Hello chaps, I've just joined this forum as I have an itch that needs scratching.  I've been toying with the idea of building an aircraft for a number of years.  In fact, about 5 years ago I went as far as seriously looking at Europa/RVs/Jabiru etc at the old PFA rally, Kemble.  Anyway, having just moved over to Northern Ireland achieving some form of stability, I have decided now is the time.  I'm based at Newtownards and there is a small gaggle of fine RV7s and an RV8 that is probably about 50% complete.  I've convinced my wife that we need to part company with our Piper Arrow and am now eagerly looking at RVs.  I think I'll go for the RV8 (my day job is instructing so I get enough opportunity to fly straight & level) although I would understand if my wife insisted on something a little more 'crew friendly' such as an RV7.  I'm not inclined to go too far off the beaten track so I'll be looking at an (I)O-360 with, probably, a fixed pitch prop.  Avionics will almost certainly be a mix of standard ASI/Alt and a low/mid range EFIS.
 
So, back to the shopping list.  
 
Regards
 
David P

Welcome to the forum & the world of RV's! I'm half way through (well, I like to think it's half way!) an RV8 build. Great fun, the highs definitely outweigh the lows (so far!) during the build!  
 
Do it.....you won't regret it!!!

David, I still like the Arrow, it is a fine touring machine.  It's just that our circumstances have changed, we are now 'entrenched' in Ireland and don't do much touring.  LAA costs will be less but that isn't a driving force.  I suppose I just want that middle-aged-man satisfaction of building a Caterham 7, albeit the flying version.
 
I'm looking forward to becoming part of the 'community'.

Hi David  
 
I have worked over in Northern Ireland and flown out of Newtownards (Ulster Flying Club) several times, Beautiful part of the World, and a nice airfield.
 
 Socially I would go for the RV-7 although after flying in an Extra300 recently; flying tandem was real fun ....  
 
Any how it’s all down to personal choice, but one thing I can tell you building your own in is extremely enjoyable and addictive. You won’t go far wrong by choosing an RV!            The Extra was out of my price range ....
 
 
Regards  
 
Mark