How many acres does it take to fly R/C ??
01-18-2015, 04:02 PM
#1
How many acres does it take to fly R/C ??
Sorry, I know it almost sounds like a joke.... LOL.... but I have no punchline to offer as my question is for real.
I've been out of this hobby for about 8 or so years now, and it's been that long since I beonged to an RC club to be able to carefully observe how much space most casual sport plane flying will cover, or be able to ask the guys how much acreage they think is being used by most of the members fying their Cubs, Kadets, or Top Flite Giant P-47's. If I were to purchase some land, I want to be able to comfortably fly an RC sport plane so that I don't have to worry about it readily straying out of my boundaries and buzzing over a neighbors property or airspace. I've never really masterd flying because I've always been nervous with that aspect of the hobby, and have focused and enjoyed the building part of the hobby. Do any of you guys at your R/C club or on your own property have a good idea how many acres are being used on the average? While I don't desire typical R/C club acreage so huge that a plane can practically be flown out of sight, I also wouldn't want to buy land so small that it causes me to have to fly small and restrictve approaches or go-arounds that will intimidate me. Not having to worry about clipping the perimiter of tree tops or flying over the farmer in his tractor next door wil make for more relaxed flying.
I've been out of this hobby for about 8 or so years now, and it's been that long since I beonged to an RC club to be able to carefully observe how much space most casual sport plane flying will cover, or be able to ask the guys how much acreage they think is being used by most of the members fying their Cubs, Kadets, or Top Flite Giant P-47's. If I were to purchase some land, I want to be able to comfortably fly an RC sport plane so that I don't have to worry about it readily straying out of my boundaries and buzzing over a neighbors property or airspace. I've never really masterd flying because I've always been nervous with that aspect of the hobby, and have focused and enjoyed the building part of the hobby. Do any of you guys at your R/C club or on your own property have a good idea how many acres are being used on the average? While I don't desire typical R/C club acreage so huge that a plane can practically be flown out of sight, I also wouldn't want to buy land so small that it causes me to have to fly small and restrictve approaches or go-arounds that will intimidate me. Not having to worry about clipping the perimiter of tree tops or flying over the farmer in his tractor next door wil make for more relaxed flying.
01-19-2015, 07:10 AM
#3
Moderator
Is joining a club out of the question, skyb? I'd agree with scale that 2000x500 feet is a decent sized flying area. My club's runway is 600 feet and I'd say I fly about that distance beyond each end of it when making a big lazy pattern. I could fly in a good bit less space, but when you have it you use it.
The other thing to think about though is the maintenance. Having a usable grass runway requires a lot more than designating a flat spot and mowing it.
The other thing to think about though is the maintenance. Having a usable grass runway requires a lot more than designating a flat spot and mowing it.
01-19-2015, 07:45 AM
#4
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It all depends.
We have a tiny runway, only 120 feet x 18 feet. A bit limiting in terms of aircraft type and its suitability for novice flyers.
Used to have 180 x 24, which was much better ... and acceptable for most purposes.
So, If you have such an area, with clear approaches, you can get by with very little. Obviously, you have to be able to overfly the surrounding fields. If there is a standing crop at the runway edges, then your effective length is much reduced.
If you want to fly ic sport models, and stay within the bounds of your own property, I can hazard a good guess, based upon my own observations of the ranges at which people fly. At our field, the sport flyers rarely exceed a range of 120 yards from the pilot' box. That'd provide for minimum dimensions of 120 x 240 yards, which is about 6 acres. That's if you have only one runway.
But, I would suggest that a 6-acre site would require disciplined flyers, if they are to remain within its boundaries.
A more realistic size might be based upon a flying range of 150 yards from the pilot box. Based on that range, and encompassing only one runway, you'd need 9 acres. Plus a bit for the pits and for parking, most probably.
I know that I tried to buy a field, a few years ago. That was 15 acres ... and I considered it to be ample. But, it was bounded by other fields of crops; no houses within half-a-mile or so. Given what you said in the OP, I would judge that 15 acres would be good for you, too; if the shape of the field is right. A field of 400 yds x 180 yards would give you about 15 acres, and a lot of options.
We have a tiny runway, only 120 feet x 18 feet. A bit limiting in terms of aircraft type and its suitability for novice flyers.
Used to have 180 x 24, which was much better ... and acceptable for most purposes.
