FT Mighty Mini Arrow Build

by FliteTest | January 20, 2016 | (34) Posted in How To

FTScratchBuild-Advanced


The FT Mighty Mini Arrow is a fantastic choice for getting started in wing racing, combat, or simple FPV flight.

The Mighty mini Arrow can be powered by a 1806 2350kv motor or a 2204 2300kv motor. The 1806 is great for slower non FPV flight, while the 2204 makes this little wing a speedy FPV machine.

To build the Arrow with the center pod, cut away the top surface of the wing along the referance line.

An optional hatch can be cut into both sides of the wing to allow for FPV placement.

Join the wings using tape and glue.

The center pod has cavities to allow electronics to pass through the wings.

You may need to trim your wing halve a little to get the perfect fit between the pod and the top of the wing.

Servos install on the top and recess against the box spar.

The power pod pushes into the back after the ESC has been connected to the motor

The hole in the front of the Arrow can serve as both ventilation and a for the FPV camera to push through.

 

Our hope is that this little wing will bring many hours of fun to your back yard, or to a race course near you!

 

FT MIGHTY MINI ARROW SPECS

  • Weight without battery: 6 oz (170 g) 
  • Center of Gravity: 1.75 inches (44 mm) in front of rear firewall
  • Control Surface Throws: 12 ˚ deflection (elevator/aileron/rudder) Expo 30%
  • Wingspan: 29 inches (736 mm)
  • Recommended Motor: 2300 kv 2204 size motor
  • Recommended Prop: 6 x 4.5 prop 
  • Recommended ESC: 12 amp minimum 
  • Recommended battery: 800 mAH 2s or 3s 
  • Recommended Servos: (2) 5 gram servos
 

PICK UP A SPEED BUILD KIT HERE!


FT MIGHTY MINI ARROW PLANS

STORE LINKS

New to the R/C hobby?
Here's some resources to help get you up to speed!

Beginner Series: WATCH HERE!
Electronics Setup: WATCH HERE!
First Flight Quick Tips: WATCH HERE!

Got glue?? Get Some Here! 

- Find this article & others like it at www.FliteTest.com -

COMMENTS

The-One-Who-Never-Crashes on January 20, 2016
Super! Can't wait for the large one (want to use it for long-range FPV).
Log In to reply
Sunspot on January 21, 2016
No need to wait, see the Versa Wing in the store, perfect for FPV!
Log In to reply
The-One-Who-Never-Crashes on January 21, 2016
I want the center FPV pod :)
Log In to reply
jredbird on January 22, 2016
There's an option to build the versa wing as a pusher w/ a nose conversion for fpv... it is versatile, after all. I suspect there are differences in the flight characteristics between the arrow and the versa wing, but I don't know what those might be.
Log In to reply
Seimy on January 26, 2016
Oh there is going to be a bigger version of this one? Do you know when it will come out?
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 27, 2016
Josh said "soon"...
Log In to reply
Fearless FPV on January 20, 2016
Really nice! Great to hear that you're partnering with Team Legit for the large version of the Arrow!
Log In to reply
Vincentsl on January 20, 2016
What is the weight with battery and fpv vtx+cam? This looks like a good candidate for a sub 250g fpv vehicle that won't require FAA registration due to weight.
Log In to reply
adamooo on January 21, 2016
Plans say 245gr all-up weight, but I wouldn't presume that includes FPV gear, and your electronics, build, etc may vary from theirs. I bet I add more than 5 grams of extra glue in mine ;-).
Log In to reply
backdraft on January 20, 2016
What's the foam called and what's the thickness?
Log In to reply
Norlin on January 20, 2016
It's foam from the dollar tree foam, sometimes called DTFB (Dollar Tree Foam Board), they sell it in the FT store as well. It's very light, about 5mm thick, comes in 20"x30" boards for $1 each and is foam with paper adhered to both sides.
Log In to reply
Kevinjt4 on January 21, 2016
There's even Ross foam board from Walmart at 88¢ per board. Whiter paper, foam is a tad stronger, and much less wavy. Tho it might weigh a sliver more than the DTFB due to the paper. But it is still 5mm thick so no modification in plans required. I'm starting to use this board simply due to the strength, but for me its a bit difficult to find. And DTFB you can buy in bulk.
Log In to reply
backdraft on January 21, 2016
Ok thanks. It's just that I'm from europe and looking for an industry standard name for that, like EPP or Depron. Don't think I'll find any "Dollar Tree Foam Boards" here.
Log In to reply
Norlin on January 21, 2016
If you search here for DTFB, you'll likely find a ton of information on it as this question comes up all the time for countries outside of the US. The foam board itself is from this company: http://www.goadams.com/products/readi-board-foam-board/foam-board/ and weighs around 39 grams per sheet, unfortunately, they don't say what kind of foam it is.
Log In to reply
Sunspot on January 21, 2016
Flite Test is selling foamboard now, check the store. The stuff from Dollar Tree is made by Adams. Walmart sells Ross foamboard, pretty good, although the paper doesn't peel off as easily when that is needed.
I'm building two of these little wings today, one will have lights installed. Wheee...
Log In to reply
CJGFX on January 21, 2016
I'm in France and you can find Foam board (some times call foam core and "Carton Plume" in French) but it very expensive. I use Depron which I can get in 3mm and 6mm think. I simply use coloured packing tape on one side then then cut out the plans, like that all the folds work etc. Try different makes of Depron as some are very fragile and crack too easily.
Log In to reply
Del-Dredd on January 24, 2016
Agree Depron is better than the Foamboard you can find in Europe, it is cheaper and lighter, I made a piece same size as the piece of DFTB and even with tape both sides it was still slightly lighter. The Foamboard in Europe is a lot heavier than the DFTB and is thicker as well., It messes up the CoG even if you redo all the slots etc to match thickness.

