Model Aviation: Then and Now, an Interview with Capitol City Radio Control Club member, Oscar Tissue

Oscar Tissue with a free-flight 

model plane he built 1942

Clinton resident Oscar Tissue recalls many happy memories from his boyhood days and his first model airplanes.  Housed in Oscar’s workshop today are several glow fuel-powered models, a couple of electric planes and some of the latest and greatest computerized 2.4GHz radio equipment. – a far cry from the free-flight models (powered by rubber bands) of his youth.

 “The first radio control plane I ever saw was the DeBolt kit my buddy Wayne Sistrunk brought back from England after World War II.  I had taken my free flight sailplane kit with me when I was serving overseas in the US Army Air Corps. This RC plane Sistrunk had gotten over there, was something quite different.  It required a radio transmitter control box and a receiver inside the plane.  All it had was rudder control."

"We were inexperienced and didn’t have anyone to tell us what to do, but we were excited and couldn’t wait to try it out.   I didn’t realize that a wire hanging out of the plane was the antenna that enabled the transmitter to communicate with the receiver.  Right before we took the plane up for the third time, I had stepped on the wire and pulled it loose.  So when the plane took off, Wayne started moving the controls on the transmitter - but nothing happened.  That plane just ignored us, and it kept going, and going… and going.  We stood there, helpless to do anything about it.  It got so far away all we could see was a tiny dot.  And then it totally disappeared. We hadn’t thought to write our name and address on the plane. We went all over, trying to find that plane. But we never did.”  Laughing, “And that was my first experience with radio control.”  Smiling. “But it was not my last.”

Oscar Tissue with a trainer

plane donated to CCRCC by PlayPen

Tissue never lost his enthusiasm for building and flying RC model aircraft and he helped many people learn how to fly over the years.  “Flying RC aircraft is not as easy as it might look.  Anyone can learn how, but it requires practice.  It helps a great deal to work with an experienced pilot when you’re getting started. Nowadays we’ve got trainer models, buddy-box radio systems and those things are a big help when someone wants to learn to fly. ”

Glow fuel-powered RC plane flying over Hinkle Field

“Bob Hinkle was a great guy. He and some friends started a model airplane-flying club right after WWII.  It later came to be known as the Capitol City Radio Control Club (CCRCC).  Sistrunk and I used to live in Philadelphia MS and we would drive down to Jackson to attend their flying contests. Hinkle Field at Butts Park is named after Bob. We used to fly at several different places. But not too long after Janet and I moved to Clinton (in 1970), CCRCC got permission from the City of Jackson to use the field at Butts Park. And that’s been our primary place to fly ever since.”

CCRCC is an AMA charter club. AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) is a self-supporting, non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote the development of model aviation as a recognized sport and worthwhile recreation activity. It is the official national body for model aviation in the United States and the chartering organization for more than 2,500 model aviation clubs across the US. AMA sanctions more than a thousand model competitions each year, and certifies official model flying records on a national and international level. AMA’s website: www.modelaircraft.org

Hinkle Field is located at the far end of 

Buddy Butts Park, 6180 N. McRaven Street.

If you are already into radio control aviation, or are interested in learning more about it, CCRCC would love to hear from you.  Club dues are $40 per year and are used to keep the flying field maintained and for club activities. Club-sponsored events each year include two fun-fly events and an IMAC flying competition held at Hinkle Field, as well as two Swap Meets held in the gymnasium at Alta Woods church.  The public is invited.

2011 Swap Meet

CCRCC’s first Swap Meet of 2012 is from 10 am – 2 pm on Saturday February 11   in the Gymnasium at Alta Woods United Methodist Church, 109 Alta Woods Blvd, Jackson MS 39204.  Admission:  $5 per family.  There will be free coffee, and refreshments for sale.  The Swap Meets are a great opportunity for beginners or anyone considering Radio Control as a hobby, to talk with experienced flyers of all skill levels.  

Tissue: “My advice to somebody new to radio control aircraft is, don’t go out and spend a bunch of money initially.  If you can join a club and use somebody’s trainer airplane, that’s your best bet.  Some people spend a lot of money and when they crash their plane, they get discouraged and quit. Take your time, learn your way around, and stick with it. It’s a wonderful hobby and a lot of fun.”

CCRCC’s Magnolia Classic Fly-In Event will be held at Hinkle Field on Saturday April 28.  Fly-ins feature lots of great flying, food, trophies, raffles and fun for the entire family.  Admission is free to the public.

