Meet the XUAV Mini Talon - Model Monday #2

[@RCLancelot]

Great review Matt. I agree 100% with you. I'm on my 2nd one​ after I disintegrated my first one on a nose dive from 600 meters at 130km/h straight to the ground due to an RX failure. There's nothing in the market that can get even close to the MT performance/value-wise. I also really appreciate the fact that you're not trying to sell anything and you're not sponsored, and biased as you are, is a real pleasure to watch your videos cause they reflect the real-life reflection of your true thoughts. Keep it up!

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Thank you for the kind words fella, Matt

[@GarbachNL]

Nice review Matt! Love my one! Easy build, cheap as chips, and absolutely stellar performance. It might also be worth mentioning that there is a very active rc groups thread with a bunch of great people that are happy to help if you get stuck. All of the 3d printable parts can be found there as well. I have the nose & tail skid, and a 360 pan & tilt setup! It’s great being able to look back and see the ass end of the plane😜.

[@timwsac]

Hi Matt fantastic model review I think there is going to be some room made in my hanger for one of these. Well done! By the way it was my Matek F7 board that was duff I just set up every thing the same but with a new F4 board and all works well thanks for your help Tim

[@aleks3a00]

Could you give me a dump for INAV F4? Thanks

[@allant9432]

Great plane, even better when it survived an impact on a solid stone lol, I know they can survive if they hit a soft squigy stone but I didn't know they would survive with a solid stone

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Allan, I was surprised as you, I thought it was going to be really bad. Buty nope, just a broken bumper on the front, phew!

[@DerrickWoolworth]

Love this model - there are quite a few "build" videos and flight videos to learn from on KZbin. Building one of these is easy, but there are a lot of decisions to make given all the choices with regard to camera mounting, ESC mounting and air ducts. Mine flies great, using the Pixhawk FC and TowerPro MG92B servos, which are really excellent. I do have to disagree with you about motor efficiency from the SunnySky. Yes, the X2216 is a great motor and definitely flies the MT fast. However, if you have a bit more money to spend, the T-Motor 2216 / 1100kv motor will fly around 6 mph slower with the 8x6 prop, but efficiency wise, I think it's a bit of an improvement. Obviously, if you want speed, go with the SunnySky. If you're looking to fly out a ways, get more time with a bit more costly motor. Good motor and prop combinations for this plane are not common, which is surprising since the MT is such a common and great aircraft.

[@seniorblackfox7001]

Matt, great review... I currently have 2 of these and love them both but have to admit I about gave up after crashing on the first several launch attempts for all the reasons you gave here. One thing I might suggest, that can save a lot of anguish on launch, is to use the bungee launch posted by MarkQ. Super simple, quick setup, easy to just walk around the pivot when the wind changes and makes launches a piece of cake... it just flies off straight. I have a Vector in one and the Matek F405 Wing, running iNav, in the other and yes the stabilization helps. The autolaunch feature of iNav really works, just let it go, motor kicks in and off it flies.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Morning, I'm glad you stuck with it, they do fly soooo well. As for a bungee, not really practical for where we fly most of the time and extra faff & weight to carry over. but I do appreciate that it could make things easier. I've yet to try auto launch, I'm glad it's working well for you. Matt

[@JoshWeaverRC]

Senior Blackfox. I'm going to try a bungee next. I just posted a video of iNav autolaunch and waypoints. Matt is convincing on this video so much so I want one of these for the first time. So I know I got it right, bungee launch on autolaunch? I'm very much wanting to get a wheeled plane to autolaunch on the wheels.

[@StuntDoubleFPV]

That was a good honest and accurate review Matt. Spot on

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Thanks 👌

[@iforce2d]

I flew my MT for 72 minutes today and the 4S 8Ah pack finished at storage charge (3.75v ish) !! This suggests it could do two hours. I'm a little puzzled about why my last endurance test with the same battery resulted in only 71 minutes after pushing the battery to the limit... the only differences were that today I was using a 10x6 prop instead of 9x6, and was not carrying a runcam split.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Chris, I’ve not pushed hard on the endurance side as for me, I just stuffed in a 8000mAh 4S lipo and did my best to cruise at no more than 6A except for take off and the first climb. That got me over an hour and frankly I got bored. The other thing is that being prepared is absolutely required. A spare set of goggle batteries, tx battery, coffee, receiver unit battery and of course a jug of coffee is also 100.1% required ;) Still very envious of your landscapes down there! I must come down at some point, Matt

[@jderpz23]

I’m going to buy a kit and all of the electronics for it this summer when I have money. If anyone has some advice other than what was listed in the video I would love to hear it!

