Hi Tim, thanks for watching and best of luck on your build. I went back and forth between the 10 and 12 also, but really glad I built the 12. For my missions, it was a lot less of a financial risk and it's really fun to fly! Thanks again, Paul
oh yea! what a great video I'm an ex airline pilot and corporate pilot (CE-650, BE-3100, type rated), flew king airs, etc for private companies back in the day....... I exited the industry after 9-11 for a career in software development. NO regrets on the exit. THIS is a DREAM build and life experience for me for my retirement. thank you for your summary. I WILL build and enjoy one of these in my lifetime so long as life permits.
That's great, I am really glad you enjoyed it. I was a 22 year-old CFII back in 1981, looking forward to an airline career. Then the PATCO strike hit and turned the entire flying world on its head. Within a couple months, I gave up on flying and interviewed with IBM for a Field Engineer position in their mainframe division. I just retired from IBM after 40 years and had a wonderful career. Just like you, no regrets!! I wish you all the best on your build, you will love it!! Cheers, Paul
It took me 2 years to get my medical, due to service connected mental health issues. I'm glad to hear you were, also, able to fight and win the good fight.
It should not have to be “the good fight.” More clarity on those with medical issues and what they need to do and what to expect. Totally different than the 1960s.
Would have offered my services at no charge. To bad this just showed up on my watch list and is years old. Great seeing a quality build. Thanks for the videos.
The Wright Brothers by David McCullough is one of the greatest books. I am an immigrant and naturalized citizen. Reading and feeling that book made an American more than anything else. And just last week, breathing the air in Huffman Fields outside of Dayton gave me the same goose bumps you felt in Kitty Hawk.
The most well produced build video I have ever seen, Paul. It has proved invaluable to me, in the respect that now I know an RV - anything build..... is something I can never accomplish. Thank you.
Darn it. Wasn’t planning to watch this whole thing in one sitting but it was too good to stop. And then you had to make me shed a tear at the end. Thinking about starting on a RV-12iS and the TH-cam algorithm wins again.
Hi Andrew, thanks so much for the very kind words. You will love building the 12iS, I wish it was available when I ordered my first kit. The Rotax iS engine can power a lot more electrical accessories, it's even more efficient on fuel than the ULS, and you never have to deal with carburetors (weighing floats, synching, etc.) Best of luck, Paul
Brilliant video. I watched the whole thing which is a record for me. I don't normally watch anything more than 15 minutes, but this was awesome. Well edited and brilliantly presented. The video must have taken as long as building the RV. Thank you. Thank you. 👍🏼 👍🏼 👍🏼 👍🏼 👍🏼
Thanks for the very nice comments Guy, really glad you enjoyed it and even happier that you didn't feel you wasted an hour of your life!! All the best, Paul
That's the perfect age!! I know several who built in their 70's and have been enjoying flying their planes for many years! I started building at 58, a little over a year after my quintuple bypass (I am 61 also, great age 😉). You can absolutely do it and I wish you great success! Paul
Yes, there is always that! The good news is that you can start building a brand new RV-12 for $2775. That gets you the entire first kit, the tail section of the plane (empennage). So for a very small investment, you will know if you like building and when you are finished, you will own the completed tail section of the plane!
You have an amazing wife that used her money to buy you that engine. My wife did something very similar and last year used her saved money to buy me a 2018 Chevrolet equnox premier so I can get around. I love my wife for everything she does for our life and I saw how great your wife is to you. God bless you and your family. Thank you for sharing
Absolutely wonderful!! Ever since my dads friend took me for a flight in his home build a few years back, it planted the idea for a project like this. You’re video just made that idea blossom. Thank you for sharing!
@@paulastraub Thanks Paul! It was your comment of “ it’s only one rivet at a time.” I love that mentality! Now the process of “which one?” begins 🙂👍🏻 The plane that handle longer distances, relatively fast cruising speed, and part bush plane, with good storage capacity for gear 🤔👍🏻
I wish you well in your decision! If I were starting again, I would build the RV-14. It's a little bigger, much faster, fully aerobatic, and great for cross-country and IFR. I still may do it, but very happy with my -12 right now. All the best!! Paul
This was one of the most inspiring videos I have ever watched on TH-cam. You built a beautiful airplane and you chose to share this amazing journey with us. It makes me hopeful for not only progressing in my flight training -- I too need to get my medical back -- but also for taking on increasingly challenging projects to make my life what I know it can be. My wife also found your video compelling and inspiring, and she has little interest in aviation other than as my future copilot. Thank you so much for making this!
Wow! Great documentary Paul! Very well done. I can only imagine the feeling when that plane took off for the first time. Well done! Enjoyed talking planes this morning.
Hi Kevin, glad you enjoyed it. Look forward to seeing you again, next time come over to my house/hangar for a visit. Hope you have a great trip home. Paul
Congratulations! I’ve been a Private Pilot for over 25 years and have flown many different airplanes. I admire those of you that have the skill and tenacity to build and fly your own airplane. Well Done!
Thanks David! Very kind of you. By the way, we love Ireland....it's funny, I just posted a video of our Ireland vacation from 2014 so our friends could see it. We look forward to returning!! Cheers, Paul
What a fantastic video !! And what a wonderful accomplishment !! Just cannot say any more that hasn't been said...thank you for sharing this journey of fabrication through flight...............Stay Safe and God Bless...........
Well done for the build and additional thumbs up for actually putting this video together to document the build. About 10 min's into the video it hit me; there is no way in hell that I have the time to build. We are both career folks with three kids 4, 6 and 8. I am just going to have to bite the bullet and buy one that is already built. Thanks for shining a light on the complexity, and reality of it all. My hats off to anyone who has ever built one to completion; its not a reality for me.
Thanks Ramin, that would be tough with 3 young ones at home! Our 4 kids were all grown and out of the house when I started. Buying a used experimental is a great way to go if the builder was good. You can find planes out there for sale for less than the builder spent on parts! Thanks again for the nice comments, all the best. Paul
This is truely an inspirational story. I know the challenges that present themselves after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease about 14 months ago. It took me at least 9 moths to get my class 2 Medical Certificate back! I now enjoy flying more than ever knowing just what a blessing it is to be able to take to the skies. I too also enjoy the privilege of being able to share this with others! You’re done a lovely job of building that airplane, the panel is awesome. God Bless and stay safe!
It’s a great story and about a lot more than building and flying. I especially liked the last few minutes showing your passengers and then telling about your mom and dad. Good narration too. Great video! Thanks
The can-do attitude has become oddly rare, and at times feels as if it's been diagnosed away. I lost my right leg, hip and pelvis at age 16 and the road to becoming a pilot with a love of taildraggers was long, agonizing, and required help from clever folks who modified my Luscombe so I could strap my foot into a harness, close the rudder system, pull for right rudder and push for left. Same for my Bellanca 14-19 triple tail Cruisemaster. And I finally got a SODA from the FAA that was unrestricted. But I never could have accomplished what you did in the video, Paul. Bravo, sir!
Wow, that is amazing....what you went through to fly!! Believe me, you accomplished a lot more than I did!! Thanks for the great comments, all the best to you BlueBaron...Paul
@@paulastraub Thanks, Paul, but the biggest obstacle for me in aviation was not the one people imagined. No, as I once put it, if I were ever caught using a wrench it should be a felony 😜 To this day when I spend an afternoon watching an old friend recover a wing I sit stunned...amazed that a person can do that. Imagine how I felt watching you build an entire airplane. Oh, I knew people did it and witnessed countless examples of their finished products but to see the entire process...oh my! Best of luck to you too, Paul. - Jonathan
Hi Jonathan, I see what you're saying....but still, overcoming your physical challenges and flying is amazing!! Thanks again for the great comments. Paul
I thoroughly enjoyed this video. Can’t imagine the total time it must’ve taken you to compile it all together between the footage and narration. Well done! And congratulations.
Great story... great video. Plus with the side-by-side dual controls your wife can get some stick time. Hope she likes flying rather than just 'go along' because you like it. You're doin' life right
What a wonderful video from all aspects. Sound, Narration, Still pics, Logical progression great film!. This is also one a hand full of films that truly has a beginning and a completed end. A great how to film also, editing pace was just right. Thanks So much!
Thanks for the very detailed comments Clint, I really appreciate you taking the time!! Really glad you enjoyed it and thanks again for watching! All the best, Paul
Fantastic! RV 12, WSBK, Suzuki, and I'm sure that is a picture on the wall of you on the track. All great stuff to include in a documentary. The p-car is nice too, but I'm a bike and plane guy at the core. Thank you for the time and effort you have put into telling us about the journey. My 14 year old boy and I are getting ready for a build ourselves a zenith STOL so we will use your video as motivation. Thanks again from Michigan!
Hey Eric, thanks so much for the great comments, you obviously have a good eye!! (and great taste!) What a great project to start with your 14 year old son. My boys were 25 and 30 when I started building, so really didn't have time to be involved. It was still fun to share it with them when I could, and I wanted them to be excited about it. Life got too busy and I never got to share my love of flying with them as kids, so it's been fun to fly them around in the RV-12 and show them that world. All the best on your build, Zenith seems to be a solid choice. Paul
@@ericmacke3072 Of course!! sounds like a Mat Mladin reference to me, he was so dominant...he really needed to be in motogp in his prime. On the right team, he could have battled with Rossi for sure. Oh well....
Yep. I miss those days when the AMA had a solid series, wonder what 66 is up to these days. At one point long ago I saw a video of Matt and someone supercross related playing with Kitfox aircraft somewhere in Idaho. Mladin vs Duhamel vs Yates vs Bostrom good times. @@paulastraub
Great Vid. The "Wrong Bros" are considered the first pioneers of powered flight, but that's an American belief. Plenty of others would have flown before the Wrong Bro's in other countries!
Thanks for the comments endwood, you may be right about who was first....but I can tell you that Wilbur spent a year in France 1908/1909 dazzling the European crowds with his demo flights and the French loved and helped him. Certainly inventors all around the world were working on the challenge during the same time, so who knows for sure. Paul
That is by far the best video on TH-cam, excellent build 👍👍. I so want to build an RV12 and want one even more now after watching that !!!! Thank you very much for sharing such an excellent video
Absolutely super video. I built and fly a RV-6. It was the second RV-6 to fly and first flight was July 14.1989. I am fortunate to live only a few miles from Van's Aircraft and know Dick Vangrunsven and his brother Jerry Vangrunsven. Just today Dec 13, 2017 Jerry Vangrunsven called me and offered to let me fly his RV-12 as I had previously told him I had not had the opportunity to fly in one. I was expecting to go to his house and jump in the passenger seat and go for a ride, he insisted I fly left seat. What a beautiful flying airplane, it took me a few minutes to learn all the fancy instrumentation as my RV-6 has mostly all old school gauges in it. After a couple T&Gs and a full stop and go it felt really natural to fly. I did have to get use to seeing engine RPM in the 5000 RPM range. All in all a really great day in a really great airplane. Thanks for posting a great video.
Really well done overview of the whole process. There are lots of technical build videos but this one covers the bigger picture in an entertaining and professional manner. Thanks!
What an awesome story! Awesome wife and friends. May God bless you and give you many more years of flying with your loved ones. Beautiful plane and thanks for sharing your story. God bless!
Most enjoyable video build record. Very impressed with the work and the outcome. The word 'inspirational' is often over used - in this case, you and the video fully justify the word. Congratulations.
Yeah man. Electrical is a huge deal. I am an FAA Commercial Aircraft Mechanic. Just to share, that a Boeing 747 has just over 50 miles of electrical wires running through it. So can you imagine how much weight that adds to an aircraft? Tons. Literally. Great video my friend. I want to do this and your experience is a great tool. I am guessing that I will be able to save some time on the airframe install and fab as that is what I have been doing for over 20 years. Again. Great video mate.
Hi Eric, thanks for the comments! Sounds like with your background, your build will go very well. Best of luck with your project, have fun with it! Paul
What a journey! Thanks for putting together what must be one of the definitive RV build stories. I hope you have many, many years of enjoyment in the beautiful aircraft that has come out of your hard work and Van's inspirational mind.
I loved your video. So informative and inspirational. Beautiful job with the plane. I'm a 3,000 hour commercial/instrument pilot owning a production Piper, and envy the amount of knowledge and experience you've gained through this experience. The tribute to your parents was so special as well. Congratulations!
Great video Paul. Thanks for spending the time to make it. I really wanted to get a feel for what it took to build the 12. I think you captured it perfectly.
A very nice job all the way around. Very pleasant narration. A difficult build job shot and explained by someone who comes from a family history of flight. Thank-You. I hope to build a plane to fly. Inspirational!! Steve R./ Denver, Colorado
Enjoyed it, I to got my license in 1972, flew for a few years then stopped, in 1976. I was a great pilot, but didn’t allocate money to continue. In 1995 I went out again and enjoyed aerobatics, and haven’t flown since. I do love flying and aerobatics and have always considered RV3,4 or some other maximum sport experimental plane. I payed for my license by working on Aroncas, Taylorcrafts and Tri Pacers. I know I can build, but now at 68, I think I will be satisfied to fly aerobatics occasionally for fun. I do love following others on TH-cam!
Your wife buying you the last kit just shows how the right women sacrifice so much for their men. My wife has given up a lot over the years for me to pursue my dreams. Good woman there Paul, and congrats on a gorgeous airplane!
I just became your 1,000th subscriber. I am just about to buy a RV-7 kit. I'm not sure if this video convinced me to do it, or scared me away! What a daunting task.
Hi and thanks for subscribing!! Looks like you might be an airline pilot from the photo. So, I'm sure you know the RV-7 is a great airplane, but if you are a little nervous about the build process, the RV-14 is very similar but the kit and instructions are a lot more refined. I am hoping to build a 14 now that I am retired and moved to an airpark in TN. Either way, you can't go wrong and you will love the build process and the feeling of what you accomplished will never go away. All the best and Merry Christmas. Paul
@@paulastraub The 14 would be a lot nicer, and the 10 would be a dream! I'm trying to balance my desire to build an RV with the reality of my 3 kids to put through college and a wedding to pay for in the Spring! I think the RV-7 would be "doable". I've seen RV-14's for sale for over $200,000. Not sure why they are so much higher than the -7....they look to be just a little bigger than the 7. I have a partially built kit at my local airport that has been put together by a guy who has made 3 RV's in the past. The quality looks really good. I can get the kit (including finishing kit) right now for $30,000. I still need an engine, prop, avionics, paint job and interior. Decisions, decisions...
@@quinnjim Wow, like you said, decisions, decisions.....I would be very tempted to jump on the $30K opportunity. The -14 is such a great plane, I did my last Flight Review in a -14 and I was so impressed. It does everything well if you only need 2 seats and you could finish it at your own pace and watch for the right deal on the engine, avionics, etc. I miss having a great cross-country, IFR platform. The -12 is a great little plane and incredibly inexpensive to own and operate, but it's still a little like a big toy. I wish you the best in your decision and I hope you really enjoy the journey. Paul
Inspiring, I am an airline pilot with 20 thousand plus hours, you are a natural pilot. I would be happy to fly with you. I am researching an RV14 build, your video is adding fuel to my fire, thank you for sharing your journey
Thanks very much for the nice comments. By the way, I am thinking seriously about building an RV14, it's my favorite model in Van's lineup. I hope you build one and I wish you great success!
Must say, most inspiring video and am in aw as to how fast you built it, took me 11 yrs on my experimental (Wittman tailwind) life kept getting in the way but now it is done, 1st flight was Nov 2015 and I can relate to the feeling you experienced and the exhilaration, it's a wonderful feeling. Congratulations on your accomplishment and thanks for sharing this wonderful video.
Just ran across this video by chance. The RV12 is one plane I hope to build/own in the near future. I was fortunate to fly a friends RV12 several times at KSTS. What a dream to fly. The owner let me fly from the left seat for our first flight. I took off and landed with little help from the owner. I’m a current Private Pilot and a part owner in a 1973 Cardinal 177B. The Sonex B is another plane I’m considering. More in my price range. Great video. Thanks for sharing. Blue Sky’s.
This is the most comprehensive and informative kit-building video on TH-cam. Excellent job with the video and build! I especially appreciate the "dedication" at the end. Enjoy the flying.
I LOVED this video. Thank you for sharing it with the world. What an amazing and rewarding experience. I dearly love my Cherokee 140/160 but have dreams of building an RV. Your video just helped to push it further up my bucket list. THANK YOU!
Well done Paul, the whole RV-12 community (including VANs) owes you one for a great job describing with ample details a successful RV-12 kit building project! This is neither a video not a clip, it is a professionaly done documentary which makes me want to build a second RV-12.
Thank you so much for the very kind words Jean-Pierre!! You were one of the builders that inspired me to take on this project. You have a very nice bottle of wine coming to you when we finally meet face-to-face! Warm regards, Paul
I have many words but these will do... The amount of work that went into making this video, the amound of work that went into building this airplane, the amount of work that went into working for the money to buy and build this kit. My god. I have a lot gangster to go on.
What a great documentary! I had never realized what all went into building your own plane. I was surprised that you didn’t require periodic FAA inspections, at the various stages of the construction.
Thanks very much for watching Paul, glad you enjoyed it. Good point about lack of periodic inspections, but I did have to sign a form that stated I built it exactly to the plans. All the best.
Wonderful story of how life can change. Good for you and you have inspired me to fulfill my dream of getting back into aviation. I to used to be a pilot then I got involved with my first wife and could not afford both. That was 35 plus years ago. I will probably build a Zenith CH750. I guy by the Name of Richard Pearce actually beat the Wright Brothers by a few weeks to be the first to fly. How ever because this occurred in the South Island of New Zealand and because of New Zealand's isolation back in those days, the news of Richard Pearce's accomplishment hit the Northern Hemisphere some time after the Wright Brothers claim to fame. Richard accomplished this all on his own with out the help of anyone else. Thank you for your inspiring video and I will take up the challenge of building my own aircraft. Take care and God bless to all.
Outstanding video! Very well thought out. In another life I was a Captain for Skywest. As a matter of fact, I started my aviation journey very close to you in Fresno and ultimately Oakland. Everyone used to always ask me what my favorite type of flying was. Each time I answered by saying VFR with a plane full of fuel and good friends! I have gone back and forth between purchasing or building an airplane someday. It has been along time since I have been behind the controls but this video has really inspired me. Thank you for taking the time to put this video together to share with us. -Will, Rocklin CA
I watched this video last Friday with amazement! What a story! I own a production 1977 Grumman AA-5B Tiger with my son and we're planning on overhauling it in the near future with a new engine, paint and interior. I can't imagine what it would be like to build something like this from scratch. Congratulations on the build!
Ty for the video. I’m considering building one in due time, but the task seems so daunting and I have experience doing something like this. This gives me confidence I can do something like this.
A&P mechanic here, Hope to build a 12 or 10 soon, Great video and glad you had those supportive friends :)
Hi Tim, thanks for watching and best of luck on your build. I went back and forth between the 10 and 12 also, but really glad I built the 12. For my missions, it was a lot less of a financial risk and it's really fun to fly! Thanks again, Paul
oh yea! what a great video I'm an ex airline pilot and corporate pilot (CE-650, BE-3100, type rated), flew king airs, etc for private companies back in the day....... I exited the industry after 9-11 for a career in software development. NO regrets on the exit. THIS is a DREAM build and life experience for me for my retirement. thank you for your summary. I WILL build and enjoy one of these in my lifetime so long as life permits.
That's great, I am really glad you enjoyed it. I was a 22 year-old CFII back in 1981, looking forward to an airline career. Then the PATCO strike hit and turned the entire flying world on its head. Within a couple months, I gave up on flying and interviewed with IBM for a Field Engineer position in their mainframe division. I just retired from IBM after 40 years and had a wonderful career. Just like you, no regrets!! I wish you all the best on your build, you will love it!! Cheers, Paul
It took me 2 years to get my medical, due to service connected mental health issues. I'm glad to hear you were, also, able to fight and win the good fight.
Thanks very much James, I wish you all the best. Happy New Year! Paul
It should not have to be “the good fight.” More clarity on those with medical issues and what they need to do and what to expect. Totally different than the 1960s.
Would have offered my services at no charge. To bad this just showed up on my watch list and is years old. Great seeing a quality build. Thanks for the videos.
Thanks Casey, all the best....Paul
The Wright Brothers by David McCullough is one of the greatest books. I am an immigrant and naturalized citizen. Reading and feeling that book made an American more than anything else. And just last week, breathing the air in Huffman Fields outside of Dayton gave me the same goose bumps you felt in Kitty Hawk.
Hi Safak, thanks for the great comments, great to hear from another Wright Brothers fan! All the best, Paul
I love seeing people do what it takes to live life. Very inspiring! Thanks for bringing us along.
I really appreciate your very kind comments! Thanks for watching! All the best, Paul
The most well produced build video I have ever seen, Paul. It has proved invaluable to me, in the respect that now I know an RV - anything build..... is something I can never accomplish. Thank you.
Thanks for the nice words Randall.....and I'm sure you could do it!! Paul
52 people accidentally pressed the wrong button…
Fantastic build - your workmanship is remarkable!
That is very kind of you, and thanks for the very nice words!! All the best, Paul
What an amazing video, very well done and congratulations on such an excellent build.
Thanks so much for watching, and the very kind words!! All the best, Paul
Darn it. Wasn’t planning to watch this whole thing in one sitting but it was too good to stop. And then you had to make me shed a tear at the end. Thinking about starting on a RV-12iS and the TH-cam algorithm wins again.
Hi Andrew, thanks so much for the very kind words. You will love building the 12iS, I wish it was available when I ordered my first kit. The Rotax iS engine can power a lot more electrical accessories, it's even more efficient on fuel than the ULS, and you never have to deal with carburetors (weighing floats, synching, etc.) Best of luck, Paul
Brilliant video. I watched the whole thing which is a record for me. I don't normally watch anything more than 15 minutes, but this was awesome. Well edited and brilliantly presented. The video must have taken as long as building the RV. Thank you. Thank you. 👍🏼 👍🏼 👍🏼 👍🏼 👍🏼
Thanks for the very nice comments Guy, really glad you enjoyed it and even happier that you didn't feel you wasted an hour of your life!! All the best, Paul
@@paulastraub Thanks Paul. I'd love to build my own aircraft but I don't think that I'll be able to now at 61. 😀👍🏼
That's the perfect age!! I know several who built in their 70's and have been enjoying flying their planes for many years! I started building at 58, a little over a year after my quintuple bypass (I am 61 also, great age 😉). You can absolutely do it and I wish you great success! Paul
@@paulastraub Ahhh! Thanks for that motivational reply. Now I have to find some money.
Yes, there is always that! The good news is that you can start building a brand new RV-12 for $2775. That gets you the entire first kit, the tail section of the plane (empennage). So for a very small investment, you will know if you like building and when you are finished, you will own the completed tail section of the plane!
Wonderful video. I've read a number of build logs, but this tells the story better than any of them. Much thanks.
Thanks very much Thomas, really glad you enjoyed it. Paul
That smile when you popped open the canopy after coming back is the greatest
Thanks! I was so happy that the plane could really fly!! All the best, Paul
This video was riveting! 😅 I nearly cried when you took flight. Great job!
Thanks so much, very kind of you! Paul
You have an amazing wife that used her money to buy you that engine. My wife did something very similar and last year used her saved money to buy me a 2018 Chevrolet equnox premier so I can get around. I love my wife for everything she does for our life and I saw how great your wife is to you. God bless you and your family. Thank you for sharing
Thanks for the very kind comments Anthony. My wife read your comments and was very touched. God bless...Paul
I hope your health is also doing well
Absolutely wonderful!! Ever since my dads friend took me for a flight in his home build a few years back, it planted the idea for a project like this. You’re video just made that idea blossom. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks Colin, glad you found it encouraging. I wish you all the best on your project! Paul
@@paulastraub Thanks Paul! It was your comment of “ it’s only one rivet at a time.” I love that mentality! Now the process of “which one?” begins 🙂👍🏻 The plane that handle longer distances, relatively fast cruising speed, and part bush plane, with good storage capacity for gear 🤔👍🏻
I wish you well in your decision! If I were starting again, I would build the RV-14. It's a little bigger, much faster, fully aerobatic, and great for cross-country and IFR. I still may do it, but very happy with my -12 right now. All the best!! Paul
Congratulations and thank you for posting. 👍🏻❤️🇦🇺
Thank you for watching!! Paul
This was one of the most inspiring videos I have ever watched on TH-cam. You built a beautiful airplane and you chose to share this amazing journey with us. It makes me hopeful for not only progressing in my flight training -- I too need to get my medical back -- but also for taking on increasingly challenging projects to make my life what I know it can be. My wife also found your video compelling and inspiring, and she has little interest in aviation other than as my future copilot. Thank you so much for making this!
Wow Andy, thanks so much for the very thoughtful comments. All the best to you on your project! Paul
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This video is wonderful. It was an amazing task to chronicle the RV12 build and you did it perfectly.
Thanks for the very kind words John, really glad you enjoyed it. All the best, Paul
Wow! Great documentary Paul! Very well done. I can only imagine the feeling when that plane took off for the first time. Well done! Enjoyed talking planes this morning.
Hi Kevin, glad you enjoyed it. Look forward to seeing you again, next time come over to my house/hangar for a visit. Hope you have a great trip home. Paul
Paul I did the first test flight of a RV-12 for a friend today and your video was very helpful. Thank you for making that.
That’s great Tony, thanks for letting me know! 👍🏻
Congratulations! I’ve been a Private Pilot for over 25 years and have flown many different airplanes. I admire those of you that have the skill and tenacity to build and fly your own airplane. Well Done!
Thanks for the comments Rick, I appreciate it.....and thanks for watching!! Blue skies, Paul
Brilliant! What a journey and thanks so much for sharing your wonderful story and a gorgeous plane to look at. All the best from Ireland!
Thanks David! Very kind of you. By the way, we love Ireland....it's funny, I just posted a video of our Ireland vacation from 2014 so our friends could see it. We look forward to returning!! Cheers, Paul
What a fantastic video !! And what a wonderful accomplishment !! Just cannot say any more that hasn't been said...thank you for sharing this journey of fabrication through flight...............Stay Safe and God Bless...........
Thanks so much for the very nice comments, really glad you enjoyed it! Paul
Well done for the build and additional thumbs up for actually putting this video together to document the build. About 10 min's into the video it hit me; there is no way in hell that I have the time to build. We are both career folks with three kids 4, 6 and 8. I am just going to have to bite the bullet and buy one that is already built. Thanks for shining a light on the complexity, and reality of it all. My hats off to anyone who has ever built one to completion; its not a reality for me.
Thanks Ramin, that would be tough with 3 young ones at home! Our 4 kids were all grown and out of the house when I started. Buying a used experimental is a great way to go if the builder was good. You can find planes out there for sale for less than the builder spent on parts! Thanks again for the nice comments, all the best. Paul
This is truely an inspirational story. I know the challenges that present themselves after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease about 14 months ago. It took me at least 9 moths to get my class 2 Medical Certificate back! I now enjoy flying more than ever knowing just what a blessing it is to be able to take to the skies. I too also enjoy the privilege of being able to share this with others! You’re done a lovely job of building that airplane, the panel is awesome. God Bless and stay safe!
Thanks so much David, I wish you all the best!! Paul
What a great story! Thanks for sharing with us Paul!
Thanks Rick! Very kind of you, glad you enjoyed it. All the best, Paul
Wow and thank you for sharing your journey!
Thanks for watching!
Fantastic documentary. You must have journaled all through the build to remember all the details. You really helped me love the RV-12
Thanks very much for watching Benny, glad you enjoyed it. All the best, Paul
It’s a great story and about a lot more than building and flying. I especially liked the last few minutes showing your passengers and then telling about your mom and dad. Good narration too. Great video! Thanks
Hi Steve, thanks so much for the very kind words, I really appreciate it! All the best, Paul
Wonderful plane and a great, very clear and well-edited video! Thanks.
Very kind of you Dan, thanks for watching! Paul
Awesome homebuilding story, hats off to you and everyone who helped this bird fly!
Thanks Todd, I appreciate it! Paul
The can-do attitude has become oddly rare, and at times feels as if it's been diagnosed away. I lost my right leg, hip and pelvis at age 16 and the road to becoming a pilot with a love of taildraggers was long, agonizing, and required help from clever folks who modified my Luscombe so I could strap my foot into a harness, close the rudder system, pull for right rudder and push for left. Same for my Bellanca 14-19 triple tail Cruisemaster. And I finally got a SODA from the FAA that was unrestricted. But I never could have accomplished what you did in the video, Paul. Bravo, sir!
Wow, that is amazing....what you went through to fly!! Believe me, you accomplished a lot more than I did!! Thanks for the great comments, all the best to you BlueBaron...Paul
@@paulastraub Thanks, Paul, but the biggest obstacle for me in aviation was not the one people imagined. No, as I once put it, if I were ever caught using a wrench it should be a felony 😜 To this day when I spend an afternoon watching an old friend recover a wing I sit stunned...amazed that a person can do that. Imagine how I felt watching you build an entire airplane. Oh, I knew people did it and witnessed countless examples of their finished products but to see the entire process...oh my! Best of luck to you too, Paul. - Jonathan
Hi Jonathan, I see what you're saying....but still, overcoming your physical challenges and flying is amazing!! Thanks again for the great comments. Paul
I thoroughly enjoyed this video. Can’t imagine the total time it must’ve taken you to compile it all together between the footage and narration. Well done! And congratulations.