So, If you have such an area, with clear approaches, you can get by with very little. Obviously, you have to be able to overfly the surrounding fields. If there is a standing crop at the runway edges, then your effective length is much reduced.
If you want to fly ic sport models, and stay within the bounds of your own property, I can hazard a good guess, based upon my own observations of the ranges at which people fly. At our field, the sport flyers rarely exceed a range of 120 yards from the pilot' box. That'd provide for minimum dimensions of 120 x 240 yards, which is about 6 acres. That's if you have only one runway.
But, I would suggest that a 6-acre site would require disciplined flyers, if they are to remain within its boundaries.
A more realistic size might be based upon a flying range of 150 yards from the pilot box. Based on that range, and encompassing only one runway, you'd need 9 acres. Plus a bit for the pits and for parking, most probably.
I know that I tried to buy a field, a few years ago. That was 15 acres ... and I considered it to be ample. But, it was bounded by other fields of crops; no houses within half-a-mile or so. Given what you said in the OP, I would judge that 15 acres would be good for you, too; if the shape of the field is right. A field of 400 yds x 180 yards would give you about 15 acres, and a lot of options.
Last edited by bogbeagle; 01-19-2015 at 08:04 AM.
01-19-2015, 11:00 AM
#6
you might want to ask THIS guy... he did essentially the same thing, 'TONS of room...' (until it wasn't)
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/begi...n-learned.html
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/begi...n-learned.html
01-19-2015, 11:54 AM
#7
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Acreage considerations
I concur that most powered flying needs about 2000' side-to-side. While I'm sure 500' is adequate depth, I think a bit more, say 700-800', would be noticeably more comfortable in many instances since it should provide for cross-wind 'slop'. The comment about sun position and prevailing winds is excellent, and should be a prime consideration, just as distance from an airport or approach.
As someone who lives on (fairly large) acreage, and who spent considerable time looking at acreages before purchasing one, I expect that finding something that fits those long, narrow flying dimensions efficiently (so as to minimize cost) could be quite a challenge (at least it would be in my neck of the woods). That's not to say that those shapes are not out there, but it could require a lot of hunting, and when you find it, the other parameters (i.e., contour, orientation, favorable winds, distance from airport, etc.) are increasingly unlikely to also be present. So you may likely have to purchase something considerably larger than your needs in order to get a useable 2000' length.
I assume of course that you have other reasons for buying acreage, so you may already have given the following some thought. My experience, however, watching people move out to rural areas (like where I live), and then selling again within a couple of years, suggests that at least some folks don't give much thought to the differences encountered living in a rural area. If you've never lived on acreage before, don't expect it to be like living on a city lot. Your services will likely be quite different and considerably more costly. Electricity will be the same (TV might be too), but you can expect to shell out for septic and water, trash pick-up, and maybe even Internet if you have to rely on satellite. Natural gas for heating (if necessary) may not be available. Your transportation costs (including obtaining groceries) will likely be higher. Services like snow removal (depending on your latitude of course) could also be an issue, and even your choice of vehicle could be affected if you choose a location on a less-than-ideally-maintained gravel road and have to be concerned with spring mud and winter snow. If you choose a property outside city limits, which would generally be the case for most acreages, you might also expect to pay more for technicians and craftsmen (electricians, plumbers, roofers, etc.) that might be necessary for repairs you can't manage yourself. In my situation, I live only 15 min., by good paved highway and rural road, from city limits (~90,000 popn.), and yet I'm generally charged between $100-$200 for "travel" just to get these specialists to the ranch. And then there's the property taxes; the more acres, the higher the taxes of course, and while the tax rate is generally lower than inside city limits, you will likely be paying considerably more in taxes due to the much larger property (unless you can benefit from something like obtaining farm status, which, where I am at least, comes with a reduced tax rate).
This is just meant to be some food for thought. A rural lifestyle is wonderful, but it is a "lifestyle", and those folks who attempt to live a "city lifestyle out in the country" are commonly disappointed. That said, if you think it might be a good match for you, then I highly recommend it.
As someone who lives on (fairly large) acreage, and who spent considerable time looking at acreages before purchasing one, I expect that finding something that fits those long, narrow flying dimensions efficiently (so as to minimize cost) could be quite a challenge (at least it would be in my neck of the woods). That's not to say that those shapes are not out there, but it could require a lot of hunting, and when you find it, the other parameters (i.e., contour, orientation, favorable winds, distance from airport, etc.) are increasingly unlikely to also be present. So you may likely have to purchase something considerably larger than your needs in order to get a useable 2000' length.
