Terrellflyer,

I agree with you. I'd say try everything you can on a trainer and when you're ready to move on hang on to the trainer. I've only been flying RC's since June and have flown the heck out of my LT-40 (I know what you mean about sloppy snaps!). I'm moving on to a Four Star but plan to keep the trainer around because it is fun and also to introduce the hobby to friends, etc.