This volume contains full-size plans for eight flying models powered by carbon dioxide bulbs. It is part of a series of books of scaled model plans designed with photocopying in mind. The plans can also be enlarged if required.

The major difference between free-flight and radio-controlled scale models is that all the adjustments to the flight path of the former must be made before release. Free flight models must be capable of stable flight, whether under power or on the glide, without the need or the opportunity to carry out in-flight alterations. This is a challenge most surely met by lightly loaded, slow-flying models based on full size machines having those characteristics, best typified by early bi-planes.

Since 1898, Model Engineer magazine (originally weekly, now fortnightly) has proved a remarkable source of knowledge for all manner of engineering practices. Its readership has always included many highly experienced engineers, some of considerable eminence, who have answered readers' questions and contributed valuable information in order that everyone the construction and use of machines should be able to extend his scope and skills. The answer to virtually any engineering problem can be found somewhere in its pages, it is said. Many of the magazine's most helpful nuggets of knowledge have appeared in brief notes or articles, often many years ago, and have never been republished. This book offers a selection of fascinating hints and tips culled from the magazine's wide time-scale (from the 1890s to the 1960s) but as relevant today as when they were first printed. They may save the reader time and possibly money; certainly they will interest and instruct anyone who works with metal.