For more information about CCRCC events, joining the club or learning how to fly, contact Charles Williams of Clinton who is CCRCC’s Newsletter Editor, 601-924-7176 or visit the club’s website at www.ccrcc.org

RC Events in the Jackson Mississippi Metro Area

We recently joined the Capitol City Radio Control Club and are fortunate to live close to the flying field at Buddy Butts Park. CCRCC is an AMA charter club. AMA (Academy of Model Aeronautics) is a self-supporting, non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote the development of model aviation as a recognized sport and worthwhile recreation activity. It is the official national body for model aviation in the United States and the chartering organization for more than 2,500 model aviation clubs across the US. AMA sanctions more than a thousand model competitions each year, and certifies official model flying records on a national and international level. AMA’s website: www.modelaircraft.org

CCRCC’s first Swap Meet of 2012 is from 10 am – 2 pm on Saturday February 11   in the Gymnasium at Alta Woods United Methodist Church, 109 Alta Woods Blvd, Jackson MS 39204.  Admission:  $5 per family.  There will be free coffee, and refreshments for sale.  The Swap Meets are a great opportunity for beginners or anyone considering Radio Control as a hobby, to talk with experienced flyers of all skill levels.  

2011 Swap Meet

CCRCC’s Magnolia Classic Fly-In Event will be held at Hinkle Field on Saturday April 28.  Fly-ins feature lots of great flying, food, trophies, raffles and fun for the entire family.  Admission is free to the public.  Pilot's fee:  $15 (includes lunch and other benefits) 

Glow Fuel Powered Plane 

flying over Hinkle Field

If you are already into radio control aviation, or are interested in learning more about it, CCRCC would love to hear from you.  Club dues are $40 per year and are used to keep the flying field maintained and for club activities. For more information about CCRCC events, joining the club or learning how to fly, contact Charles Williams of Clinton who is CCRCC’s Newsletter Editor, 601-924-7176, or visit the club’s website at www.ccrcc.org

Hinkle Field is located at the far end of Buddy Butts Park, 

6180 N. McRaven Street, Jackson MS 39204

Save on Shipping when You Shop for RC Toys, Planes and Gifts

Shopping online is not only convenient and fun, it also saves lots of time - time that we can spend doing other things.  And it can save us $ money $ too!  I have become completely spoiled, shopping from home in my comfy PJ's and slippers, whilst sipping a cup of hot tea with a warm puppy dog snoozing on my lap.  Ahhhhhh.  And having my purchases delivered right to my door?  What's not to like?

Well, I can think of one thing...  not to like, that is.  When I let something slip up on me and order a gift at the last minute, the cost of express 2-day or overnight shipping by air, can be astronomical - OUCH!  The major shippers' rates for Ground Shipping (e.g., UPS ground, FedEx Ground or Home Delivery) and the cost of USPS Priority Mail are quite reasonable to my way of thinking.  And unless there's a big ice storm making major highways impassable, widespread power outages, or something else causing delays, I can usually expect to receive an order (from a company located in the continental U.S.), a mere three business days after I complete my on-line purchase.  I often receive my goodies 2 days later!  But next-day- and 2nd-day- air shipping prices make me want to cry.  Just because I was a little forgetful or I procrastinated a day or two, now it's gonna take an entire fleet of jet airplanes, mega-quantities of jet fuel, pilots and crews, and who knows how many other folks jumping through umpteen-dozen hoops, to get that all-important item delivered in time?!!!  "Why do today, what you can put off until tomorrow?", you ask.  The cost of overnight shipping is why!  LOL!  It is a testament to American ingenuity and resourcefulness that we have reliable overnight shipping options, but it just hurts my little feelings to pay four to five times as much, because I didn't order that gift a couple of days earlier!

Sending documents overnight via USPS Express Mail in a Flat Rate Envelope is not terribly pricy.  But I rarely, if ever, shop for gifts that will fit in a Flat Rate Envelope!  On our website, RcPlanesandCopters.com, we sell items that range in length and weight from a few inches and ounces, to several feet long and weighing as much as 80 pounds.  For a small foamie RC airplane that costs a maximum of $12-13 to ship via ground shipping or Priority Mail, the cost to ship it overnight, half-way across the US, is over $65.  How depressing!

Last year, in the last few days leading up to Christmas Day, we felt our customers' pain, as they did their last-minute shopping, and encountered the overnight and 2nd-day shipping charges.  Arghhhh!

So we put on our thinking caps and came up with something new, that might just be bordering on genius - lol!  We already offered RC Gift Certificates that could be purchased as late as December 23rd and delivered by email before Christmas Day.  So that was one possible solution.  But we were hoping to offer another alternative as well. 

What we cooked up, is:  "YOUR GIFT IS ON THE WAY."  The way this option works is, if you need an RC Gift FAST, but you want to avoid the added expense of express shipping, then, when you checkout, stick with the normal Ground Shipping method - but provide us with some extra information, so that we can send a colorful, personalized message from you, to the person receiving the gift.  On or before Christmas Day, we will forward a YOUR GIFT IS ON THE WAY message to them (and we'll copy you on the message) (OR - we can send it to you and you can give it to them) to let them know that, being the thoughtful and wonderful person you are, you have purchased their gift, it's on the way to them, but it might not get there before Christmas Day.  We can even include photos of the item(s) you bought for them. 

