As a kid growing up interested in science and math, I had the joy of building model rockets from scratch and often times getting rtf rockets from Estes. I’d go to the park with my dad to launch these rockets. Very fond memories of my childhood.
You might be asking yourself why I am telling you this, right? Well Estes Rockets were a part of my childhood, getting and keeping me interested in model aviation. Today, Estes-Cox Corporation continues to interest children of all ages in model aviation with their line of rockets and now . . . . they have another avenue . . . . their own line of mini RTF helicopters.
Introducing the SF161™ Mini Helicopter and R73-OPS™ Mini Attack Helicopter. Get the details for this new line from Estes-Cox Corporation, read info about Estes-Cox Corporation, and view flight vids for each mini RTF helicopter.

About Estes Rockets
Estes-Cox History: Estes Industries was founded in 1958 in Denver, Colorado. Vern Estes developed a machine that mass-produced solid propellant model rocket engines.
This invention gave people a consistent and reliable way to launch model rockets. Later, the company branched out into the mass production of balsa nose cones and adapters for model rockets. Estes® began selling model rockets by mail in 1960.
The company was moved in 1961 to a 77-acre tract of land on the outskirts of Penrose, Colorado. Rapid growth followed and soon Penrose became known as the “Model Rocket Capital of the World”. Estes Industries has grown to be the leading manufacturer of model rocket kits, engines and accessories in the world. COX® joined the Estes family of products in 1996.
For over 50 years, COX has been the choice of millions of families getting started in model airplane flying. COX products are designed for first time users who want the best start to a flying adventure and for more advanced fliers. Experience the magic of flying with COX Free Flying, Control Line or Radio Control aircraft. In January 2010, the Estes-Cox Corporation was purchased by Hobbico, a 100% Employee-Owned Corporation based in Champaign, Illinois, and will continue operations in Penrose, Colorado.
Industry leaders in their fields, Estes and COX will continue to turn kids and adults on to flight with innovative new products that will go FASTER, FURTHER AND HIGHER.
004601 – SF161™ Mini Helicopter
Quick Overview
The SF 161 mini helicopter is an awesome flying machine! Never flown a heli before, then this one is for you! Great for beginners!
004601 – SF161™ Mini Helicopter Description
New to the world of R/C helicopters? Fear no more, we have the heli’s for you! The SF161 mini heli is the heli for you! So simple to fly, anyone can fly this one!
Estes SF161 Helicopter Flight

The SF 161 mini helicopter is an awesome flying machine! Never flown a heli before, then this one is for you! