Hey all,
You can see in my sig what I have in my quiver so my question is this: I really enjoy flying static as a great all around workout and love being able to make the kites respond to my input. Right now I do not buggy or land board but I have absolutely become proficient enough flying my kites that it certainly could be the next step but probably not. I can easily fly the kites without looking at them and I find I'm constantly in search of making sure I have a kite I can enjoy for all wind conditions, especially because I really enjoy having the perfect balance of power and responsiveness. A big slow but powerful kite is not my thing unless that's all the current wind conditions provide for so, on to the dilemma.

I'm considering adding either a PL Hornet 3.0M, or a PL Viper S 3.9M. I know the 3.0M Hornet is an all around favorite, but so is the Viper S. I was originally looking for something at or around the 4.0M range that would give me access to lower winds as by summer my winds fall off quite a bit. I also understand the Vipers pull like a truck so given the fact I already have a strong puller in a 3.5M I'm not sure what direction to go. Price is not a factor in this discussion, I'm just interested in what your opinions are regarding what you would choose for me. Last bit of info, I'm above average in height and weigh 124 pounds. I have been known to be a gym rat so at least lets say I'm a strong 124lbs because I do not use a harness or backstrap.

P.S. I also would not rule out a Viper S 2.6M but can't imagine that would give me much more than what I have in my 2.5 Rage. My concern here being a 2.6M Viper S may not give me low enough wind range. All thoughts are welcome!

I say stick with the Viper. They are completely great kites that have a better than usual power vs size ratio. I think you will notice a difference over your DP Power. I also like the Hornet, but would prefer to fly the Viper over it.

The Viper is a very fun kite to fly! I use my sons 2.6 in 15mph winds as a static flier.I use it almost like a stunt kite. If you go to the buggy, it will be a great asset. It should get up and fly somewhere in the 5-8 mph without much work and still provide plenty of power for the fun factor!

Just my 2 penny's worth!

I'm a huge fan of the Viper as well. I can't add much to what Rich said other than the Viper is FAR superior to the hornet upwind as well. For their size, they have some serious grunt!

since you want a performance based kite go with the viper. You can not go wrong with either choice but the 3.9m viper will have as much turning speed and quickness through the wind window as the 3m hornet. With the added .9m you will have that extra power for the light winds you want.

I know you said price is not a factor, but right now the 3.9 viper is cheaper than the 3m hornet. So it makes it even a easier decision. A kite that fits your wishes better and is cheaper

AnnieO there are 4 guys besides myself that fly my Vipers , all about your size, they like them over my depowers , I think because they are much quicker and they like the controll. You wont out grow a Viper either they great static and great on wheels.

Thanks everyone, I appreciate the kind steering you all provided. I've been lurking on here for awhile now and have noticed how well respected the Vipers are in general. Since I'm not a beginner I decided to go with the Viper S 3.9. I can't believe how sweet the pricing is on these kites right now for a new RTF high quality kite! Free shipping too...

I'm sure it's also tempting for those of you who already own a Viper or two to stock up given the fact they are being phased out.

I haven't tried the Viper, but I've been flying my new Hornet 4.0M at every possible opportunity for the last month, and my overall impression is that the Hornet behaves like a steady workhorse, not top performance but friendly and very, very predictable. Sounds to me like you're really after something with a little more whoosh than that, so I'd say give the Viper a shot instead.

OT: I'm tempted to pick up the Twister IIR 5.6M as my next step up from the Hornet, the question is, will it be too much?

Hey Coldsnap,
The Twister IIR was my second kite purchase, first being a Hornet. I was also concerned it could be too much given my size. My concern has been mitigated by just being responsible about the conditions I will bring it out in. In other words, if you have a healthy respect for the kite you will automatically eliminate some of the potential issues. I use it as a low wind kite. I have never flown it beyond 12 mph, and that was a bit much for me. While I have been lifted a few times, none came as surprises. Biggest thing I have noticed is to try to avoid days where the wind is really gusty. The Twisters like clean winds. Unless you really do want to get airborne on purpose which is fine also, just wear your safety gear!

Late to the thread, but the hornet I flew was definitely a kite designed for the first 20 hours of experience... Great for that! But Viper is def best for the OP. Really gusty winds might get a more advanced FB flier to pick the hornet first, but the winds would have to be seriously gnarly, on the edge of having a half-way decent day or not.

OP, hope to hear what you think of the viper... Post a review, eh?

Thanks for the reply, good luck with your purchase!