Peoplel can't get "shot down" because they have the wrong model selected. Getting "shot down" usually means that radio interference, usually from another radio on the same frequency being turned on, is causing you to lose control of your plane. The only thing that might happen if you have the wrong model selected on the radio means is that the controls may not be correct. But a quick check of the control throws (which should be part of any preflight before you even start the plane) should reveal that the controls are not correct.

Multiple model radios have been around for 10-15 years now, and many pilots have managed to get along without Model Select keeping them from having problems. As I said above, pre-flight checks should catch any problems you have. it only takes 5-10 seconds to verify that the controls are set correctly, so there's really no reason to do so.

As far as the original question goes. I have Airtronics, JR, and Futaba radios that I own, as well as having used Spektrum and Hitec in the past. To answer your question I would recommend the Futaba radios. But if you ask me what I prefer I'll tell you Airtronics for all my own planes.


Ken