[@iforce2d]

This has to be about the best layout for flight efficiency, it's hard to fault it functionality-wise. Personally I find it a bit awkward poking around inside the tube style fuselage compared to the ease of working on a flying wing, otherwise I would be flying my MT a lot more (I fixed it after crashing a while ago). My only other issue is I can never seem to get it quite stable in pitch, it's constantly wanting to waver a bit up or down, like a car with poor wheel alignment. I have my CG in the same place as you, so I was surprised to see how locked-in your recent video looked.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Chris, she was being flown at about 40% throttle and it was quite smooth too. I tend to fly the MT in the morning or very rarely at night when it's calmer. That said it will suck up a decent amount of wind. Agreed on the pitch, mine does take a while to get settled in even using a vector. I wonder if it's because the V-Tail? Matt

[@iforce2d]

ah, the vector may be what's helping you there. I have yet to put a flight controller on mine, even though I intended to when I got it. I think it may finally happen though, because I want to fly further afield in my new place, but not without an autopilot in case something goes wrong. All the planes I have autopilots on are quite slow so the recorded video can look a bit dull, but the MT would spice things up a bit more. Recently the weather has been raining almost every day but when it's not, we sometimes get a morning like this: www.iforce2d.net/tmp/S3430002.jpg I feel like it's a sin not to have gone out and flown over the mist yet :)

[@iforce2d]

Regarding your mention of the v-tail, I'd say it's probably not the V shape so much as how very close it is to the main wing, gives less pitch stabilizing effect.

[@sUASNews]

Nice one Matt now try the proper big one with the wing extensions, before the Believer it was my favourite airframe.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Keep that in mind for part 3 ;) Matt

[@floydblue1783]

Great model, mine is still on the bench, but will soon be completed.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Floyd, my first one took ages to build. Keep in the back of your mind, it really is worth it! Matt

[@floydblue1783]

RagTheNutsOff indeed, I have built one model a month for the last 7 months, the MT is active on the bench, just have to put in the long range gear and FPV and program everything. 🛫

[@skypilot23]

Awesome impact there and misery loves company Reinforcement mods are irreplaceable

[@43plank]

thanks for the help friend

[@didactylos4diddy474]

It's always appealed to me because it is one of the few model planes that is actually uglier than I am (which is a major achievement) I've never bought one though and that is simply because in spite of your advice, the advice (and mockery) of RC friends and well set-up aircraft I still struggle to launch one consistently. I confess that this is probably entirely my fault but it's the only plane that has ever beaten me. _At some point, when I'm not "between jobs" I'll probably buy one out of pure stubbornness_

[@jasondonavich2758]

With this model is it possible to have detachable wings, or are they glued in place for all time (unless they get ripped off in a crash)??

[@Stubbsyfpv]

Great review Matt 👍👍👍

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Stubs, thanks fella. The Mini Talon is an amazing model for the money, Matt

[@HuwFerris-John]

I love the way it looks!!

[@k1ortia]

same here...i think it looks perfect

[@aleks3a00]

SUPER!! Matt-Thanks!!!!

[@joenaylor34]

Finishing up building the Mini Talon using the Matek F722 and the latest version of INAV and I am stumped on how to set up the switches on my Taranis to get some simple modes. I want to (1) be able to take off or switch to manual, (2) cruise for FPV with 2d hold and altitude hold, (3) loiter, and (4) return to hold. How do I set this up using Switches A and B on the Taranis? Tried setting Switch B with (position 1) manual, (position 2) angle mode, and (position 3) Nav Alt hold + nav cruise, and Switch A with (position 1) Manual mode, (position 2) Nav alt hold + nav position hold, and (position 3) manual + Nav RTH but this isn't working.

[@joenaylor34]

Any suggestions on a flight controller? I am probably going to try the Matek F405 wing; looking for CLI commands.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Joe, the Matek F722 was ace! Hope that helps, Matt

[@00fluxone]

smooth easy and stable flying, quick and efficient - not that acrobatic - love mine

[@skyforce1983]

Where does the full size goblin come in at in place for you I'm ready to get one as well

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Joey, I don't own one because I feel they're too expensive for what they are. So yea we won't be seeing them in this series. Matt

[@markeggert2163]

Very good review! Unfortunately, I have only just about completed my very careful build of the slaughter with a Vector flight controller and, before I maiden or, your Video here brings to mind two important questions: 1 what launch angle do I use and 2 is the center of gravity a third of the wing core from the leading edge? Sorry to be off topic, but I have done such a careful build I would like to have everything going for me on the maiden flight. Then on to obtaining a Talon. Thanks

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Mark, both of those topics are covered in the video (launch angle & CG). Matt

[@markeggert2163]

In the SkyHunter video? I'm talking about the SkyHuntr ... That's what I meant about being off topic. I fond your first full-sized Sky Hunter video and you sold me on it, but I couldn't find follow-up videos.

