RE: Mode 1 verses Mode 2
I think that mode 1 would be a big advantage to the flying of 3D, since the control of the tail would be on one stick. Or a reversed mode 1 (throttle and aileron) on the left stick since I'm right handed. Some call that mode 3?
I fly mode 2, but have flown a mode 1 airplane to a landing when it's pilot panicked and handed me the transmitter.