I have a stock Zagi 400x and am having a great time with it. I was apprehensive about launching it too, but haven't had any problems at all on the first 20 or so flights. I grip it at the front with my thumb on top, and my other four fingers on the bottom. I'm too old and slow to do any running, so I just throw it level with the motor OFF, into the wind, with an overhand motion. I have about three clicks of 'up' in it when I make the launch, and have a second or two usually to hit the throttle after the toss. It takes off and reaches 200-300 feet in less than a minute. I've been flying it both as a thermal hunter and sport ship. It's a better floater than stunter, but it will do decent loops and rolls early on in the flights. I reversed the stock props as in the instructions, and there is plenty of thrust available. I'm betting your prop is on backwards as someone has already mentioned. The battery and motor that come with the kit are good. Buying a cobalt isn't going to solve the problem. The stock combination is a good one. I'm charging at home, the night before, with an MRC Super Brain. Second runs off the car battery are lower, as I don't leave the car running while charging.

I bought a Viper Twin two weeks ago. I launch it the same way, motors off, thumb on top, other fingers on the bottom. Works great. I covered over the launch holes, they aren't necessary. I reversed both props on this one. The twins really sing. Fast, smooth, but shorter flights of course, about 6-9 minutes of loops rolls, inverted, and hotter landings than the Zagi.

Electric is good. I can't wait to learn more about it, and graduate to the brushless and cobalt motors. Until then, I'm having a ball.

I wish you the best. I hope something I said helps. ---Tony