Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
#26
My Feedback: (21)
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
ORIGINAL: Gray Beard
I do have a couple of old students that may only fly once every few months and get upset because they don't get any better at it. When they do come to the field they may only get in one flight and BS with the other guys, that's OK too but then I don't want to hear them complain about not improving.
I do have a couple of old students that may only fly once every few months and get upset because they don't get any better at it. When they do come to the field they may only get in one flight and BS with the other guys, that's OK too but then I don't want to hear them complain about not improving.
My thought is, if you want to get better you have to fly and practice to get better. I love to see when the guys make a strong effort at keeping at it!
#27
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
ORIGINAL: FlyinTiger
For people who's closest club field is over an hour away, I can see learning on the Champ, Super Cub and I recommend the full size Parkzone T-28. All of these models together equals one larger model, but it also gives these guys that have no instructors a chance to progress in a way that they will have all their airplanes after learning to fly.
After a person can take off, fly figure 8s at a constant altitude and land both directions, I always recommend someone go to a club event to fly with others, watch others, and VERIFY what they have learned is a safe and productive flying style. There are often fun fly events at local clubs and they can be looked up quite easily these days online.
If a person flies in a public park or soccer complex it is EXTREMELY important that they are extra careful to avoid people, as these places often have a lot of activity and most spectators don't stay a safe distance away. Also, a small three pound plane can still do a lot of damage, especially if it hits someone in the head.
Throttle management is the one thing I see people struggling with...even those that learned on a buddy box with an instructor. Under powered glow trainers are more forgiving when the pilot takes off and leaves the left stick full forward until landing.
Speaking of the left stick...rudder training is a MUST. People need to learn how to keep a plane going down the centerline of their runway surface (gym floor, soccer field or club runway) to avoid taking off into people or in any direction not intended. There are other uses for the rudder, but if we could start here, runway centerline control, we'd make a lot of progress.
Regardless of the aircraft, I teach a syllabus that only focuses on basic building blocks for a good take-off, pattern and landing, from BOTH directions....that's it.
Straight and level flight, small corrections
Figure 8s, simulates each side of the traffic pattern when the plane is turning toward the runway from the back side of the eight.
Square patterns in the sky, constant altitude.
Bring the pattern segment that is over the runway lower and lower until doing low passes. Teaches approach and go around techniques from BOTH directions.
Square pattern approach to go around after reaching ground effect (one wingspan above the ground) where they learn to throttle up, fly level to gain speed, then execute an on centerline climb out before a gradual climbing turn to crosswind.
At this point have the student do a loop once in a while to practice throttle control. Power up, pull...on the back side of the loop have them bring the throttle to idle, then back to half when level again.
Next is rudder control exercises. Being able to drive the plane from one end of the runway to the other, from the pilot's station, on centerline at a slow speed is a good way to start. The student should be able to drive the plane down the runway centerline, slow by coasting at idle and wagging the rudder if necessary, then turn around and taxi back to the other end of the runway without deviating from the centerline more than two or three feet maximum.
Takeoffs are next. Taxi faster down the center line, smooth throttle push to 3/4 power, then gradual climb out into the pattern, just like they practiced before on the ''go around'' training.
Landings. At this point they can be crosswind landings or calm wind landings, use what you've got.
Practice each maneuver on the simulator before the real thing and between training sessions...go to the local hobby shop, use the sim for free if necessary.
This usually takes a minimum of eight training sessions for a person that has never flown before. If the student is using the simulator between sessions and at the field once or twice a week, maximum. This stuff takes time to sink in...rushing it faster than eight sessions and 30 total days to solo is usually a bad idea for most students.
Full scale pilots tend to take slightly longer to train.
I've trained people that taught themselves and just wanted to get more precise and confident with their flying on a larger model...took about eight training sessions, but sim time was not required.
For people who's closest club field is over an hour away, I can see learning on the Champ, Super Cub and I recommend the full size Parkzone T-28. All of these models together equals one larger model, but it also gives these guys that have no instructors a chance to progress in a way that they will have all their airplanes after learning to fly.
After a person can take off, fly figure 8s at a constant altitude and land both directions, I always recommend someone go to a club event to fly with others, watch others, and VERIFY what they have learned is a safe and productive flying style. There are often fun fly events at local clubs and they can be looked up quite easily these days online.
