Jim,

My suggestion was to take a look at Dick Schreder's sailplanes. I don't
believe that I specifically recommended the HP-18. It is by far the most
controversial model for a low time pilot. Generally HP-18s are not
recommended for a low-time pilot. If you are lucky enough to have a CFIG
who has a lot of time in one of Dick's designs, he/she will know if you have
developed adequate skills. I have not flown a HP-18. I use to own a HP-16
with the same airfoil and currently fly a HP-14.

This forum will provide you a broad range of advice. You will get advice
from experts who have built, owned and competed in HP-18s, and also advice
from people who have never flown a Schreder design. Closely evaluate all
responses (including mine.) Another source of Schreder expertise can be
found on the Yahoo hp-gliders news group
(http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hp-gliders/)

Earlier this year the Schreder Designs Trading Post
(http://www.soaridaho.com/Schreder/Tr...ding_Post.html) had a
lot of HP-11 listings. Now there are a lot of HP-18s.

One small correction to your post. The HP series were built from kits.

Wayne
HP-14 "6F"
http://www.soaridaho.com/Schreder/N990_Near_Arco.jpg



"Jim" wrote in message
news:AyKSg.928$La2.785@fed1read08...
Thanks to all KA-6 pilots responding to my earlier question.
Wayne Paul has kindly sent links to HP websites, suggesting the HP-18 as
an
affordable option for the economically-minded flyer. Compared to the
wooden
KA-6, the HP-18 has a larger cockpit, is made of metal, structural foam,
composite & glass. All were built from plans. Features a 15m, V-tail,
retractable gear, flaps, water ballast; lay-down pilot position &
tailwheel.
Any comments on HP-18's? I certainly haven't enough experience to hop in
one
now, but would you recommend the HP-18 to a low-time pilot? (Plenty of
room
for caveats). I particularly like one suggestion; practice steep full
flaps
landings in a Cessna before first flying the HP-18.
Jim Hultman