[@GrDude81]

Thanks for the video, could you be kind enough and let me know if this model can be used with a tbs micro receiver v2 and also is Hobbywing Flyfun 60A+ Propdrive 2836 1250KV suitable combo?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy fella, yes my Clouds uses a micro receiver with a vector. If you have no flight controller, you’ll need a SBUS to PWM converter for about £10 from banggood. As for the motor, it’ll probably be OK. Heck if that’s all had (and no sunnysky ones spare), I’d use it. Hope that helps! Matt

[@GrDude81]

Thanks for the reply Matt, ordering one :):):)

[@chippy310]

Hi Matt When you put the esc in the talon by the v tail on top how do you secure it in the foam? Cheers rich.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Rich, great question! I laminated over the top of it to keep the moisture out. Its worked brilliantly there. Hope that helps Rich, Matt

[@chippy310]

@@RagTheNutsOff nice one dude keep up the reviews

[@marekchabowski2567]

Hello! Last year I bought a sticky mini talon. I added MATEKF405-WING, LIPO 4s 5200mah, sunnysky motor 2216 1250kv to it. Since then, I'm afraid to let go of him. Do you have any advice on where to start? I was thinking of a cart for gliders.

[@51im]

Weren't you going to build a twin fuselage version.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

A tri talon to be precise Chris. They're still here as we saw, just busy with other things. Matt

[@marukothekid]

Great video!!! Is it ok if I use Sunny sky X2216 1400kV version instead of the 1250kV? Thanksss

[@RagTheNutsOff]

You can, but the 1250Kv is better all round. Matt

[@marukothekid]

@@RagTheNutsOff Many thanks!!! Another question is, could I use the Sunnysky X2814 1100kV with 9060 props on 4S. I've checked the number and compared to the 2216. The 2814 1100kV looks a bit more efficient at low end and really makes a different at high end throttle compare to the 2216 1250kV.

[@dronepilot260rc]

I have a 2820 1250kv but I see most people are using the lighter 2216 1250kv motors. Is the 2820 overkill?

[@51im]

Matt. Why are your reciever antennas both in the same orientation.

[@thejasn6209]

I wonder what are the parameters which gives it so much efficiency. It has comparatively low aspect ratio(not a glider like wing) and still soo efficient. Is it because of airfoil or body shape or something?

[@timkorn2102]

Any chance you could link me to the pan/tilt setup you used? That looks perfect and I don't think I've run across that one on thingiverse (assuming you 3d printed it)

[@55Rumble]

Matty, Matty, Matty.... You keep saying how ugly this plane is but... Sometimes we love the "less than conventional" looking things in life. I do believe this might be why you are so popular..... Much like the MT, You do possess some "interesting features"! Lol....... I'm still waiting for parts to come so I can get on with building my MT.... Great vid' Matt.... Keep 'em coming!

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Dave, "thank you". Matt, with interesting features 😜

[@MUNKYFPV]

Hey mate big fan of your videos, I’m a mini quad pilot getting back into fixed wing and have been binging on your channel 👍😎 I am seriously considering the mini talon for an all out gps FPV build for two reasons, it looks like it has a ton of room for components and a large battery and because I can get one for about 40 pounds in Aussie money right now which seems like a bargain. I know this is an older model but I’m guessing that doesn’t matter?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy fella, the Mini Talon is one of the best RC models ever made. Matt

[@MUNKYFPV]

RagTheNutsOff Cheers mate, good to know you still rate it, can’t wait to get one in the air.

[@skylords2608]

I've eyed at one of these on and off for years. I am building up a Binary. Is this still the darling of medium/long range fpv or has something surpassed it? Also have a Dart 250 but its windy here. I also have a Big Drak but it isn't practical to fly by myself. Thanks in advance.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Basically yes. There is a V2 due out very shortly, however the original is worthy of ownership. Oh and the 250g, absolutely love mine. Hope that helps Sky, Matt

[@skylords2608]

@@RagTheNutsOff helps alot. Thx sir.

[@johnusjohnson8972]

Hi Matt ,I'm looking for a new model to put INAV in and an L9R and can't decide between mini talon and mini skyhunter . Now i've flown a mini skyhunter as I maidened my mates for him (he's a bit of a big girl and was too scared of it) and it flew nice, but I've never flown a mini talon, could you give me your thoughts on how they compare please, thanks

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Johnus, thats easy. The Mini Skyhunter flies terribly, so I'd go for the mini Talon every day of the week. Hope that helps! Matt

[@johnusjohnson8972]

RagTheNutsOff Matt you are a star thank you. I found the skyhunter flew ok , having said that It was well nose heavy which removes any naughtiness. But I will be ordering a mini talon very soon. PS do they fly ok on 3s? As 4s at those sizes are a bit pricey for my budget . Thanks again Matt

[@kywon_m_vlogs1742]

Correct me if I'm wrong but, if you were to find 2 *10,000MAH 7.4v 2S* batteries, the small ones. 7.4v×2 is 14.8v. so not only I used two battery's to come up to perfection for my powertrain, but I just made a 20,000mah battery??

