Looking for a Radio Control Spy Plane to Add to your Fleet? Check out the EDF U-2

In the 1950's, a brilliant designer, Kelly Johnson, working for Lockheed Aircraft Corporation came up with a design intended for US military strategic reconnaissance missions.  The new craft would need to maintain an operational ceiling of 70,000 feet to avoid detection by Soviet radar. It was believed that it would be immune to detection as well as their fighters and missiles at 70,000 feet. Johnson and his team's design was unique, giving their brain-child sailplane-like wings that are amazingly efficient and a jet that's easy to control at very high altitudes where it's intended to operate, but difficult to fly at lower altitudes, sensitive to cross-winds and difficult to land.  The US Military turned down the initial design, but the CIA entered into a contract with Lockheed and the first 20 U-2's ever built were operated by the CIA.  The famous U-2 Incident occurred on May 1, 1960, when CIA pilot Francis Gary Powers was shot down over Soviet airspace. There's a great Wikipedia article about the U-2 at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lockheed_U-2 and you can read about the U-2 Incident at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960_U-2_incident

Phase 3 has generated a lot of buzz and excitement with the release of their well-designed radio controlled U-2 model aircraft. Our first shipment of U-2's is en route and we'll have 'em in, and ready to ship out on December 30 2010.

The U-2 is a high performance radio controlled electric ducted fan jet that flies like a glider. It's loaded with great features. The U-2's wings plug in to its fuselage - they're easy to remove for transport and reattach. The ready-to-fly version (RTF) comes with absolutely everything needed except AA alkaline batteries for the radio Transmitter. The included 5-channel Aerosport 2.4GHz radio and receiver are full range, fully proportional, and can be used with other planes. The large pop-off canopy is held on with magnets for quick and easy access to the LiPo battery. It will be easy to keep the plane looking brand new for years - the super durable foam is damage-resistant, easy to repair and can be touched up with paint. Ready To Fly U-2 Radio Control Spy Plane EDF Brushless

In addition to the RTF version, the U-2 also comes in an IBind version and a Kit. The RTF and IBind versions come in the black stealth color scheme and the Kit version is white. The IBind version includes an Airtronics RX500 receiver (which is super easy to bind with any Airtronics or Aerosport 2.4GHz transmitter) but it does not include a transmitter (for those who like to save a few bucks and make use of their own transmitter). IBind U-2 RC Jet Spy Plane

Note: The jet's wings will flex in flight as with the full-size U-2. You should avoid pulling high G maneuvers when flying at full speed or after a steep dive, to avoid over-stressing the airframe.

• Wingspan: 1,690mm (66.5 Inches)
• Length: 1,030mm (40.5 Inches)
• The RTF version comes with fully proportional, full range Aerosport 2.4GHz Radio
• The RTF and IBind versions include an RX500 5 channel 2.4GHz Receiver
• Durable, Lightweight Factory-Molded Foam Airframe
• EPP Foam Construction is Easily Repaired and Damage Resistant
• Wings are Reinforced with 3 Internal Carbon Fiber Rods
• Plug-In Wings Make it Easy to Transport
• No Glue Required
• Realistic Stealth Color Scheme
• Easy Access to Battery Via Large pop-off Canopy (held on with magnets)
• Custom, Powerful Brushless Motor Included
• High Performance Fan Unit Included
• Li-Po Battery and Balancing Charger Included with the RTF & IBind versions (but not the Kit)
  
• 3 Factory Fitted Servos
• Smooth, Fast and Stable Flying

After Christmas Sale at RC Planes and Copters

Get the Most for Your Hobby Dollars - How To Get Best Results from your RC LiPO Battery Packs

I know how exciting it is to receive a shipment of new RC products - and how great the temptation can be to rush out and try them immediately. But I've learned (yes, sometimes the hard way), that to get the best value for my money, protect my RC products and personal safety, it is smart to cool my jets a bit and take the time to read the safety and use guidelines first. This is especially true when it comes to LiPo batteries.

Here are some Guidelines on Safety, How to Break In a New LiPo Battery Pack, Charging, Discharging, Storage Charge and Disposal.

Safety Guidelines

1. Always use a charger specifically designed for Lithium Polymer batteries. Never use NiCD or NiMH type chargers to charge LiPO batteries. Failure to do so will damage the batteries and may cause fire and personal injury.
2. Always charge batteries in a fire proof container. Do not charge batteries on wood, cloth, carpet, in your model, or on any other flammable material. Have a chemical fire extinguisher near by in case of fire.
3. Never leave batteries unattended while charging. Always observe batteries when charging so that you can react to any problems that may occur.
4. If a battery is deformed, swollen or appears damaged, DO NOT CHARGE. Follow the disposal instructions below to properly and safely dispose the battery.
5. Any time you have an accident with your model or if the battery swells “balloons” or if the battery exceeds temperature guidelines, follow these safety steps:

a. Immediately remove the battery pack from your model or charger.
b. Place the battery in a non-flammable, well ventilated area.
c. Observe the battery for 30 minutes from a safe distance.
d. After 30 minutes, if the pack appears stable, is not swollen and does not show any signs of damage, return the battery pack to normal use with caution.


6. Do not allow exposed battery wires to touch each other. This may cause the battery to short and potentially cause a fire.
7. Store your batteries in a cool, dry place between 40-80 Fº / 4-26 Cº.
8. Do not assemble unmatched or dissimilar LiPO cells.
9. Store battery packs out of the reach of children and pets.

Charging Instructions

1. Venom Lithium Polymer Power Cells and the other LiPo battery packs with more than a single cell that we carry, feature a separate balancing plug that isolates each cell in a pack and charges it independently. This ensures that all cells peak equally and discharge at the same rate during use. Refer to the instructions that came with the battery pack regarding how to identify the balancing plug.
2. Charge each battery pack individually. Never charge battery packs in series. Charging packs in series may result in improper charger cell recognition and an improper charging rate that may lead to overcharging, cell damage and fire. We recommend using the Venom Pro Charger™ when charging your LiPO batteries. The Venom Pro Charger™ is designed to automatically peak charge individual pack cells (up to 6 cell packs) with convenience and ease. We carry the Pro Charger, the Pro Charger Plus and they are available in versions with power supply and without power supply.
3. Always check to make sure that your charger settings match those listed on the battery pack label. Refer to the battery label for the proper cell count and charging amperage setting. Selecting a cell count or amperage charge rate other than the one listed on the battery pack will damage the battery and may cause a fire.
4. Make sure the battery connections are connected in the correct polarity. A wrong connection will damage the battery and may cause a fire.
5. Always check battery pack voltage before charging. Do not discharge LiPO batteries below 3.0 Volts per cell. The voltage of a typical LiPO cell at rest is 3.7 Volts. If the battery pack appears swollen or damaged, DO NOT attempt to charge it. Check the voltage and follow Step 5 from the Safety Guidelines section.
6. Do not charge at over 1C current. C= battery pack mAh capacity ÷ 1000. Divide the battery mAh capacity by 1,000 to determine the proper charge rate. 



