RE: How to get started in combat?
I think the JKAerotech P-47N is one of the best kits to start with in 2610. It's a bit slower than planes like my Firebrand or Grasshopper's KI-64's, but it turns tightly if built light, is pretty easy to build, and pretty rugged with some enhancements. (I did mine with 1/8" fiberglass rod spars, and a soda bottle cowl). Demon on here posted a lot of great mods to the kit that worked well.
Hattrick might have some 2610 kits as well, I'm not sure. He used to, I don't know if he still makes them or not. I have no idea if some of the other kits are still out there or not.
I also don't know if the Chez-made fiberglass fuse kits (like those KI-64s) are still available.
Whatever you do, avoid balsa-based kits. They just go down too easily.