Overview
Peter Rake's Sopwith Pup is a beautifully designed 1/9 scale model of the classic WWI fighter, intended for electric power with a geared Speed 400 motor and three-function radio control. With a 36-inch wingspan and light balsa construction, the model is designed to be simple to build and a pleasure to fly. The Pup has always been a great favourite with modellers, largely because it doesn't seem to matter what scale it is modelled to – they always fly well, and this particular Pup is no different.
This Varlocity Laser & Models laser-cut short kit provides the precision-cut components required to begin construction, allowing builders the satisfaction of completing the remaining structure using traditional techniques. The kit is ideal for modellers looking for a small, quiet model that can be flown from most smallish fields without upsetting anyone.
Aircraft History
The Sopwith Pup was one of the most successful British fighter aircraft of the First World War. Officially named the Sopwith Scout, it was universally known as the "Pup" because it appeared to be a smaller version of the Sopwith 1½ Strutter. Entering service with the Royal Naval Air Service in the summer of 1916 and the Royal Flying Corps later that year, the Pup quickly proved itself a superior fighter.
Its excellent manoeuvrability, light controls, and robust construction made it a favourite among pilots. The Pup was one of the first aircraft to feature a synchronised Vickers machine gun firing through the propeller, and it was the mount of many famous aces, including Captain Lanoe Hawker VC and the Canadian ace William Bishop. The aircraft was also used as a ship-borne fighter, operating from platforms mounted on the gun turrets of Royal Navy warships.
By the time it was replaced by the Sopwith Camel in 1917, the Pup had established itself as one of the most important and beloved aircraft of the Great War. Its enduring popularity with modellers is a testament to its classic lines and superb handling characteristics.
About the Model
Peter Rake's Sopwith Pup is designed around a constant 1/9th scale, and is intended for three-function control (rudder, elevator, and throttle) using a 2.33:1 geared Graupner Speed 400 motor unit, powered by 7x500AR cells and turning a wooden propeller of about 11" x 7". The construction is kept as simple and as light as possible, with the model designed as a one-piece assembly. Should you wish to make your model disassemblable, it would be a fairly simple task to replace the lower wing locating dowels with tubes and wire wing dowels, and to have the top wing mounted with saddle clamps.
The basic structures use conventional modelling tools and materials such as balsa and plywood, and the techniques are straightforward. The plan includes full-size templates for all required parts. The model is designed for a fine and mildly aerobatic performance, with flight times in the region of six minutes from a 7-cell 500AR battery pack.
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 with geared Speed 400 motor
- Three-function control (rudder, elevator, throttle)
- Simple one-piece construction or optional disassembly
- Scale-faithful WWI biplane outlines
- Small and quiet for flying from local fields
- 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 light, simple construction produces an excellent flying model with a fine performance.
- Small size allows for flying from most smallish fields.
- Peter Rake's proven design is a great flyer and a worthy addition to any hangar.
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
- 2.33:1 geared Graupner Speed 400 motor unit
- 7 x Sanyo 500AR cells
- Wooden propeller of about 11" x 7"
- JETI 4 or similar micro receiver
- Two HS50 or similar micro servos
- Kontronik Easy 1000 or similar speed controller
- Mini or micro servos for weight saving
Verified Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|
| Designer | Peter Rake |
| Aircraft | Sopwith Pup |
| Scale | 1/9 |
| Wingspan | 36 in (914 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 | Geared Speed 400 electric motor |
| Construction | Balsa and plywood |
| Radio Functions | 3 (Rudder, Elevator, Throttle) |
| Difficulty | Intermediate builder |
Recommended Equipment
- 2.33:1 geared Graupner Speed 400 motor unit
- 7 x Sanyo 500AR cells
- Wooden propeller of about 11" x 7"
- JETI 4 or similar micro receiver
- Two HS50 or similar micro servos
- Kontronik Easy 1000 or similar speed controller
These recommendations are based on the original design documentation. Builders may select equivalent modern equipment to suit their preferences. A speed controller is mandatory – do not be tempted to fit a simple on/off switch.
Builder Notes
- Suitable for intermediate builders with some experience in traditional balsa construction.
- The model is designed as a one-piece assembly, but can be modified for disassembly.
- Use mini servos at the very least; micro servos will save even more weight.
- A standard size receiver is acceptable but will use up weight.
- Use only Sanyo 500AR cells for the power pack.
- Please don't be tempted to fit a simple on/off switch – use a speed controller to protect the gearbox.
- Dry-fit major assemblies before gluing.
- Keep the tail structure light.
- Balance the completed aircraft carefully at the recommended centre of gravity.
- Lightweight covering is recommended for best performance.
Historical Information
Manufacturer: Sopwith Aviation Company
Country: United Kingdom
First Flight: February 1916
Primary Role: Fighter / Scout
The Sopwith Pup was developed by Sopwith's chief designer, Herbert Smith, as a single-seat scout aircraft. It entered service in 1916 and quickly established a reputation as a superb fighter. The Pup was the first aircraft to routinely defeat the German Fokker Eindecker, and it remained competitive until mid-1917 when it was outclassed by new German types.
The aircraft had a wooden framework with fabric covering, ailerons on all four wings, and a 80 hp Le Rhône or 80 hp Clerget rotary engine giving a top speed of 111 mph. Despite being replaced in frontline service by the Sopwith Camel, the Pup continued to be used as a home defence fighter and training aircraft. Its light and responsive controls made it a favourite with pilots, and today it remains a popular subject for scale models.
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-function control?
Yes. The model is designed for rudder, elevator, and throttle. - 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. - Is this a disassemblable model?
The design is one-piece, but can be modified to be disassemblable.
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.
