MTA Tuning Tips

(See "Tuning Boomerangs" for basic information on how to tune)
by Chet Snouffer, Leading Edge Boomerangs

Patience is the key. First test and tune on calm days so you  can see the effect of tuning rather than changing winds and thermals. Always start out by holding the boomerang over-vertical (no sidearm at all!!)  and too lightly, then add power only as you become confident that the boom is well-tuned and stable and that your throw is consistent. Adding power too soon can result in "dead duck" or "death spiral" flights that crash and can break your boomerang. Once tuned, practice in a variety of winds to see the flights you'll get under various conditions.

1. Aim higher than normal, very vertical release,  and slightly into wind. Some MTA's can be thrown almost straight up!

2. If MTA goes straight out , climbs and returns without turning,
reduce dihedral in lift arm and twist positive angle of attack into dingle arm.

3. If MTA turns ok, but does not climb, add dihedral to lift arm and twist washout (negative angle of attack) to tip of lift arm.

4. If MTA swings side to side when hovering, reduce dihedral in both arms.

5. To increase height of climb, use washout and dihedral on lift arm.

6. If flight is OK but you want more height without changing the tuning, add small bits of lead tape to the underside of wingtips and elbow.

   neutral (flat)     positive dihedral      negative (anhedral)