During normal operations, how long does a 3 in 1 controller last? Also, where can I find carbon rotorblades. Heading lock gyro, is it a must and what is it's main purpose?

Ty,
Pearl

3 in 1 should last basically as long as you fly your heli, unless you crash it with power and without the fuse mod. Carbon blades can be found just about any place that sells blades.

This should answer your q on the gyro.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TLD8CqsN0M

These are basically necessary for aerobatics, but can help with all kinds of flight, but no they are not necessary. Before you get a gyro you probably want to upgrade your tail motor to a dual tail, DD, or brushless.

hopefully that answers your q's =)