I think you took my post in the wrong way.

I am not trying to advocate a beginner trying to fly a 3D plane. The point I was trying to make is that after 40 years of experience, you still have the basics to fall back on in an emergency situation. And learning these things from an experienced RC Pilot can save you a lot of heartache and money.

I think that someone who has no other choice can teach themselves to fly RC. But I feel that with the help of a Club, or experienced pilot, you learn more of the basics than the manual, and experience cover. And some of the manuals I've seen leave a lot to be desired.

The new Slo-Flyers are definately easy for a beginner, and they do allow the beginner to get the feel of flying. Some even don't need a pilot on the transmitter to fly. And this is a good thing. But if you are ever going to get serious about this hobby, you can only learn from those that have gone before.

Those that do not learn from History, are doomed to repeat it. And I've seen my share of those that have gotten a $69.00 plane, flew it once - crashed it and gave up. With help they might have joined the ranks and found the joy I've gotten out of this hobby over the last 40 years.

But that is only my opinion.