4.2 B-Stall
The B-stall is used for fast descents in emergency situations only. B-stall is
performed by symmetrically pulling down on the B-risers. This takes quite a lot
of effort. The best way to do this is to place your fingers between the lines
above the maillons at the top of the risers. You should not release the brake
handles while B-stalling. As you first pull the B-lines down the airflow over the
wing is broken and the glider loses forward speed but remains open. By pulling
the B-risers further the sink rate can be increased as the chord is effectively
reduced. However, if you pull too far, (A’s & C’s effected), then you may
rosette the glider. If this happens, release the B-risers immediately.
To exit the B-stall the B-risers should be returned to their normal flight position
symmetrically and swiftly in one smooth motion. The glider should then
resume normal flight without further input. Always be sure of this before using
the brakes again.
It is possible for the wing to resume its normal shape on release of the B-lines,
but to remain in steep descent without full forward motion. This is called a
“deep stall”. It is unlikely to happen with your paraglider, but you should be
aware of the possibility. If you suspect this has happened, simply push the A-
risers forward until normal flight returns. Only then should you use the brakes
again.
4.3
Big Ears
Folding in the tips of the wing increases the sink rate of your glider. This is
useful for staying out of a cloud or descending in strong winds. You pull “big
ears” by drawing in the outermost A-lines until the tips of the wing fold under
and drag behind. Firebird gliders are fitted with split A-risers to make this
procedure easy.
To increase the sink rate further, the accelerator bar may be employed, but
pull the tips in first. Remember that when the tips are in, you have reduced the
area of the wing supporting you, so your stall speed will have increased. Be
sure to keep speed on and not to use the brakes other than cautiously for re-
inflation. For directional control while using “big ears”, you should rely solely on
weight shift.
To reopen the wing tips, release the small A-risers and apply a short brake
input which is best done one tip at a time to minimise the chance of inducing a
stall. You will find there is surprisingly little tendency for the glider to deviate
during the process.
Caution: We advise not to use “big ears” close to the ground.
