I bought a Firebird as well, but didn't have the good fortune of getting it for 28.00. I did not like it at all. The 2 channel setup is very frustrating. As you no doubt know, you have to speed up to climb. Some may argue that this is easier as you only have to remember one thing. I really like have two ways of going up though (up elevator OR throttle). Obviously too much up elevator without throttle to back it up will result in a stall, but there are times when you need to climb FAST (trees, etc.) and increasing throttle just won't do it.

I would say to fly it for all it's worth just to learn how to turn left/right when the plane is flying toward you. Then get a three channel. They are still fairly inexpensive and the ability to go up and down using your elevator adds about 100 fun points. You can get fairly inexpensive foam electric planes like the GWS series. When you crash one beyond repair, just transfer all of your expensive pieces (servos, radio, battery, esc, etc.) to the new one.

The Firebird is still pretty much in the toy category, but then again, my wife thinks they are all toys [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

Have fun!!