Example:  1200mah ÷ 1000 = 1.20 Amps

Charge Rate for Venom Power LiPO Battery Packs, example:
a. 800mah Capacity = 0.80 Amps
b. 1200mah Capacity = 1.20 Amps
c. 2000mah Capacity = 2.00 Amps


Some packs will let you charge at greater than 1C, but you'll shorten their overall lifespan if you do.

7. Do not peak charge to more than 4.2 Volts per cell. Example: A 2S Battery Pack contains two cells, therefore the peak voltage should not exceed 8.4 Volts.
8. Battery Temperature is critical. Please use the following guidelines:

a. Charge Temp Range: 32 - 110Fº / 0-43Cº
b. Discharge Temp Range: 32 - 140Fº / 0-60Cº
c. Storage Temp Range: 40 - 80Fº / 4-26Cº

For optimum performance in cold climates, warm the pack to 100Fº/ 37Cº before use.

9. If the battery exceeds the temperature guidelines as above, isolate the battery pack and follow Step 5 from the Guidelines and Warnings section.


Breaking-In a New Battery

1. New LiPO battery packs may require 12 or more charge/discharge cycles before the battery’s optimum performance is reached.
2. During this time, it is recommended that the battery pack is not discharged over 7C. 7C = 7 x 1C, where 1C= battery pack mAh capacity ÷ 1000. Example: [(1250mAh ÷ 1000) x 7] = 8.75 Amps

Recommended Maximum Discharge Rates During Break-In Period:
a. 800mah Capacity = 5.4 Amps
b. 1200mah Capacity = 8.4 Amps
c. 2000mah Capacity = 14 Amps


Discharging Instructions

1. Never discharge a LiPO battery pack at more than the manufacturer’s recommended discharge rate. The discharge rate is:
Battery pack capacity (mah) ÷ 1000 x Pack C rating
Example for 15c packs: (3200mah ÷ 1000) x 15c = 48 Amps
Example for 20c packs: (2100mah ÷ 1000) x 20c = 42 Amps


If your speed control's low power shut-off has kicked in, don't reset it. The shut-off usually means your battery is at the low end of its voltage, and if you reset, you could cause it to drop below the recommended discharge rate, and damage your battery pack.

Storage Charge

If you are not going to use the battery pack for longer than one month, charge the pack with a storage charge. The cells will stay in balance longer and the pack will only lose a slight amount of voltage.

Battery Disposal Instructions

1. Discharge battery pack to 2.5 Volts per cell or less.
2. Fill a bucket with enough water to submerge the battery pack completely.
3. Add salt to the water until no more salt will dissolve; the water is now saturated with salt.
4. Place the battery pack in the bucket and leave submerged in the salt water solution for 24 hours.
5. Remove the battery pack from the salt water and test the voltage.
6. If the voltage does not read 0.0 Volts, re-submerge and re-test until the voltage reads 0.0 Volts.
7. Once the battery pack has been discharged to 0.0 Volts, it is safe to dispose.


It's Quick and Easy to safely dispose of your old rechargeable batteries:
Call2Recycle.org has developed a nationwide free battery (and cell phone) drop-off and collection program. Click the link below and enter your zip code to find locations of stores & businesses where you can drop off your old rechargeable batteries for safe disposal and recycling: Battery-Drop-off-Locations-Near-You  When we enter our zip, dozens of nearby businesses pop up. Give it a Try!

What's been your experience with LiPo's?  What's your favorite power source?  Would love to hear from you.

Here's a link to the RC Batteries Chargers and Power Supplies on my website.  Thanks for shopping at RC Planes and Copters!

Until next time, keep it safe and keep it flying!

RC Helicopters--Coaxial, Fixed or Collective Pitch Setup?

If you have decided you want to fly RC helicopters, and further decided you want to pursue the activity on a hobby level, you next decision will be whether to start with an electric or gas-powered model. If for whatever reason you have your heart set on a gas copter, stop reading now and go on to my blog about nitro helis, but if you are still open to suggestions, there are three good reasons for the novice to choose electric:  1. they are easier to fly, simpler to operate and maintain, and more reliable; 2. they are quieter and non-messy; and 3. they cost a lot less money.

If you are willing to consider an electric model, you have at least one more major decision to make and that is the pitch setup.  Without getting too technical, “pitch’ refers to the angle of the helicopter’s rotor or blade, the rotor blade being the part of the helicopter that produces lift.  There are 3 types of pitch designs for RC helicopters—coaxial, fixed pitch (FP) and collective pitch (CP), and each has its pros and cons.  A traditional pitch design (such as FP or CP) uses one main rotor and a tail rotor to generate torque and produce lift, while the coaxial setup has twin-mains and no tail blade.  Coaxial helicopters are by far the more stable of the 3 pitch options, meaning they are also easier to fly, an important concern for most novices. Coaxial copters also come RTF, or Ready to Fly, right out of the box, another plus for someone just starting out.

Fixed Pitch helicopters are a step up from coaxial in terms of performance capabilities, but are also less stable and therefore harder to learn to fly, and a good choice for the novice who wants to start out with something slightly more challenging, but still manageable, than a coaxial copter. Collective pitch helicopters offer maximal handling and performance; capable of fully inverted 3D flying, collective pitch models are also the trickiest electric copters for beginners to master. The least stable and least forgiving of the 3 pitch options, CP rotor setups involve the steepest learning curve for newcomers and are not considered a good choice for those without previous experience with RC helicopters. Because of their relative instability and better performance capabilities, CP copters are also more dangerous than coaxial or FPs, and are probably best viewed as something to work toward but flown only after the novice has mastered the rudiments of RC helicopters and acquired good, strong flying skills.      





Venom Beacon 24GHz 4-Channel RTF Helicopter

Align T-Rex 250SE Super Combo RC Helicopter

Electric RC Helicopters

Is That a Park Flyer I See Under the Tree?

With the express train that is the holidays already barreling down the tracks, you can bet lots of folks are hoping they’ve been good enough this year for Santa to bring them a shiny new radio controlled aircraft. If it’ll be your first RC plane or helicopter, have you given much thought to what kind of plane or helicopter you want to fly? If space is at all a consideration--i.e., you don’t have a whole lot of it—or price or ease of operation, you should think seriously about starting out with a park flyer.