I assume of course that you have other reasons for buying acreage, so you may already have given the following some thought. My experience, however, watching people move out to rural areas (like where I live), and then selling again within a couple of years, suggests that at least some folks don't give much thought to the differences encountered living in a rural area. If you've never lived on acreage before, don't expect it to be like living on a city lot. Your services will likely be quite different and considerably more costly. Electricity will be the same (TV might be too), but you can expect to shell out for septic and water, trash pick-up, and maybe even Internet if you have to rely on satellite. Natural gas for heating (if necessary) may not be available. Your transportation costs (including obtaining groceries) will likely be higher. Services like snow removal (depending on your latitude of course) could also be an issue, and even your choice of vehicle could be affected if you choose a location on a less-than-ideally-maintained gravel road and have to be concerned with spring mud and winter snow. If you choose a property outside city limits, which would generally be the case for most acreages, you might also expect to pay more for technicians and craftsmen (electricians, plumbers, roofers, etc.) that might be necessary for repairs you can't manage yourself. In my situation, I live only 15 min., by good paved highway and rural road, from city limits (~90,000 popn.), and yet I'm generally charged between $100-$200 for "travel" just to get these specialists to the ranch. And then there's the property taxes; the more acres, the higher the taxes of course, and while the tax rate is generally lower than inside city limits, you will likely be paying considerably more in taxes due to the much larger property (unless you can benefit from something like obtaining farm status, which, where I am at least, comes with a reduced tax rate).
This is just meant to be some food for thought. A rural lifestyle is wonderful, but it is a "lifestyle", and those folks who attempt to live a "city lifestyle out in the country" are commonly disappointed. That said, if you think it might be a good match for you, then I highly recommend it.
Last edited by D400webb; 01-19-2015 at 11:59 AM.
01-19-2015, 05:29 PM
#8
AMA minimum recommendations is for the overfly area to extend 1000' beyond the ends of the runway and 500' on the far side of the runway. Beyond that is recommended another 250' on each end and on the far side of the runway as a safety zone. Also 80' on the pilot side of the runway to a parking lot.
If you have a 50' x 400' runway, that gives a total area of 2900' x 870' which comes out to 4.25 x 14.5 acres or about 62 acres (to meet AMA guidelines).
Scott
If you have a 50' x 400' runway, that gives a total area of 2900' x 870' which comes out to 4.25 x 14.5 acres or about 62 acres (to meet AMA guidelines).
Scott
Last edited by saramos; 01-19-2015 at 05:32 PM.
01-19-2015, 06:01 PM
#9
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I don't understand why such large numbers for rural acreage. I bought seven acres rural a couple years ago, six is rectangled @ appr 680 wide by 420 deep, with one acre up front. It is by far more than needed for take-off's and landing's and so far I have not had one piece of beef complain about the over flight. There are no residences beyond the runway so it is just open blue skies with exception of a few grandfather oaks.
01-19-2015, 07:53 PM
#10
Senior Member
Our club leases a little over 40 acres. the property is in the form of a rectangle. One of our neighbors gripes about the larger RC planes disturbing her goats. The other sides are Pecan trees, and open land.
01-19-2015, 08:26 PM
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That reminds me; I should have added that, in my experience, many folks that move out to a rural area may do so in part to enjoy quieter surroundings, and may not take kindly to some of the noisier model engines, and it may be unreasonable to blame them. Electrics and gliders of course shouldn't be an issue in this regard, but some of the larger gas prop and turbines could be. If you're considering buying acreage, this might be something to keep in mind. When people invest so much $$ into their peace and tranquility, you can bet they'll want to protect it. Another issue might be the paranoid types vs FPV, and issues of privacy, since privacy is another common reason for people to buy acreage. All in all, depending on your type of plane and/or flying, sticking to a designated club airfield might be the easiest and best choice unless you're considering very large acreage in an area with no neighbors nearby.
01-25-2015, 09:46 AM
#12
Sorry, I know it almost sounds like a joke.... LOL.... but I have no punchline to offer as my question is for real.
