Edward Winchester wrote:

OK, now we're getting down to my real question. What
decent gliders are bargains? I was looking into a
LAK-12, but was told that if I got one of those, I'd
lose all my friends, because the wings are so heavy.
There are at least 3 or 4 of those available below
$20k, and some of them are even relatively nearby.
Also a Jantar 2B, but it's out west. A couple of
Jantar Stds. 3 or 4 Grob 104s. Even a Grob 102, which
I've been flying lately, and like. For just a little
more a couple of Kestrel 19m. From what I read, I
could fly any of these. I've been warned away from
the first-generation glass ships, like the Std. Cirrus,
Mini Nimbus and the like. I don't see myself being
a competitor, at least not past the sport class, and
that in a couple of years. I just want to learn something
about XC, get my badges, and have fun.

I could have bought a very nice Ka6 cheap, but found
that I don't fit in that, no way. A 1-26 was recommended,
and I've flown and like them, but I'm looking higher.

Are there some types I'm overlooking?

I asked this question a while back, and it was pointed out to me that
the Schweitzer 1-35s and 1-34s are usually available for about $15K. If
you are willing to deal with kit-built planes, there are HP-14s for
about $10K, and HP-11s for about $6K.

All these are metal ships, which should cut down the maintenance
requirements nicely.

Johan Larson