According to the AMA, the Academy of Model Aeronautics, park flyers are the fastest growing subset in radio controlled model flying (aka aero modeling). Because of their reasonable cost and ease of flying, they are particularly popular with younger people both as a sport and as a recreational activity. Powered electrically, park flyers are small and lightweight—most are 2 lbs. or less—with wing spans of 8-36 inches. Including both fixed-wing (plane) and rotary-wing (helicopter) models, park flyers are also quiet and because no fuel is involved, clean and non-polluting. They are also slow-flying, with speeds ranging from 20-60 mph, making them ideal for beginners to master the basics of RC flying.

In addition to being less expensive, simpler to fly and maintenance free, park flyers, unlike other beginner aircraft such as standard gas-powered trainers, require relatively little space to operate safely. Gas trainers like the Hobbico Nexstar are great planes but should only be flown at a flying field or similar large, unobstructed open space; local ordinances permitting, park flyers can be flown in public parks, or in gyms, practice fields, sports arenas, even good-sized backyards.

While you don’t need a flying field to enjoy your park flyer, there is no better or safer place to operate RC planes and helicopters. They are run by AMA-sanctioned flight clubs which follow proper RC etiquette and enforce strict safety standards. With over 2500 chartered clubs and better than 2000 flight fields in the US, there’s a good chance there’ll be one near you. To locate a club or field in your vicinity, visit the AMA’s site at www.modelaircraft.org/clubs.



RC Planes and Copters

Sky Eagle EP Park Flyer

Megatech Real World Police Airplane RTF

Megatech Sky Trooper RTF Helicopter








   

RC Helicopter Safety Tips

RC helicopters have certainly come a long way over the past few decades. The introduction of smaller, lighter, more powerful batteries; improvements in rotor technology such as coaxial blade design; and the wide availability of assorted electric models have all contributed to the upsurge in heli popularity. Once considered the most difficult to operate and among the most expensive to purchase and maintain of all RC vehicles, helicopters are now more widely flown than airplanes in some parts of the world. While coaxial electric birds are more stable and thus easier to fly than nitro-powered, fixed or collective pitch models, hobby-grade helicopters, whether electric or glow, still deserve respect and, as with all RC aircraft, must be treated with caution--the safety of pilot and spectator should always be of paramount concern. Hobby-grade helicopters produce very high rotor speeds and their blades are capable of inflicting serious injury. To ensure your own safety, as well as that of others, learn and put into practice AMA and manufacturer safety guidelines; follow them to the letter pre-, during, and post-flight.

Get in the habit of running through a pre-flight checklist each time before you fly. Make sure the radio’s batteries are fully charged and all controls are operating properly, and check to see your signal output is strong enough for normal flying ranges. Work the servos, linkages and control surfaces, and be sure all nuts, bolts, screws are properly tightened. Always start out with a fully charged battery pack—if you are counting on 10-12 minutes of fight time, you won’t get it with a less than fully charged battery. Until the various pre-flight checks are committed to memory, it is not a bad idea to work from a written list to be sure you don’t overlook anything.

Be aware of wind conditions--it’s just too windy, there’ll be another day--and don’t push your helicopter past its limits until and unless you’ve attained strong flying skills—even then, know that you are increasing the chances of damaging your copter in a crash. Give yourself ample open space in which to fly, with no trees, power-lines, telephone poles or other obstructions within or adjacent to your pattern area. And don’t fly too close to yourself or others—keep a distance of 25 feet or better. If something goes wrong, these birds can come down fast and you don’t want to be in one’s path of descent. When taking off, stay away from spinning blades—even smaller models generate serious blade speed—and on landing, keep a safe distance until the blades have stopped turning.

If you follow the rules for RC safety, and use good commonsense, you will be able to fly with confidence and assurance, by showing respect for your helicopter and its capabilities and concern for the well-being of others. Flying helis is a great hobby—it’s our responsibility to make it as safe as possible. Have fun and keep 'em flying!



RC Helis

Venom Beacon 4-Channel Coaxial RTF Helicopter

Venom Kodiak Coaxial 3-Channel RC Helicopter

Touchdown! for Airtronics with SD-6G 2.4GHz Radio

Whether you are a novice looking for a good entry-level radio, or a pro pilot in the market for a value-packed 6-channel rig, you will be hard pressed to find a model with more features and better performance at a better price than the Airtronics SD-6G.  Sporting 2.4GHz Frequency-Hopping spread spectrum technology, the versatile SD-6G is ideal for both airplanes and helicopters, from trainer models to sophisticated sports and 3D aircraft. Paired with Sanwa’s small, lightweight (under 12 grams with case) and easy to bind 92224 receiver (compatible with all Sanwa 2.4 radios), the transmitter’s FHSS-1 equipment ensures interference-free, full-range performance. Whether you’re flying mini or scale, nitro or electric aircraft, this is one radio that complements just about any plane or copter out there that doesn’t need more than 6 channels.

The SD-6G’s menu set-up is modeled on Airtronics acclaimed SD-10G, but the SD-6G is easier to program than its big brother; and novices will particularly appreciate the well-designed, clearly-written, user-friendly instruction manual. Key features include a 10 model memory, allowing storage of programs for up to 10 different planes or helicopters; advanced airplane and helicopter software; FN, F1 and F2 flight modes ( planes and copters); 2 program mixes; gyro switch for helis; and trainer system compatible for Buddy Boxing with SD-5G, 6G and 10G radios. Instead of Ni-Cds, the transmitter uses 6 AA Alkaline rechargeable batteries, which come included.

Coming with a 1 year warranty, its look and feel is that of a much more expensive radio, which brings us to possibly its very best feature—the SD-6G is priced at under $200.00! You may find another 6 channel radio that rivals its features in some areas, but as a total package, this model is going to be hard to beat. For versatility, performance and affordability, Airtronics SD-6G is truly in a class by itself.

