I'm looking to get into RC planes and helicopters, i have always wanted to get one but never have (except for the foam B2-bomber from Toys R Us). I was hoping to get a some information about where to start. I was thinking of maybe a RTF or ARF mobdel of plane or heli as these seem to be for begginers like myself.

Also was wondering if anyone would know of a good model to start off with that isn't to expensive as i'm just starting out and dont want to crash and burn on a $400 plane or heli.

Thanks for any information that you can give and Happy Flying

Take a look at the Beginner's Guide on my web page. It will give you a lot of the information that you need to help you get started.

I have never flown a heli, but I hear they are much more difficult to fly than planes.

Go to towerhobbies.com and type in trainer in the search box. There are bunches of them.


Wings

Tons of good trainers out there.

The Tower Hobbies package deals are generally OK. appx $300 for radio, engine and ARF airplane. Add another $20 to get it flying though... (Epoxy, CA, a quart of fuel.....)

then you get into minimla field equip, which will be about $50. (glow ignitor, cheapie fuel pump, screwdrivers...) or spend a bit more to get a bit better pump and some extra "goodies"

Watch your budget. Its EASY to spend more than you need to.

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Lightfoot's page is GREAT information... seems a bit long to some beginners but its all stuff you REALLY should read.

There's no sense in starting with a silly trainer plane because in three months you're going to want a full scale P-51 Mustang with retractable landing gear and flaps. So don't waste your money, go ahead and get now what you will want in the future. The same goes for the radio. Get a second mortgage, cash in 401's, IRA's, withdraw the children’s college fund and buy that NASA satellite guidance system radio. You'll be glad you did.[sm=thumbup.gif]

O.K. now, that last post was a little sarcastic, really if I were in your shoes I'd find a local flying field and try to get some stick time before investing in everything. Most clubs have a club trainer and are willing to let you try you luck at it just to help you make an informed decision. If your hopelessly hooked already then you can buy used or new, however used is cheaper but have someone check it out before buying it.[:-]

Thanks alot for all the information everyone. i think this will get me on my way to having something in the air sooner rather then later

Actually... the majority of clubs DON'T own a trainer... its one of the nice friendly old guys that brings his own, old, trainer out to the field.

Don't go EXPECTING to be allowed to fly something. They don't HAVE to let you fly thier airplane. (Though they often will....)

I know that clubs usually don't have trainers but the good ones I belong to do, I donate them to the club for that purpose. It is a great gesture to persons wanting to get a try before buying, most will end up showing up two weeks later with a new trainer looking to join the club. It's helped grow our club to the point where instructors have appointments and we have trainer nights on two days a week, this way they are assured to have an instructor available while they are there. It just makes the atmosphere at little easier and comfortable for the newbee.[:-]