I have the bigger battery for the firebird. Don't like it at all, The extra weight is very noticeable on my Commander, yes I adjusted the CG it just feels like the plane doesn't like the weight(my opinion, not worth any more then you paid for it) I might throw it in my slow stick and see how it does. I think it's more fun to fly with the standard battery and Aerobird tail. I just fly in a small park at the end of my street. There are a lot of open fields and great places to fly in Medina county though. I wouldn't think you'd have much trouble finding a spot to your liking. I've knocked on doors before, there are a lot of people with a lot of acres that don't mind you flying-they like the free entertainment.