 

FEATURES:

• 10-Model Memory
• Advanced Airplane and Heli Software
• 3 Flight Modes (Heli and Air)
• 2 P(rogram)-Mixes
• 3-Axis Dual Rate and Expo (program feature)
• 5-Point Throttle Curve (Heli and Air)
• Gyro Switch (Heli)
• Advanced Swashplate CCPM Mix (2 and 3 sx)
• Advanced Swashplate Leveling (Heli)
• Servo Monitor
• Throttle/Engine Cut Switch (prgrm feature)
• "Buddy Box" Trainer Compatible with other SD-6G, SD-5G and SD-10G radios
• Adjustable Gimbal Spring Tension
• Advanced Aircraft Mixes
• Direct Select Model Select Buttons

Program Features (Common for Both Heli and Air):

• Model Naming
• Model Select
• Model "Direct Select"
• Data Reset
• Data Copy
• Trainer System (Compatible with SD-5G/10G)
• Throttle Cut
• Wing/Swash Type
• Dual Rates (3 axis) (Common or Individual for Flight Modes)
• Exponential (3 axis) (Common or Individual for Flight Modes)
• 3 Flight Modes
• Individual or Common Trims
• Program Mixes (2)
• Servo Reverse
• Sub Trim
• EPA
• Servo Monitor
• Stop Watch

Airplane Functions:

• Wing Type
• 5-Point Throttle Curve
• Aileron Differential
• Flaperon Mix
• Flap-Elevator Mix
• Dual Elevator Mix
• Ailvator
• V-Tail
• Delta
• Program Mixes (2) (Note: Curves, D/R, EPA, All Mixes can be individual for Flight Modes)

Helicopter Functions:

• CCPM/Swash Type (2 and 3 servo swash plates)
• 5-Point Throttle Curve
• 5-Point Pitch Curve
• Revo-Mix
• Gyro Control
• EPA for Individual Swash Servo (swash leveling)
• 3-Axis EPA post-mix
• Swash Mix Control
• Throttle Trim Inhibit for Aerobatic Flight Mode
• Program Mixes (2) (Note: Curves, Gyro, D/R, EPA, All Mixes can be individual for Flight Modes)

Specifications:

• 6-channel operation with RX600 receiver
• FHSS-1 Frequency-Hopping Spread-Spectrum
• 2.4GHz band
• Programming Features: Aircraft AND Helicopter
• 10-Model Memory
• Mode 2
• TX Battery: 6 AA 1200mAh Ni-MH  

Airtronics SD-6G 2.4GHz 6-Channel Radio

Airtronics SD-10G 10-Ch 2.4 radio w/7-Ch Rx

RC Airplanes

RC Model Aviation Clubs

If you're looking to fly RC airplanes and/or helicopters as a hobby, as opposed to an occasional diversion, working with and learning from seasoned pilots is absolutely the best way for beginners to get started. And the best way to hook-up with experienced fliers is through your local flying clubs. The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) maintains a directory of flying clubs, searchable by zip code or city/state, on its website at  http://www.modelaircraft.org/clubsearch.aspx, and another way to find clubs and RC enthusiasts is through your local hobby stores. It is certainly possible to learn to fly on your own; many excellent RC pilots have taken that route, but many more who tried self-instruction found it so difficult and had so little to show for their efforts besides damaged or destroyed aircraft, that they gave up in frustration. With RC clubs within driving distance in most communities across the country, there is just no reason not to take advantage of the assistance that membership in one (or more) can offer.

Some, if not most, flying clubs have a designated instructor(s), many of whom will have been certified by AMA to teach novice pilots. Most clubs also have club trainers, planes designed for beginners which the instructor and new pilot will use while training. Working with a certified instructor will significantly shorten the beginner's learning curve, while modeling the right way to safely operate and, in the case of glow-powered planes, maintain an RC aircraft. Instructors typically use the Buddy Box system for teaching; this involves the use of two transmitters (TX), a master and slave, linked by a cable. The novice holds the slave and the instructor the master, and transfer of control of the aircraft from one to the other is effected by depressing or releasing a switch on the master box. Buddy boxing eliminates any delay in passing a single TX and allows the instructor to take control at once if trouble looms. This takes pressure off the novice aviator and boosts confidence, and also serves to avert many beginner-error induced crashes.

Club or side-by-side instruction is the easiest and safest way to lean to fly and the buddy box is the preferred method of club instruction. If you are thinking about taking up flying RC airplanes or helicopters and ready to get started, do yourself a favor and check out a club or 2 in your area. You will not only learn everything you need to know to be successful in the hobby, you also will have the opportunity to make new friends with folks who share your interest in RC aviation.    



Academy of Model Aeronautics

RC Airplanes

RC Helicopters

http://www.rcplanesandcopters.com/










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Venom GPV-1: GP Racing Realism in a 1/8 RC Bike

Most of my experience with radio controlled vehicles (okay, almost ALL my experience) has been with RC aircraft and that mainly with airplanes. I do love the helicopters but at this stage have better skills and more confidence with the planes. I have also dabbled with a few RC cars and trucks, but had never tried out a motorcycle until a friend bought one a few months back and invited me to join him on its maiden run.

His new purchase was a model we happen to carry at RC Planes and Copters--yes, we do have a few RC products other than electric airplanes and helicopters--one introduced by Venom in 2008, the GPV-1 RTR 1/8 scale racer. We both have had so much fun with it that I thought you might you like know a little bit more about this exceptionally well-designed, highly detailed, high performing yet versatile RC motorcycle.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the GPV-1 is how great it looks. Modeled after Moto GP racing motorcycles, these bikes look so realistic that you’ll think someone turned a shrinking ray on one of the big models. And the GPV-1’s performance is equally outstanding: it’s fast enough and handles so well at high speeds that there is plenty to interest those who really know their way around RC ground vehicles, but also simple and manageable enough for beginners to operate. That’s not to say that 2 wheels are as easy to handle as 4; the GPV-1 is more stable at higher speeds and beginners will need practice to keep the bike upright at lower speeds. The good news is these bikes are very durable and hold up well to the inevitable crashes that novices should expect as part of the learning process. Once you begin to get the hang of the GPV-1, you can start making adjustments and fine tuning the suspension, and for competition purposes or just to have the hottest RC motorcycle on the block, a wide array of hop-ups are available.

If you are an older teen or adult who is into RC vehicles and wants something new and challenging, and values superlative engineering, great performance and attention to detail, the Venom GPV-1 may be right up your alley. Available in red, yellow and green, with Venom’s VR3T 3-channel transmitter, these bikes are Ready to Run and everything is included, even AA batteries.     