Thanks so much for the kind comments, very glad you enjoyed it!! Paul
Great story... great video. Plus with the side-by-side dual controls your wife can get some stick time. Hope she likes flying rather than just 'go along' because you like it. You're doin' life right
Thanks for watching Russell, I appreciate your comments. All the best, Paul
What a wonderful video from all aspects. Sound, Narration, Still pics, Logical progression great film!. This is also one a hand full of films that truly has a beginning and a completed end. A great how to film also, editing pace was just right. Thanks So much!
Thanks for the very detailed comments Clint, I really appreciate you taking the time!! Really glad you enjoyed it and thanks again for watching! All the best, Paul
Fantastic! RV 12, WSBK, Suzuki, and I'm sure that is a picture on the wall of you on the track. All great stuff to include in a documentary. The p-car is nice too, but I'm a bike and plane guy at the core. Thank you for the time and effort you have put into telling us about the journey. My 14 year old boy and I are getting ready for a build ourselves a zenith STOL so we will use your video as motivation. Thanks again from Michigan!
Hey Eric, thanks so much for the great comments, you obviously have a good eye!! (and great taste!) What a great project to start with your 14 year old son. My boys were 25 and 30 when I started building, so really didn't have time to be involved. It was still fun to share it with them when I could, and I wanted them to be excited about it. Life got too busy and I never got to share my love of flying with them as kids, so it's been fun to fly them around in the RV-12 and show them that world. All the best on your build, Zenith seems to be a solid choice. Paul
With all that Yosh gear around and being the same age as me, does the number 66 mean anything to you? @@paulastraub
@@ericmacke3072 Of course!! sounds like a Mat Mladin reference to me, he was so dominant...he really needed to be in motogp in his prime. On the right team, he could have battled with Rossi for sure. Oh well....
Yep. I miss those days when the AMA had a solid series, wonder what 66 is up to these days. At one point long ago I saw a video of Matt and someone supercross related playing with Kitfox aircraft somewhere in Idaho. Mladin vs Duhamel vs Yates vs Bostrom good times. @@paulastraub
Great video. I am interviewing with VANS AIRCRAFT right now, this video will help out alot. Thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it, best of luck with your interview!! Paul
Great Vid. The "Wrong Bros" are considered the first pioneers of powered flight, but that's an American belief. Plenty of others would have flown before the Wrong Bro's in other countries!
Thanks for the comments endwood, you may be right about who was first....but I can tell you that Wilbur spent a year in France 1908/1909 dazzling the European crowds with his demo flights and the French loved and helped him. Certainly inventors all around the world were working on the challenge during the same time, so who knows for sure. Paul
16:34 Proof that you selected the right spouse!!! Loved the video b/t/w!
Very kind of you, thanks for watching!! Paul
Wonderful story, well told. Thanks for sharing.
Very kind of you Gordon, thanks for watching!! Paul
Wow! As a builder in progress myself, this really helps me keep going. Done with the tail and working on the wings!
Glad you enjoyed it and found it helpful. Best of luck with your build!! All the best, Paul
I loved this video. Congratulations on your achievement and thank you for documenting it! Happy flying.
Thanks for the very nice comments!! Paul
Thanks for this.Very impressed- and amazed to see it done in a year!
Thanks very much for watching!! Paul
Great journey video. You have a fantastic wife and mother.
Hi Chris, thanks for the very kind comment!! Paul
I gotta guess that the work that you put into the video was a challenge all itself... loved it....
Thanks very much Randall, all the best. Paul
great video! Awesome story line. Makes me want to build one!
Thanks Dave, you can definitely do it!! All the best, Paul
That is by far the best video on TH-cam, excellent build 👍👍. I so want to build an RV12 and want one even more now after watching that !!!! Thank you very much for sharing such an excellent video
Thanks very much Andy, glad you enjoyed it. Best of luck on your RV-12 build!!! Paul
Absolutely super video. I built and fly a RV-6. It was the second RV-6 to fly and first flight was July 14.1989. I am fortunate to live only a few miles from Van's Aircraft and know Dick Vangrunsven and his brother Jerry Vangrunsven. Just today Dec 13, 2017 Jerry Vangrunsven called me and offered to let me fly his RV-12 as I had previously told him I had not had the opportunity to fly in one. I was expecting to go to his house and jump in the passenger seat and go for a ride, he insisted I fly left seat. What a beautiful flying airplane, it took me a few minutes to learn all the fancy instrumentation as my RV-6 has mostly all old school gauges in it. After a couple T&Gs and a full stop and go it felt really natural to fly. I did have to get use to seeing engine RPM in the 5000 RPM range. All in all a really great day in a really great airplane. Thanks for posting a great video.
Wow, great story about the VanGrunsvens! Glad you enjoyed the RV-12 and thanks for the very nice comments!
Really well done overview of the whole process. There are lots of technical build videos but this one covers the bigger picture in an entertaining and professional manner. Thanks!
Thanks very much Todd, really glad you enjoyed it and I appreciate your comments!! All the best, Paul
What an awesome story! Awesome wife and friends. May God bless you and give you many more years of flying with your loved ones. Beautiful plane and thanks for sharing your story. God bless!
Thanks very much for your kind comments!! All the best to you, Paul
Really great build and exceptional documentary.
Thanks very much Isaac! Paul
You are blessed with an amazing team. Thank you for sharing this journey.
Hi J.P., thanks very much for the kind comment and thank you for watching!! All the best, Paul
Most enjoyable video build record. Very impressed with the work and the outcome. The word 'inspirational' is often over used - in this case, you and the video fully justify the word. Congratulations.
Very kind words Pete, thanks so much and really glad you enjoyed it. All the best, Paul
Yeah man. Electrical is a huge deal. I am an FAA Commercial Aircraft Mechanic. Just to share, that a Boeing 747 has just over 50 miles of electrical wires running through it. So can you imagine how much weight that adds to an aircraft? Tons. Literally. Great video my friend. I want to do this and your experience is a great tool. I am guessing that I will be able to save some time on the airframe install and fab as that is what I have been doing for over 20 years. Again. Great video mate.
Hi Eric, thanks for the comments! Sounds like with your background, your build will go very well. Best of luck with your project, have fun with it! Paul
Excellent story. Very inspiring to keep me working on my project
Thanks Brent! Paul
Awesome story. I am glad you shared it.
