LeeG...I've been in this hobby just a little over 2 years. I've flown a lot and it's a great satisfaction to me. I've learned a great deal and met a lot of fine people. But I'm in a pretty remote area and noone really teaches anything but the very basics. I'm a 3D pilot so after my initial training I've been on my own. I've totaled 12 airplanes. But I've had a great time. I can tell you there are many things worse than crashing an RC plane. I have exactly 0 worries about crashing. It happens. To me it happens quite a bit but I am a high risk taker. But I've yet to damage an engine or any radio gear.

The worst one I felt about was I forgot to raise my antenna. That was dumb. I don't like doing stupid. If I crash because I'm try new tricks or flying to close to the ground etc. no problem. It's stupid I don't like. So, my advice is to get yourself a "short" list that you do every time you fly. Than, do it. After that don't give it a second thought. Enjoy flying. If you choose to fly just basic stuff and no 3D you can probably go years without an incident. That's great. My guess if you start pushing the limits you will lose several planes a year. That's ok too. It's a great hobby that has room for all types. But to worry...shouldn't be part of the mix.

I notice now in my small club many people are starting to push themselves a little bit. There are some people there that have flown for 20 years and never been inverted. Now they are trying that and asking me for advice. Scary.

Anyways, don't worry...Fly.

Thanks
Barry