Whatever happened the FliteTest branded DFTB that Flitetest were supposed to be bringing to Europe for sale, that would be great.
Log In to reply
tophe75 on January 22, 2016
Where do you live? Might be easier to help you if we knew...
In Sweden it is just foam board or KAPA skiva/platta and could be found all over.
This type of board has been used in the advertising business for ages, used to put large photos or print on them for exhibitions...
Log In to reply
Del-Dredd on January 24, 2016
Exceptionally heavy in comparison, plans would need to be modified to get CoG correct and it would not fly anywhere near as good.
Log In to reply
tophe75 on January 24, 2016
I have built FT planes booth with the FT-foam and the heavier one we have here in Sweden and the all fly just fine. I plan to build this one also of this heavier foam and I expect it to fly just fine as well.

If you are concerned about the weight just buy the board with the thinner paper on it, it can be found here in Sweden also...
Log In to reply
2bflown on May 12, 2016
I don't know if you can still use this, but this is the foamboard is used to use when I lived in Europe: https://www.harolds.nl/p/presentatie/foamboard/foamboard_1/foamboard_1 I bought the A1 size and it was perfectly fine. I didn't weigh it though, and the paper was hard to peel off. $4.00 was ok for me since I don't expect you to build a new plane every week (I did that and then you'll be disappointed about the electronics pricing xD). Good luck and happy flying ;)

Log In to reply
joosh on February 4, 2016
HI, have you noticed the ross paper is easier to peal off? idk if its just a bad batch or if they changed there glue i dont like it. It peals off like $tree now and thats why i didnt use $tree i dont like the delaminating!!
Log In to reply
Kevinjt4 on February 6, 2016
Actually I have built this FT Arrow and Flying Penguins F6F Hellcat with Ross board and to me it seems that Ross board is harder to peel the paper off than DTFB. I really have to scrape the foam off once i get the bigger chunks off, which seem to break in pieces. DTFB peels really easy, heck my 4yr old peels paper off the DTFB for me its so easy.
Log In to reply
wdave on June 8, 2016
"DollarTree Foam Board" often typed as DTFB is a misnomer. It is actually "Adams Foam Board" (once called Readiboard). It is available in any "dollar-store" around here (beit Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, Dollar General or even Big Lots) There are other foam boards available (Elmers comes to mind) but this is the lightest weight board around.
It is simply eps laminated with a thin weight paper. It's the actual paper that gives it its surprising strength for its weight.
Its nominal dimensions are 3/16" thick and 20x30 inches. That's about 5mm and 508x762 mm. (I hope - my metric keyboard is at work - I only have my American one here ;-)
One sheet weighs in at approx 114 grams (give or take a gram).
(If this is available at Ikea, should we call it Ikea Foam Board?)
Log In to reply
TigStar82 on August 21, 2017
If anyone in the UK are still after foam board then Hobby craft have 4xA1 sheets for £10 on offer at the mo for this week
Log In to reply
HilldaFlyer on January 20, 2016
I would like to know the FPV setup - even if you don't carry it in your store.
Thanks - David
Log In to reply
bargy73 on January 21, 2016
Hi Guys
I might be going blind or can you help me in finding the CG on the scratch build plans please.

Thanks Jack
Log In to reply
westbows on January 21, 2016
I agree. no CG on plans.
Log In to reply
bmitchell138 on January 23, 2016
Same here. The plans show a CG of 1.75 inches on the first page. Is that from the leading edge of the wing or trailing edge?
Log In to reply
circle&stripe on January 23, 2016
From the Firewall, according to Sponz.

REF http://forum.flitetest.com/showthread.php?17136-SP0NZ-Plans-Index/page26 message #255
Log In to reply
skibum1996 on February 1, 2016
There are circles with white and blue triangles in it that is the cg points
Log In to reply
samjb2 on January 21, 2016
Hi Guys

In terms of paper size (A4, A3 etc) what size of foam board do I need to get that is big enough for the largest part of the plan? I'm in the UK and am struggling to find foam board for cheap.

Log In to reply
Sundee on January 21, 2016
Going on what I'm seeing on the plans I'm thinking: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__86294__Aero_modelling_Foam_Board_5mm_x_500mm_x_700mm_White_UK_Warehouse_.html

I've just printed out the plans and will start putting them together tonight. But I think it should all fit onto them. If you want quicker hobbycraft sell 1 A1 sheet for about £7
Log In to reply
westbows on January 21, 2016
Norlin January 20, 2016
copied from above.
It's foam from the dollar tree foam, sometimes called DTFB (Dollar Tree Foam Board), they sell it in the FT store as well. It's very light, about 5mm thick, comes in 20"x30" boards for $1 each and is foam with paper adhered to both sides.
Log In to reply
jabbey71 on January 21, 2016
Getting ready to gather some parts for the build. Which of the 2 foamboards will be best. Adams or the Ross Brand. Thanks.
Log In to reply
Crash and Burn RC on January 21, 2016
Adams is lighter and pretty much the best.
Log In to reply
jabbey71 on January 21, 2016
Ok, thanks for info..
Log In to reply
Wolfgang1402 on January 21, 2016
I say thanks !! Great work :)
Log In to reply
Joe p on January 21, 2016
Can you fly this with a DX5e?
Log In to reply
westbows on January 21, 2016
yes. read manual(page 11) for elevon mixing. I think you just turn on switch for mix.
here is link to manual. http://www.spektrumrc.com/ProdInfo/Files/SPM5500-Manual.pdf
Log In to reply
Xerx on January 21, 2016
Som how do you print the tiled plans properly?
I either have to print them downscaled, or it parts of it gets placed outside the boarders, because of printer margins. This is with a Canon MF8080 printer
Log In to reply
mhoyle on January 21, 2016
Yeah, I'm having the same issue. Never had problem printing any of these plans in the past on this same comp/printer setup.
Log In to reply
COSkies on January 21, 2016
I, too, am having difficulties getting the tiled plans to print properly. I am getting the scale printed off nicely, but each of my top row tiles is cut off at the bottom. Using same HP Deskjet 1055 as always.
Log In to reply
gilcd85 on January 24, 2016
Having the same issue as well. Bottom of the printed page is cut. Never had this issue before. Any solution for this?
Log In to reply
Del-Dredd on January 24, 2016
What size paper, American A4 is different to world standard A4, maybe its that, I always have issues with tiled.
I tend to use the Full version and let it auto tile to fit my paper properly.
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 27, 2016
What paper size do you want to print on?
For Europe A4 I rearranged it all a bit: http://docdro.id/UMcVgkt

