U.S. Scale Masters TP3 Testing

(Eugene Job's SeaFury taken by Gary Norton)

Best of the Best..

The Scale Masters Program exists for the purpose of developing and growing the sport of scale aircraft modeling across the country. It is structured around 20+ regional qualifier contests and one grand championship contest usually held between the 3rd week in September and the 3rd week in October. The U.S. Scale Masters Association is a non-profit organization located in Aurora, Oregon consisting of a Chairman, Board of Directors, and a Advisory Board with members all across the United States. Modelers with an interest in scale can compete at regional qualifier contests. The top flyers are then "qualified" to fly in the annual championship contest with the ultimate goal of becoming the Grand Champion. The regional qualifier competitions provide a great avenue for modelers to form friendships and exchange technique s in both flying and building.

(Shailesh and Nil Patel Father and Son Team taken by Earl Aune)

The seasoned veteran competes in "Expert Scale" and vies for a position to compete at the Championships. "Team scale" is also provided for the modeler with expert building skills, but incorporates the flying skills of a fellow modeler to compete together as a team. Top level pilots who have aircraft that are not governed by the "Builder of Model" rule can compete in "Advanced Scale".  For the entry level and novice, there are the ProAm classes of Pro and Sportsman, First you need a passion for scale radio control modeling. Second you need a scale model of a fixed wing aircraft that actually flew with documentation to prove color and markings. And thirdly you need the ability to fly it in a prototypical manner.

(Greg and Suzie Hahn Team taken by Earl Aune)

Probably the best place to start is in your local R/C club. You need to be a current member of the AMA to compete as a pilot. Many clubs put on a scale contest of some kind. The AMA rule book describes an event called "fun scale". These low key contests are a great way to get started in scale radio control modeling. If your club doesn't have a scale contest of some kind, start one yourself! Contact your local AMA representative for information.

The U.S. Scale Masters Association is committed to the development and growth of Scale Aircraft Modeling by bringing people together to learn about the fascinating aspects of Aviation, Scale Realism, Competition, and Sportsmanship.

Harris Lee ~ One of the Founders of The US Scalemasters over 30 years ago