Raven IV vs. R-Max 288 vs. PDR281

[aerocluber 0]

Just considering what reserve to put in new big boy student rig. What are pro's and con's for Raven IV vs. R-Max 288 vs. PDR281 ?

Cheers, Ondrej

[GLIDEANGLE 1]

Consider these maximum STUDENT weights:

R-MAX 288 = 263#
PDR 281 = 281#
Those extra 18 lbs could let more students (and their $$$) jump!

Regarding the Raven IV. I can't find the maximum STUDENT weight. It has a reputation of poor landings IF OVERLOADED. Since it is an older design, the limits are likely to be more conserviative than for the other two, more modern canopies.


http://www.precision.aero/Techdata/Techdata_r-Max%20.htm
http://www.performancedesigns.com/pdreserve.aspx

The choices we make have consequences, for us & for others!

[Quagmirian 40]

I think the Raven 4 measures about 250 sqft when measured the same way as the Rmax and PD. Or, if you prefer, you could say that the Rmax and PDR measure bigger than their stated size.

[pchapman 279]

To add some further info, and use the same format for convenience:

Consider these maximum CERTIFICATION weights:

R-MAX 288 = 317#
PDR 281 = 300#

So this time around the R-max looks better and stronger.

Recommended weights tend to be something that are pretty subjective, so unless one is super squeamish about liability from anything on paper, or has actual user experience to go with, then I'd guess the student weight number differences shouldn't mean too much. The factories might have some opinions though.

[RMURRAY 1]

just fyi there is the angelfire. looks to be cert to 330

[stayhigh 2]

Raven 4 is fine, it is the sub 120 Micro-Raven size that likes to collapse when you pull your toggle down below your ear level.

Bernie Sanders for President 2016

[keithbar 1]

Quagmirian

I think the Raven 4 measures about 250 sqft when measured the same way as the Rmax and PD. Or, if you prefer, you could say that the Rmax and PDR measure bigger than their stated size.

I'm pretty sure the raven 4 is 282 square feet the raven 3 is 249 square feet

i have on occasion been accused of pulling low . My response. Naw I wasn't low I'm just such a big guy I look closer than I really am .

[aerocluber 0]

Well, I just wanted to know fe. which of them has best landings with steering and which without steering (if a skydiver is for examle unconscious).
Price difference is not a matter because it is like $200 range from cheapest to most expensive.

[skez 0]

I have seen someone lightly loaded bout 60kgs land a raven3 (249) without flaring....ate shit but no injuries

FTMC