I've been out of this hobby for about 8 or so years now, and it's been that long since I beonged to an RC club to be able to carefully observe how much space most casual sport plane flying will cover, or be able to ask the guys how much acreage they think is being used by most of the members fying their Cubs, Kadets, or Top Flite Giant P-47's. If I were to purchase some land, I want to be able to comfortably fly an RC sport plane so that I don't have to worry about it readily straying out of my boundaries and buzzing over a neighbors property or airspace. I've never really masterd flying because I've always been nervous with that aspect of the hobby, and have focused and enjoyed the building part of the hobby. Do any of you guys at your R/C club or on your own property have a good idea how many acres are being used on the average? While I don't desire typical R/C club acreage so huge that a plane can practically be flown out of sight, I also wouldn't want to buy land so small that it causes me to have to fly small and restrictve approaches or go-arounds that will intimidate me. Not having to worry about clipping the perimiter of tree tops or flying over the farmer in his tractor next door wil make for more relaxed flying.
I've been out of this hobby for about 8 or so years now, and it's been that long since I beonged to an RC club to be able to carefully observe how much space most casual sport plane flying will cover, or be able to ask the guys how much acreage they think is being used by most of the members fying their Cubs, Kadets, or Top Flite Giant P-47's. If I were to purchase some land, I want to be able to comfortably fly an RC sport plane so that I don't have to worry about it readily straying out of my boundaries and buzzing over a neighbors property or airspace. I've never really masterd flying because I've always been nervous with that aspect of the hobby, and have focused and enjoyed the building part of the hobby. Do any of you guys at your R/C club or on your own property have a good idea how many acres are being used on the average? While I don't desire typical R/C club acreage so huge that a plane can practically be flown out of sight, I also wouldn't want to buy land so small that it causes me to have to fly small and restrictve approaches or go-arounds that will intimidate me. Not having to worry about clipping the perimiter of tree tops or flying over the farmer in his tractor next door wil make for more relaxed flying.
to purchase adequate land to fly an RC model without arousing the neighbors or on south side, 'gators and snakes.
Of course there are many types of RC models. I have flown some of the really small electric things within my 2 acre yard even with a nice house, outdoor pool and a 40 X 100 barn plus several trees. It can be done.Now you think about acreage within a city limit, Houston or surroundings, you will run into all kinds of politics, especially Houston itself. Property Taxes are big time!
My place in Harris County, BUT NOT HOUSTON, is very low in taxes in relation to Houston Proper.
Now you mention never mastering the flying part. (Don't tell anyone, but most of we sport fliers never will MASTER it.
) I suggest you determine the area you want that satisfies your desires and go from there. I think joining a club is by far the best way. Then get into working WITH the club, not against it and fly as much as you can with an instructor. That nervous thing will probably disappear before you know it. If you are on the north side of Houston, or anywhere and you don't mind driving, the Houston Sport Fliers are a bit west of 45 and just north of Rankin. (I get lost each time I go there. 
) Just go to the AMA District 8 website and you can find it.Clubs abound all around the area. I belong to Jetero RC and if you are in northeast Houston area and don't mind the drive, check out Jetero. www.jetero.com. Club owns 50 acres and has nice items. Indoor rest facilities, air-conditioned kitchen and sitting room, 4000 sq. feet concrete under a metal roof, 800 by 100 manicured runway N/S and highway frontage. North of 1960 between Huffman and Dayton off FM 686. Good Luck.
01-28-2015, 09:25 AM
#13
Thanks for the input gents.
I see the opinion can vary from 7 acres or less to an AMA suggested 62 acres. I realize a lot of it has to do with the surrounding neighbors that I would be moving next to. Before I even considerd RC uses, I was already kind of thinking of a tract of land somewhere from 12 to 25 acres or so......which seems to work well for RC too. I think the best scenario for me is to shop for cleared prarie property that borders up against a large expanse of a neigbor's land, with nobody elses house bordering close to my property line. That way they will not be bothered by the noise or sight of my plane. As acerc mentioned, the neighbor's steer or "beef" grazing on his bordering 600 acres of land will not complain if a Z26 engine occasionally buzzes 150 feet overhead. The main chore for me before purchasing land would be for me to carefully scout the area and observe the proximity of the neighbors houses and their outdoor farming and ranching activities. The optimal situation is to have neighbors that live on the other end of their 200-500 acre tract that you need binoculars to see.