If a person flies in a public park or soccer complex it is EXTREMELY important that they are extra careful to avoid people, as these places often have a lot of activity and most spectators don't stay a safe distance away. Also, a small three pound plane can still do a lot of damage, especially if it hits someone in the head.
Throttle management is the one thing I see people struggling with...even those that learned on a buddy box with an instructor. Under powered glow trainers are more forgiving when the pilot takes off and leaves the left stick full forward until landing.
Speaking of the left stick...rudder training is a MUST. People need to learn how to keep a plane going down the centerline of their runway surface (gym floor, soccer field or club runway) to avoid taking off into people or in any direction not intended. There are other uses for the rudder, but if we could start here, runway centerline control, we'd make a lot of progress.
Regardless of the aircraft, I teach a syllabus that only focuses on basic building blocks for a good take-off, pattern and landing, from BOTH directions....that's it.
Straight and level flight, small corrections
Figure 8s, simulates each side of the traffic pattern when the plane is turning toward the runway from the back side of the eight.
Square patterns in the sky, constant altitude.
Bring the pattern segment that is over the runway lower and lower until doing low passes. Teaches approach and go around techniques from BOTH directions.
Square pattern approach to go around after reaching ground effect (one wingspan above the ground) where they learn to throttle up, fly level to gain speed, then execute an on centerline climb out before a gradual climbing turn to crosswind.
At this point have the student do a loop once in a while to practice throttle control. Power up, pull...on the back side of the loop have them bring the throttle to idle, then back to half when level again.
Next is rudder control exercises. Being able to drive the plane from one end of the runway to the other, from the pilot's station, on centerline at a slow speed is a good way to start. The student should be able to drive the plane down the runway centerline, slow by coasting at idle and wagging the rudder if necessary, then turn around and taxi back to the other end of the runway without deviating from the centerline more than two or three feet maximum.
Takeoffs are next. Taxi faster down the center line, smooth throttle push to 3/4 power, then gradual climb out into the pattern, just like they practiced before on the ''go around'' training.
Landings. At this point they can be crosswind landings or calm wind landings, use what you've got.
Practice each maneuver on the simulator before the real thing and between training sessions...go to the local hobby shop, use the sim for free if necessary.
This usually takes a minimum of eight training sessions for a person that has never flown before. If the student is using the simulator between sessions and at the field once or twice a week, maximum. This stuff takes time to sink in...rushing it faster than eight sessions and 30 total days to solo is usually a bad idea for most students.
Full scale pilots tend to take slightly longer to train.
I've trained people that taught themselves and just wanted to get more precise and confident with their flying on a larger model...took about eight training sessions, but sim time was not required.
#28
Moderator
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
ORIGINAL: GBLynden
Tell me what makes you think I only have four months of experience in this hobby? Some of the videos I posted were of me flying ultra micro planes that are as you said ''more difficult to fly than their bigger counterparts''.
Tell me what makes you think I only have four months of experience in this hobby? Some of the videos I posted were of me flying ultra micro planes that are as you said ''more difficult to fly than their bigger counterparts''.
And even though I respect and appreciate all of your responses, I still believe in the path that I layed out above for many of those new to RC planes. If you can master a Champ and then a four-channel Ultra Micro T-28, then you are golden.
I wouldn't have done it any other way. It wouldn't have been fun learning from someone telling me what to do at every turn. Learning things on your own is one of the fun and exciting things about this hobby.
#29
My Feedback: (9)
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
jester s1, I tend to agree with you on your thinking on toy grade planes. I've been involved in model aviation in one way or another for over 50 yrs. In our club, I'd guess 95% of the planes are ARF's, and half of those are foamies. Folks just don't want to take the time to build, hence the popularity of all the cheapy bnf planes. Years ago, my favorite trainer plane was the Sig LT 40, and I still think its hard to beat. I've been away from instructing for several yrs now, so I'm trying to catch up with the changes in trainer airplanes that may have come along. I have a couple of guy's interested in getting started in R/C, and want to get them off to a good start.
