GI Joe Falcon / Cobra Viper glider

thingiverse

The original toy that started it all was an aerodynamic glider designed with a detachable pilot, perfectly suited for soaring outside in the open sky. This iconic design existed in two variants: one bearing the GI Joe insignia and another sporting Cobra's emblem, the only differences being their distinctive color schemes and pilots. Although I never had my hands on this nostalgic toy, a high-quality image online revealed its accurate dimensions, giving me a precise understanding of its structure. But when compared to the rest of my collection, the "authentic" glider seemed absurdly out of proportion - its massive wingspan almost rivaling that of an F-14! This wasn't a surprise given that it was meant to fly, not just look great on a shelf. To cater to varying tastes, I've included both original-sized and downsized models; the latter, in my opinion, better captures the toy's essence. In one picture, you'll notice a substantial black (unpainted) object alongside smaller models for scale purposes - this is actually the original size glider placed beside other models to give you a sense of its enormity. For your convenience, I've designed both the glider and pilot as separate components that can be easily painted individually. To achieve the perfect assembly, print the glider top-side up with supports, while the pilot should face upwards without any supporting material. After printing, securely join the two parts together. A hole was drilled into both the pilot and flight stand for a metal rod measuring 1/32 inches in diameter - a paperclip could serve as an acceptable substitute if needed. I take my hat off to the men and women who have bravely served in our Armed Forces, past and present - their selfless acts of service allow individuals like me to live life with freedom and peace. They truly embody what it means to be American heroes, and I extend my heartfelt respect and gratitude. Please note that this 3D model is offered as a complimentary download; it's explicitly labeled as "non-commercial." This means you're not allowed to buy or sell physical copies of this design. You're, however, welcome and encouraged to print your own personal copy for any reason.