2nd electric plane
#1
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: TX
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Hey, I had a firebird XL and got really good with it until my dad crashed it and it never flew right after that even when I replaced V-Tail. Anyways I bought a glow trainer but never got to fly it b/c I never joined a club. It has since been sold and I want to get another electric plane. I was thinking of either the Electra Jet or Wattage F-22 Raptor. Will these 2 planes be too difficult for me to fly and also which would you recommend? Or is there a better plane out there (preferably jet) that I should get. Thanks.
#2
Member
My Feedback: (1)
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Redmond, WA
Posts: 82
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Jets are very attractive, aren't they?
However, I think you are likely to find them out of your league very quickly and the pretty birds may not be so pretty after a few flights. It all depends on your skills.
First, the XL is a 2 channel plane - a far cry from an aileron plane. I think you should try an inexpensive 3 channel plane as your second plane and then move up to one with ailerons. If you are into foamies, then GWS TigerMoth/PicoStick/SlowStick/Beaver are great choices - there are many others too. I'd recommend the SlowStick - easy, cheap, fast build, versatile enough to accept a range of equipment/payload, handles better in wind. In balsa, the Gym-E from toddsmodels.com is great, others can suggest some more.
Save the Raptor/EJ for later, when you can really enjoy them.
However, I think you are likely to find them out of your league very quickly and the pretty birds may not be so pretty after a few flights. It all depends on your skills.
First, the XL is a 2 channel plane - a far cry from an aileron plane. I think you should try an inexpensive 3 channel plane as your second plane and then move up to one with ailerons. If you are into foamies, then GWS TigerMoth/PicoStick/SlowStick/Beaver are great choices - there are many others too. I'd recommend the SlowStick - easy, cheap, fast build, versatile enough to accept a range of equipment/payload, handles better in wind. In balsa, the Gym-E from toddsmodels.com is great, others can suggest some more.
Save the Raptor/EJ for later, when you can really enjoy them.
#3
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: TX
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
About how much cheaper is say the slow stick gonna cost? I suppose I'll take up your suggestions. Would the slow stick be the best bet? Just to let ya know I'm trying to move in the direction of ducted fan jets and possibly 3d.
#4
Member
My Feedback: (2)
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: ALAMOGORDO, NM
Posts: 48
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Have to agree,
No to the (jet)(delta wing) type aircraft after the FBXL. Get your self a Slow Stick or a SkyScooter first. You'll be grateful. When you do want a jet type. Don't get the F22! Yes it looks really nice in the Air: http://www.comeparkfly.com/raptor.html but after 10 or so flights the Gearbox craps out and it's hard to work out the bugs. this happens about 90% of the time. I would have to suggest the Electrajet. It's a good jet trainer and comes with motot, gearbox, esc & mixer for $89 bucks.
Then from there get the Projeti! Speed is unlimited and you'll really be happy!
No to the (jet)(delta wing) type aircraft after the FBXL. Get your self a Slow Stick or a SkyScooter first. You'll be grateful. When you do want a jet type. Don't get the F22! Yes it looks really nice in the Air: http://www.comeparkfly.com/raptor.html but after 10 or so flights the Gearbox craps out and it's hard to work out the bugs. this happens about 90% of the time. I would have to suggest the Electrajet. It's a good jet trainer and comes with motot, gearbox, esc & mixer for $89 bucks.
Then from there get the Projeti! Speed is unlimited and you'll really be happy!
#5
Member
My Feedback: (1)
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Redmond, WA
Posts: 82
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
I got a SlowStick for my son. It's his first 3 ch plane (after a firebird 2 clone flew away), so better half put a price cap.
SlowStick: $35 (comes with motor+gb+prop)
2x 18g generic servos: $25 (Hitec HS-81 equiv)
GWS Rx + xtal: $28 (cheapest SC rx, prone to glitches)
GWS ESC (ICS-100): $20 (5A, best to get >=10A)
Batteries: plenty of choices available, that's what I like about the SS. I use 8x720 NiMHs or 7x350 NiCds, people have used 2S2P LiIons/LiPolys, 8x800/7x1100/8x1100 NiMHs, etc. I didn't spend money here 'cause I had the batts.
LHS didn't have the SS when I bought it, so I got it online. Once you get tired of the SS, you can move the electronics to your new bird. If you plan to do this, then get better parts that can be moved to the new model (better Rx and bigger ESC) - the SS is can use Pico and/or Micro equipment. I also fly the SS with my son, and plan to leave the electronics in there until it's no longer flyable - just because it's so relaxing to fly it.
