If I've learned anything recently it's that learning to fly 3D with a scale plane is going to be frustrating and expensive. Beefing the plane to take that kind of abuse (learning) well enough just not possible. Guys that 3D well make it look easy. I'm here to tell you it's not! Those guys are a product of a huge amount of stick time (and crashes)! If that's the direction you're heading into, suggest you look into something in the way of a profile or 3D specific airframe. They're much simpler, therefore lighter, and for that reason they're more durable (less mass will incur less damage when stopped suddenly!). They're also MUCH easier to fly, especially on knife edge.

If you really want to get right down into it, learning 3D down low and slow on a near vertical learning curve, some guys are going with electric EPP profiles for super durability and ease of repair, at a very reasonable cost. They fly great, with very good vertical performance! Something like this:

http://www.nitroplanes.com/02a-004-swift-epp-arf.html

Or if you want to track down and purchase your own electronics separately, you can get that same plane like this:

http://www.nitroplanes.com/02a-004-swift-epp-kit.html

HK sells the same plane, and is a good source for the electronics if you decide to pick your own stuff as well. Good luck! -Al

EDIT/Second thoughts - For better wind penetration, good for 10mph+ without trouble, almost the same plane with a little less wing area:

http://www.nitroplanes.com/02a-008-1...d-epp-kit.html