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e-Century Hummingbird - Swift > Advice for 1st heli - Potential AP
 
 
bradf
New Heliman
Location: Kansas City, KS - USA

Hi All,
Thanks for all your posts. I've learned a lot from all the posts here, but there's still so much to learn. I'm looking at getting into this hobby and would like to make some smart choices. My day job involves video production, so naturally I'm drawn to AP. Not really interested in ever flying 3D.

I do believe in "buy cheap, buy twice". But I also have a limited budget. I've read some good things about the Swift and am leaning that way because of the price/size ratio. Plus it looks like they can do the payload. 6-pack, 12-pack I'm also looking at going A123 batteries for safety, durability, and price.

So, if you were going to build a Swift designed for trainer/AP, long flight time, payload capacity (2 pounds. Is 6 pounds possible?), and stability, what would you recommend for frame, motor, electronics, blades, everything. For this type of flying, is there much difference between the 16 and the 550CF? The 620SE looks great, but would probably be too expensive.

Thanks for any thoughts!
04-02-2008 04:32 AM
 
 
JustPlaneChris
Heliman
Location: Austin,TX - USA

Hey Brad,

In my opinion, the Swift 16 would be great for what you wish to do. In stock form it flies well, and can be set up to be very stable for training or videography. Even when running the "fast" paddles that come with the kit, it's very stable compared to smaller machines. Mine flies with a 10S A123 pack, and it has (more than) plenty of performance for my flying style (sport flying, occasional loop or roll). The heaviest camera I've lofted is a 5oz "point and shoot" digital, but I'm quite certain it could lift a lot more, considering the excess power it has. Anyway, Here's my setup:

Frame: Swift 16 with third bearing upgrade and CNC rotor hub
Motor: Neu 1910/1.5Y, 10T pinion (9T would be better for training)
ESC: Castle Phoenix 45HV
Battery: 10S A123 "brick" configuration
Blades: 550mm wood

Here's a couple of videos. Hope this helps! Post or PM if you have questions. I love my Swift!

-Chris



04-02-2008 01:54 PM
HOMEPAGE  
 
 
bradf
New Heliman
Location: Kansas City, KS - USA

Hey Chris,

Thanks for the reply. I was watching your auto video in another thread as you were posting. :-)

I know I have a lot of learning to do and I don't expect to be shooting video any time soon. But I at least want to avoid buying something that doesn't have a prayer of working. I also would like to buy the right components from the beginning.

I'd love to hear other opinions and setups.

Thanks again!
04-02-2008 02:13 PM
 
 
JustPlaneChris
Heliman
Location: Austin,TX - USA

The Swift is definitely a lot of heli for the money. Parts are inexpensive too, and are priced competitively with some of the micro and mini class heli parts! If properly configured with heavier paddles, training gear, and reduced headspeed it would make a fine trainer. It's rather big and can be intimidating (especially compared to a micro), and you certainly can't practice hovering in the garage, but it would take you from the basics all the way to advanced aerobatics. Hopefully other guys will chime in with their power system selections.

-Chris
04-02-2008 02:27 PM
HOMEPAGE  
 
 
Pistol_Pete
Elite Veteran
Location: Tampa Bay non-Buccaneer

Quote 
I'm looking at getting into this hobby and would like to make some smart choices

the smart thing to do is to get an inexpensive sim first...and you dont need the latest and greatest.

*****


cant go wrong with the swift 16 (now priced below $200)


however...I would ask the same question in the AP section of this forum as well.

here is one search result...using only the word swift and in the AP section only

http://www.runryder.com/helicopter/...highlight=swift

best of luck and do share.

<><>...the lunatic is in my head...<><>
04-03-2008 12:01 PM
HOMEPAGE  
 
 
bradf
New Heliman
Location: Kansas City, KS - USA

Thanks for the advice. I really appreciate it. I'll ask over in the AP forum.

I'm looking at radios and feel budget comfortable with the DX6i. Any reason this would not be a reasonable choice? If I need additional channels for an AP gimbal, I think I'd go with a second TX and maybe use an older, cheaper used unit for that.

Any thoughts?
Thanks!
04-08-2008 02:59 AM
 
 
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e-Century Hummingbird - Swift > Advice for 1st heli - Potential AP
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