Hangar 9 ASH 31 6.4m ARF (HAN3185)

Hangar 9 ASH 31 6.4m ARF (HAN3185): The great adviser for buyers

The interest in scale fly models has grown steadily in recent years. A special representative of this high-end class is the Hangar 9 ASH 31 6.4m ARF (HAN3185). This model addresses ambitious hobby pilots as well as experienced pilots who value the highest quality, impressive flight characteristics and authentic optics. In this detailed article we focus on all aspects relevant to a purchase decision – from technical data to material quality, price-performance ratio to user experience and frequent questions.

General technical data and facts

For the overview of the most important key data, a detailed table follows:

These data document that it is an extremely large and stable sailing model that is uncompromisingly geared to performance and detail.

Customer reviews and experiences

The response from the model flight community is mostly positive. Pilots report on a very good quality of processing: The use of GFK (glass fiber reinforced plastic) and CFK (carbon fiber) ensures high structural strength with comparatively low weight. Flight behavior is often described as extremely good and yet athletic. Especially the thermal properties and the possibility to safely control the model even under weak conditions are often praised.

Some customers stress that the model is an impressive appearance in the sky due to its massive wing span. The control reactions are direct, but also beginners in the Großsegler class succeed in a safe first flight after thorough preparation. The accompanying guide is considered to be well understandable, but tailored to experienced model builders.

Test reports and performance checks

Several independent tests highlight the exceptional flight characteristics. Compared to competitors, ASH 31 is particularly convinced by its stable sliding behavior and excellent implementation of Thermik. Thanks to optional motor-assisted upgradeability, the slope performance with electric option is solid so that flights without a tractor are also possible.

Start, flight maneuver and landing were tested in the practical tests. Especially the precise controllability and the high energy utilization in curve and thermal flights are mentioned positively. Only when handling on the ground there are certain limitations due to size. The transportability therefore presupposes a sufficiently large transport possibility, which is customary in models of this class.

Material quality

The full-GFK/CFK design stands for a modern quality standard in sailing model construction. The fuselage as well as the wings are extremely torsion-resistant, which withstands high loads in flight. The surfaces have a high-quality finish with scale details. The connection points, for example for surface servos, suspensions and guides, are cleanly prepared and enable a problem-free construction.

Customers particularly praise the fit accuracy of the components. This prevents later material fatigue and ensures a long service life. Vulnerabilities in material strength are hardly reported, which speaks for precise production.

Flight times and climbing performance

The possible flight time depends on the use of the electric option. If the model is used purely as a sailor, flight times of one or more hours are possible, depending on the thermal and flight style. With a motor-assisted start (recommendation: Brushless external rotor, up to about 6S-LiPo battery), climbing flights of several minutes and subsequent extended sliding phases can be achieved.

The climbing performance is impressive with suitable motorization: even fully loaded, the sailing model quickly reaches safe heights. In the pure glide flight, the model benefits from the optimized wing geometry, which ensures long-lasting flight experiences even with weak thermals.

Transport capacity

With a span of 6.4 meters, the model is clearly aimed at owners of larger vehicles or those who already use a model flight hanger. However, the surfaces can be partially transported – this considerably reduces the length. The pre-assembled hull still finds sufficient space in most combinations and vans. A certain amount of space and organization is necessary for the construction on the airfield.

Those who regularly travel to competitions or more distant airfields should use a padded transport bag or surface cross-connections to avoid damage.

Spare parts supply

Hangar 9 is known for a reliable spare part supply. Both surfaces, rudder fittings, as well as small parts such as hoods, suspension brackets or surface connectors are available via specialist retailers and specialized online shops. In particular, for wear parts in the area of articulations, servos and plug connections, rapid re-application is possible. Even after several years, essential components are usually still offered.

Target group

The model is aimed at advanced pilots as well as ambitious beginners in the Großsegler segment. Thanks to the ARF design, less experienced model builders can successfully complete the aircraft. Nevertheless, due to the scales and high flight speeds in the fall flight, a safe handling of powerful sailing models is necessary. Especially those who place value on scale optics, exemplary flight behavior and high performance are fully at their expense.

Construction time and instructions

The guide is comprehensively illustrated and leads step by step through the setup. Depending on the experience, about 15-20 hours should be expected for complete assembly. The equipment with high-quality servos, the steering of the rudder surfaces as well as the insertion of the chassis and possibly the motor system are included. The connection cables are already pre-installed, which facilitates installation.

Beginners will find helpful instructions for positioning components, center of gravity and initial control. Only the programming of modern remote controls and fine settings requires prior knowledge.