FEATURES:

• Adjustable Rake Angle

• 6061 T6 Aliminum Components

• Polycarbonate Body is pre-painted and decaled

• Realistic Pro-painted Neo-cell Foam Rider

• O-Ring sealed inverted forks with Teflon Bushings

• 6 Ball bearings on the Chassis

• 1-piece Truss-type Swingarm and captured shock pivot pin integrated into swingarm

• Glass-filled Nylon parts

• Front & Rear Track Stands

• 6-CELL 7.2V 1200mAh NiMh Micro Battery Pack is included

• COMES in 6 Different Frequencies for Competitive Racing

• The V-Series 18R Micro ESC features reverse lockout and an easy one button setup

• Adjustable Down Stop

• Quick-Change Style Spur Gear

• Built-in Steering Dampener with Auxillary Dampening

• Fireball 370 Micro Motor with Machined Alloy Motor Plate

• Micro Roller Chain

• Adjustable Triple Clamps

• Indexable Cam Chain Tensioner

• Adjustable Shock Angle, Composite Threaded Rear Shock Body

• Scale Exhaust 

• Y-Spoke Wheels

• VENOM'S Griplox Tire and Molded Insert System Featuring High-Grip Natural Rubber

• ALL VENOM RC MOTORCYCLES COME WITH TOLL-FREE CUSTOMER SERVICE AND WARRANTY

Venom GPV-1 RTR RC Motorcycle

RC Radio Rigs

A (Still Learning) RC Enthusiast Looks Back

When I first began this blog in the summer of 2010, my husband and I had only been flying radio control airplanes for a little over 5 months, and had yet to try our hands at RC helicopters. Although we had done quite a bit of reading on RC aircraft, from a practical standpoint we started out knowing virtually nothing--except that it sure looked like a lot of fun!—and while we have learned much, we acknowledge that we both have a long way to go to realize our goals as in the hobby. Sometimes at the airfield, I feel I’m still at the early beginner stage and other times, after a particularly good day, I think I’m ready for whatever intermediate level challenges come my way. Sounds kind of like life, hmm? Some days, good; others, not so, or as John Denver sang, “Some days are diamonds, some days are stones.”

Our idea in starting the blog was to write about what we knew concerning RC airplanes and helicopters—admittedly, very little, at first—to get up to speed on technical matters as quickly as possible, and to provide news and information about upcoming events, new products, and any issues or concerns relevant to RC enthusiasts. The idea was to appeal to those at a relatively early stage of the air modeling experience, and to mix in enough news about the hobby to appeal to more experienced fliers as well. Some times I think we’ve done a pretty good job of sticking to that original premise, but in looking back, it is obvious we have occasionally strayed off course--que sera, sera.

I guess what I’m really trying to say is that our blog, like our RC skills, is very much a work in progress, and as we mature in knowledge and competency in the hobby, our blog will hopefully reflect that growth and thus appeal to a wider audience within our fraternity. Having said that, we intend to always keep in mind the needs and interests of those new to RC aviation, and to offer as much advice and provide as much pertinent information to novices as possible. Newcomers are, after all, the lifeblood and future of our sport/pastime, and we all have a responsibility to assist and encourage them in every way we can, just as we have benefited from the kind tutelage of more experienced pilots.

This is probably old hat to you RC pros but noobies might not know that lawnmowers can fly: 



http://www.rcplanesandcopters.com/

Great Prices on RC Airplanes

Save on RC Helicopters

RC Planes and Copters for 18 and under

Don't Stress Out--Fly RC Airplanes!

With the economy still in the doldrums, the level of political discourse in our country at a nadir, and all the daily pressures and frustrations, it is very important to find healthy, constructive outlets for letting off steam.  It may seem hard, what with work and all our other responsibilities, but we all need to make time just for ourselves, to do things that give us pleasure or provide us satisfaction. This is, in fact, the exact reason I took up flying radio controlled airplanes and helicopters in the first place, but what began a short while back as a simple relaxation tool has become so much more. Today, I am certain that I’ll be involved in this wonderful hobby as long as I am able, and only wish I had come to it sooner.

 

As a great philosopher once stated, “Different strokes for different folks,” but RC aviation is one leisure-time activity with mass appeal for all ages, young and old. It is affordable for most, easy for novices to get the hang of with a little practice, yet demanding enough to offer real challenges asyour skills improve and you tackle faster, more maneuverable aircraft. Unlike some hobbies, RC aviation encourages you to get outdoors with family and friends but, with the right kind of airplane or helicopter, when the weather is bad, you can fly indoors anytime of day or night.

 

In the past, you had to have pretty deep pockets to purchase a model plane, and then be willing to spend many hours to master the requisite skills; the same held true for RC helicopters, only more so. Now, good quality electric and nitro trainer models are available in the $100-$200 range, and improvements in stability and reliability have made the learning curve for beginners much less steep.  If you have ever had in interest in flying, you owe it to yourself to investigate RC flying. It is one of the best ways I have found to, for just a few hours, put aside all your cares and do something fun, exciting and rewarding, something just for you. Try it—you may find it’s the perfect prescription for what ails you.



Venom Micro Troop Transporter RTF RC Helicopter

Venom Kodiak RC Helicopter

Phase 3 Mini Spitfire RR

Electric RC Helicopters

Electric RC Airplanes

http://www.rcplanesandcopters.com/

RC Helicopters--Electrics v. Nitros

From an aero-engineering perspective, RC helicopters are amazingly sophisticated machines, able to execute tricks and stunts, movements and maneuvers that far surpass the performance capabilities of “real” helicopters. But learning to control a hobby-grade RC copter isn’t something that happens overnight; it takes practice and persistence to acquire the tools to be successful, and novices are well advised to seek the assistance of an experienced pilot and to utilize training aids such as flight simulators. While it’s true that helicopters are the most difficult to master of all RC aircraft, it is equally true that they are the most rewarding and exciting to fly.

Many beginners opt to start out with electric-powered helicopters, as they are not so expensive and less difficult to operate than nitro models. Electrics are also more environmentally friendly—they don’t cause noise or emission-related pollution—and easier to maintain. Improved technology has resulted in smaller, lighter, more powerful batteries and longer flight times per battery charge. New, coaxial  rotor designs provide increased stability and greater ease of control, significantly shortening the learning curve for those just learning.


While electrics have come a long way in recent years, most serious enthusiasts still consider nitro-powered models to be the ultimate in RC helicopters. Running on a mixture of nitro or glow fuel, they are noisy, messy, and expensive to purchase and maintain but in return offer a higher degree of realism and for some a more challenging experience than electrics. If you want to get flying as quickly as possible, without a major investment of time and effort, you can always start off with an electric model and move on to nitro helicopters as you hone your skills and gain confidence. However, many RC pilots begin on and stay with electrics, for some or all of the reasons previously mentioned.

If you’ve been thinking about getting into RC helicopters, there has never been a better timer than now, in terms of availability of models and affordable prices. Do conduct a little research before you buy; the internet is a great resource, as are magazines for hobbyists like “RC Heli” and “Rotary Modeler.” And when you’re ready to start shopping, you’ll not only find the best selection but also the most competitive prices online. What are you waiting for? Get started and get flying!