(Remember to set Page fitting to "none")
Log In to reply
johnnyjiujitsu on January 27, 2016
I was having the same issue. Try using the "fit to page" option instead of "actual size' or "custom scale 100%." This worked for me. Now it's time to start building! : ) I have been trying to make the "actual size" plans work for days now with no luck. Hope this helps.
Log In to reply
skibum1996 on February 1, 2016
you dont alter the size if will make the cavities to big or small if you change the scale.

Log In to reply
Purpletech on January 21, 2016
Hey guys.

So, while printing the tiled plans, it seems like the images are off centered on the pages. Is this normal? Do I need to scale anything?

First FT plan build, so I want to make sure I get it right!

thanks
Log In to reply
johnnyjiujitsu on January 27, 2016
I was having the same issue. Try using the "fit to page" option.
Log In to reply
MitchO on January 21, 2016
How big of a prop could this frame handle?
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 27, 2016
Nothing much bigger then a 6x? probably... Will be able to tell you more as soon as I have finished building mine...
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 30, 2016
Just finished building mine...

Without doing any changes it only fits a 6 prop.
Log In to reply
eMoon on January 21, 2016
If only I could bevel like Josh Bixler!
Log In to reply
IronKane on March 15, 2016
Just recently started working with foamboard and my bevels sucked. This works great: Score the paper to the side of the break the width of the thickness of the foam board, then peel the paper strip off. Now your razor will slide smoothly through just foam without snagging, tearing or scalloping.
Log In to reply
mhoyle on January 21, 2016
Is there any harm in using a more robust esc (20amp) with the 2204 motor and 5g servos? would it work fine? Also would be great to be able to buy the props for this seperately and not just within a power pack.
Log In to reply
westbows on January 21, 2016
just added weight. and connectors for battery and motor may be different.
Log In to reply
manoskate1 on January 21, 2016
would this work with a 1500?
Log In to reply
Superfly FPV on January 21, 2016
I want to see one with this motor on a 4s battery :)
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__91896__DYS_BE1104_4000KV_Multi_rotor_Motor_Black_.html
Log In to reply
parajared on February 3, 2016
It would totally suck because that's a 80 watt motor.

What you mean to say is "I want to see one with this motor on a 4s battery"
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__24497__Hobbyking_2825_1950kv_Funfighter_Replacement_Brushless_Outrunner_motor.html
Log In to reply
Tuur on January 22, 2016
Hi, Is it possible to get also A3 scematics of all the plans? I can print A3 but not larger and it save a lot of sticky tape :).


Log In to reply
nebulous on January 22, 2016
You can use Inkscape (free!) with PDFs very easily. Open the plans, resize to A3 format and you'll see that the parts don't fit. Drag them around. You may want to group shapes together so you don't drag partials.

I've done this in the past when I figured out my printer can print A4-width pages up to 30 inches long; just re-arrange the parts to fit in an A4 width and tape pages together *before* feeding them into the printer.
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 24, 2016
I already did do the rearranging. Also a great tool to help one is posterazor if you can't print borderless.

A4 PDF: http://docdro.id/UMcVgkt
(To print on A3 just print 2 Pages on one)
Log In to reply
Chris Zin on January 22, 2016
I feel really silly asking this question...but when I go to print the PDF it does not fill the whole page. So I would have to take a paper cutter to all the pages. There is about a 1/4" gap along the whole border. Is there a setting somewhere to get these to print full page? I am just using standard 8.5"x11" paper. This is my first time printing plans so thanks for the help!
Log In to reply
nebulous on January 22, 2016
Ensure you've set your print settings to print at true size. If that's the case, then what you get is at least the correct size.

That said, not all printers can do borderless printing right to the edge of the page. If yours does, it should be in the advanced settings somewhere.
Log In to reply
skibum1996 on February 1, 2016
you don't want it to print bigger the gaps will increase and wont be correct size you have to trim it.

Log In to reply
jredbird on January 22, 2016
Really cool-- as soon as I saw the video, I decided the mini-arrow would be my first pure scratch build. I've got my plans printed and transferred to poster board, ready to cut the foam. I love making things from scratch, but I can see that a bunch of these might be super fun--so, some speed build kits are in my future! Great work guys.
Log In to reply
jelle.sarita on January 23, 2016
Very nice design, but unfortunately too small for me, can't wait for the bigger FT Arrow.
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 24, 2016
Very great job!!! Parts are getting ordered tomorrow!
FT also timed this perfectly! A week ago I wanted to buy parts (etc.) for a versa. But this is much more what I want since with my skywalker I already have a stable/slow flying model!

For all those users out there who want to print this on A4: I rearranged it and made it fit in total on 4x3 Sheets. You can download and view it at: http://docdro.id/UMcVgkt

(@FT just wanted to help save a few trees ;) )
Log In to reply
Rodagoose on January 24, 2016
Just built a Bloody Wonder last week and now I'm working on this one. Been great fun so far! But I have a question.

