SwampFlier & FLYBOY,
I have to agre with you on most points. I too started on a limited budget, and my Freedom 20 did great till I got rid of it. My first plane was actually a used, completely built, flown, and never crashed ugly stick for $25 Can ($15 US). I added a radio and engine and had someone at the club check it out. I quickly realized it was to fast and didn't even try flying it till I was ready. It became my "
third " plane, even though I bought it first. I've been flying for around 12 years now, and still "keep the purse strings tight". Most of my planes (I have 7) were given to me in exchange for computer repairs I did, or by waiting for sales, or designing my own. I still only own 2 radios, and 3 engines, since I can swap them out as needed from one plane to the next. It doesn't
have to be expensive, unless you keep crashing. :cry:
PaPa seems to interpret "trainer" as "pre-built". As you have pointed out, "trainer" refers to being a "beginner" style plane. Kind of like learning to ride a tricyle before a bicycle.
Cheap certainly doesn't mean junk. I still use my cheap AM radio I bought 12 years ago (gold sticker'd), and I just replaced the batteries 2 years ago. Certainly not junk. It just doesn't have all the "bells and whistles" the computer radios have. Also, it's important to remember any prices I may quote are Canadian. US prices are alot less due to different exchange rates. PaPa's information doesn't mention where he's located. Hence I offered him online ordering suggestions from around the world (US, CAN, and UK).
PaPa,
I eagerly welcome new "blood" into this sport / hobby. I just want to make sure you have no unexpected surprises. And before someone insists you join the AMA, remember that they provide insurance coverage to non-AMA students for 30 days if receiving one-on-one instruction from a pilot with a "Into-Pilot" clasification.
<Quote>
"This program allows a non-AMA member to fly at a club field and be AMA insured for liability coverage provided the new flier is under the supervision of a chartered club designated Introductory Pilot." Page 21 of the AMA handbook.
http://modelaircraft.org/templates/a.../memanul02.pdf
As mentioned by others - If you're trying to see if you are truly interested in this hobby, without spending to much $$, check the local flying club and hobby shop for a used trainer style plane. If you find the right person at the club, they may even offer to teach you with a plane from the club, or their own. :thumbup:
If you are not inthe US, and need more local information, you'll have to let us know where you are... So we can provide the help you seek.
Most modelers I've met (all but 2) are eager to share their knowledge, and time helping someone new join the hobby. I hope you stick with it, and someday you'll be the experienced pilot the newcomers turn to for help.
Here's a shot of my favorite plane - my Slowpoke. That engine is the Magnum .25 I used in my trainer by the way...