Community support

The model enjoys an active fan community, which is represented both in local model airlines and in relevant internet forums. There tips, flight reports and videos are shared. Numerous pilots use the model in competitions or show flights, so that there is a lively exchange of setups, improvements or repairs.

Many forums offer “construction reports” in which individual reconstructions, paintings or improvements are documented. Beginners in particular benefit from the community's brain intelligence.

Alternative products and competitors

In the premium class large-scale sailing models there are some interesting alternatives. Particularly the following models are similarly positioned:

• Multiplex ASW 27: Also in scale 1:3.5, robust GFK/CFK, excellent flight characteristics, but with a slightly smaller span.
• Paritech: Very close to the model, many options for personalization, slightly more price-intensive and more elaborate in construction.
• Let Model ASH 26: Known for excellent thermal properties and solid processing, but not so large.
• Valenta Models ASW 28: Points in flight dynamics and speed, but classic as pure sailor without electric option.

The Hangar 9 ASH 31 therefore scores in direct comparison with the best ratio of flight performance, transportability and availability as an ARF version.

Value for money

The model can be found in the upper price segment in the large sailor segment. The price is justified by the high-quality choice of materials, the solid processing and the ARF range of supplies. Compared to models supplied as a kit, the buyer saves a lot of time and receives a solution that is as ready as possible. In addition, the option is to easily equip the model with an electric drive, which increases the flexibility in daily use.

If you are looking for a high-quality, long-lasting and high-performance sailor, you will get a fair offer here.

Technical tips, tricks and recommendations

In the construction, it is recommended to apply high-quality servos with at least 25 kg/cm adjusting force, in particular for transverse and wolves. The servos should be installed without play and the linkages should be kept as short as possible to achieve a precise response behavior.

Brushless external rotors with around 2,000W power are suitable for engine installation. A 6S-LiPo battery produces a good balance between weight and rise. In the case of battery installation, particular attention should be paid to the focus position in order to obtain the good-natured flight behavior.

It is recommended to use programmable servo switches in order to be able to optimally control all rows independently of system boundaries. A reliable receiver battery (NiMH or two LiFePo cells as backup) ensures the necessary security.

Optimizations can be realized by an optional retraction suspension set or individually painted scale pilot figures. Many owners report improvements through special winglets or optimized surface connections that further facilitate transport and assembly.

What is the interest of buyers?

In addition to technical questions, the following topics are often discussed:

• Weather suitability: The model is suitable for almost all weather conditions as long as strong gusts or rain are avoided.
• Maintenance costs: The ARF version minimizes maintenance costs – apart from regular control views on mechanical and electrical components.
• Resale value: Solid scale large sailors remain in demand for years and achieve high resale prices, provided they are well maintained and infall-free.
• Individualization: The painting and cockpit design can be designed individually without any problems.

User questions and typical problems – solutions and answers

1. “How do I determine the focus correctly?”
Answer: The instructions provide a start value. After the first flight, fine tuning is recommended by centimeter shift of the batteries and trim weights. Correct finishing ensures optimal thermal performance.

Two. “How do I prevent damage during transport?”
Answer: Surface pockets and padded transport boxes for hull and guides are essential. Be sure to secure fixings and transport the items separately.

3. “What are the settings for the crossheads?”
Answer: Recommended is a differentiation of at least 30% to prevent turning in. Exponentially set servo paths ensure sensitive control behavior.

4. “Is it spare parts directly from the manufacturer?”
Answer: Yes, Hangar 9 and dealers offer replacement for all main assemblies. Maintenance and small material should be bought in advance for safety.

Five. “What insurance is necessary?”
Answer: As with all models over 250g, insurance is compulsory. Membership in a model airline is recommended for large sailors.

6. “How do experienced pilots deal with landings?”
Answer: Thanks to the generous wings and butterfly positions, landings also succeed in middle slopes. The optional retraction suspension further facilitates start and landings.

7. “Is it special flight modes?”
Answer: Many pilots use different flight phases (thermic, speed, landing) with individually adjusted settings for flaps and rows.

Conclusion: Who is it worth buying?

The Hangar 9 ASH 31 6.4m ARF (HAN3185) is an impressive high-end model for sophisticated model pilots who value an authentic flight experience, modern technology and professional processing. Those who are willing to buy the size and the associated effort during transportation will be rewarded with unique flight experiences and high value stability.

An extensive community, very good spare parts supply and many options for individualization make the model a rewarding investment. Alternative products exist, but few offer a comparable combination of quality, detail and versatility.

Whether for ambitious leisure pilots or the performance flyers – this sailing model is a real highlight in the hangar.