I use an electric starter only on my r/c boats as it is a must! however noone has mentioned thus far that certain engines can be damaged! using the electric starter. I am a control line flyer and most all our engines are plain bushing engines.The Fox .35 C/L engine and others you can push the prop drive washer back into the soft crankcase as well as the crankshaft con/rod pin into the backing plate and cause severe damage over time.Ask me how i know????!lol And in a contest,the judges take points off your score if an electric starter is used.