I see the opinion can vary from 7 acres or less to an AMA suggested 62 acres. I realize a lot of it has to do with the surrounding neighbors that I would be moving next to. Before I even considerd RC uses, I was already kind of thinking of a tract of land somewhere from 12 to 25 acres or so......which seems to work well for RC too. I think the best scenario for me is to shop for cleared prarie property that borders up against a large expanse of a neigbor's land, with nobody elses house bordering close to my property line. That way they will not be bothered by the noise or sight of my plane. As acerc mentioned, the neighbor's steer or "beef" grazing on his bordering 600 acres of land will not complain if a Z26 engine occasionally buzzes 150 feet overhead. The main chore for me before purchasing land would be for me to carefully scout the area and observe the proximity of the neighbors houses and their outdoor farming and ranching activities. The optimal situation is to have neighbors that live on the other end of their 200-500 acre tract that you need binoculars to see.
Last edited by rustyrivet; 01-28-2015 at 09:27 AM.
02-01-2015, 06:16 PM
#14
What are you flying? Just as in full scale size makes a difference. An Ultralight doesn't need the same room as a 787. Parkflyers don't need the same room as a 40 size trainer or a big gasser. I fly my quad in my backyard all the time and my total acreage is 1/3 of an acre. I could fly a Snowball back there too except for Juice the conqueror, Juice the destroyer, Juice-Killer of butterflies and Juice, idiot dog who things everything that flitters around in the backyard is a butterfly. With the exception of quads which have biting rotors on all 4 corners. He STILL nips at those from time to time anyways.
I'm looking to move to a house that has 4 acres, I'll be able to fly most of the flite test sized airplanes there un-impeaded. But they don't take that much room up anyways. The house I'm looking at also has room for a 200 foot control line circle. The nearest house on that side is a quarter mile away. Nearest on the other side is 150 yards. Proper use of flying time will make CL in my yard quite enjoyable.
The Local RC club field is 15 minutes away so anything larger can be flown there.
So, it matters what you will be flying. Your experience level may add in there too, little bit.
I'm looking to move to a house that has 4 acres, I'll be able to fly most of the flite test sized airplanes there un-impeaded. But they don't take that much room up anyways. The house I'm looking at also has room for a 200 foot control line circle. The nearest house on that side is a quarter mile away. Nearest on the other side is 150 yards. Proper use of flying time will make CL in my yard quite enjoyable.
The Local RC club field is 15 minutes away so anything larger can be flown there.
So, it matters what you will be flying. Your experience level may add in there too, little bit.
Last edited by Clean; 02-01-2015 at 06:18 PM.
02-01-2015, 08:52 PM
#15
If my property confines me so that I must join an RC club anyway, (as you suggest) well then I didn't buy wisely, or.....I couldn't afford the right quantity of land, or...... maybe RC wasn't a serious consideration during the shopping.
02-05-2015, 05:33 PM
#16
Moderator
Rusty, I wouldn't be so sure that cattle on a ranch won't mind having an RC plane flying overhead. You may be right the cows won't care, but the rancher probably will. Our club is a comfortable distance away from a small ranch, but our planes occasionally cross the fence line on a long approach turn. The rancher has complained numerous times about the safety of his cows, and I can see his point. You also have to think of what you're going to do if your plane crashes over a pasture that you routinely fly over. Being a fellow Texan I'm sure you know how particular people are about their land and uninvited guests.
02-07-2015, 10:20 PM
#17
Sorry, I know it almost sounds like a joke.... LOL.... but I have no punchline to offer as my question is for real.
I've been out of this hobby for about 8 or so years now, and it's been that long since I beonged to an RC club to be able to carefully observe how much space most casual sport plane flying will cover, or be able to ask the guys how much acreage they think is being used by most of the members fying their Cubs, Kadets, or Top Flite Giant P-47's. If I were to purchase some land, I want to be able to comfortably fly an RC sport plane so that I don't have to worry about it readily straying out of my boundaries and buzzing over a neighbors property or airspace. I've never really masterd flying because I've always been nervous with that aspect of the hobby, and have focused and enjoyed the building part of the hobby. Do any of you guys at your R/C club or on your own property have a good idea how many acres are being used on the average? While I don't desire typical R/C club acreage so huge that a plane can practically be flown out of sight, I also wouldn't want to buy land so small that it causes me to have to fly small and restrictve approaches or go-arounds that will intimidate me. Not having to worry about clipping the perimiter of tree tops or flying over the farmer in his tractor next door wil make for more relaxed flying.
