I started off by building a 4 * 40. I was very tempted to fly it as my first plane, but wisely choose to buy and fly an arf trainer. I flew the trainer for a little over a month and now have moved on to the four star. I'm glad that I chose the .40 size. This allowed me to use the same engine in my trainer, getting better value from the cost of the engine.

There are a lot of people on RCU that agree that the 4 *s makes a great second or third plane. I have met several people at the local field that have had many planes, and still prefer flying their 4 *. So far, I am in agreement.

When built stock, they are gentle on landings and capable fliers. They can be modified in several ways to change or extend their capabilities. Wings can be shortened, rudder increased in size, engine cowl can be enclosed and engine power increased. Some have even used it as a starting point for doing some semi scale projects. I plan on eventually adding weight to the plane and using it as a trainer for warbirds.

Whether you fly a trainer first, or start a build now, chances are that you are going to enjoy your 4 *. If I were starting today, I would probably get the trainer now, and the 4 * later. Only because this would allow me to take advantage of the flying weather while it lasts.

Scott