RE: GWS Pico Stick FD
I had the Pico Stick (not FD) as my first plane and it flew OK. I was returning to RC after an 11 year "vacation." It flew OK, but doesn't like any wind. The stick version had a spruce stick fuse which was quite fragile.
My second plane was the Slow Stick. Wish it had been my first. Much nicer in an outdoor environment than the Pico Stick. It has a 46" wing span and a larger motor. An excellent first plane.
If you go with the SS, get a 7 or 8 cell, 800-1100 mah battery pack.
Sierra Gold