I've been out of this hobby for about 8 or so years now, and it's been that long since I beonged to an RC club to be able to carefully observe how much space most casual sport plane flying will cover, or be able to ask the guys how much acreage they think is being used by most of the members fying their Cubs, Kadets, or Top Flite Giant P-47's. If I were to purchase some land, I want to be able to comfortably fly an RC sport plane so that I don't have to worry about it readily straying out of my boundaries and buzzing over a neighbors property or airspace. I've never really masterd flying because I've always been nervous with that aspect of the hobby, and have focused and enjoyed the building part of the hobby. Do any of you guys at your R/C club or on your own property have a good idea how many acres are being used on the average? While I don't desire typical R/C club acreage so huge that a plane can practically be flown out of sight, I also wouldn't want to buy land so small that it causes me to have to fly small and restrictve approaches or go-arounds that will intimidate me. Not having to worry about clipping the perimiter of tree tops or flying over the farmer in his tractor next door wil make for more relaxed flying.
CD is Larry Rogers, 713 503 1191 email: [email protected] Listed as Dayton, TX but closer to Huffman. Good map on the website.
02-08-2015, 02:32 PM
#18
Hoss,
I'm going to expose myself right here raw, ugly, and nekked in the public forums and tell you the truth what the deal with me is. LOL Are ya ready for some ugly naked truth?.....
Right this moment, there are probably some new membership spots open at a fine local RC club just only 5 miles down the road from me. I mean how convenient is that!! But, I was already a member there the last time that I left the hobby about 7 years ago. I was on a buddy box for a total of maybe 6 times the whole 1 1/2 years that I attended that club. Other then that, I just hung out there, attended meetings, and watched the guys fly their planes. Before that, I belonged to Space City....another group of really fine guys. (but it was way too far out from where I live in the Champions area of FM1960.) It was the same deal there; I was on the buddy box a few times over 2 years, and mostly hung out and watched guys fly. Because I really enjoy the building aspect of this hobby, I have not found it a necessity to know how to fly. Building planes is my joy!. But you know what..... all these years later, it really looks bad if I were to go back to join that club right down the road from me, and have the same guys see that I STILL DON'T FLY!! But, when you think about it, it's no surprise that if I walk away from a buddy box 7 years ago not knowing how to fly, well 7 years later in 2015, nothing' will have changed!
The point is that it's embarassing for me, and people who know me from years ago will see that I still don't fly and probably wonder if I'm some kind of a class A frigging moron! I do well enough on a simulator, and I'm sure without any intimidation on my own land somewhere I'd be flying very soon on my own. ( I have like about 4 trainers to do it on too! LOL ) Anyway, as they say; Now you know the rest of the story.
I'm going to expose myself right here raw, ugly, and nekked in the public forums and tell you the truth what the deal with me is. LOL Are ya ready for some ugly naked truth?.....
Right this moment, there are probably some new membership spots open at a fine local RC club just only 5 miles down the road from me. I mean how convenient is that!! But, I was already a member there the last time that I left the hobby about 7 years ago. I was on a buddy box for a total of maybe 6 times the whole 1 1/2 years that I attended that club. Other then that, I just hung out there, attended meetings, and watched the guys fly their planes. Before that, I belonged to Space City....another group of really fine guys. (but it was way too far out from where I live in the Champions area of FM1960.) It was the same deal there; I was on the buddy box a few times over 2 years, and mostly hung out and watched guys fly. Because I really enjoy the building aspect of this hobby, I have not found it a necessity to know how to fly. Building planes is my joy!. But you know what..... all these years later, it really looks bad if I were to go back to join that club right down the road from me, and have the same guys see that I STILL DON'T FLY!! But, when you think about it, it's no surprise that if I walk away from a buddy box 7 years ago not knowing how to fly, well 7 years later in 2015, nothing' will have changed!
The point is that it's embarassing for me, and people who know me from years ago will see that I still don't fly and probably wonder if I'm some kind of a class A frigging moron! I do well enough on a simulator, and I'm sure without any intimidation on my own land somewhere I'd be flying very soon on my own. ( I have like about 4 trainers to do it on too! LOL ) Anyway, as they say; Now you know the rest of the story.
