BEGINNERS - HELICOPTER
Type of Model
It is probably true to say that learning to fly model helicopters
is one of the most challenging forms of model flying. It will
require patience and lots of practice to master. You will
probably never cease learning, such is the wonder of this
hobby / sport, however the feeling of achievement in being
able to fully control the helicopter is most rewarding.
Pictures of typical model helicopters
Virtually all modern helicopters on sale today can be used
to learn to fly with, however some are more suited to the
task than others.
As mentioned in the “Type of Power” page, the
micro and smaller electric helicopters are not considered
ideal to learn to fly with, due to their inherent lack of
stability. Generally the bigger the helicopter is, the better
/ easier it will fly.
IC model helicopters are classed by their engine size (in
cubic inches). The current IC classes are 30, 50, 60 and 90
size helicopters. The 60 and 90 sizes tend to be designed
towards the more experienced pilot and must be well engineered
to cope with very high power outputs. As such, the initial
price of these machines, their spares, engines and sometimes
the radio equipment required, is significantly higher than
a 30 / 50 size helicopter.
That is not to say that 30 / 50 size machines are not well engineered!
Some are absolute works of art, however the more economically
priced are “engineered to a price”. To keep the
overall cost of the helicopter low means that the manufacturers
must have a vision of what the helicopter is intended for
and engineer it as best they can, whilst keeping the costs
down. In spite of this it is very surprising the quality of
machine that you can get for your money. Virtually all helicopters
have upgrade parts available to enable you to enhance its
performance as your experience grows.
The other advantages are cheaper spare parts in the event
of a crash, the model is easier to transport and a smaller
engine is more economical on fuel than a larger capacity
engine.
When it comes to choosing the specific make and model of
helicopter you purchase, it is important to ensure that spares
are readily available, preferably locally. You can always
mail order spare parts but the time and costs involved in
postage and packing may become frustrating. It’s a good
way to support your local model shop and in some instances
if you have a minor accident, you can collect the parts required
and repair the helicopter for the next day!
Take into account any extra ancillary equipment that will
need to be purchased to complete the model i.e. is a muffler
included in the kit, is an extension shaft required to start
the engine etc.
Much like aeroplanes, helicopters can be purchased in two
forms, Kit form and Almost Ready to Fly (ARTF).
Kit Helicopters
A kit helicopter is one where you must assemble virtually
all of the components. There will be very few, if any parts
of the construction already completed at the factory.
When building a kit, you will learn the basics of how the
helicopter works an also have a good understanding of how
to replace broken / damaged components in the event of a crash.
It will take you longer to construct a kit than an ARTF model,
however it will be useful experience for the future.
Almost Ready To Fly (ARTF) Helicopters
An ARTF model has the main sub-components of the helicopter
already built for you and only assembly of these sub-components
is required, along with the installation of the Radio Gear.
A number of manufacturers who produce ARTF kits provide the
models with an engine already installed as part of the kit’s
price (this normally works out cheaper than having to buy
the engine separately). This is very good news if you wish
to use that particular brand of engine that is fitted, however
if you do not then you will have to choose a model without
an engine installed. There are ARTF models without an engine
already fitted, however for some brands you will have to purchase
a kit version if you wish to install the engine of your choice.
You will still gain experience of the basics of how the model
works, when assembling an ARTF, however you will not be as
familiar with the model as you would be had you built it from
a kit.
Which is the most suitable for the beginner?
To summarise, a 30 / 50 size helicopter with its cheaper costs
(both initial and running) are the most appropriate for a beginner.
50 size helicopters tend to have an excellent power to weight ratio,
which will allow you to progress right through to demanding aerobatics
without having to upgrade. As there is not a great cost difference
between a 30 and a 50 size helicopter, it may prove more cost
effective to purchase a 50 size helicopter from the outset.
In terms of which particular model to buy, everyone has their
own favourites and this is very much a case of personal choice.
Do ensure that you can easily obtain spare parts for the brand
you choose. It would also be advantageous to visit your chosen
club and see what brands the members are flying. If a particular
model is popular and several members own and already have
experience of it, then their experience could be very useful
to you in the future.