Is the bottom of this airfoil supposed to be flat or is it supposed to have a slight curve? I ask because at about 6:50 in the DIY build video he "applies a fold to establish leading edge curve of the wing". When I do this step the bottom of the airfoil is generally wanting to take a slight curve.
Log In to reply
Seimy on January 25, 2016
Hey, I live in Germany and I wonder what kind of foam board I can use? I did some research and it seems to be quite impossible to get this exact Dollar Tree Foam Board oder Readi-Foam Board anywhere in Europe...
Can anyone help me out here?
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 25, 2016
I'm gonna build it out of Depron and gonna write an Article on how it will work out...
Log In to reply
Seimy on January 26, 2016
Ok cool, where will you publish it and when?

Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 26, 2016
Here on FT or YT... Gonna start the foam stuff tomorrow and electronics will arrive on Thursday-Saturday (I hope so at least)
Log In to reply
WVYRD on February 1, 2016
Finished building it Saturday... It's just to windy to maiden it...
Log In to reply
nebulous on January 26, 2016
Hobbyking sells foam sheets for fairly cheap out of the European warehouse. 18 euro's gets you 20 5mm sheets shipped. This is not covered with paper though, so you'll need to use tape.

I bought basically all the colors of wing tape HK sells. Just cover the outside of the wings with tape when it's still flat, and you can fold it just like the foamboard they use in the US. Make sure to gently cut away the tape in areas where you glue to (mainly for the vertical stabilizers and fuselage on this model). Same goes for the fuselage.

Cut out the main shape, tape it up on one side while still flat, trim the tape, and then cut the score cuts.

Benefit: It's immediately colorful. Mine's a lovely red and black.

Log In to reply
jelle.sarita on January 27, 2016
Hello Seimy,

I live in the Netherlands and for me it also took a while to find the right material.
But I found a dutch website which is offering almost the same type of foam for a very reasonable price. 10 pieces of 1000X700 mm will cost only € 26,- which seems very fair to me. Probably you can also order from Germany at this shop. http://www.interoffice.nl/nl/kantoorartikelen/product/foamboard-q-connect-70x100cm-2-zijdig-5mm-wit/1695854/index.html
Log In to reply
Seimy on February 2, 2016
Thanks guys for the tips so far!

@Jelle Sarita
Do you know the weight of one of these Q-Connect sheets (100cm*70cm)? Or the weight of 1 g/cm^2? Because this DTFB only weighs 300g/m^2 meaning that a 100cm*70cm DTFB would only weigh 210g (0,03g/cm^2)! That is quite impressiv, because I haven't found anything like it. Here in Germany you can get a foamboard from Modulor.de which weighs 0,048g/cm^2. There are boards from gerstaeker.de with a weight of about 0,05g/cm^2. The only board which comes close to the light weight DTFB is Creat' Airplac with 0,042g/cm^2. I find it hard to believe that we are stuck with these "heavy" boards... Maybe I have to tape a Depron board, but that does not seems so elegant to me....
Log In to reply
Lmontanez on February 4, 2016
@jelle.sarita
thank you very much for the URL, I will buy the foam righ away. I was looking for it since time ago. thank you again.
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 27, 2016
If you want to print your plans at home (A4) I tiled the original plan: http://docdro.id/UMcVgkt
Log In to reply
codedshadow on January 26, 2016
Could I run an FPV setup with the MT1806-2280kv?
Log In to reply
WVYRD on January 27, 2016
Sure. Why not?
Log In to reply
dagob on October 20, 2016
MT1806 is good for slow flight, for FPV and faster flying a 2204 is more suitable.
Log In to reply
Hot Glue Strings on January 27, 2016
Just FYI - Make sure you download the correct plan version. (As of 1/27/16) The version listed here is V1.0
There is a corrected version V1.1 which adds CG markings. That plan can be found here http://forum.flitetest.com/showthread.php?17136-SP0NZ-Plans-Index
Log In to reply
Gryzlek on January 28, 2016
Hi can i use heavy 136 g battery (1550 mAh 3s) or it will be to heavy to fly ?
Log In to reply
AdrianGrey on January 29, 2016
I know there is plenty of info out there on FPV planes, but does anyone have any advice on installing FPV gear in this plane specifically? This is my first fpv plane, but I have a bunch of quads, so I have plenty of fpv stuff. I am just trying to figure out the best way to power the VTX and camera in this plane, since I won't have a step-down board like I normally run on my quads. Will a voltage step-down/regulator fit in this plane? Is there a better way I don't know of? The wiring on this plane seems so simple I am probably overthinking how to get the FPV gear power, and overlooking something stupid.

Thanks in advance!
Adrian Grey
Log In to reply
nebulous on January 30, 2016
Good questions, I'm wondering too.

As for power, I got a whole bunch Banggood/ebay/AliExpress variable voltage switching step-down regulators for verv very cheap, and they're 11x17mm (around 0.43x0.66"), so very tiny. Will fit easily, weighs nothing.

I'm thinking that putting the transmitter in one of the compartments is a Bad Thing, due to heat.
Log In to reply
blarbdude on January 31, 2016
When buying a motor of this size they're available in clockwise and counter-clockwise. Which is correct for this configuration?
Log In to reply
vanny on February 1, 2016
Doesn´t matter.
It is a pushing prop, so if you buy a cw motor, use a ccw prop and if you buy a ccw motor, use a cw prop :P ... so the adapter is getting thight during spinning.
Log In to reply
Tuur on February 3, 2016
Most engines are easily reverse by changing 2 of the 3 engine wires around.
Log In to reply
vanny on February 7, 2016
But the direction, the propellermount tightens up while spinning is the important fact.
Just changing the direction can cause trouble.
Log In to reply
Tuur on February 15, 2016
If you use locking bolts this one be that much of a problem. I have been using it for a while now and never had any trouble.
Log In to reply
vanny on February 1, 2016
Thx Guys for that nice concept.
I´ve done now two versions using Depron and Wingtape cause in Germany there is no DTFB.
The 2nd try was made of 3 and 6mm Depron and the Winglets of 5mm EPP. I changed a few things so it is nearly as strong as the normal but incl. the 850 mAh 3S Lipo it only weights 180gramms. Now if the rain ends I´ll give it try.

