Guys that play with radio controlled airplanes- get in here

[Sparx]

Now that we have moved to Arizona and have decent weather most of the time, (vs. Chicago which has crap weather most of the time) I want to get a radio controlled airplane in kit form.

A few years back my wife got me a set up as a gift but I returned it knowing at the time I would have rare opportunity to use it. I felt bad returning it, but I assured her that at some point in the future I would go back to it when the situations were better. The future is here.

I cannot recall what the birthday gift airplane was, but it was suppose to be good for a beginner like myself. It may have been a Piper Cub type, my wife is out so I will ask if she can remember later. I would appreciate some help from anyone that plays with these things.

I need the works: plane, (bombs that will fit on the plane LOL!), engine, and control unit. Maybe a book on 'how to" as well, I dunno.

Hope you guys can assist.

Also, I want to build from a kit, I enjoy the experience building provides.

Thanks,

sparx

[myv65]

I can't give much advice, but if you haven't already flown a few times I'd highly recommend an RTF kit until you have the hang of controlling the plane down pat. Hate to see you spend a lot of time on a model, only to crash it during your first flight. It's been a long time (~20 years) since I've flown one and I'm hoping to get back at it in the next few years, but as I recall "flying" was the easiest part versus taking off and landing.

Best luck to ya.

[Sparx]

myv65
What is RTF?
sparx

[Frank1946]

I agree with myv65 get a cheap Ready To Fly (RTF) and ding that up. You don't want to trash your 200 hours to build Sopwith Camel learning how to fly. And this rule applies to all flying models: If you fly it... it will eventually crash.

[John C]

Lots of good tips in here. Click the links:
http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/pac_ct..._18247,00.html

[PandaZ3]

here is a big name in parts

http://www.chiefaircraft.com/

[Sparx]

Thanks to all for the replies, you have given me much information to run with.
sparx