I would tend to agree with RASLOCUM... The blade CP is and was my first heli and I have had a great time learning on it. I was hovering (tail-in) after 5 battery charges with no problems. Now after a month I am just starting to experience 3-d flight even though it is not very pretty, yet. The blade is really docile for a beginner heli as long as you stay in your comfort zone and try new manuevers only when you think you can finally control the heli, rather than the heli contolling you.
I think my quick learning curve comes from years of RC plane experience but hey I have heard good things from people who had never touched a transmitter prior to the Blade purchase. Replacement parts are way cheap. Stock up on blades though... you'll need em. Training gear is a must and you can get away with the NiMh batts until you get comfortable. Make sure to buy a quick charger though. Otherwise it is 2.5 hours between flights with the included wall charger. I got the hobbico quick field charger and a spare batt and had them charged and ready in 45mins and you can charge 2 at a time!

Good luck and happy flying.....