Boomerang

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Boomerangs can be thrown and comes right back to you. Some will travel an average of 20-30 yards and are mostly made out of wooden materials (curved like).  

 

They are sensitive to their size, shape and aerodynamic profile, as well as wind and rising thermals.

 

These were made with the junction between the trunk of a tree and a major root, giving the required curvature of about 95-110 degrees. These days you can buy plywood which are suited to make your own boomerangs and are readily available in DIY (Do It Yourself) outlets.

 

Normally 5/6mm 5-ply plywood is used. Sketch your pattern onto the wood and cut it out with a jigsaw, coping saw or bandsaw. Form the aerofoils on each wing (the curved surface that gives the wings lift) using rasps, files or planes - always working towards the edge to avoid splinters.

 

When you are sure the aerofoils are at the correct curvature, use sandpaper to smooth out any sharp lines and to leave a low drag surface. A rough surface may affect the boomerangs flight pattern, making it less controllable and responsive. 


 Common Boomerangs

Shapes

The most common shape of a boomerang would be the original aboriginal V-shaped boomerangs. Sketch the diagram opposite onto your piece of plywood and cut it out as stated above. Curve the aerofoil (wing profile) as shown in the inset, adding a significant undercut to the leading edge of each wing (the dark patches in the diagram).     how much the ends stick up if you set the boomerang flat on a table. This should be 3-5mm at the tip of the wings. For a super streamlined finish, use 400 grit sandpaper.

The Omega is an improvement on the original V-shape for better handling in the wind. The twisted ends also make the boomerang spin slower than the V-shaped, so that catching is safer. One major disadvantage with this design is its tendency to break in the middle.