So now the question is what would you spend $3000 on? The heli Hobby/sport is cheaper than golf, and waterskiing and is comparable to snow skiing. The $3000 figure you put out is on the high end. I know some who have gotten in for $1200 getting used but good equipment and that is complete radio heli and tools. To say it is not cheep is an understatement but when compared it to others endeavors it is reasonable.