Hi MinnFlyer,
Thank you for your reply. It was funny to read your comment "Great White North... many inactive winter months." We live in Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island, British Columbia....considered the Southwestern part of the country with the mildest winter of all.
eg. One Newyears day a few years ago we were in t-shirts fishing for trout off the rocks at a local lake morning till noon, then went to play tennis outdoors the same afternoon and watched a Windsurfer in the harbour behind us. They're not always that mild but we maybe get three days of snow a year. The downfall is 300 plus days of RAIN!!!! Well sometimes it feels like it.
I also liked your comment..."And once you are ready to fly... talk about the ultimate video game!!!"
It makes sence to me and I will definitly keep you posted.
Thanks
Arty
ORIGINAL: MinnFlyer
Arty, They can be, of course everyone is different, so to many these electric "Park Fliers" are an ideal way to get started. To many people it is as far as they want to go in this sport. However, seeing as how you live in the Great White North, and have many inactive winter months, you should consider what we call "Glow Powered Models". These are what the layman would refer to as "Gas Powered Planes"And while they are more expensive than Park Fliers, they are an excellent way for a father to get his son away from the TV for a while.
Depending on how much time you put into it, it will take anywhere from 1 to 3 months to build a model (An excellent way to spend the winter). It's fasinating to watch your model go from a box of sticks to a fully functional airplane. And with most of today's kits, almost anyone can build them (They are really much easier than they look). And while they are more expensive (About $400 total) the expense is spread out over time (But the kit and glue now, an engine later, a radio when nearing completion, and covering when ready to finish). Some kids may lose interest during the building process, but some may enjoy the building more than flying. And once you are ready to fly... talk about the ultimate video game!!!
Once you know where to look, you will be able to find a club in your area who will have a field where you can go to fly. The club will also provide free instruction, so your hard work will still go home in one piece each day.
All in all, it's a wonderful way for a father and son (or daughter) to spend some quality time together!
Keep us informed as to your desision! And Welcome to RCU!