Flight test using dental floss or kite thread attached to the C.O.M., the other end pinned to the ceiling. This ghetto wind tunnel will let you test the engines and the general balance of weight, and let you see if the control surfaces do anything before trying a costly test flight proper.
VERY MUCH LIKE THIS IDEA^^^^^^
(, Thu 2 Jun 2022, 21:27, Reply)
And also, you know, hideously garotte yourself. Make sure the H&S executive has compiled a full risk assessment.
(, Thu 2 Jun 2022, 21:46, Reply)