I have 2 Raptors I fly and while there is no way they can compare to my TSKs or my X-Cell they are a good machine for the money. One of mine is completely stock except for KSJ paddles and glass blades and will do 3D all day with no problems at all. Yes, I did use a link resizing tool when putting the new links on as they were tight. I'd rather have them start tight that be loose. Both machines still have the stock links on them after 2 years of flying.

One of mine has the Quick UK swash and a metal washout base. This is much tighter than the stock setup. It does hover and fly better in FF than the other but doing aerobatics I don't notice a lot of difference.

I just helped a fellow flier set up his Raptor 50 and other than having to size the links it went together without a hitch. I will admit that the TT metal swash isn't worth the money though.

I'm not saying the Raptor is the best out there just that it is a good value for the money. I have them and know their idiosyncrasy's so I'll stick with them for a while. I would like to try a new Hawk SE though. I hear they are a nice machine for the money.

My view on CCPM is that is just another way of doing things. I don't feel it's an advantage or disadvantage over a good standard mixing system. A good mechanical mixing system is better than a poor CCPM system. That's just my view and I'm sure others will disagree.