02-08-2015, 03:53 PM
#19
Rusty, I also like building, however as I get very much older today than it seems that I was yesterday, I simply never get much done. Both 2013 and 2014 have been less than what I consider healthy. OTOH now that all the fuss of trying to again be an AMA Board member is behind me, well I think I will get back to flying as soon as the warm weather comes back. I have a lot of catching up, or better "...a lot of patching up !!! In addition the "infernal revenue non-service" has encroached on me as I have been active in using my IRAs in various "real-estate maneuvering". Oh Well "Nuff of that!"
Now, Rusty, it is not a problem to need and get some time on the sticks. While I am in the minority with my thinking, I am fully of the belief that the Buddy Box is the real way to learn RC. When I went through USAF pilot training, I was happy to have that instructor there even if he did use the famous 3 methods of instruction: FEAR - RIDICULE - and SARCASM. He was very good at that and I wound up being very good at flying airplanes.
When I started into RC, I slipped out to a place where very few ever went. After all at that time I had a lot of time as a pilot, been super-sonic both straight up and straight down so I could fly this toy. All of a sudden there must have been a dozen airplanes in the sky as they (IT) was all over the sky. Landing provided many items to rebuild.
That took some time, but as a long time CL stunt and FF competition builder and flyer, I got'er done! Just a few times (NO buddy cords back then) and I had it under control. Back then there were good guys that were fast to grab or take control of your hand and save a model. Yes, I crashed a few along the way, still do. Yet if you get a really good RC Instructor, pay attention to the airplane and treat the basic aerodynamics (All subsonic airplanes follow the same criteria ) as they are, before you know it you will wonder why you ever had a problem. There are many self asserted "Instructors" that are not worth a crap. There are very many more that are excellent.
I will bet that with your experience, I could solo you within 3 days of 4-5 flights in a day. Wanna' try? Meet you at Jetero -- your call.
In addition the "infernal revenue non-service" has encroached on me as I have been active in using my IRAs in various "real-estate maneuvering". Oh Well "Nuff of that!"Now, Rusty, it is not a problem to need and get some time on the sticks. While I am in the minority with my thinking, I am fully of the belief that the Buddy Box is the real way to learn RC. When I went through USAF pilot training, I was happy to have that instructor there even if he did use the famous 3 methods of instruction: FEAR - RIDICULE - and SARCASM. He was very good at that and I wound up being very good at flying airplanes.
When I started into RC, I slipped out to a place where very few ever went. After all at that time I had a lot of time as a pilot, been super-sonic both straight up and straight down so I could fly this toy. All of a sudden there must have been a dozen airplanes in the sky as they (IT) was all over the sky. Landing provided many items to rebuild.
That took some time, but as a long time CL stunt and FF competition builder and flyer, I got'er done! Just a few times (NO buddy cords back then) and I had it under control. Back then there were good guys that were fast to grab or take control of your hand and save a model. Yes, I crashed a few along the way, still do. Yet if you get a really good RC Instructor, pay attention to the airplane and treat the basic aerodynamics (All subsonic airplanes follow the same criteria ) as they are, before you know it you will wonder why you ever had a problem. There are many self asserted "Instructors" that are not worth a crap. There are very many more that are excellent.I will bet that with your experience, I could solo you within 3 days of 4-5 flights in a day. Wanna' try? Meet you at Jetero -- your call.
02-09-2015, 03:51 AM
#20
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i have read this thread. lot of expertise posts on this. i found my view on this which is approximately 1,500* feet left and right and 500* feet in front of pilot. Most fl ying is contained within 1,500* feet either end from field center reference point and 500* feet in front of reference point. but is essentially the edge of the runway at center of field.
02-09-2015, 10:51 AM
#21
I know I am seeking help here from others by posting this question. And in that vein I don't want to come across as looking disrespectful and rude. But honestly, I'm NOT looking to open an AMA sanctioned club with an open membership to the general public that brings in 50 to 100 members who are coming and going on any nice weekend afternoon. I'm talking about a future homesight or weekend property for the wife and I to visit or retire to, which will certainly have to necessarily be bigger then most typical 50' x 75' backyards across America where many average folks typically reside....as I currently do.
So when somebody quotes that 1,500 feet on other side of center would be suitable for my personal and casual RC flying, they are talking about a total length of 3,000 feet which is 1,000 yards, or well over 1/2 a mile long length of land. I guess I better really start saving. Thanks for that input.
So when somebody quotes that 1,500 feet on other side of center would be suitable for my personal and casual RC flying, they are talking about a total length of 3,000 feet which is 1,000 yards, or well over 1/2 a mile long length of land. I guess I better really start saving. Thanks for that input.
