Loyd, I learned with minimum help, but I had about 35 years previous experience building controline and free flight models before I decided on RC. The Great Planes RealFlight Simulator helped me imensely. As for planes, there's a lot of good ones, but definitely checkout the Sig LT-40, comes in an ARF or kit version. With an OS .46 or TT Pro .46, it makes for even a fun sport plane. If joining a club is not your bag (and I fall into this category), you should still find an experienced RCer to give you a hand. I'm lucky and found individuals who were able to lend me a hand in the very beginning. Get as much simulator time as you can before first flights. It's not perfectly real, but it sure helped me. . Tom