thinking about it
 

I have been lurking in this forum for a few weeks and I am thinking about trying my luck with helis
I have ordered the Aeropro sim to see if I am really interested;)
My experience in rc consist of 12 yrs flying airplanes ,mostly giant scale now
I have noticed that there seems to be a favorite recommendation toward the
Hawk sport to start so that is what I plan to start with.
A couple of questions though

1) I am using the Futaba 9ZAW , it has the ratchet on throttle , will this matter?

2) what kind of learning curve should there be considering I already fly airplanes ( I know that is a loaded question )
I am fairly proficent at flying

3) I don't mind spending the $$ to get the "right" equipment , after spending 3500-4000 per ship on the airplanes I'm use to spending green backs on the hobby ( even though the wife still dosent see it my way )[:o]
I perfer to buy the "better quality" stuff the first time around so good advice will be appreciated
TIA
Greg

RE: thinking about it
 

the rachet wont matter unless you dont like it.

the learning curve is up to the person,but i have heard the folks that have flown planes do better with the hlies.

the hawk is just as good a heli as many other ones out there.
look at ones like the raptor -30,caliber 30,the JR venture 30 cp,ect ect.
but do have fun....

RE: thinking about it
 

I'm a 30 year plank flyer myself. I find that forward flight is almost ingrained as long as I don't lose sight of the fact that overall lift is on (what I think of as) the throttle.
Most of the reflexes you have built over the years will accelerate the process of learning to hover, but nothing but time will make you proficient.
Think of balancing a broomstick on your palm. Until you learn not to over or under correct, it will get away from you.

RE: thinking about it
 

Buying a simulator is a good start as you can practice and get used to the controls before putting your heli in danger.

RE: thinking about it
 

1.) Reversing the flat metal detent spring will solve that problem. Works just fine for fixed wing (I started with fixed wing).

2.) Learning curve? Don't worry about it. I read somewhere a while back that says is all, remember that there is no time limit. Just try to be a little better each time you go out.

3.) I personally fly a Hawk Sport and think it is the best choice for a beginner (or experienced pilot) but, as stated, most of the available helicopters get the job done. If you have a well stocked local hobby shop, consider what they offer. You might want to consider a 50 or 60 size machine. More money but also much more stable and visible. Obviously your radio won't be a problem. I use a 9C myself.

Regards,

Mike

RE: thinking about it
 

Hawk is a good bird, a few guys at my field have them, but consider what the guys at your field are flying. When they look it over, they are more likely to spot a problem quicker if it is a bird they are familiar with, and used to maintaining.