SlowStick: $35 (comes with motor+gb+prop)
2x 18g generic servos: $25 (Hitec HS-81 equiv)
GWS Rx + xtal: $28 (cheapest SC rx, prone to glitches)
GWS ESC (ICS-100): $20 (5A, best to get >=10A)
Batteries: plenty of choices available, that's what I like about the SS. I use 8x720 NiMHs or 7x350 NiCds, people have used 2S2P LiIons/LiPolys, 8x800/7x1100/8x1100 NiMHs, etc. I didn't spend money here 'cause I had the batts.
LHS didn't have the SS when I bought it, so I got it online. Once you get tired of the SS, you can move the electronics to your new bird. If you plan to do this, then get better parts that can be moved to the new model (better Rx and bigger ESC) - the SS is can use Pico and/or Micro equipment. I also fly the SS with my son, and plan to leave the electronics in there until it's no longer flyable - just because it's so relaxing to fly it.
#8
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Fremont, CA.
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
You can jump and learn aerobatics, "IF" someone on your side, with experience to help you.
I would recommend Watt-age CrazyMax. It's easy to fly, and I have seen newbies flying the CrazyMax, some of them haven't even flown before..
Winger type planes, and Jets.. I agree with the guys... Their appealing, but not recommended for beginners.
Yours,
genovia
I would recommend Watt-age CrazyMax. It's easy to fly, and I have seen newbies flying the CrazyMax, some of them haven't even flown before..
Winger type planes, and Jets.. I agree with the guys... Their appealing, but not recommended for beginners.
Yours,
genovia
#9
Junior Member
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: San Jose, CA
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Here is what I tried...
First plane was a Zagi, way to fast.
Second plane was an Ezette, way to heavy (anybody want a pile of motors with bend shafts!
Third plane is a Slow Stick and I love it. It kept me from giving up on the hobby!
First plane was a Zagi, way to fast.
Second plane was an Ezette, way to heavy (anybody want a pile of motors with bend shafts!
Third plane is a Slow Stick and I love it. It kept me from giving up on the hobby!
#10
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Fremont, CA.
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
****Second plane was an Ezette, way to heavy (anybody want a pile of motors with bend shafts!
************
I flew the Ezette stock it's a great flyer, the battery pack is not enough to get her flying, and the motor I upgraded it to 480.. Sweet flyer and looks good in the air
************
I flew the Ezette stock it's a great flyer, the battery pack is not enough to get her flying, and the motor I upgraded it to 480.. Sweet flyer and looks good in the air
#12
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: TX
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
I thought one of those 3 chan planes he mentioned were supposed to help me progress to the jet which has aileroins. Wouldn't it make sense then to get a plane with aileroins instead of one with just rudder and elevator? Anyone have some suggestions on a plane with aileroins I could try or should I still go for one of those mentioned. Also I don't have anyone to help on my end. Thanks.
#13
Member
My Feedback: (1)
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Redmond, WA
Posts: 82
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
If you don't have anyone to fly with, then I'd stay away from ailerons. Have some patience and you'll get to your goal. Walk before running, etc...
If you absolutely insist on going with an aileron, then get something that bounces like a Zagi, etc. And even then be prepared to patch - they are bounceable, not unbreakable.
The point is, in the XL increasing throttle meant going faster and rising, turns were easy with some throttle. With a 3 ch model, throttle is exactly that, going up means good elevator control or it stalls, turning is simple but needs some elevator control for level turns. The important thing you'll learn is good elevator control without having to worry about ailerons.
Then get something with ailerons/elevons. Even if do go with a 3 ch, ailerons will require getting used to. These will also be somewhat faster and will keep your thumbs busy unless you have a very large flying space.
After that, you'll have more planes to choose from. Then check in here and see if all you are interested in are the planes listed above.
BTW, peformance/characteristics in marketing hype are somewhat exagerated and many require very proficient thumbs to accomplish the feats. They show videos of the cool stuff, not the carnage. Always check these forums for real world data - just like darenm's info above.
P.S. - If you get the equipment listed above, then it can be used on a Zagi, etc. So the cost of the plane is a mere $35.
If you absolutely insist on going with an aileron, then get something that bounces like a Zagi, etc. And even then be prepared to patch - they are bounceable, not unbreakable.
The point is, in the XL increasing throttle meant going faster and rising, turns were easy with some throttle. With a 3 ch model, throttle is exactly that, going up means good elevator control or it stalls, turning is simple but needs some elevator control for level turns. The important thing you'll learn is good elevator control without having to worry about ailerons.
Then get something with ailerons/elevons. Even if do go with a 3 ch, ailerons will require getting used to. These will also be somewhat faster and will keep your thumbs busy unless you have a very large flying space.
After that, you'll have more planes to choose from. Then check in here and see if all you are interested in are the planes listed above.