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Doc, it doesn;t work like that, two together would be a 4S1P pack and only have 10Ah of capacity, not 20Ah. Matt

[@kywon_m_vlogs1742]

I did some research. I cannot double the voltage. I can only double the capacity. Correct?

[@joenaylor34]

Battery has been discontinued at HobbyKing. Have a second suggestion?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Yes, the Turnigy 5200mah 12C pack. Matt

[@joenaylor34]

Finished building following all of your recommendations along with the 5200 mah pack. Plane seemed very heavy but I tried to maden it against my better judgment. As I thought, it flew right into the ground and smashed up pretty good. even with full up elevator. Quite a messNot sure it is flyable with this heavy battery.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hi Joe, every flight I use those 5200mah packs. If you don't believe me, go ask what everyone uses in the MT Facebook group, many people use much larger batteries. So with that out of the way, did you throw the MT with full thrust and flat & level? If there was any upwards angle, the model will stall on you and I bet that's what happened as I have done that myself a couple of times. Hope that helps Joe. Matt

[@iphone_productions9143]

I want to get one but im new to the hobby and i dont know how to do the v tail mix on my taranis xd9 , ive looked and cant find information can u help me please ? What channel goes to what ?

[@paulkazjack]

Oh ive just read its 4s, so that's around 80watts. Whats the auw? cheers.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Paul, absolutely no idea. Whatever it weighs, it flies very well, even if I stick a 8000mAh 4S pack in the nose too! Matt

[@paulkazjack]

Is that 4-5 amps on 3s or 4s? thanks.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Paul, 4S for this one, Matt

[@mastermoarman]

What are you useing fornthe pan and tilt?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy, it's on Thingiverse as I uploaded the files a while back. Matt

[@Magnusverm17]

That mini is better then nano right ?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Magnus, depends on what you want to do with it. While the share similar names, they are very much two different models for two different purposes. Matt

[@Magnusverm17]

RagTheNutsOff Hi for me easy fpv fly ,,no acro ,,,I do t use car and mini looks like big for me or I need bigger bag 😁 thanks

[@Smt_Glaive]

If this is mini... I wonder what the large one looks like

[@sUASNews]

Meru Fpv Just the same but bigger, I have 3 of them and they are great.

[@snygg-johan9958]

I love mine as well. Running sunnysky 2814 1100kv with aeronaut folding 9x7. Its awesome! Poooower! Launches are super easy! I also recommend checking out the 3d prints from itsqv.com. Put a custom nose canopy on and the mini talon actually looks kind of hot! I have mine with a fatshark pan/tilt/roll gimbal that I use with headtracking and its just the best. i.imgur.com/QZFCd39.jpg Finally I recommend putting some carbon fiber rods and the itsqv naca style intake duct on the lid as it stiffens up a bit feels more durable. Combine it with a canopy latch and two sticks on the other end and its easy to open/close securely i.imgur.com/e2YZicy.jpg

[@martyhughes4724]

Nice video, and an amazing model. The biggest negative for me is that it is not very portable, say compared to a wing....but I guess you cant have everything :-)

[@RagTheNutsOff]

hahahah indeed! Although I carry a IKEA bag of wings and this one in my other hand to the flight line. It's not much of a pain. Matt

[@j.o.e2683]

aren't the wings removable?

[@bg563195]

What's the fpv setup Matt?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

See the video description :) Matt

[@bg563195]

Oh yea......

[@JamesHurd]

So what your really saying is the Mini Skyhunter is better :P

[@Afiso]

add a better prop. apc 8x6

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy fella, I have never bought a APC prop, just the cheap APC styled ones. Never had an issue with them and don't think I will ever buy a branded one. Matt

[@Afiso]

Aight Matt good to know. I will also give them a try

[@IAWS]

Whoever did your pointing needs to find another trade pal

[@benznote2342]

that foam wrinkle more scary than the cat devil, just soak in the boiler water for 5 seconds Matt it will look like a new again *fiuh*

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Benz, ah yea thats a reminder for me to check the CG everytime ;) Matt

[@markeggert2163]

Should be Skyhunter not Slaughter. Hope that's not an omen. Stupid auto-correct.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Whoops Mark!

[@paulkazjack]

So wish you were up my field with all your stuff. No one else does it! no one buys anything apart from zagi's. No one experiments with anything.There all old farts that just moan about tech they know nothing about.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Yea been there too Paul, not a fun environment and left the first club I joined :/ Matt