Lost novice on a small budget
Hello,
I went thru the same thing.I have gone thru 2 Firebirds, and while there very fun once you see a real(glow fuel)plane you will want to graduate to one.
I did teach myself to fly the Firebird in 2 days,but moving up to glow fuel will require an instructor.
I put together a SturdyBirdy II for about $225.
Plane New Towerhobbies $90
Motor used OS 40 $35 Ebay
Radio Skysport 4 channel $100 shipped here on RCU
I havent flown yet but I'm pretty much ready to go.All I have to do is pay my local club fees and I'm ready.Usually a club will provide you with an instructor.
So for the $ I paid for the 2 Firebirds I've gone thru I could've had a decent glow fuel plane.
Just remember your always gonna be needing extra parts and whatnot.
It's not too much fun w/ the Firebird if you only have 1 battery,and the wings and tail trash easily.plus losing the prop is pretty easy.
But I still fly my Firebird to this day.It's cool at like a schoolyard or any big open field.
Just a little bit of info to chew on.
Let us know what you decide,I'm in the same boat as you(little $).
late,
BONEz'