I know exactly how you feel. I had the $ after working my butt off all summer for it, and walked out of the LHS with an Extra EasyII Trainer and $330 less than I had before. I went new. BUT, check out airplane auctions. There are tons of trainers, and stuff at these auctions. My friend picked up a fairly small trainer with a .46 ball bearing engine with all Hitec servos, and an older Futaba PCM radio for about $140 I think. So, if you look everything over well, and you find a good plane, there are great deals to be found at auctions like these.(BTW, the plane flies great!) And, if you can find one for this sort of price, you'll have plenty left for basic field gear, and that sort of thing. You also might check with your LHS and see if they have a starter field kit. My LHS has a starter kit for $25 when bought individually, the gear would add up to $45-50. As I have learned in Archery, and it carries over into just about any sport I think (definately including model flight), make sure you find a hobby shop with good service, and keep going there. Nothing beats good customer care. Keep your eyes open at auctions and sales, and see if you can't pick up a bargain on a good trainer. Good luck! I'm 16, and can feel your pain. I just got into the hobby a little over a month ago, so I'm a newb too.