If he is ready for a four star then he will do fine with a UCD toned down. Have you ever flown a UCD? If the rates arnt set up high this thing is as tame as a kitten. Keep in mind that he is going to be logging flights on his trainer the whole time he is putting the UCD together. There is nothing wrong with buying an airplane and sticking it in the corner until you are ready for it. However I do not recommend attempting 3D until he is comfy recovering the airplane in any situation.