BTW, peformance/characteristics in marketing hype are somewhat exagerated and many require very proficient thumbs to accomplish the feats. They show videos of the cool stuff, not the carnage. Always check these forums for real world data - just like darenm's info above.
P.S. - If you get the equipment listed above, then it can be used on a Zagi, etc. So the cost of the plane is a mere $35.
#14
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: TX
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Ok, I suppose I'll prolly get a SS or beaver. I got a question though, doesn't using like full right rudder make you turn like without any bank? Or if it does bank, how do u level again since there is no aileroins? Also, b/c that jet I wanna get needs elevon mixing, so I was gonna get the Hitec Focus SS 3 chan w/ elevon mixing. Will this radio still work with the planes that have elevator and rudder? Or should I get a different radio that has 2 sticks?
#15
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: phoenix,
AZ
Posts: 114
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Originally posted by stingeragent
Ok, I suppose I'll prolly get a SS or beaver. I got a question though, doesn't using like full right rudder make you turn like without any bank? Or if it does bank, how do u level again since there is no aileroins? Also, b/c that jet I wanna get needs elevon mixing, so I was gonna get the Hitec Focus SS 3 chan w/ elevon mixing. Will this radio still work with the planes that have elevator and rudder? Or should I get a different radio that has 2 sticks?
Ok, I suppose I'll prolly get a SS or beaver. I got a question though, doesn't using like full right rudder make you turn like without any bank? Or if it does bank, how do u level again since there is no aileroins? Also, b/c that jet I wanna get needs elevon mixing, so I was gonna get the Hitec Focus SS 3 chan w/ elevon mixing. Will this radio still work with the planes that have elevator and rudder? Or should I get a different radio that has 2 sticks?
#16
Senior Member
My Feedback: (1)
2nd electric plane
both of those planes are high wing and will level themselves out in flight.. I started with a GWS fd stick and it was a great decision, you are not ready for a crazy max yet... the SS or beaver should be fine , my whole set up from GWS including radio was about $200........I would suggest you look at 1 good radio if you want to progress in the hobby ,at least 4 channels...Rog
#17
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: TX
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Hey, Yea i would like a 4 channel radio, but the only prob. That jet I want to get needs elevon mixing which to my knowledge isn't possible on a 4chan unless its a comp radio. How would I get around this?
Also, Im thinking of making my progression go like this.
1. Slow Stick
2. Electra Jet
3. Crazy Hawk (should this be before the electra jet?)
4. Nitro extra 300 or cap 232
5. Ducted fan F-16
How does this sound? Should I switch the order on these or add in more planes?
Also, Im thinking of making my progression go like this.
1. Slow Stick
2. Electra Jet
3. Crazy Hawk (should this be before the electra jet?)
4. Nitro extra 300 or cap 232
5. Ducted fan F-16
How does this sound? Should I switch the order on these or add in more planes?
#18
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Fremont, CA.
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
*****I'll try it with a 480 motor. I'd love to see it fly. Do you see a problem using the stock servos (heavy) that come with an airtronix radio?****
Phil_e,
Everything is stock when i flew mine ... Power it up with 8cell, 600AE's or 8cell, Hecells. The battery can play a dramatic role in flight, as for the Ezette, the gears are good, the juice is not enough Once again, AE's or HeCells batteries
Good luck,
genovia
Phil_e,
Everything is stock when i flew mine ... Power it up with 8cell, 600AE's or 8cell, Hecells. The battery can play a dramatic role in flight, as for the Ezette, the gears are good, the juice is not enough Once again, AE's or HeCells batteries
Good luck,
genovia
#19
Senior Member
My Feedback: (1)
2nd electric plane
Stinger there are mixing wires I have heard of but am not familiar with,, if you want to get to a ducted fan, go ahead and get a 6 channel computer radio you'll need it for flaps and retracts anyway as for your list you should probably throw a nitro trainer in there before the extra.........just to get familiar with glow engines and you could use the engine on your extra or cap..Rog
#20
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Fremont, CA.
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
To the Thread poster.
It's nice to have all the nice airplanes or fly nice airplanes, but as the guys said before me. Learn the basics of flight, then you can advance to a level once you understand it.
****Hey, Yea i would like a 4 channel radio, but the only prob. That jet I want to get needs elevon mixing which to my knowledge isn't possible on a 4chan unless its a comp radio. How would I get around this? ****
There are two way this can be done, one is, if you have a computer radio w/ mixing capabilities. Two is if you have a basic 4ch or 5 ch radio w/ the aid of a mixer..
------- I don't think your ready as of yet Give Rudder and Elev. some stick time
It's nice to have all the nice airplanes or fly nice airplanes, but as the guys said before me. Learn the basics of flight, then you can advance to a level once you understand it.
