jason5_k,

Yes the sims are worth the money, but FMS is free and you can learn a lot from it. When people first start flying, oreintation is a big problem and a SIM will help train your mind to automatically think without worrying about which way the plane is moving.

Your really going to need an instructor....with a couple training sections plus sim time you could be in the air by yourself but it is very tough and very unsafe to learn to fly without some help(sim or no sim). Just think you have something weighing 5 to 10 pounds, moving 40 to 70 mph, do you want it to be out of control? The tip speeds of the props range from about 400 MPH to 800 MPH so one wrong move and your missing a few fingers. Flying is a lot of fun but is also risky.

Finally, have you check out SPADS....if anyone at your local field flies SPAD I bet they would help you for free. Someone with experience can teach you a lot about how to set up a plane. This is not a cheap hobby, even with SPAD's your probably talking about spending 200 to 300 dollar to get started....so unless your made of money...you need to start saving your pennies and start looking at what SIM and planes best fit your budget.

Happy Flying!!!! Long Live SPADS!!!!!

Steve