles
- Lightweight design for excellent flight performance
- Designed for electric power (brushed or brushless)
- Choice of three or four function control
- Forward fuselage box with stick-built rear
- Laminated rudder outline for strength and lightness
- Scale-faithful parasol monoplane outlines
- Convenient 42-inch size for easy transport
- 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.
- The parasol design provides an interesting and straightforward build.
- Excellent flying characteristics make this a perfect electric scale park flyer.
- Peter Rake's proven design is a great flyer and a worthy addition to any collection.
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. Strip and sheet wood, hardware, covering materials, adhesives, electronics, and power system are not included.
What's Required
Mandatory Items
- Original Peter Rake 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
- Brushless 'bell' style outrunner motor or equivalent
- Appropriate speed controller
- 3 or 4 function radio system (depending on wing choice)
- Mini or micro servos
- Battery pack for electric power
- Appropriate propeller
Verified Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|
| Designer | Peter Rake |
| Aircraft | Fokker D.VIII |
| Scale | 1/8 |
| Wingspan | 42 in (1067 mm) |
| Length | Not specified on the original plan |
| Wing Area | Not specified on the original plan |
| Flying Weight | Not specified on the original plan |
| Power Type | Electric (brushed or brushless) |
| Construction | Balsa and plywood |
| Radio Functions | 3 or 4 (depending on wing) |
| Difficulty | Intermediate builder |
Recommended Equipment
- Brushless 'bell' style outrunner motor or equivalent
- Appropriate speed controller
- 3 or 4 function radio system (depending on wing choice)
- Mini or micro servos
- Battery pack for electric power
- Appropriate propeller
These recommendations are based on the original design documentation. Builders may select equivalent modern equipment to suit their preferences.
Builder Notes
- Suitable for intermediate builders with some experience in traditional balsa construction.
- The model is designed to use either three or four function controls, depending on which wing you build.
- The plan shows both wing options (with and without ailerons).
- The laminated rudder outline is a simple but strong technique. Use foam board for the template, protected with Sellotape.
- Soak balsa strips thoroughly before laminating, using cloudy ammonia if desired.
- Let the laminated rudder dry for several days.
- The forward fuselage is largely self-jigging using the precision of the laser-cut parts.
- Build the fuselage over the plan view on the building board to ensure accuracy.
- Ply control horns are let into the control surfaces after covering, to allow hooking up to the closed loop controls.
- Maintain accurate alignment throughout construction.
- Balance the completed aircraft carefully at the recommended centre of gravity.
- Lightweight covering is recommended for best performance.
Historical Information
Manufacturer: Fokker-Flugzeugwerke
Country: Germany
First Flight: May 1918
Primary Role: Fighter / Scout
The Fokker D.VIII was the last fighter to be introduced by the German Air Force during World War I. It was a parasol monoplane designed by Reinhold Platz, and was originally designated the E.V. The aircraft was notable for its thick cantilever wing, which eliminated the need for external bracing wires. Despite its late introduction, the D.VIII was a capable and agile fighter.
The aircraft suffered from a series of fatal wing failures after its introduction, caused by faulty main spars. After the problem was rectified, the aircraft was redesignated the D.VIII and returned to service. The D.VIII claimed the last aerial victory of the Great War. A total of 289 E.Vs were manufactured from an initial order of 400 machines. Today, the D.VIII remains a popular subject for model aircraft due to its distinctive appearance and interesting history.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does this kit include the plans?
No. The original Peter Rake 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 built for three or four functions?
Yes. The model is designed for either three (rudder, elevator, throttle) or four (adding ailerons) functions. - Can it be covered with film covering?
Yes. Lightweight iron-on film is suitable. - Can modern radio equipment be used?
Yes. Modern micro receivers and servos are entirely suitable. - Does the kit include strip wood?
No. Strip wood and sheeting must be supplied by the builder. - What motor is recommended?
The plan shows options for both brushed and brushless motors, with a brushless 'bell' style outrunner recommended.
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 Peter Rake 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.