Log In to reply
dz1sfb on February 1, 2016
Josh,
Very nice design. Inspired me to build my own using your profiles and Model Plane Foam, which requires a slightly different techniques. Good job!

Ken :)
Log In to reply
DrPeaches113 on February 2, 2016
Can anyone clarify a good reflex angle for the elevons? There are two gauges that are included in the plans. The one is labeled "ELEVON SETUP GAGE", which is what I assume would be the recommended angle to use. However, in the build video it appears Josh used the other gauge, which is labelled "THROW GAUGE" and has 21° and 27° angles.
Log In to reply
royce.meredith on February 2, 2016
The Elevon Setup Gauge is to setup reflex. The Throw gauge is to set your high and low rates.
Log In to reply
Kwaz on February 3, 2016
I have a Vector flight control system, i really like this wing and want to put this on something. could this wing carry it?
Log In to reply
parajared on February 3, 2016
yes, but the weight will be noticeable. You could be using that weight for more battery, better glide, or an action cam or something.
Log In to reply
Tuur on February 3, 2016
At the moment I build 3 of these. Also got digital servo's in there and am just waiting for the motormounts now. I wanne let them be printed in 1.5 mm carbon. Before that I have to make it in scetchup. Is there anyone here who did that already and if so is it on thingyverse?
Anyone have the measurements of it so I dont have to do the measurements myself?
Log In to reply
Jwflammer on February 3, 2016
Can I fly this with the power pack for the ft versa wing? don't have the money to get a new set of electronics. How dose this compare to the Versa Wing? I like making them durable to dog fight, can this wing with stand combat?

Thanks John F.
Log In to reply
Tuur on February 3, 2016
Hi John,

You can but I wouldn't recommend it because of the weight and size. You can use the servo's if you want but need a new engine and i recooment a new esc.

DYS BE1806 2300KV - 11euro
FVT LittleBee 20A ESC - 11 euro
10X Gemfan 6030 Direct Drive Propeller - 3,50 euro

Battery is reusable but a 850 mah Turnigy nanotech is about 7 euro's

Goodluck.
Log In to reply
royce.meredith on February 3, 2016
Maidened mine today, it was Amazing! This is a fantastic design. Great job guys! Oh and by the way if you don't mind cutting the hatch off you can squeeze 3 and 4s 1300mah packs into this guy. Its a crazy rocket ship on 4s...
Log In to reply
parajared on February 3, 2016
Good to hear.
How many watts are you going to throw down yours? 200, 300, 900!
Log In to reply
Jyunte on February 4, 2016
If using this plane for PFV, do you run the camera and video transmitter off the receiver battery? There doesn't seem to be enough room for a dedicated video transmitter battery.
Log In to reply
Jyunte on February 5, 2016
That's FPV, not PFV, of course! :-)
Log In to reply
Tuur on February 5, 2016
Yes just run a different line from the battery to the transmitter. And hope that you dont have trouble with the power balance.

ps: you can put a 2s battery just sticking to the top and use that for fpv.
Log In to reply
RuebenT on February 7, 2016
Has anyone used a bigger motor then a 2204
Log In to reply
Travos on April 10, 2016
I used an a2208 2600kv and a 4.75x4.75 apc e style prop with a 1300 mah 3cell, it was the most fun plane Ive built from Flite test so far, but I would not recommend so much power if you're not at least a strong intermediate. It did handle it well though, no torque roll, very responsive but not twitchy and crazy fast. I did save weight by removing all the paper and just skinning the outside with very light packing tape, and tried to use the glue sparingly.
Log In to reply
MrPeabody on February 8, 2016
What size paper is used for the full size plans? Thinking I could get them printed at a Kinko's or something.

Looking forward to building this one.

Log In to reply
Ramsam on February 10, 2016
Looks like it is 22 inches wide so the smallest standard that it would fit on is 24 inch wide paper. I do not know where you are located but I have had great luck with Office Depot.
Log In to reply
Ramsam on February 10, 2016
Has any one tried a htx 900 9 gram servo on this. It looks like the 9 grams are only a couple of mm larger so does it fit in the wing?
Log In to reply
Travos on April 10, 2016
Yea I used 9g servos with no issues, just cheap towerpro 9gs.
Log In to reply
danallen82 on February 13, 2016
Josh, excellent design. I tried it and it flew better than the Versa wing. However I came to notice that there is very little strength in the middle because of a lack of a center spar. I will try modding the design to have a light weight laser cut wood spar going through the entire wing.
Log In to reply
Tuur on February 15, 2016
Small tip when using Depron (without the paper on one side).

Do not do the scorch cuts! they will make the plane weaker and the wings will brake. Just bend it without the scorch and it will be done. I did this for 3 planes and all good.

Tip 2: Use a bit more tape in the middel on the sides of the pod where the wings attach to make it a bit strongers.
Log In to reply
Elexo on February 15, 2016
Will the altitude hobbies FT Minis-Large power pack work with this plane? lower KV motor and a 10amp ESC, as well as different size props. Very cheap though.
Log In to reply
shanetill254 on February 20, 2016
I have plans for the 140% version of this plane it fits on 2 sheets with the exception that there is only one wing so you will have to duplicate the wing let me know if anyone would like it. I have it in many formats
Log In to reply
Reaviin on March 30, 2016
If you could i would love a copy. I've been trying to do about the same size but can't figure out how to get it to print on mutiple pages. Thanks

