ORIGINAL: bdavison
Yeah, helis require constant input to keep them stable. Its like balancing a bowling ball on a pencil when you are first learning. As you get better, its more like balancing a pingpong ball on a pencil. You will always have to "fly" the heli, but it becomes easier the more you do it.
As far as tail fins go. There are a few of reasons for them.
1. In fast forward flight the fins act like a weathervane, and keep the tail straight.
2. It makes the tail easier to see.
3. It looks cool.
I just installed the vertical tail fin that comes with the replacement vertical tail support. I've been learning to hover for a few weeks now, and can hold a stable hover for as long as I want. My first couple of hovers with the fin on, and I've got to say that the heli acts a little different. Should it? Is it just my head playing games with me? Or is it the fact that with the fin installed, airflow across the tail rotor is now restricted a little? I honestly don't know. Anyone care to respond?