Thanks very much Alex!!
Excellent video, very inspiring! Can't wait to order my Vans
Thanks very much, glad you enjoyed it and good luck with your build....you will love it!! Paul
@@paulastraub Thanks for the encouragement and response!! Can't wait to watch part 2, I have a busy schedule. Take care!!
Congratulations! Very impressive accomplishment & beautiful aircraft. May it bring you much joy.
Thanks for the very kind words Jim. All the best, Paul
WOW paul great Documentary im 27 and working on my CFI this motivated to build my own some day
Thanks Maxwell, that is great, I wish you all the best!! Paul
Fantastic video of a wonderful airplane.....great workmanship. Hyper complex design.
Thanks very much Ken, I appreciate it. All the best, Paul
What a journey! Thanks for putting together what must be one of the definitive RV build stories. I hope you have many, many years of enjoyment in the beautiful aircraft that has come out of your hard work and Van's inspirational mind.
Thanks so much for the very kind words Steve!!
Truly awesome work. Thanks so much for taking the time to share.
Thanks Richard, really glad you enjoyed it!! Paul
Amazing video. Thanks for sharing and inspiring.
Thanks very much for the kind words Juan Carlos!! All the best, Paul
I loved your video. So informative and inspirational. Beautiful job with the plane. I'm a 3,000 hour commercial/instrument pilot owning a production Piper, and envy the amount of knowledge and experience you've gained through this experience. The tribute to your parents was so special as well. Congratulations!
Hi Bernie, really glad you enjoyed it. Thanks so much for your very thoughtful comments, I really appreciate them!! All the best, Paul
Well done video. I am currently working on an RV-8 and hope to get that RV smile before too long!😀
Thanks Gary, best of luck on the RV-8, really a fan of that little P-51 lookalike!! Paul
Great video Paul. Thanks for spending the time to make it. I really wanted to get a feel for what it took to build the 12. I think you captured it perfectly.
Thanks so much David, really glad you enjoyed it! Paul
A very nice job all the way around. Very pleasant narration. A difficult build job shot and explained by someone who comes from a family history of flight. Thank-You. I hope to build a plane to fly. Inspirational!! Steve R./ Denver, Colorado
Thanks very much Steve, I appreciate the nice words. Paul
Enjoyed it, I to got my license in 1972, flew for a few years then stopped, in 1976. I was a great pilot, but didn’t allocate money to continue. In 1995 I went out again and enjoyed aerobatics, and haven’t flown since. I do love flying and aerobatics and have always considered RV3,4 or some other maximum sport experimental plane. I payed for my license by working on Aroncas, Taylorcrafts and Tri Pacers. I know I can build, but now at 68, I think I will be satisfied to fly aerobatics occasionally for fun. I do love following others on TH-cam!
Thanks Duane, very nice story. I wish you the best and glad you can enjoy some occasional aerobatics!! Paul
What a wonderful journey you've shared with us. Congratulations on the outstanding outcome of a very daunting project.
Thanks so much John, I really appreciate the comments and glad you enjoyed it!! Paul
Just an amazing video! Thanks for the detailed story of your build.
Your wife buying you the last kit just shows how the right women sacrifice so much for their men. My wife has given up a lot over the years for me to pursue my dreams. Good woman there Paul, and congrats on a gorgeous airplane!
Hi Michael, thanks so much for the very kind comments. My wife says thanks too, glad you enjoyed the video. All the best, Paul
I just became your 1,000th subscriber. I am just about to buy a RV-7 kit. I'm not sure if this video convinced me to do it, or scared me away! What a daunting task.
Hi and thanks for subscribing!! Looks like you might be an airline pilot from the photo. So, I'm sure you know the RV-7 is a great airplane, but if you are a little nervous about the build process, the RV-14 is very similar but the kit and instructions are a lot more refined. I am hoping to build a 14 now that I am retired and moved to an airpark in TN. Either way, you can't go wrong and you will love the build process and the feeling of what you accomplished will never go away. All the best and Merry Christmas. Paul
@@paulastraub The 14 would be a lot nicer, and the 10 would be a dream! I'm trying to balance my desire to build an RV with the reality of my 3 kids to put through college and a wedding to pay for in the Spring! I think the RV-7 would be "doable". I've seen RV-14's for sale for over $200,000. Not sure why they are so much higher than the -7....they look to be just a little bigger than the 7. I have a partially built kit at my local airport that has been put together by a guy who has made 3 RV's in the past. The quality looks really good. I can get the kit (including finishing kit) right now for $30,000. I still need an engine, prop, avionics, paint job and interior. Decisions, decisions...
@@quinnjim Wow, like you said, decisions, decisions.....I would be very tempted to jump on the $30K opportunity. The -14 is such a great plane, I did my last Flight Review in a -14 and I was so impressed. It does everything well if you only need 2 seats and you could finish it at your own pace and watch for the right deal on the engine, avionics, etc. I miss having a great cross-country, IFR platform. The -12 is a great little plane and incredibly inexpensive to own and operate, but it's still a little like a big toy. I wish you the best in your decision and I hope you really enjoy the journey. Paul
Amazing video. Ordered my RV-10 last week!
Thanks Tyler! Very exciting, I love the RV-10, that was my original plan....would be great to have 4 seats. All the best on your build! Paul
Paul Straub thanks sir.
Inspiring, I am an airline pilot with 20 thousand plus hours, you are a natural pilot. I would be happy to fly with you. I am researching an RV14 build, your video is adding fuel to my fire, thank you for sharing your journey
Thanks very much for the nice comments. By the way, I am thinking seriously about building an RV14, it's my favorite model in Van's lineup. I hope you build one and I wish you great success!
Must say, most inspiring video and am in aw as to how fast you built it, took me 11 yrs on my experimental (Wittman tailwind) life kept getting in the way but now it is done, 1st flight was Nov 2015 and I can relate to the feeling you experienced and the exhilaration, it's a wonderful feeling. Congratulations on your accomplishment and thanks for sharing this wonderful video.