Log In to reply
Sindak on February 29, 2016
where can i get this DTFB in Malaysia?
Log In to reply
needhame on March 11, 2016
Will standard props work on this build? In the video it mentions standard or reverse props can be used then later in the video the term pusher prop is used. This configuration is new to me. Someone with more knowledge on this subject said I need a pusher prop in this application. If I use a clockwise rotation prop would I need a CW or CCW motor in order to not use a locknut? Or what combination of prop and motor would be best to avoid using a locknut on the prop?
Log In to reply
13ShadowPCGamer on March 13, 2016
As far as I know pusher just means that the motor and prop is reversed on the model. I used a 2204 2300kv CW motor, so therefore used a CCW prop backwards on the motor. I used bullnose prop gemfan 6x4.5. Any sort of prop would work im sure though.
Log In to reply
13ShadowPCGamer on March 13, 2016
This model really dampened my pride, I finally got all the parts from scratch build then off to fly it.
First had trouble launching, stripped a servo, then after that I had really good luck launching but to no avail it wouldn't go up very far, even full throttle just went up a bit struggled then done a 180 flip but I landed very nicely.
Done this a few times then gave up. Got home and realized it was very over weight by about 400grams total, must have used excessive hot glue 😞.
What's its full weight supposed to be with all hardware without battery 170grams?
Log In to reply
David93 on March 20, 2016
Can I use Depron? 3 or 6 mm thick?
Log In to reply
jackweed on April 1, 2016
LOL
Log In to reply
afr0 on April 8, 2016
I want to build this wing despite my poor exprience, because the shipping fees to France are too expensive ($28 for the only wing). I'll built it with "Carton mousse" (French Depron), but I don't find any information about the quantity of them i'll need, even on the comments : 5x A3 size will be OK? - See more at: http://flitetest.com/articles/ft-mighty-mini-arrow-build#sthash.M0IF3Pkk.dpuf
Log In to reply
Aeroblock on April 13, 2016
I have David's mini tricopter and I'm thinking of using my spare motor on my arrow, is it too heavy and powerful at 44 grams? Do you think a 6x4.5 would be appropriate on an 800 3s? (FPV setup of course) (http://rcexplorer.se/product/be2208-10/)
Log In to reply
Travos on April 26, 2016
So I just blew my Ft mini arrow up :) climbed till I could almost not see it and went into a full dive and it just basically blew apart on one side where the wing meets the mid section. I think if you put some glue on the end of the spar when you glue the pod in so the spars actually connected to the middle pod it would add a lot of strength. It did take a lot of abuse, survived being strapped onto the back of my motorcycle going 60mph, a couple crashes and some fast maneuvers with an a2208 2600 kv and 4.47x4.75 prop carrying a 1350 3s. Building another one now, thanks very much for the awesome design, I think ill add a paint stick to the bottom this time, that will probably help with the strength as well.
Log In to reply
seangrealish on May 1, 2016
i ended up making mine out of foam that was about twice the weight i didn't do my research ahead of time i was just to excited to start scratch building. is there another motor i can put on there to make it fly or should i just start over with the right dollar tree foam? thanks love all the videos
Log In to reply
pbezza on May 9, 2016
I somehow forced my Canon MG5560 printer to install a firmware update to support 'Letter' document printing. After this I printed the tiled version in A4 and it has printed to perfect scale. Just have to trim a couple of edges (it printed 5mm in from the edge) to overlap and join. I was also able to print the power pod plans correctly. Originally my printer either shrunk, enlarged or chopped off the left edge.
Log In to reply
magic_marty on May 27, 2016
Maybe somebody can help me out i printed out the plans but for some reason my printer keeps cutting off the bottom of the tiles.I tried realigning the printer head and different setting A4 ect but nothing works it keeps cutting off the bottom of the tiles which makes it impossible to get them together for a exact fit...The scale is correct according to the measuring of the scale lines on the tiles ..Thanks in advance for any help..

Log In to reply
sidneyki on June 16, 2016
I have a Spektrum DX6i what should I set the dual rate and expo at?
Log In to reply
sidneyki on June 16, 2016
I notice that the elevator on the left does not move as far as the right one does. I have tried to add another wire tie to keep the rode from flexing and I have readjusted the rode bend that goes in to the control horn but for some reason I can not figured out why one elevator move more then the other but the server moves the same distances. Any suggestion how to solve this?
Log In to reply
JarCar on June 28, 2016
Hey everyone. I bought a kit with the F pack and three of the four servos don't work. I was wondering if anyone else had this problem?
Log In to reply
Wretch on July 6, 2016
Here's a photo (http://tinyurl.com/zqcsfuz) and a video (https://youtu.be/NGPnYMEgxU0) of my Mini Arrow build from 5mm depron foam. Many thanks to FT for all the free plans.
Log In to reply
thedutchviking on July 15, 2016
Is anyone familiar with programming Elevons for a Spektrum DX6i?

I've activated Setup List>Wing Tail Mix>Elevon = ACT.

Problem #1: Right aileron/roll input produces left turn on the wing. Left aileron/roll input produces right turn on the wing.

Problem #2: Down elevator/pitch input produces left roll on the wing. Up elevator/pitch input produces right roll on the wing.

Thanks for any advice. Still so new to programming, and not sure where to find what I'm sure are very simple changes.
Log In to reply
thedutchviking on July 16, 2016
I've halfway to my answer:

I watched the FT Episode on mixing elevons (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKqwTQlAWa8) and realized I didn't need the Y-connector I'm using to put both servos into the Aileron Rx port. That allowed the Wing Tail Mix to take effect.

However, I my pitch and roll stick inputs are reversed, meaning:

R input = down pitch on plane
L input = up pitch on plane
UP input = L roll on plane
DOWN input = R roll on plane

Already tried swapping the servo leads on the Rx, but to no avail.