#31
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
ORIGINAL: CGRetired
Guys: Please let's not get this into another "toy airplane" threads. I hate it when that happens.. [X(]
Guys: Please let's not get this into another "toy airplane" threads. I hate it when that happens.. [X(]
#32
Thread Starter
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
jester_s1 Understood. I can see where you were coming from now. It will be two years in March, though the last year has been more focused on flying than the first one. The reason I posted what I did was to help people not jump ahead too far to fast and make the same mistakes I did.
jetmech05I do, but it isn't black and white. It is easy to get into the air and it is very easy for someone to bite off more plane than they can chew. For instance, off the bat I tried to fly my EDF jet a few weeks after I had some command over my Champ in the air. Needless to say, it lasted only a few seconds before I stalled it and sheared the left wing off of it. I certainly learned the hard way, but that is why I suggested the conservative approach I did, which is targeted at those that do no have time for or want to have an instructor.
Safety ettique is very important and I agree. However, this is the age of the internet where most things can be researched online without having to worry about depending on someone else for it or having to do that and pay money for it. To the point about tuning an engine, like many others that are new to the hobby, I have zero interest in gas powered flight and never will. It is messy and transporting petro products in my car is not going to happen.
But again, to echo what all of you have said, the best course of action is to get with an experienced instructor. Where I am coming from is knowledge of the next generation of flyers and how they think. I grew up on video games, so using a controller is second nature. Also consider that many of us has used a number of different controllers and played game series like Halo for XBOX that change what the buttons do with each release. With that in mind, adapting to 4-channels from 3 is nothing because we are used to adapting.
The older beginers with no experience with said technology should 100% ignore any advice I contributed to this thread.
LuchniaWhat I outlined above helps eliminate that for folks who are indepenent minded folks by taking it one step at a time and actually flying to improve their skills at a measured pace.Safety ettique is very important and I agree. However, this is the age of the internet where most things can be researched online without having to worry about depending on someone else for it or having to do that and pay money for it. To the point about tuning an engine, like many others that are new to the hobby, I have zero interest in gas powered flight and never will. It is messy and transporting petro products in my car is not going to happen.
But again, to echo what all of you have said, the best course of action is to get with an experienced instructor. Where I am coming from is knowledge of the next generation of flyers and how they think. I grew up on video games, so using a controller is second nature. Also consider that many of us has used a number of different controllers and played game series like Halo for XBOX that change what the buttons do with each release. With that in mind, adapting to 4-channels from 3 is nothing because we are used to adapting.
The older beginers with no experience with said technology should 100% ignore any advice I contributed to this thread.
ORIGINAL: CGRetired
Guys: Please let's not get this into another "toy airplane" threads. I hate it when that happens.. [X(]
Guys: Please let's not get this into another "toy airplane" threads. I hate it when that happens.. [X(]
To the folks that are experienced modelers, I respect your skill set and artistic experession. However, the whole point of flying is to get in the air and outside of the shop.Technology makes it easier these days to fly and enjoy it sooner. The thought of waiting twiddling ones thumbs for an entire year before flying is simply rediculous in 2013. You learn by doing and not by waxing cars. "Wax on, wax off".
#33
Thread Starter
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
ORIGINAL: FlyinTiger
For people who's closest club field is over an hour away, I can see learning on the Champ, Super Cub and I recommend the full size Parkzone T-28. All of these models together equals one larger model, but it also gives these guys that have no instructors a chance to progress in a way that they will have all their airplanes after learning to fly.
After a person can take off, fly figure 8s at a constant altitude and land both directions, I always recommend someone go to a club event to fly with others, watch others, and VERIFY what they have learned is a safe and productive flying style. There are often fun fly events at local clubs and they can be looked up quite easily these days online.
If a person flies in a public park or soccer complex it is EXTREMELY important that they are extra careful to avoid people, as these places often have a lot of activity and most spectators don't stay a safe distance away. Also, a small three pound plane can still do a lot of damage, especially if it hits someone in the head.
Throttle management is the one thing I see people struggling with...even those that learned on a buddy box with an instructor. Under powered glow trainers are more forgiving when the pilot takes off and leaves the left stick full forward until landing.
Speaking of the left stick...rudder training is a MUST. People need to learn how to keep a plane going down the centerline of their runway surface (gym floor, soccer field or club runway) to avoid taking off into people or in any direction not intended. There are other uses for the rudder, but if we could start here, runway centerline control, we'd make a lot of progress.