Electric RC Helicopters

ALIGN T-Rex 250SE Super Combo

ALIGN T-Rex 450 Pro Super Combo

VEMOM Beacon 4-CH w/2.4GHz RTF

RC Planes and Copters.com

An RC Airplanes Primer for Parents and Grandparents

Flying RC airplanes isn’t just an activity for adults: young folks, male and female, get a huge kick out of  remote control aircraft, too.  Hobby, sport and learning opportunity, aero-modeling is a wonderful way for parents or grand-parents to create lasting memories of good times shared with a child or grandchild. If you have been thinking of gifting that special young person with an RC plane, but are yourself new to radio controlled flying, before you head to the hobby store or start an online search, here are a few pointers:

1. Take into Account the Age of the Child—Your starting point for determining a particular model’s age-appropriateness is the manufacturer’s recommendation. Online ads (or if you’re shopping a brick and mortar, the product’s packaging) should indicate a minimum age: “8 and up,” “ages 10 to adult,” “14 to adult” or “18 and up.” If the item is simply labeled “for beginners,” more research may be needed; some “beginner” planes are too difficult and unsafe for younger children to operate, even with grownup supervision. If in doubt, consult with someone at a good hobby store or reputable Internet RC forum who is familiar with that specific product.

2.  Consider Where You Plan to Fly—Will you be indoors, outside or both? Will you fly in a backyard or vacant parking lot, or do you have access to a park or flying field? If you intend to fly mostly indoors, be sure the plane is primarily designed for that purpose. For just getting your feet wet, electric toy models can make good, fun starter planes. If you want to fly outdoors, you may want to opt for a bigger plane, but not one too large for your primary flying space. In terms of both size and speed (novices should not start out with very fast planes), park flyers are good choices for decent-sized yards or parks and also work for larger spaces such as flying fields.

3.  Decide How Much You Will Spend—Since the answer to this drives all other considerations, it is the first thing you need to determine. Good park flyers and trainers are available for under $100.00, and toy planes for less than half that. My advice would be to start with a relatively inexpensive model and see how serious you are about RC flying; if one or both of you really get the bug, there will be plenty of time later to spend more on a fancier plane.



There are a bewildering number of options when it comes to choosing that first RC plane, but don’t be intimidated. Think about these tips, talk to folks at the hobby store, read a few online articles (just Google “RC planes for beginners”).  Some exciting, memorable times are in store for you and your young person, so remember to have fun, stay safe, and keep it flying!

Venom Island Hopper Park Flyer

Electric RC Airplanes

RC Planes for Kids

Radio Control Toys

XTM's Rail 1/8 RC Off-Road Buggy Rules!

As its title attests, this blog-site is primarily about radio controlled aviation, the fun of flying RC airplanes and helicopters and the joy of sharing the hobby with others. Once in a while, I may post something about aviation in general or write on RC products other than aircraft. This time out, I would like to introduce you to one of the most exciting all-terrain RC vehicles on the market today, XTM Racing’s The Rail, a first and so far only one of its kind 1/8 scale sand rail. In terms of performance and toughness, this four-wheel drive, ready to run buggy is amazingly like its full scale counterpart, easily handling any terrain you choose to run—whether on pavement, dirt, gravel or sand, the Rail rules! And speaking of sand, the Rail’s optional paddle tires promote additional stability and let you run the toughest sand courses without fear of getting stuck.

XTM’s engineers really earned their keep when they designed this buggy, taking special pains to eliminate over-heating with one large fan for the brushless ESC and two for the brushless motor. For maximal durability, XTM went with heavy-duty, oil-filled aluminum shocks and an adjustable suspension. And the Rail comes with Airtronics MX-Sport 2.4GHz radio, with such features as memory for 10-models, ABS brake function, receiver bind button, battery-less memory retention, throttle failsafe and more. The MX-Sport is considered one of the best values out there in a 3-Channel FHSS radio system, and may quickly become your favorite for all your RC cars and trucks.
Another tip of the hat goes to XTM for designing the Rail so that many of their buggy hop-ups and accessories will fit. With its performance characteristics, reliability, and outstanding features, the XTM 1/8 Rail may be just what you are looking for in an off-road RC buggy.



FEATURES:
• Heavy-duty brushless matched system with industrial strength brushless ESC and heat-sinked high-torque brushless motor and 3 cooling fans to eliminate over-heating
• Aluminum chassis plate, aluminum side plates and modular aluminum cage
• Threaded aluminum oil-filled shocks with heavy duty shock shafts
• Three race-level adjustable differentials
• Adjustable race-tuned front and rear variable suspension geometry for camber & toe-in
• Standard tire design good for multiple surfaces and optional sand-paddle tires available
• Adjustable wing
• Includes the high-quality, highly-acclaimed Airtronics 2.4GHz MX-Sport radio
• Includes a metal-gear high-torque steering servo

REQUIRES:
• One or Two 6-cell 7.2V NiMh Batteries or One or Two 2-cell 7.4V LiPo Packs
• Charger for battery
• The one-pack setup requires 2 female 4MM gold connectors with shrink tubing (if not on battery) and the two-pack setup 4 female gold connectors and a jumper extension
• (8) "AA" Alkaline Batteries for Transmitter

XTM Rail 1/8 RTR Buggy

Radio Control Toys

RC Radios

Electric RC Helicopters

Improvements to battery-powered RC aircraft over the past decade have brought many newcomers to the ranks of radio control flying, especially where the helicopter branch of the club is concerned. Technological advances in battery and rotor design make it possible to fly helicopters without the drawbacks which in past made many steer clear of them. Before electric models became widely available, it was necessary to spend $800-900 or more for a gas-powered heli. There was no such thing as Ready to Fly--copters came in kit form and took many hours and considerable skill to build. And they were fiendishly difficult to fly, requiring more time and effort to develop flying skills. The steep learning curve made costly crashes a given; maintenance was also expensive and time-consuming.

The advent of relatively inexpensive electric models have introduced so many newcomers to RC helicopters that they are now the fastest growing segment of RC aviation, rivaling or surpassing airplanes in popularity. Good quality electrics are available in the $100-$300 price range. More reliable than nitro helicopters, they are also easier to operate and pretty much maintenance-free. Non-polluting and less noisy than nitros, electrics can be flown in a wide variety of settings, including indoors.



If you are in the market for a first RC helicopter, Venom's Ozone is not only a good model for beginners but will still be enjoyable once you attain intermediate level skills. The Ozone's coaxial counter-rotating blades offer excellent stability, making it easy but also great fun to fly. Designed for durability, the Ozone comes Ready to Fly with 3-channel radio, LiPo battery pack and charger - all you need add is AA batteries. Great for indoor and outdoor flying (in calm conditions) and priced at well-under $100, Venom's Ozone is an electric RC helicopter with enough performance capability to keep you coming back for more.




