Hi Impulse,

In my club if a young guy comes with a plane and radio, he is met with open arms and is helped in every way.

There is a sequence that you should follow, it will make the process go a lot better.

It would be best to get your AMA first and then go to the different clubs and check on their attitude a check out the field. Sometimes just because a field is close, it is not right for you.

They very from field to field for some reason.
Talk to them about the rules and the cost, also ask about training. Most times it is free and they are more than happy to help out somebody who is really interested and will be a part of the club for a long while.

When your at the club looking around ask who does the training, most people could do it, but get burned out from time to time and so it changes.

It is important to get the same radio as the ones that you will be flying with, Futaba won't mix with JR, as far as the training cord goes.

Each club will have a favorite trainer plane or two and though most of them in the ARF combo category are about the same. You will be asking them a lot of questions and they will have better answers if your flying a plane they are use to and like.

The differences in motors are great and it will make a difference, so their opinion on that may save you a bunch of trouble.

My point is that planes come and go but the club you get into will make the difference in your modeling experience and starting off on the right foot is very important.

Some times you have to just bite your lip and lessen to the droning of a over helpful guy, but be kind because helping and sharing is what makes this sport really fun.

I have seen people show up with a plane that everyone knows is a dud and a radio that is not compatible with everybody's. Tell everyone they're the greatest flier and crash on the first flight.
You never see them again, and if you do, the feelings are already set in every body's mind.
I know you wouldn't do this but I have seen it done and it is a bummer for everybody concerned.

What I have suggested is the other end of the spectrum from what would be your experience.

It does take a little more time but this is just a hobby and if done right you have a wonderful time, and that is the way it should be.

You have a little time on a firebird, and that is great. It will increase you chances at a bigger faster ship.

Do not try it yourself without a trainer if one is available, it is really a bummer to crash your new plane for no reason. If your good enough to fly it with out a trainer, you will still have the benefit of a safety net for the first few flights. If you really are good, you will proceed to the landing and be soloed right away, but either way crashing on a tight budget is a drag.

When you get to the field and check it out, mention that you are getting the complete package and ask if anyone has a used flight box they will part with cheep. Many people get into and out of this hobby and never crash a flight box, so there are usually many around just collecting dust. People will also let you use there stuff if you buy the fuel, there really is not cost in helping you get your plane up and running.

It's a little windy but please take it to heart, everyone wants to help a new guy with fire and drive, and there are always deals on equipment for people who will be around for the long haul.

MR Flyer57