penguin
Heliman
Location: Ipswich UK
| I am at the same stage you are really, I started researching it around 3 weeks ago (although I do come from a good technical background).
First you need to decide on the size of the heli, these are sized as the type of engine they sport. .30 is nearly the smallest small sized ones as far as I know, .60 is also another popular size. I will talk about .30's as that is what I am considering. .30's are cheaper to buy, repair, run (as far as pertrol goes).
As far as costs go, and good flying the Raptor .30 seems to be the prefered suggestion for beginners, and aslo the ball bearing upgrade. Another .30 was suggested, (began with a C can't remember the name at the moment) but it was slightly more expensive.
For the radio kit, I am going for a Futaba FF9 with 3001 servos and 149dp receiver. I am getting this as a deal.
For radio equipment 5 channels are required, with 6 suggested. There are 5 degrees of movement, and the extra channel is used for the gyro, a device which helps you automatically control the read rotor pitch to counter-act the angular forces generated by the main rotor blades.
The radio equipment is less likely to be damaged in a crash, this is why many people have suggested that a begginer gets the best they can afford. The ff9 has 9 channels and therefore the other channels can be used for extra items (i.e. some helis have retractable landing gear, or winches, switches, automatic glowplug startes). The expensive option allows for 2 different options:
a) You give up. The expensive radios will be new, and you can sell them on for a reasonable amount.
b) You will carry on to be the best flyer ever. You can use the extra features.
However, don't kid yourself, flying heli's ain't easy.
The engine depends on the type of heli, and possibly whether you can get a deal or not. Raptors are often bundled with Thunder Tigre (This is the only way I have seen the ENGINE spelt) .36's or OS .32's. I am going to go for an OS, because I have heard some people complain of problems with the TT.
A gyro is a good idea, and if you get one, a fast servo is also a good idea.
There are other items that you will need, for either making the heli, or flying it. I downloaded the manual for the Raptor, and found that allayed many of my fears as to what I would need to support it. On page 3 there is quite a good list of things like glow plug starter.
I hope this helps.
Also a GOOD flight sim is a good idea, preferably one that can use your transmitter (Tx). This will save money in the long-run, because there will (hopefully) be less repair bills.
Many places do combos that contain almost everything that you will need. Also if you can, talk to a local hobby shop and club (I haven't but I ain't exactly local).
It looks like it will be an expensive hobby, but I think it is worth persevering.
Gareth
[I have decided I will order my radio equipment soon, and possibly a sim (or get a free one) ff9 +4 3001 servos +R149dp, Gyro 401/9253] |