Here's a SAMPLE:

Pretty cool, huh?  Just think of all the money you will save! The deadline for YOUR GIFT IS ON THE WAY for Christmas 2011, is 10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on Saturday, December 24th.  That is, you must make your purchase and complete the checkout process by 10 am on Dec 24.

• During Checkout, under "Bill To" complete your information, including your email address and phone number (in case we have questions);

• Under "Ship To", be sure to include the gift recipient's correct email address (or your email address, if you prefer that we send it to you);

• On the next page of Checkout, in the Comments box, type the personal message you want us to include in the email message (there's a sample below).  Also tell us whether you want the email sent that day, or if you want it sent early in the morning, on December 25th. 

• We will do the rest! We will compose and send the message according to your instructions, and we will copy you on the message

•  When the items you purchased ship out, we will send an email message to you that includes shipment tracking information.

Thanks for reading, and thanks for shopping at RC Planes and Copters. 

Happy Holidays!

About Our Business - What's New at RC Planes and Copters December 2011

We Have Moved!  We recently relocated our administrative and customer support offices from Ridgeland to Clinton Mississippi.  We've found that Clinton, which is a Certified Main Street Community, is a great place to live and work. The historic business district has tree-lined brick paved streets that are surrounded by shops, offices and government agencies housed in gorgeous old buildings.  The folks here are very friendly, community-oriented, and everyone supports and appreciates the top-rated Clinton public schools and Mississippi College.  Clinton has several public parks which are great places to enjoy the RC hobby outdoors.  And the Capitol City Radio Control Club's flying field is just minutes away.

One of the great things about running a small business like ours, is that we still have close contact with our customers.  We enjoy talking with them, helping them find what they need, and hearing what they think of the products they purchased.  Their feedback is nearly always positive and customers rarely call us with problems, but when they do, that's helpful too.  We are not satisfied until our customers are satisfied - 100%. If you have any feedback to share, we would love to hear from you!  

Our toll free number is:  1-888-207-3348. 
You can email us:   support@rcplanesandcopters.com.
Or click these links to connect with us -
        on FaceBook:   Facebook.com/pages/RC-Planes-and-Copters 
        or on Twitter:   Twitter.com/RCPlanesCopters

New Arrivals! 

Just in time for Christmas, popular radio control manufacturers Megatech and Venom have introduced two new electric RC helicopters. As of December 10th, they are In Stock and Ready to Ship!  Venom's Ozone Elite and the Whirlwind 3000 from Megatech are both targeted at first-time pilots and those with only minimal flight experience. Both have features typically found on models costing a good bit more and from a quality, fun-quotient and bang for bucks perspective, are worth finding out more about.

The Megatech Whirlwind 3000, recommended for ages 8 and older hovers up to 50 feet - for those with very high ceilings!  The Whirlwind is Ready to Fly in minutes out of the box; just add 6 AA batteries to the transmitter, charge up the onboard LiPO battery pack, and you are set for lift off.  Its 2-stick radio has a built-in charger. A micro motor controls the tail rotor, providing accurate stability and control whether moving forward, backward, left or right.  Electronic and gyroscopic components and weighted fly-bar make for maximum stability while in hovering mode. Retail price is $59.99 but it is currently sale priced at just $42.25. 

For just a few dollars more, Venom's Ozone Elite remote control helicopter is easy-to-fly and man, is it ever great-looking too! The 3.5 channel Ozone Elite is targeted primarily at beginners but has enough features and agility to keep more experienced chopper pilots coming back for more. Its sleek, stylish appearance, ease of operation, and indoors and outdoors capability make the Ozone Elite a welcome addition to Venom's line of quality-constructed, reasonably priced, electric RC helicopters.

Also Ready to Fly out-of-the-box (with the exception of 4 AA batteries), the Elite's high stability is due in part to its counter-rotating rotor design, while maneuverability and control are enhanced by a built-in gyro. For lights-off-in-the-room or night flying outside, utilize the front LED light and multicolored boom lights controllable from the 3.5 Channel transmitter. Recommended for ages 14 and up, the Elite has 2 easily switchable flight modes, Beginner and Advanced, so that once you master the basics, there is plenty more fun ahead. Selling at most retailers for $69.99, the Ozone Elite can be purchased from us for less than $60.00! And like all Venom RC helicopters, is backed by the company's Warranty and toll-free service line.  We carry extra rechargeable LiPo battery packs and the full line of replacement parts.

If you have any questions or if we can help in any way, don't hesitate to ask.  We enjoy hearing from our customers and are glad to help any way that we can.  Keep it safe, and keep it flying!

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