Thanks very much Alex, and congratulations on your experimental, that is great!! All the best, Paul
Just ran across this video by chance. The RV12 is one plane I hope to build/own in the near future. I was fortunate to fly a friends RV12 several times at KSTS. What a dream to fly. The owner let me fly from the left seat for our first flight. I took off and landed with little help from the owner. I’m a current Private Pilot and a part owner in a 1973 Cardinal 177B. The Sonex B is another plane I’m considering. More in my price range. Great video. Thanks for sharing. Blue Sky’s.
Thanks very much for the nice comments, best of luck on your building project. You know I love the RV-12 but have also heard great things about Sonex!
Sir, you hit it out of the park! What a awesome build. Thank you for sharing your adventure!
Very kind of you Joseph, thanks for watching!! Paul
Great job Paul! Fantastic work on your airplane, and fantastic job documenting and sharing your experience. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it John, thanks very much for watching! All the best, Paul
This is the most comprehensive and informative kit-building video on TH-cam. Excellent job with the video and build! I especially appreciate the "dedication" at the end. Enjoy the flying.
Thanks for the super nice comments and for taking your valuable time to watch it!! All the best, Paul
Nice build! Nice video! Great music too.
Thanks Larry, glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching!! Paul
I LOVED this video. Thank you for sharing it with the world. What an amazing and rewarding experience. I dearly love my Cherokee 140/160 but have dreams of building an RV. Your video just helped to push it further up my bucket list. THANK YOU!
Thanks for the nice comments! Really glad you enjoyed it and even happier if it inspired you to build! Merry Christmas! Paul
as Andy miller said below, definitely the most inspiring thing Ive seen in a while, thank you so much for sharing your journey!
Thanks for the comments and really glad you enjoyed it!! Paul
AWESOME video! What a professional job!
Thanks very much Jeffery, I appreciate it! Paul
Well done Paul, the whole RV-12 community (including VANs) owes you one for a great job describing with ample details a successful RV-12 kit building project! This is neither a video not a clip, it is a professionaly done documentary which makes me want to build a second RV-12.
Thank you so much for the very kind words Jean-Pierre!! You were one of the builders that inspired me to take on this project. You have a very nice bottle of wine coming to you when we finally meet face-to-face! Warm regards, Paul
Awesome video! Just finished part 2. That’s a lot of work but it looks well worth it. We both know your folks would be exceptionally proud.
Thanks so much for your very kind comments Joe, really glad you enjoyed it. All the best, Paul
I have many words but these will do... The amount of work that went into making this video, the amound of work that went into building this airplane, the amount of work that went into working for the money to buy and build this kit. My god. I have a lot gangster to go on.
Thanks very much for your very kind words! Paul
Really enjoyed your video account of the RV12 build. Amazing job!
Thanks much 👍
Thanks for the nice comments and for watching!! Paul
What a great documentary! I had never realized what all went into building your own plane. I was surprised that you didn’t require periodic FAA inspections, at the various stages of the construction.
Thanks very much for watching Paul, glad you enjoyed it. Good point about lack of periodic inspections, but I did have to sign a form that stated I built it exactly to the plans. All the best.
Really great story and video! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks very much!! Paul
An excellent effort. To have a plan and stick to it in of itself is an accomplishment. Well done. Thanks for sharing your project.
Thanks Brian, I appreciate it! Paul
Great video ! Nicely narrated ! brings real meaning to " the slow drip fills the bucket " Very enjoyable , Good luck and be safe .
Thanks Bill, I have been called worse :-) Glad you enjoyed it, all the best!! Paul
Thank you for sharing this life time adventure of building an airplane with me. Well done on all counts.!
Thanks for watching! I really appreciate your comments. Paul
Awesome video Paul. You are a true inspiration for builders and pilots alike. Thank you!
Thanks Matthew, very nice of you!! Paul
Wonderful story of how life can change. Good for you and you have inspired me to fulfill my dream of getting back into aviation. I to used to be a pilot then I got involved with my first wife and could not afford both. That was 35 plus years ago. I will probably build a Zenith CH750. I guy by the Name of Richard Pearce actually beat the Wright Brothers by a few weeks to be the first to fly. How ever because this occurred in the South Island of New Zealand and because of New Zealand's isolation back in those days, the news of Richard Pearce's accomplishment hit the Northern Hemisphere some time after the Wright Brothers claim to fame. Richard accomplished this all on his own with out the help of anyone else. Thank you for your inspiring video and I will take up the challenge of building my own aircraft.
Take care and God bless to all.
Thanks for the nice comments Paul, all the best with your Zenith project (or whatever you decide to build). Happy New Year!
Wow, amazing!!! Just an amazing story. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.
Thanks so much Andy, glad you enjoyed it!! Take care, Paul
Outstanding video! Very well thought out. In another life I was a Captain for Skywest. As a matter of fact, I started my aviation journey very close to you in Fresno and ultimately Oakland. Everyone used to always ask me what my favorite type of flying was. Each time I answered by saying VFR with a plane full of fuel and good friends! I have gone back and forth between purchasing or building an airplane someday. It has been along time since I have been behind the controls but this video has really inspired me. Thank you for taking the time to put this video together to share with us. -Will, Rocklin CA
Thanks very much Will, glad you enjoyed it. Great comments, I wish you the best, whatever direction you decide to go. Paul
Been a long time for me also 48 years!
I watched this video last Friday with amazement! What a story! I own a production 1977 Grumman AA-5B Tiger with my son and we're planning on overhauling it in the near future with a new engine, paint and interior. I can't imagine what it would be like to build something like this from scratch. Congratulations on the build!
Thanks very much for your very kind comments Gordon. All the best, Paul
Wonderful record of your hard and rewarding work. Many thanks for the sharing.
Thanks very much....and thanks for watching!! Paul
Ty for the video. I’m considering building one in due time, but the task seems so daunting and I have experience doing something like this. This gives me confidence I can do something like this.
Hi Jonathan, glad it was encouraging, best of luck with your build....you can do it!! Paul
@@paulastraub Sorry I meant I have no experience doing this. Thanks for the encouragement!!