Regardless of the aircraft, I teach a syllabus that only focuses on basic building blocks for a good take-off, pattern and landing, from BOTH directions....that's it.
Straight and level flight, small corrections
Figure 8s, simulates each side of the traffic pattern when the plane is turning toward the runway from the back side of the eight.
Square patterns in the sky, constant altitude.
Bring the pattern segment that is over the runway lower and lower until doing low passes. Teaches approach and go around techniques from BOTH directions.
Square pattern approach to go around after reaching ground effect (one wingspan above the ground) where they learn to throttle up, fly level to gain speed, then execute an on centerline climb out before a gradual climbing turn to crosswind.
At this point have the student do a loop once in a while to practice throttle control. Power up, pull...on the back side of the loop have them bring the throttle to idle, then back to half when level again.
Next is rudder control exercises. Being able to drive the plane from one end of the runway to the other, from the pilot's station, on centerline at a slow speed is a good way to start. The student should be able to drive the plane down the runway centerline, slow by coasting at idle and wagging the rudder if necessary, then turn around and taxi back to the other end of the runway without deviating from the centerline more than two or three feet maximum.
Takeoffs are next. Taxi faster down the center line, smooth throttle push to 3/4 power, then gradual climb out into the pattern, just like they practiced before on the "go around" training.
Landings. At this point they can be crosswind landings or calm wind landings, use what you've got.
Practice each maneuver on the simulator before the real thing and between training sessions...go to the local hobby shop, use the sim for free if necessary.
This usually takes a minimum of eight training sessions for a person that has never flown before. If the student is using the simulator between sessions and at the field once or twice a week, maximum. This stuff takes time to sink in...rushing it faster than eight sessions and 30 total days to solo is usually a bad idea for most students.
Full scale pilots tend to take slightly longer to train.
I've trained people that taught themselves and just wanted to get more precise and confident with their flying on a larger model...took about eight training sessions, but sim time was not required.
For people who's closest club field is over an hour away, I can see learning on the Champ, Super Cub and I recommend the full size Parkzone T-28. All of these models together equals one larger model, but it also gives these guys that have no instructors a chance to progress in a way that they will have all their airplanes after learning to fly.
After a person can take off, fly figure 8s at a constant altitude and land both directions, I always recommend someone go to a club event to fly with others, watch others, and VERIFY what they have learned is a safe and productive flying style. There are often fun fly events at local clubs and they can be looked up quite easily these days online.
If a person flies in a public park or soccer complex it is EXTREMELY important that they are extra careful to avoid people, as these places often have a lot of activity and most spectators don't stay a safe distance away. Also, a small three pound plane can still do a lot of damage, especially if it hits someone in the head.
Throttle management is the one thing I see people struggling with...even those that learned on a buddy box with an instructor. Under powered glow trainers are more forgiving when the pilot takes off and leaves the left stick full forward until landing.
Speaking of the left stick...rudder training is a MUST. People need to learn how to keep a plane going down the centerline of their runway surface (gym floor, soccer field or club runway) to avoid taking off into people or in any direction not intended. There are other uses for the rudder, but if we could start here, runway centerline control, we'd make a lot of progress.
Regardless of the aircraft, I teach a syllabus that only focuses on basic building blocks for a good take-off, pattern and landing, from BOTH directions....that's it.
Straight and level flight, small corrections
Figure 8s, simulates each side of the traffic pattern when the plane is turning toward the runway from the back side of the eight.
Square patterns in the sky, constant altitude.
Bring the pattern segment that is over the runway lower and lower until doing low passes. Teaches approach and go around techniques from BOTH directions.
Square pattern approach to go around after reaching ground effect (one wingspan above the ground) where they learn to throttle up, fly level to gain speed, then execute an on centerline climb out before a gradual climbing turn to crosswind.
At this point have the student do a loop once in a while to practice throttle control. Power up, pull...on the back side of the loop have them bring the throttle to idle, then back to half when level again.
Next is rudder control exercises. Being able to drive the plane from one end of the runway to the other, from the pilot's station, on centerline at a slow speed is a good way to start. The student should be able to drive the plane down the runway centerline, slow by coasting at idle and wagging the rudder if necessary, then turn around and taxi back to the other end of the runway without deviating from the centerline more than two or three feet maximum.