****Hey, Yea i would like a 4 channel radio, but the only prob. That jet I want to get needs elevon mixing which to my knowledge isn't possible on a 4chan unless its a comp radio. How would I get around this? ****
There are two way this can be done, one is, if you have a computer radio w/ mixing capabilities. Two is if you have a basic 4ch or 5 ch radio w/ the aid of a mixer..
------- I don't think your ready as of yet Give Rudder and Elev. some stick time
#21
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: TX
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Yea, In case you didn't read my 1st post I had a nitro trainer but I sold it. I did however break it in but never flew it so I am familiar with nitro engines. I also have a nitro car which is 3 needle adjustment. I fully understand nitro engines. Also, I definately understand flight. I have about 20 flight sims on my computer and that rc one FMS.BTW, I think I would want something more powerful in a cap or extra than a .40 trainer engine, unless I was to get a .60 trainer but I don't think I'm going to. I am however gonna get the SS and give elevator and rudder some "stick time".
#22
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Fremont, CA.
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
stingeragent,
Sorry to have offended you..
****I did however break it in but never flew it so I am familiar with nitro engines.***
Got ya Where you tuning the engine all that time, that made you know how airplanes fly? Sir, it's not about how broad your knowledge in engines, that makes you a superior flyer or race car driver, it's your understanding in both.
****I have about 20 flight sims on my computer and that rc one FMS.BTW, I think I would want something more powerful in a cap or extra than a .40 trainer engine, unless I was to get a .60 trainer ****
FMS it will not make you a pilot. Reasons. FMS lacks the real sense of flying, the emotional 3D of being, and flying the real thing. FMS will prepare you and prepare your reflexes.
Your airplane selections are still on the intermitted to expert category
****I am however gonna get the SS and give elevator and rudder some "stick time".****
There you go, now your talking In R/C flight, time is everything, if you don't take your time, you will end up loosing lot's of $$$$ buying unnecessary stuff. "Take you time" and be patient with time
Happy Landings,
genovia
Sorry to have offended you..
****I did however break it in but never flew it so I am familiar with nitro engines.***
Got ya Where you tuning the engine all that time, that made you know how airplanes fly? Sir, it's not about how broad your knowledge in engines, that makes you a superior flyer or race car driver, it's your understanding in both.
****I have about 20 flight sims on my computer and that rc one FMS.BTW, I think I would want something more powerful in a cap or extra than a .40 trainer engine, unless I was to get a .60 trainer ****
FMS it will not make you a pilot. Reasons. FMS lacks the real sense of flying, the emotional 3D of being, and flying the real thing. FMS will prepare you and prepare your reflexes.
Your airplane selections are still on the intermitted to expert category
****I am however gonna get the SS and give elevator and rudder some "stick time".****
There you go, now your talking In R/C flight, time is everything, if you don't take your time, you will end up loosing lot's of $$$$ buying unnecessary stuff. "Take you time" and be patient with time
Happy Landings,
genovia
#23
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: TX
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Yea, I wasn't meaning FMS has taught me to fly, I mean those sims and stuff have taught me how fight works and stuff. And well, I said the SS but I meant the Beaver,lol. I really hate to get a nitro trainer after I just sold one. I realize I should have kept it now. Wasn't planning on getting back into planes but my friend sparked interest again. LOL. What plane then should I get after the Beaver?
#24
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Fremont, CA.
Posts: 162
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
*****What plane then should I get after the Beaver?*****
That question is like asking someone. "What should I do, If I turn 85 years old" --- It will come to you, confidence will come to you, your inner skills will tell you
***Yea, I wasn't meaning FMS has taught me to fly, I mean those sims and stuff have taught me how fight works ***
And/ Or is still the same but no fighting.... OKAY? Just fly...
****Wasn't planning on getting back into planes but my friend sparked interest again****
Welcome back, I bid you the best of luck, you will love flight..
That question is like asking someone. "What should I do, If I turn 85 years old" --- It will come to you, confidence will come to you, your inner skills will tell you
***Yea, I wasn't meaning FMS has taught me to fly, I mean those sims and stuff have taught me how fight works ***
And/ Or is still the same but no fighting.... OKAY? Just fly...
****Wasn't planning on getting back into planes but my friend sparked interest again****
Welcome back, I bid you the best of luck, you will love flight..
#25
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: TX
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
2nd electric plane
Hey I got a question. I found these 2 planes on tower. One is a Hobbico Park Pilot EP ARF that has rudder and elevator and throttle control and the other is a Hot Bodies Skywave Electric w/3-Channel RTF that also has rudder, elevator and throttle control. Would either of these be ok? I'm looking for ways to save money. They both conveniently come with ESC's, Batt, and Charger.