I'm guessing this is an easy fix somewhere in the Tx.
Log In to reply
thedutchviking on July 16, 2016
Alright, figured it out thanks to James Winstead: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbM5bGT3Ihk

I had to Menu> Setup List>Reverse the ailerons and then swap servo leads. Took a little but to wrap my head around it, but process of elimination and alternate combinations was all it took.
Log In to reply
DrDan on January 20, 2017
I had the same problem. It was an easy fix - Just go into your REVERSE menu and reverse the Aileron. That should do it.
Log In to reply
Kaspars on July 26, 2016
What size should this airplane propeller - CW or CCW?
(FT Mighty Mini Arrow)
Log In to reply
kkimyunsu on July 26, 2016
Hi~
My name is Yun-Su. I live in Seoul, South Korea.
I want to make "ft mini arrow". So I watched video and made it.
but it can't fly. Also it destroyed when i was thrown it.
I used 5mm foam board(3mm+2mm bifold), 20A ESC, 2300kv motor, and two SG90 9g mini servos(weight 9g, torque 1.8kg)
and i bought horn, push road at shop and just fixed motor rear side.
Is it impossible to fly? If you want some pictures, i can send it by email.
leave your email please. ^^
And give some advises.
Log In to reply
FlatspinRC on August 21, 2016
Did you reverse the prop? My email is FlatspinRC@gmail.com, I would be happy to review the photos
Log In to reply
Leaperk on July 31, 2016
Just bought the foam board to build this off e-bay in the UK, 10 A1 sheets for £23.50 including next day delivery, ( 280541007020 ), not weighed it yet
Log In to reply
PindaNL on September 13, 2016
Hi all,
I want to order some 6mm depron board for this wing but don't know how much board is needed for the build.
Does anyone know how much board is used for this wing?The board standard size is 100x100cm (40x40inch)

Thanks!
Log In to reply
Hsanb on September 25, 2016
Hi,
I will print full sheet this image, can u tell me size of the paper?
Thanks.,
Log In to reply
ramairwing on September 28, 2016
Scratch built it a few weeks ago and maidened over the weekend. Flew it again LOS last night. Flies like, well, straight as an arrow. It literally stays right where your last input left it and has no visible instability from the ground, though I haven't flown it FPV yet. Looking forward to that. It's incredibly fast, predictable, can fly slow, and has a great glide slope. I am blown away. Great job Josh and team!
Log In to reply
ramairwing on September 28, 2016
Also, I must add, it flies WAY BETTER than my HK Teksumo with a stability system. Love it.
Log In to reply
SoylentGreen4570 on October 19, 2016
I am on my 5th scratch build of this design.
I deviate from the stock design by using only the back half of the central pod and joining the spars in the middle.
I use a 2122 2100kv turnigy SK3 and 2s packs
the efficiency and performance of this design are simply phenomenal. I wouldn't be without one
Log In to reply
Robocog on November 4, 2016
Me and a mate built a couple of these with a slight deviation on materials as we live in the UK
I used laminate flooring underlay (6mm depron-a-like sheets) and my mate got hold of some foam board
I maidened mine first - checked surfaces had the right throw and direction and the elevator had the right amount of inflection and the CG was slightly nose heavy
gave it 3/4 throttle and tossed it discuss style as shown in the video ...and it plowed straight down into the ground nose first - mates did the same, sub 4 seconds between us for flight times
Undeterred we fixed them up with hotglue and tape and after a bit of unpowered throwing to get the ailerons inflection angle enough to make it glide happily I managed to fly about half a 850 Mah 3s battery before the wet weather made me nervous about the electrics getting killed by the rain that came in
Mine needed a lot more elevator inflection than the gauge suggested

Plane feels pretty stable - even at slower speeds, don't have the trust in it yet to try and catch it on landings

Got there in the end - our hard lessons learned - glide test before attempting powered flight!!!
Mine still needs a little trim, but going to wait till its less damp - hopefully this weekend!

Thanks for sharing the plans and videos :D
Log In to reply
flyer9.58 on November 9, 2016
hi
i want to build this plane as a starter during Christmas vacations
i live in India and cant order the Scratch build
can some one please help and give the dimensions of the plane based on the building PDF
Also i wanted to know if this motor is good for the plane as i Can only find this in my vicinity :
Avionic M2230/12 KV 2250 MICRO brushless motor
Log In to reply
Missaka on November 23, 2016
Nice deign josh i made this aircraft it is a good aircraft for FPV too.
Log In to reply
wanabeRCexpert on December 2, 2016
can it be used with the prop in front instead of back?
Log In to reply
Tigris360 on December 30, 2016
What type of wood is recommended for the firewall? Is there a store in the U.S. that sells it?
Thanks!
Log In to reply
DrDan on January 20, 2017
Built two Mighty Mini Arrows. One from plans and one speed kit. Speed kit was much less of a pain. Purchased two electronics packs. One "A" pack and one "F" pack. Very handy except that both came with PULLER props and CCW motors (Yea, I know just switch 2 wires and it goes CW) but the point is, the THREADS on the motor are standard righthand threads (righty-tighty, lefty loosy). If you use the provided Puller prop, backwards, spinning CW, the prop nut tends to screw itself off and takes the propeller with it. I have watched the build video several times and freeze framed it and you can clearly see that Josh is using a standard (CCW) prop with a motor that has right hand treads. I'm going to try some locktight. I called support and was told that I need to buy the PUSHER props, extra.
Not too upset about it, just wish the kit came with pusher props as it was clear that It was for the Mighty Mini Arrow on the same order - or at least a hint to order them ahead.
Log In to reply
DrDan on January 25, 2017
Flew the one with the A-Pak. If flew just like the one Josh did in the video ZOOOOOOM! it was so fun to fly and FAST, even with the A Pak.

