More RC Library

 More RC Info!

 RC Retailers

 Find a RC Club

 Site Main Page

If you are considering the exciting hobby of radio control planes,
this may help you choose the right one for you!

The new easy to assemble and slower flying models make it easier to get into the exciting hobby of radio control model planes. These new planes make it fun and easy to learn without spending a fortune or traveling to an established club's field where more complicated aircraft must fly. If you spend some time learning how and where to safely fly, you can take off in a nearby open field, large backyard, school yard or playing field.

It is tempting to buy the plane you know you will look cool flying! But without flying experience you will likely end up with a very expensive pile of parts and pieces. The best bet is to start out with a trainer plane, one to learn with before moving up. There are many good trainers are available and your local RC hobby retailer is the place to start. Consider these points when purchasing:

• Kit Types: There are three basic types of backyard flyers: Builder kits, ARF, and RTF:
  ARF -Almost Ready to Fly models the require minimal assembly. They are basically kits partially assembled. You join the major sections, install radio and power system and your basically ready to go.
  RTF -Ready To Fly means there is almost no assembly. Charge the battery, add the wing and turn on the radio. One advantage to RTF models is they often are a package deal that includes parts and radio. 
  Builder Kits are less expensive but then you have additional purchases of glue, tools, covering, radio and power gear. If you like to build and can read plans and instructions this may be for you.

• Stability: Some models are just easier to fly than others. Talk with your local hobby store owner or others with planes. The more stable the plane, the easier it will be to fly. One way to determine how easy is how much wing dihedral (upward sweep of the wing) the model has and the tail moment (distance from balance point to tail) length. If it has 5 or more degrees of dihedral and is fairly long it will be more stable and easier to fly.

• Repairability: You will crash or damage your plane while learning to fly. Look for a trainer that is easy to repair. You can repair wood and foam models with common adhesives like super glue, epoxy, or plain white glue.

• Parts: It may be easier to replace a broken part than repair it. Try choosing a model with replacement parts readily available from the store or manufacturer. Some models come with extra parts you are likely to damage in the beginning. Some parts like batteries, motors and speed controls with just wear out. Know if they are replaceable without having to buy and entire new model.

• Control Surfaces: Check what control surfaces (rudder, throttle, elevator, aileron) you will be able to operate and how much you can move them. Some only come with very rudimentary surface control. Others have a standard primary control set up that gives you complete rudder, throttle and elevator control. Advanced designs will have aileron control. Primary control will get you started for right now.

• Accessories: Verify that the model comes with all the equipment you will need to build it and then fly it...that is why you are doing this, right?. Often it's cost effective to get everything in one starter package. Check and make sure you at least get a motor, propeller, electric speed control (ESC), battery pack and charger. More complete kits will include a radio system with transmitter, receiver, servos, and switch harness.

• Tools & Supplies: For most builder kits and ARF kits you will need some basic tools: Slot and Phillips screwdrivers, hobby or craft knife with new blades, needle nose pliers, Allen wrench set, small adjustable wrench, and sandpaper. If your model requires installation of the motor and electronic speed control you will need a small 30W soldering iron, flux, 60/40 rosin core solder. Check the instructions for any additional supplies you need for assembly before walking out the door.

• Flight Simulators: You may want to consider a home computer RC flight simulator program to help hone your skills. These are not a replacement for real time flying but they can help get your thumbs and eyes to work together. Some come with a control that looks like a RC transmitter and others let you connect your own. You can practice flying resident planes in the program or create your own. Most offer different flying conditions and terrains.