Venom Ozone

RC Helicopters

Radio Controlled Toys

Kids Remote Control

Choosing Your First RC Airplane

If you are brand new to radio control flying, and trying to decide on your first RC airplane, you may well be feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of models offered for sale, particularly if you have been looking online. I recommend that you take your time and do your homework before you make a purchase, as your choice of a first plane will strongly influence, if not absolutely determine, how satisfactory your initial RC experiences will be. Don’t rush to buy; make your decision from a solid information base. Learn basic RC terminology and research which type planes are appropriate for beginners, as opposed to those designed for intermediate or advanced flyers only. Making the right choice will ensure that learning to fly is both enjoyable and rewarding; but the wrong choice can lead to so much frustration and such unfortunate results that you may even decide to quit the hobby before you are even well-started. How does one know which models are suitable for first-timers, and how to narrow down those options to a manageable number? In other words, what kinds of RC airplanes are best for beginners?



Park Flyers

An electric park flyer is a good plane for first-timers to start out on. Unless you actually want to spend days or weeks putting the aircraft together, after having purchased essential components separately and later installed them, you will probably want a Ready to Fly (or RTF) model. These planes come complete with everything you need and can be ready to fly in very short order. If there is no flying field within convenient driving distance, and you lack access to a large, unobstructed piece of private property, park flyers can be safely flown at parks, sports fields, or even decent-sized backyards. Because of the materials from which they are constructed, park flyers are typically pretty durable—i.e., they tend to survive all but the most severe crashes with minimal or no damage—and unlike nitro/glow planes, require little or no additional equipment, upkeep or maintenance.



Smaller park flyers can be flown in smaller spaces; larger models require more room to operate. Wherever you fly, make sure there are no obstructions, people or property within or adjacent to the flight space. And if you want to fly in a municipal park, first make sure that RC aircraft are not prohibited. Another benefit to park flyers for beginners is that you don't have to spend much for one--good quality models can be had for well under $100. You should find several models to choose from at any decent hobby store, but for best selection and lowest prices, search online for “park flyers” or ‘beginner RC planes.” Have fun, stay safe and good flying!




RC Planes


Kids Remote Control


Radio Controlled Toys


Multiplex EasyStar RTF

Hobby Grade RC Helicopters for the Utmost in Realism

Hobby-grade model helicopters have long been considered the most difficult of all RC aircraft to master; if you have ever undertaken this task, you probably agree that is a reputation well-deserved. Their amazing flexibility allows them to can fly in any direction, right-side up or upside down, and react to input with remarkable swiftness. If you have seen an expert pilot put an RC copter through its paces, you know that these machines can do the seemingly impossible. However, that same versatility and flexibility is also what makes it such a  complicated, hard to control aircraft. Unlike toy or electric coaxial RC copters, hobby-grade, single rotor collective pitch models are every bit as complex as real helicopters. The operator of a nitro, multi-channel CP helicopter must, like the pilot of a full-size copter, think and act in three dimensions at once, using his arms and legs constantly and in unison just to keep it in the air. Piloting a hobby-grade RC copter requires extensive training, advanced skills, and continuous focus and attention.

Someone once said "A helicopter is a collection of rotating parts going around and around and reciprocating parts going up and down -- all of them trying to become random in motion. Right now!" There is no such thing as an easy time learning to fly a CP helicopter, requiring as it does such intricate interactions between the three major controls -- rudder, collective and stick. These control operations are severely interactive; an action with one will require a responding action with a second control, which in turn requires another action and so on,  with the pilot constantly  juggling the three controls, hopefully in harmony. While the basics of toy models or micro coaxials can be picked learned in a few hours or less, the hobby-grade RC copter requires an altogether different and more advanced degree of control. And as they are just  plain ornery by nature, they demand a substantial commitment of time and effort from budding pilots.

In the old days, most RC helicopters were powered by nitro or glow engines, which tended to be heavy, complex, and dangerous, not to mention very dirty and high-maintenance beasts. There were electric models but these were so large and heavy they posed transportation issues, and were also notoriously underpowered. Today's electric models are lighter and faster, more predictable, and safer to handle, making them very attractive to novice pilots. But the serious hobbyists still prefer the nitro models, inconveniences and all, because they look and sound and operate in such a realistic manner.

Only you can decide whether it is worth the investment of time and energy -- and expense - to be able to fly a hobby-grade RC copter. If you just want to fly as quickly as possible, with the least hassle, you may well be better off with a good quality electric. If on the other hand, you are looking for an experience that is as close as you can get to flying a real helicopter, then a single rotor, collective pitch RC copter is the only bird for you.

Align T-Rex Venom NightRanger and other great hobby-grade model RC Helicopters and RC Airplanes at RC Planes and Copters.com

Radio Control Toys Make Great Gifts

Does someone have a birthday coming up, or maybe you are just looking to get an early start on your holiday shopping? Whenever gifts for the younger set are in order, radio control toys should be at or near the top of your list of gift-giving ideas.

Kids love them, and don’t even mind that they can be as educational as they are fun. But don’t get the idea that they are just for kids—adults love them too, both as an occasional leisure time activity and as a serious hobby. And while the lower-end RC Toys are very inexpensive, some under $30.00, you can spend much more on upper-end, top quality toys and hobby grade remote control models.

Radio controlled toys come in a variety of categories, from airplanes and helicopters to cars, trucks and boats. Many of the 1 or 2 channel RC toys are simple enough for young children to operate, while the multi-channel models, designed for older children and adults, are more difficult and can take some time to learn to control. Most radio controlled toys use rechargeable batteries as a power source and are quite, clean and safe to operate when handled with care.
 

RC Cars and Trucks

When you mention radio controlled toys most people think of RC airplanes or helicopters, models designed for flying via a remote control device (more properly called a transmitter). But there is much more to the world of radio controlled toys than RC aircraft. For instance, there are also RC Cars and monster trucks, hot rods and drag racers. Some models come with large multi-tread tires and can be used on different type surfaces--concrete, blacktop, grass or dirt. And nothing stays the appointed rounds of all-terrain RC Trucks; they can slog through gravel, mud, even snow and ice.

RC toys come with a hand-held transmitter and a receiver which is situated on the vehicle. The transmitter sends a signal via radio waves to the receiver; working together, they control the movement and usually the speed of the plane, car or boat. The more channels the transmitter has, the more movements or maneuvers the model can perform.

You can find almost any type of vehicle imaginable as a radio controlled toy. Airplanes and helicopters are fun because they can fly, but they are also harder to master than other RC craft. All but the simplest, most basic RC Airplane requires plenty of practice to become skilled at flying. Cars are less complex in design and easier to control, plus you don’t have to worry about them breaking when they fall out of the sky, as RC Planes sometimes do! Boats are relatively easy to operate and fun to race but not everyone has convenient access to a body of water.

