I have flown both the Russia and the PW5. No comparison, the Russia
is much better. Easier to assemble, better performance with the
retract gear, greater control harmony, more durable.

Next on the development list for the Russia is a 13m wing (up from
12.6m wing) with winglets and flaps. This will be the AC-4D model.
Prototype already flying, likely production will start once the new US
distributor is announced this year.

Clearly, adding flaps to the Russia seems a direct response to the
Apis. Not flown an Apis, but if the Russians are copying it, must be
doing some things right.

You might check the Silent too. Have interesting self launch
versions.

Not sure the Sparrowhawk directly compares to these others. It is an
ultralight, so have different set of rules (no certification, resale
value??). One good thing is the ability to paint the plane something
other than white due to the high temperature tolerance of the
composite. Also, being light weight, should be very easy to tow,
allowing good launches on very hot summer days. One wonders if it
more "hang glider" in its manner and capable of finding micro-lift
other sailplanes can't use. In any case, the light weight will result
in a more bumpy ride....weight does tend to cancel out turbulence a
bit.

John