Kennelmaster,

I first seen a RC aircraft in 1976 as a young kid and always wanted to fly. I never did until last year because I never had access to an instructor or field. I have taken and currently am taking private pilot lessons, but other than the understanding of the principles of flight a limited amount of that translates into RC flying. I had the good fortune to move next door to an avid RC pilot, flyer and builder. Last year he trained me, loaned me his simulator and helped me build two planes for which I am grateful. What took so long? I did not have the drive to be willing to loose an aircraft risking losing my enthusiasm for flying. I have had to self teach myself on many thing such as you have stated but for me I did not want to do it in this hobby.

Your way is not right or wrong just maybe different in my opinion. You sound committed and enthusiastic keep it up I just would encourage you to also be safe and from your posts it sounds like you are not being hasty just as you stated doing it your way. Frank Sinatra would be proud .

I did total my first built aircraft by being too big for my britches and too close to the ground.

Good luck,

Nordicz