Volmer VJ-22 Sportsman | a 7 Image Story My original post about the Volmer VJ-22 Sportsman was published over 6 years ago and has become one of the most popular posts on my blog. This post includes more images of the VJ-22 along with updated narrative.
So, what is it? That was my question to the owner after the VJ-22 stopped in front of its hangar. Well, it’s a 1950’s vintage, experimental, high wing monoplane, Volmer VJ-22 Amphibian flying boat nicknamed “Sportsman.” This seaplane features a 235hp Franklin engine, hydraulic brakes, and a two place, size by side, closed cabin. The JV-22s rigid, corrosion proof hull is made of 1/16 inch and 3/32 inch aircraft mahogany plywood with 1/4 inch plywood at the step for maximum strength. It’s covered with fiberglass for added protection. The fin is built integral with the hull. (The Sportsman can use fabric-covered Aeronca Chief or Champion wings.) The main undercarriage retracts by swinging forward 90° and utilizes rubber bungee cords for shock absorption. The tailwheel incorporates a water rudder, and retracts upwards. The original Sportsman was completed December 1958 with a Continental C-85 engine. Apparently, only about 100 JV-22s have been built so far. This particular airplane was built in 1994 hence the upgraded engine. For more specific information on the JV-22, see the Volmer Club of America site.
Builders of homebuilt airplanes can sometimes customize certain parts of the plane. The cockpit panel tends to be a favorite place to get creative. In this VJ-22, the glass display is an iPad, which adorns a modern cockpit for a classy vintage plane. And, look at the wood floor; beautiful workmanship. The seats with shoulder harnesses and seat belts seem a bit narrow in the photo. Still, when looking inside the cockpit and capturing this image, I did not notice them being narrow.
This plane is not hangared at the local airport any longer. Hopefully, I’ll get another opportunity to capture more images of this gorgeous airplane again someday. See my Aviation Portfolio for beautiful aircraft images.
Once again, the easy to carry, Nikon 1 V1 comes through, since it was in my vehicle as I was leaving the airport. Now, I’ve upgraded to the V3 which is even better for aviation photography. Check out Nikon 1 V3 for Aviation | a 7 Image Story for more depth information on using the V3 for Aviation photography.
Volmer VJ-22 Sportsman
- Height: 8 ft
- Length: 24 ft
- Wingspan: 36.5 ft
- Empty weight: 1,000 lbs
- Useful load: 500 lbs
- Gross weight: 1,500 lbs
- Fuel consumption 5.0 gals per hour with a Continental C-85 engine
- Cruise: 85 mph
- Stall: 45 mph
- Climb: 600 ft/min
- Ceiling: 13,000 ft
- Wood hull aircraft mahogany plywood and spruce, fiber-glass covered
- Wings: wood spar, ribs, fabric covered Also, Aeronca Chief or Champion wings
- Landing gear-Main gear, swiveling tail wheel and water rudder manually retractable
Each image will be posted individually this week with a bit more narrative under category Volmer VJ-22 Sportsman.
Click any image below for a slide show.
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