Takeoffs are next. Taxi faster down the center line, smooth throttle push to 3/4 power, then gradual climb out into the pattern, just like they practiced before on the "go around" training.
Landings. At this point they can be crosswind landings or calm wind landings, use what you've got.
Practice each maneuver on the simulator before the real thing and between training sessions...go to the local hobby shop, use the sim for free if necessary.
This usually takes a minimum of eight training sessions for a person that has never flown before. If the student is using the simulator between sessions and at the field once or twice a week, maximum. This stuff takes time to sink in...rushing it faster than eight sessions and 30 total days to solo is usually a bad idea for most students.
Full scale pilots tend to take slightly longer to train.
I've trained people that taught themselves and just wanted to get more precise and confident with their flying on a larger model...took about eight training sessions, but sim time was not required.
#34
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
go to your local flying field ask around see what the flyers there say to you>> get a good 4 channel and get help at the field>>there are a lot of good trainers out there
#35
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
when you fly toy planes for the first time you might give up so i drive one mile to my field you will find out many things about things u dont like in flying but as time goes on you will like it you might also get to buy a good trainer from someone at your field
#36
Moderator
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
GBLynden - You're making a lot more sense to me now too. I didn't catch that your point was for beginners to take it easy and not advance beyond their skill levels. Your first post implied that working through that series of planes on one's own would give one the skills to fly anything they want, which it usually won't. There is an element in the hobby these days that really rubs me the wrong way that essentially says, "I don't want to work on skills. I just want to have fun flying and I don't want anybody telling me anything." I watched a guy enter and then exit the hobby last year who could have done well if he was inclined to listen to the voice of experience, but he just had to do it all on his own and then call to tell me how great he was. About two months later his 2 destroyed Champs and easily another $50 in spare parts were on Craigslist along with a junky RTF he bought that never worked.
#37
Thread Starter
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
ORIGINAL: jester_s1
GBLynden - You're making a lot more sense to me now too. I didn't catch that your point was for beginners to take it easy and not advance beyond their skill levels. Your first post implied that working through that series of planes on one's own would give one the skills to fly anything they want, which it usually won't. There is an element in the hobby these days that really rubs me the wrong way that essentially says, "I don't want to work on skills. I just want to have fun flying and I don't want anybody telling me anything." I watched a guy enter and then exit the hobby last year who could have done well if he was inclined to listen to the voice of experience, but he just had to do it all on his own and then call to tell me how great he was. About two months later his 2 destroyed Champs and easily another $50 in spare parts were on Craigslist along with a junky RTF he bought that never worked.
GBLynden - You're making a lot more sense to me now too. I didn't catch that your point was for beginners to take it easy and not advance beyond their skill levels. Your first post implied that working through that series of planes on one's own would give one the skills to fly anything they want, which it usually won't. There is an element in the hobby these days that really rubs me the wrong way that essentially says, "I don't want to work on skills. I just want to have fun flying and I don't want anybody telling me anything." I watched a guy enter and then exit the hobby last year who could have done well if he was inclined to listen to the voice of experience, but he just had to do it all on his own and then call to tell me how great he was. About two months later his 2 destroyed Champs and easily another $50 in spare parts were on Craigslist along with a junky RTF he bought that never worked.
Also, just because some guy you thought you could "fix" made some mistakes doesn't mean that there is anything wrong with that methodology. Have any of you actually flown a Champ? The rudder is set-up like the ailerons on a four-channel, so going to a four-channel from a Champ is a natural progression. You just have more control with the four-channel plane because you have both. How that could be a bad trainer plane is laugheable.
Do you start people out with Dual Rates and Expo or do you let them go full rates and not progress up to that level over time?
#38
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
GB YOu gave advice that the majority of us disagree with. Under no conditions is it a better road to teach yourself. Can you teach yourself sure too many people are self taught. You cant learn to fly on the Internet.
the easiest. Quickest. Cheapest. Safest. Way to learn to fly is with an instrustor on a buddy box. It is your best Chance of being successful. We never know how many folks try to teach themselves and quit. I dabbled in the late 80's. Didn't do well. It was almost another 20 years before I learner to fly
I also think its best to learn the way you intend to fly if intend to fly 4 or more channels learn to fly 4 channels
There is no bias we just disagree.
