Ok. got a question.

[faster u fool]

Hi, I'm new to the boards and would like some opinions. I have been flying the EF Saber fp heli for a few months now. I have pretty good orientaion on the bird and fly it pretty well. What I would like to know is, What would the next heli to buy. I would like to go bigger and obviously cp. BTW I am more interested in doing somthing scale with it in the future. Thanks.

[Motions]

Trex would be a great second heli. There's quite a few people putting scale bodies on these as well.

[faster u fool]

I have heard alot about the trex..What model would be a good heli to start with and upgrade? Also what about nitro?

[tdswan]

I have a T-Rex 450XL CDE (or CCPM) version and also have a Raptor 50. Both are stellar machines. I''ve flown many others. I guess I'm partial to my two. The bigger bird definately flies more stable, the T-Rex also flies really well, but it'll never be as stable as it's big brother. But it does hover almost as well...with the exception that it's size makes it a tad more squirly if it gets away from you.

Upgrades for either are unnecesary, as far as a beginner to sport pilot is concerned. Both are very precise and tight. If you're a 3-D guru, then you'll notice a difference, but as long as you set the stock parts up right, you'll have to fly quite a while before you outgorw the stock configurations. If it doesn't make you a better pilot (to start with), you don't need it.

[faster u fool]

Thanks for the reply..What do ya think about nitro....I know alot about nitro engines from all of my rc cars and trucks, but don't know if it is a good idea for a beginner pilot...what do ya think?

[Motions]

Nitros are fine for beginner pilots. Most people suggest you go with nitro for your first heli because they're much more stable. If you have a place to fly, nitro would be a good choice.

[faster u fool]

Why are the nitros more stable? is it cuz they are larger? can you guys give me some pros and cons on them? My local hobby shop is closed right now due to the fact they are moving and I would like to be able to make a choice on a bird for there grand opening sale.
thanks

[Motions]

The nitros are more stable because of there size. That's the main pro with the nitro. The con is parts (crashes) cost a lot more. You also have to consider fuel cost on nitros where as electrics are rechargable. You can also find more places to fly the smaller electrics than a large nitro. I would only recommend flying at a club airfield if your just starting out. Much safer and the knowledge you gain from other veterans is priceless.

The start-up cost on a nitro are also much higher because you need a starter, igniter, and fuel pump are things that come to mind.

[cruzzinchop]

Hey Faster,

You found this great site to!!!! Glad to see you here!!!

Jason

[tdswan]

Crash costs can only be evaluated on a case by case basis. I had a hovering crash with one of my T-Rexes that cost me $164.00. (it was a gyro issue coupled with pilot error, long story) There wasn't more than about 3 or 4 major parts that could be salvaged... and only stuff like the flybar, main shaft, pitch arm. It had so much power, the heli literally tore itself apart. Had to get a whole new heli kit and transplant the electronics.

*KNOCK ON WOOD* haven't crashed the Raptor, but I had a friend who did. Another minor hovering crash (dead battery). Total bill: around $80. The nice thing about the 30-50 size birds is that they are more durable. Don't base your entire opinion on this, it's just one example. I'm sure people have had some nasty ones that were much more expensive.

I do agree with Motions that startup costs for a nitro are considerably more. But....the learning curve is faster.....

[axis]

They have large electric heli's too...
The fact that the heli is nitro doesnt make it more stable its all about the size.. ;)

[BIRDDOG]

I Have A Raptor 30 And Have Only Been Into Helis Since August. I Havent Had Any Instruction Or Help At All.let Me Tell You ,this Is The Hard Way. I Am Starting Forward Flight And Have Only Had One Hard Landing So Far. I Installed The Fma Co-pilot. It Is Kind Of Like A Gyro For The Cyclic. It Definatly Doesn't Fly The Heli For You Though. My Raptor Is All Stock And Flies Great, Even In The Wind. I Have About 1200.00 Into It Including A New Futaba 9c Radio ,401 Gyro W/ Servo. It Costs Me About 20.00 A Month To Fly On 30% Cool Power Fuel.if You Shop Around They Sell Start Up Kits That Have Starter, Fuel Pump, And Glow Igniter. I Would Strongly Recommend Every Thing I Own To Any Beginner. The Only Change I Would Make Would Be To A 50 Size If Your Budget Cuold Stand Another 200.00.