RC Boats for All Ages

Another RC model that has become very popular with children and adults alike is the remote controlled boat. The smaller, slower models are safe enough for children to operate on pools, ponds, creeks or small lakes. RC power boats are suitable for larger bodies of water and are better left to teenagers or adults. Some of these racing boats can reach speeds of more than thirty miles an hour or even faster when accessorized and souped-up. While most use their boats strictly for fun and relaxation, a growing number of enthusiasts enter into competitive events, traveling around the country to race against fellow boaters and perform amazing water stunts before appreciative audiences.

Silly Rabbit, Radio Controlled Toys Are for Everyone!

Radio Controlled toys can be fragile and often break easily. If your investment is only $20.00 or so, and you get a few hours of fun out it, that’s not such a big deal. If you want something that will last past a few outings, look for RC toys constructed of durable, crash resistant materials or models that will accept replacement parts. And remember, like Trix, radio controlled toys aren’t just for kids, so when you buy one for a youngster, be sure to order a second model just for you!

For many, radio controlled toys have become more than just a passive hobby; for many, operating RC cars, boats or helicopters has become a sport in its own right. Flying, driving or racing these toys is the next best thing to participating in the real sport. If you’re interested in finding out more about these captivating machines, the internet offers a wealth of information and you’ll also find very competitive prices from online retailers. Just Google radio controlled toys and get ready to enjoy some serious fun!

RC Cars Trucks and Buggys

RC Boats

RC Airplanes Jets and Blimps

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The cool dry weather we've had in our area is perfect for flying outdoors and we've made it to the park and flying field several times.  Life is good.  One of the local clubs is holding its Annual Fall Classic Fly-in this weekend.

To find Radio Control events in your area click on this link: Find Radio Control Events or use the AMA Event Search tool: AMA's Event Search Tool

Follow my blog & qualify for extra savings when you shop for radio control toys, hobby grade modes and supplies:

We have added several new products to the site and more are on the way.  One is a great little RC Plane for Beginners:  the Sky Eagle High Wing Cessna Park Flyer.

The Sky Eagle Park Flyer is an excellent beginner electric-powered RC plane from Nine Eagles. The fuselage is made from light but durable EPP foam and it has a patented propeller protective device that minimizes damage to the propeller and motor. The propeller falls off if you crash nose-first. The plane is well-designed for stable flight and it is wind resistant. The included transmitter is a 2.4GHz mode 1/mode 2 controller. Switching between the modes is simple and only takes minutes.

FEATURES:
* The patented propeller protective device can avoid damage to the propeller and plane upon impact.
* The total airplane body is made of durable anti-crash EPP foam.
* Stable flight, excellent controllability, strong wind resistant.
* A great choice for beginners flying a fixed wing aircraft.
* Park Flyer

TECHNICAL SPECS:
* Age: 14 to Adult
* Length: 396mm (approx 15.6 inches)
* Wingspan: 500mm (approx. 19.7 inches)
* Flying Weight: 65g (2.3 ounces)
* Height: 131mm (approx. 5.2 inches)
* Motor: N50 Motor
* Receiver: 3-channel 2.4GHz
* Battery: 7.4V 180mAH LiPo
* Motor run time: 8-10 minutes

Everything you need is included in the box.   It's in stock and ready to ship.  Add one to your fleet or  purchase a super nice gift for that special someone.  www.rcplanesandcopters.com

Have fun, stay safe & keep flying!

Does your Nosegear need an adjustment?

If your RC Plane is veering to one side or the other on take-off and landing, there's a good chance your nosegear needs adjusting.  I just read a great tip on how to do that in the latest issue of Model Airplane News, contributed by R. J. Musel: "If you're tired of always bending your nose gear from that not-so-perfect landing, then here's a way to prevent it and even add a little shock absorption."  He goes on to say that you'll need a bend at the fuselage where the nose gear wire enters into it, and the nose wheel should also be bent at the coil, to form a 45-degree angle down to the wheel and up to the bottom of the fuselage. For additional shock absorption, glue a piece of hardwood to the firewall, flush with the bottom of the fuselage and do the same thing for the main landing gear.

I purchased this how-to book and it is GREAT! Even if you don't like building things from scratch, there's a lot of great information on how to do little things here and there to make your plane BETTER.  A few of the many topics covered are:  shock-absorbing landing gear, how to work with foam and metal, how to install skis and floats on your plane - and lots more!  You can find "Workshop Secrets," RC Tools, Adhesives and much more at www.rcplanesandcopters.com

Upcoming Events featuring RC Flight

Did you know that you can use the AMA Event Search tool to find RC events and flying competitions all around the U.S.? You can search by date, state and see all categories or narrow down your search by types of aircraft by making a selection from the drop-down list under Category.  AMA's Event Search Tool

To give customers another way to find Radio Control events, we added a data feed on our site. Check it out and bookmark the page: Find Radio Control Events

RC Copters

Radio Controlled Toys

Recent & Upcoming Events:

 

Fri.-Sun. 10/1 - 10/3/2010: Heli-Invasion, Robbie Campbell Memorial Airfield, 6836 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Thornburg, VA 22551, http://www.heli-invasion.com/

Fri-Sun. 9/24 - 9/26/2010: Warbirds over the Rockies, Drake Field, just north of Denver, hosted by the Love Air R/C Club of Loveland/Ft. Collins, http://www.warbirdsovertherockies.com/

Sat.-Sun. September 25th-26th: Texas Shoot-Out 3D Free Style/TAG Program/IMAC Event: over $20,000 worth of prizes to raffle and give away at the event. Over $12,000 in Main Raffle prizes available to anyone, you don't have to be present to win: http://www.rcuniverse.com/community/event.cfm?eventid=4993&nobrand=0

Friday, Sat. & Sun. 9/17/2010 - 9/19/2010: Fly for Tots Charity Fly-In, RDRC Field, Youngsville, NC: the 3-day event features jets, aerobatic planes, WWII fighters, live music and great food.  Get more information at http://www.flyfortots.com

 

9/11/2010:  On Saturday, September 11, you can see amazing giant-scale RC aircraft – some up to 15-feet long – modeled after all types of standard-size aircraft, including warbirds, aerobatic, jets, vintage, and sport aviation.  The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh Wisconsin between the Main Gate and AeroShell Square on the EAA AirVenture grounds. Concessions will be available.  Giant Scale Model Airplanes

 

8/19-8/25/2010:   2010 World Championships for Electric Model Aircraft: Thursday August 19th - Weds. August 25th at the Academy of Model Aeronautics, Muncie, IN, USA. F5B Motor Gliders and F5D Pylon Racers.  World Championships for Electric Model Aircraft

 

Sept. 3 - 5 2010, Labor Day Weekend: Giant Scale Radio Controlled Model Aircraft Show on the runway behind the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson AFB OH. Admission and parking are free.

 

EF-16 Fighter Jet EDF EP ESC