RE: Plane Turning
Depends on the plane, but some do torque to the side on hand launch, as the airspeed is low and the power high. It's most noticeable on heavier, higher powered planes, so the effect here should be minimal. (Some of my combat planes, on the other hand, pull to the side like crazy on hand launch).
Chance are, the plane is just out of trim, which would be normal. Get it trimmed out, and you should be fine.