Good flying to you
the easiest. Quickest. Cheapest. Safest. Way to learn to fly is with an instrustor on a buddy box. It is your best Chance of being successful. We never know how many folks try to teach themselves and quit. I dabbled in the late 80's. Didn't do well. It was almost another 20 years before I learner to fly
I also think its best to learn the way you intend to fly if intend to fly 4 or more channels learn to fly 4 channels
There is no bias we just disagree.
Good flying to you
#39
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
If you want to get your feet wet, intro to R/C airplane flying at the park, the Champ sounds great, if you wish to take thing to the next level, get instruction at your local R/C club. I learned to fly control lines by my self as a kid and moved into R/C before the advent of the buddy box, so I know it can be done by yourself but it is just to easy to get instruction these days not too.
Bob
Bob
#40
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
ORIGINAL: CGRetired
Guys: Please let's not get this into another ''toy airplane'' threads. I hate it when that happens.. [X(]
Guys: Please let's not get this into another ''toy airplane'' threads. I hate it when that happens.. [X(]
Yes, I agree with you, that is not the purpose of the thread. All the model RC airplanes are toys. So lets not waste time with this nonsense.
Gerry
#41
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
wake up first time flyers get a 4 ch. radio a good 40 size engine and a 40 size trainer > go to the field and ask for help>>>some stupid foam plane wont help you ask at your local hobby shop > i try to give the best advice i can but you wont learn going out oce a month try for 2 or 3 times a week
#42
Moderator
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
I don't too much think I'm stuck in the way "things used to be." I've only been in the hobby a little over 7 years so I'm not exactly an old head who can't understand the new equipment. I'm a pretty casual flyer, making it out to the field every other week usually and working out on the simulator maybe 3 times a week. No, I haven't flown a Champ, but I did have a Slow Stick for a while which isn't all that different. And no, the Champ hasn't become the standard recommended plane to start with. It's not a bad recommendation for someone who just wants to go out to a vacant lot and play with an airplane, but that's about it. What you don't seem to understand is that you're talking to guys who fly serious models and know what skills are required to do so. Most of us have also flown some park flyers and know what skills one will learn with them. So most of us know that these low end tiny park flyers aren't going to help a person build the skills to fly serious models. Since you've never flown the bigger and better performing models, you don't know that, but we do. So as I said earlier, your path will work fine for a person who wants to have half a dozen planes in his closet without spending much money and just wants to go out a fly circuits in a city park. But those who want to move on to the more serious models should go the route that has been proven time and again to be the best route to learning to fly serious models, which is a .40 or .60 size trainer (electric is an option nowadays) with an instructor teaching proper flying technique on a buddy box.
#43
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
I'm still flying my Champ after a year and a half, and I'm still loving every moment of it. Enjoying a nice morning or evening weekend flight after a long stressful work week is relaxing and therapeutic. I'm also having a blast learning to fly the four channel and more advanced stuff on my computer simulator. Hobbies are meant to be fun, and if we're each having fun in a way that suits our individual personalities and tastes, and doing it in a save courteous manner, then it shouldn't matter how I or some one else learns how to fly rc planes, as well as the type of planes each individual likes to build, fly, or both.
My enjoyment of this great hobby isn't the least bit affected by a person choosing to go the traditional route of rc flight, and my choosing to start out with a Hobbyzone Champ, and enjoying these wonderful little ultra micro flyers doesn't affect or prevent any one else from enjoying the hobby the way they want. If your not having fun with this hobby, then maybe your in the wrong hobby.
#44
My Feedback: (2)
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
And there you have it. Thats what it all boils down to, having fun. This great hobby can be as cheap as you want it, or as expensive as you want it. I think we had the cheapest cheapskate in rc in our club at one time. A very experienced pilot and builder that turned to buying cheap foam gliders from walmart and hobby lobby and stuffing electronics in from cannibalized carcass's and would fly them in and around tree's. Didnt matter if he crashed, he might have $15 to $25 invested in any of those planes.
