RE: Easystar vs. T-Hawk vs. Firebird etc.
I haven't seen or flown the Easy Star, I only know it by it's outstanding reputation.
I have seen the T-Hawk fly, and I think it's a terrific flying plane that is well built.
I owned a Hobbyzone Aerobird Challenger which I not-so-affectionately nicknamed the "Aeroturd" The new Aerobird 3 and Aerobird Swift are better designed with wire control rods instead of fishing line and better control horns.
I can't say that Hobbyzone planes aren't worth considering, but I'd be more likely to purchase the Easy Star or T-Hawk based on my previous experiences.