I would NEVER buy a 3 ch radio. He/you are going to eventually going to want a 4 ch airplane and then the 3 ch radio will be worthless. All of the major mfg make good 4-6 ch radios depending on your/his budget. I personally prefer Futaba radios but others prefer others and I can't say they are wrong. Ford/Chevy/Dodge, know what I mean. I will say this - Please spend just a few dollars more and buy NEW. Peace of mind is cheap, worry is expensive.