On landing, remember to fly the plane down to the runway, don't just try to slow down to a stall and chop the throttle (chop and drop). Most new pilots (and a lot of older pilots) think that the slower the plane is flying, the more time it gives them to correct and get it straight. In fact, the slower your flying, the harder it is to correct the attitude of the plane.

As you approach the runway, use the elevator to control speed and the throttle to control altitude. Keep the wings level and use the rudder to steer. Let the plane settle onto the runway. If you're going long, don't be ashamed to throttle up and go around. Bounces happen when the decent rate is too high or the pilot panics and adds too much up elevator to flair. Practice, Practice, Practice. Try bringing the plane in and flying it just a few inches off the runway. Landings are no different, just a few inches lower.

If the threads for your landing gear bolts rip out, you can use blind nuts instead. The nylon bolts are also a good idea, but until you learn to land properly, keep a large supply of replacement bolts handy. Also make sure you tighten them approximately 1/4 turn past snug. They must be pre-stressed in order to snap off properly. You probably want to use at least 1/4 inch bolts. If the wood threads are stripped out and you don't want to use blind nuts, fill the holes with 30 minute epoxy and microballons (50% mix), then redrill and retap the holes. You won't need to harden the threads with CA.