02-09-2015, 07:35 PM
#23
I know I am seeking help here from others by posting this question. And in that vein I don't want to come across as looking disrespectful and rude. But honestly, I'm NOT looking to open an AMA sanctioned club with an open membership to the general public that brings in 50 to 100 members who are coming and going on any nice weekend afternoon. I'm talking about a future homesight or weekend property for the wife and I to visit or retire to, which will certainly have to necessarily be bigger then most typical 50' x 75' backyards across America where many average folks typically reside....as I currently do.
So when somebody quotes that 1,500 feet on other side of center would be suitable for my personal and casual RC flying, they are talking about a total length of 3,000 feet which is 1,000 yards, or well over 1/2 a mile long length of land. I guess I better really start saving. Thanks for that input.
So when somebody quotes that 1,500 feet on other side of center would be suitable for my personal and casual RC flying, they are talking about a total length of 3,000 feet which is 1,000 yards, or well over 1/2 a mile long length of land. I guess I better really start saving. Thanks for that input.
02-11-2015, 05:42 AM
#24
Rustyrivet I hear what you are saying. So many years and still not flying. Finding a dedicated instructor is not as easy as it sounds. I am just getting back to RC. I started visitng clubs in area and all are 1 hour or more away. First club I visited, designated instructor had not been around for a while. Pilots there would help me along. Second club had a Fly In so I visted. I met the club Vice President, an instructor, who offered to help me along. Well he let me down, didn't return my calls. I decided to go it alone.
So, I have 65 acres and I am doing just what you want to do. I have my runway dead center behind the house with open pastures. I've already crashed my first attempt. I found I could fly the plane but let it stall in a turn. Rebuilding for my second try. I'll keep at it til I get it right.
Now buying acreage will not be an easy process and could be a long term process. There lots of things to consider. I know cause I did it making the move from Florida to Texas. House and land was vacant for one year before I could move in. Big city to country transition was easy for me. But not for everybody.
You have an offer on learning to fly. I would take that offer and get on with your flying. Don't let embarrassment get in the way. Follow that dream. Then take your time, do your research and looking for that dream land.
So, I have 65 acres and I am doing just what you want to do. I have my runway dead center behind the house with open pastures. I've already crashed my first attempt. I found I could fly the plane but let it stall in a turn. Rebuilding for my second try. I'll keep at it til I get it right.
Now buying acreage will not be an easy process and could be a long term process. There lots of things to consider. I know cause I did it making the move from Florida to Texas. House and land was vacant for one year before I could move in. Big city to country transition was easy for me. But not for everybody.
You have an offer on learning to fly. I would take that offer and get on with your flying. Don't let embarrassment get in the way. Follow that dream. Then take your time, do your research and looking for that dream land.
02-11-2015, 04:00 PM
#25
Hey you guys, You don't need that much room. Rusty, what it sounds like is that you've got a real case of the nerves there. What you all need to do is to go over to Flitetest.com and start building some of their itty bitty Dollar Tree Foam Board electric airplanes. DTFlyer (Blue Dart) and the like are simple, easy to fly airplanes that don't take any time to build and you can build several airframes and use that swappable pod to change between airframe to airframe. Then just get out and put some time on the darn things. It'll pretty much fly hands off but start challanging yourself with obstacle courses, touch n go's and the likes. Then move up on airframes so you're flying 4 channel and flying reliably. They have some pretty cool little planes. You can buy quick build kits if you don't like to measure and build those or use them as templates to cut your own.
You'll be building motor skills and confidence and when you don't get it right, it's no big deal. And they don't take hardly any room to fly because they're small planes. But the skills transfer to 40 size airplanes and bigger. When you go join a club they'll probably make you tether to prove you can fly and heck, you can have them back you up on a newer, bigger airplane. But if you can fly any of the 4 channel Flite test planes around you won't have any problems flying a 40 size trainer. It'll get you over the hump. And that's what it's all about.
You'll be building motor skills and confidence and when you don't get it right, it's no big deal. And they don't take hardly any room to fly because they're small planes. But the skills transfer to 40 size airplanes and bigger. When you go join a club they'll probably make you tether to prove you can fly and heck, you can have them back you up on a newer, bigger airplane. But if you can fly any of the 4 channel Flite test planes around you won't have any problems flying a 40 size trainer. It'll get you over the hump. And that's what it's all about.