Edwin
Edwin
#45
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
ORIGINAL: jetmech05
GB YOu gave advice that the majority of us disagree with. Under no conditions is it a better road to teach yourself. Can you teach yourself sure too many people are self taught. You cant learn to fly on the Internet.
the easiest. Quickest. Cheapest. Safest. Way to learn to fly is with an instrustor on a buddy box. It is your best Chance of being successful. We never know how many folks try to teach themselves and quit. I dabbled in the late 80's. Didn't do well. It was almost another 20 years before I learner to fly
I also think its best to learn the way you intend to fly if intend to fly 4 or more channels learn to fly 4 channels
There is no bias we just disagree.
Good flying to you
GB YOu gave advice that the majority of us disagree with. Under no conditions is it a better road to teach yourself. Can you teach yourself sure too many people are self taught. You cant learn to fly on the Internet.
the easiest. Quickest. Cheapest. Safest. Way to learn to fly is with an instrustor on a buddy box. It is your best Chance of being successful. We never know how many folks try to teach themselves and quit. I dabbled in the late 80's. Didn't do well. It was almost another 20 years before I learner to fly
I also think its best to learn the way you intend to fly if intend to fly 4 or more channels learn to fly 4 channels
There is no bias we just disagree.
Good flying to you
I even started on one of the electric 3 channel planes - worst mistake I could have made! Like others I had to relearn much. I would never advise anyone to start out that way unless that is what they plan to fly in the long haul and have absolutely no RC growth interest otherwise.
I know the little insruction I do (not much really and I don't even compare to those experienced in this thread) yet, I am always thinking ahead of how I can educate the person on all the great facets of the hobby. I like your statement about best to learn the way you intend to fly. The only thing I would add is that for many of us that changes as we grow in the hobby.
#46
My Feedback: (6)
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
I do instruct regularly, and I have to disagree with several things that have been said here.
First of all, just because a plane is 3 channel or made of foam does not make it a toy. I still enjoy flying my 3 channel cubs, and they make great teaching tools if used properly. And I would disagree that a Champ is any better or worse than learning on a four channel plane. I have modified the foam Cubs that I use for teaching so that the rudder is still on the left stick, but the elevator is on the right stick. This makes the transition to an aileron model much easier since the student doesn't have to "re-learn" ground handling or anything else, they just have to add using ailerons to the skills they already have.
Second, there are many people who think they are superior pilots because they fly bigger planes when in fact, a small and responsive plane like Parkzone t-28 or a Stryker can be a lot harder to handle than a Telemaster or a 71" Cessna made of balsa. In fact, my little brushless J-3 would be a challenge for many who "think" they are above it. The Parkzone T-28 can be a great choice as a second or third plane, but it is no "toy".
One thing I do agree with is that every student is different and a good instructor will realize the differences in his students. I've had some students who learned quickly and/or had prior RC experience with cars or boats and it was apparent after the first buddy box flight that they could start off on something more advanced than a foam Cub. Other students needed the stability and forgiveness of a foam Cub, high wing trainer, and a simulator to help their skills develop.
First of all, just because a plane is 3 channel or made of foam does not make it a toy. I still enjoy flying my 3 channel cubs, and they make great teaching tools if used properly. And I would disagree that a Champ is any better or worse than learning on a four channel plane. I have modified the foam Cubs that I use for teaching so that the rudder is still on the left stick, but the elevator is on the right stick. This makes the transition to an aileron model much easier since the student doesn't have to "re-learn" ground handling or anything else, they just have to add using ailerons to the skills they already have.
Second, there are many people who think they are superior pilots because they fly bigger planes when in fact, a small and responsive plane like Parkzone t-28 or a Stryker can be a lot harder to handle than a Telemaster or a 71" Cessna made of balsa. In fact, my little brushless J-3 would be a challenge for many who "think" they are above it. The Parkzone T-28 can be a great choice as a second or third plane, but it is no "toy".
One thing I do agree with is that every student is different and a good instructor will realize the differences in his students. I've had some students who learned quickly and/or had prior RC experience with cars or boats and it was apparent after the first buddy box flight that they could start off on something more advanced than a foam Cub. Other students needed the stability and forgiveness of a foam Cub, high wing trainer, and a simulator to help their skills develop.