I tested the CW rotation with the Standard Prop in the A Pak and just as I suspected, it fell off in mid flight, AMAZINGLY, the prop and nut were laying within 3 inches of the wing! I put on more locktite and cranked the nut on very tight and it flew.
The CCW props came in today after the test flight and I will be trading them out to be safer. The A Pak and F Pak motors spin at 2300 KV! (ALMOST 30,000 RPM!!!). I'd rather not have that fly off and turn into a flying circular saw.
Log In to reply
DrDan on January 25, 2017
FT Mighty Mini Arrow. Built 2 of these. One scratch and one Speed-Build Kit. The Speed build kit (with A Pak) flew SO nice. The scratch build (with F Pak) not so much lol, Crashed BAD (million pieces) in about 10 seconds, but it was a fun 10 seconds. I suggest the Speed Build kit for your first build and then you will have the skills for scratch build.
TIP: Both the A Pak and F Pak come with Standard, Puller Props. DON'T FORGET TO ORDER A FEW PUSHER PROPS FROM FLITE TEST!!! Sure, you CAN use a puller prop with locktite and spin the motor CW but it will tend to spin off the nut holding the propellor on, NOT a good thing. Spend the extra $2 and be safe.
Log In to reply
moory on January 28, 2017
Iam an iranian modler .i live in north of iran
.tank for this good plan .tank you very mach.I need top twin roter gyrokopter paln .pleas put it in this pag .apologize abut my bad writing .
Log In to reply
Illusion on February 6, 2017
Hi, I have many 1400mah 3s packs, can I use these or they are heavy? I have a 2204 2300kv motor.
Log In to reply
jefflikesdrones on February 13, 2017
Could I fit a 1300mah tattu 3s in the Arrow?
Log In to reply
hotpocketsface on February 20, 2017
When I go to print this, I see that my printer automatically scales it to 93%. Do you think this will mess anything up?
Log In to reply
jredbird on March 9, 2017
I love this little wing. I've built several, cut out templates, and stocked my drawers with spare parts. I just put together a speed build kit (soo nice) and am putting a downsized power pod (1806) and plan to experiment with props and slopes at the coast in a couple of weeks.
I highly recommend this plane to anyone. Beginners learn a lot about working with foam and get a quick reward. Experts can fly the wings off this thing. My favorite configuration so far is: 2204 3s 6x4 with the fpv mod and gyro w/ 'locking' mode. Crazy fun.
Just remember: for your 1st and 2nd builds...watch Josh's build video and do exactly what he says, when he says to do it.
Log In to reply
krachall on March 10, 2017
I just received a kit and watched the build video. This is my first plane (been flying multirotors for a few months) and I have a question on the build.

When inserting the center module, I see you only hot glue the bottom of the module to the bottom of the wings. I was surprised they don't have you put hot glue on the top edge of the wing where it butts against the center module. The only thing preventing the wings from folding down into themselves is that small bead of glue you apply as a fillet? Seems like there should be more to prevent the wings from collapsing downward.
Log In to reply
Miker1st on April 2, 2017
I have almost as much fun building these as I do flying them! I just finished #7 and am already planning what to modify for #8. My first build took ~18 hours including the template. Now I put these together in about 3 from plain white DTFB to maiden.
Log In to reply
hsousa on June 20, 2017
This will be my 2nd attempt at scratch building, the first being the Mini Sparrow which turned out to be immensely heavy with 5mm Depron (there's a huge problem with that plane OOTB because it's too damn tail heavy). However the Sparrow plans fitted in 2 normal A3 page size, while in this plane a single wing doesn't even fit in a A2 ! Solution was to put each wing in an A2 with 95% down-scaling and put the rest in an A3 (also 95% down-scaling in order to be everything even). This time I'll go with 3mm Depron, so wish me luck guys !!
Log In to reply
Dengesiz on July 12, 2017
(Scratchbuild) My first flying wing, maiden was really nice and enjoyable. Just, cabin for electronics could be larger becasue my battery doesn't fit in. I will build again with a wider electronics cabin.
My setup:
1600mah 3S battery
20A esc
2208 2000+kv motor with 6x45 prop
Flying weight 450g
Log In to reply
Justanotherhobby01 on October 9, 2017
Good day all, sorry for the long post.... I am looking for some NOOB advise...I am looking for a new exciting hobby, so This will be my first ever rc build. I wanted something I could possibly use as a long range fpv flyer, but as this is a mini, not sure my GoPro Hero 4 Silver would be a good choice. Can someone suggest an inexpensive fpv combination to use on this plane? I will be fine with using a small monitor instead of the goggles to make it as affordable as possible. By the way, as this is my first ever rc hobby build, some extra details on a complete fpv kit and where to buy would be appreciated. If there are any other suggestions as far as what upgrades I could do to help increase flight times, or what other parts I could use to be able to utilize my GoPro, I would also greatly appreciate it. Happy Flying!
Log In to reply
Adithyad661 on April 18, 2018
Hello.. can I use (2804 2300kv) This type motor for mini arrow ?✨✨
Log In to reply
BenBT on May 20, 2018
Can I build it smaller using the same electronics ?
Log In to reply
erad on May 22, 2018
Hi,
I built this Wing from scratch. I'm getting better ;-) . Now I wonder how much weight I have to put into the nose to get the right CG. The Battery isn't heavy enough to blance out even without the Motor. Now if I mount the power pod with the Motor from PowerPack A, It will be so tail heavy.... HELP, how did you do it?


Log In to reply
dreamgt on September 2, 2018
Hey I saw this comment, and although you might not need the advice anymore, it might help someone in the future. I gave up trying to get my CG perfectly at 1.75" , I shifted my fingers just a little further back, about 1/4 inch, and it was balancing fine. So I took a chance and flew it, to my surprise the wing still needed a ton of back elevator to keep it from flying towards the ground! After I trimmed it out, it was flying perfectly, no need to add more weight to the nose. Flying wings are pretty forgiving when it comes to their CG!
Log In to reply
dj_ritmo on January 14, 2019
hi from mexico baja
thanks for the plans
where can i send you photos
Log In to reply

You need to log-in to comment on articles.

FliteTest

(92)

FT Mighty Mini Arrow Build