#47
Moderator
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
I'll definitely agree that if you're having fun and aren't bothering anybody you're doing it right. The one caveat I have to that is that I hope to set the right expectations for the newcomer to the hobby. The start of this thread sounded like if a guy buys that series of planes and flies them on his own he'll become a competent pilot that can handle just about anything. If he sticks with light foamies that may be true, but it won't prepare him for glow and gas aerobats and warbirds and usually won't result in building the techniques to do spot landings or anything resembling perfect maneuvers due to the lack of experienced instruction. But if fun is the goal and one doesn't plan to go beyond park flyer foamies, the OP's path isn't half bad.
#48
Thread Starter
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
This thread turned into something very special. Even though there was and is still some disagreement on how to approach the beginning phases of the hobby, this is a wealth of valuable information for someone new to the hobby. This will allow them to choose the path they see fit for them. I have also learned a lot as a result of this thread and realized my "perfect" approach is not right for everyone, in fact it may only be right for those that only want to have fun buzzing around with these planes without crashing....very often.
Thank you to all of you that posted in here!!!
To celebrate, here are some more recent videos of me having fun with my "toys"
More Champ Fun: http://youtu.be/OLVFWfZ19DE
More UM T-28 fun: http://youtu.be/2XFatTuc1FY
More UM Stryker fun: http://youtu.be/g30KU4bJtVc
More F4F Wildcat fun: http://youtu.be/3EBXQzjyBwk
More F-18 EDF jet fun: http://youtu.be/EseHS8bPaUA
Mini Vapor indoor plane flying outdoors in wind: http://youtu.be/XY9Q_8oA7Rw
Get out there and fly boys!
GB
Thank you to all of you that posted in here!!!
To celebrate, here are some more recent videos of me having fun with my "toys"
More Champ Fun: http://youtu.be/OLVFWfZ19DE
More UM T-28 fun: http://youtu.be/2XFatTuc1FY
More UM Stryker fun: http://youtu.be/g30KU4bJtVc
More F4F Wildcat fun: http://youtu.be/3EBXQzjyBwk
More F-18 EDF jet fun: http://youtu.be/EseHS8bPaUA
Mini Vapor indoor plane flying outdoors in wind: http://youtu.be/XY9Q_8oA7Rw
Get out there and fly boys!
GB
#49
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RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
GBLynden, you will soon learn, that unlike the other forums, especially RC Groups, this forum is populated by mostly "old school" folks who don't think it is possible to learn to fly without an instructor andusing only "toy" planes (3 channel foamies). Most here think that if a plane is not made of balsa and ply, or runs on gas or nitro, it really isn't an RC aircraft.
About a year ago, when I was just getting into the hobby, I found this out the hard way and wasjumped on pretty badly by these "old salts." Well,one year and 2 months later, I have 15 planes and fly them all; most are warbirds. I can now do aerobatics and am enjoying the heck out of my "foamie" airplanes. I have since given away my trainers and they are now teaching others to fly RC aircraft. Don't be offended by everyone here basically debunking you, it's common on here. BTW - I have joined a club and have been welcomed there with my foamie airplanes. A lot of they other guys have foamies too and all are looked upon as great airplanes. There is nothing like flying my 58.5" wingspan E-Flight Hawker Hurricane. My flying buddies agree as well.
About a year ago, when I was just getting into the hobby, I found this out the hard way and wasjumped on pretty badly by these "old salts." Well,one year and 2 months later, I have 15 planes and fly them all; most are warbirds. I can now do aerobatics and am enjoying the heck out of my "foamie" airplanes. I have since given away my trainers and they are now teaching others to fly RC aircraft. Don't be offended by everyone here basically debunking you, it's common on here. BTW - I have joined a club and have been welcomed there with my foamie airplanes. A lot of they other guys have foamies too and all are looked upon as great airplanes. There is nothing like flying my 58.5" wingspan E-Flight Hawker Hurricane. My flying buddies agree as well.
#50
Moderator
RE: Recommendations for those new to RC Flight
I don't think that's a valid evaluation at all. For me and for many others, it's about expectations. If a guy wants to stick with foamy park flyers, they are fine to start with too. But if a guy plans to move to higher performing planes, which does mean balsa construction and either high end electric or glow/gas power, he's going to be behind the curve if all he's flown previously is a 3 channel Super Cub and a UM T-28. I have both, and the balsa planes are my serious flyers, while the foamies are just toys. They look like toys, the fly like toys, and they get treated like toys.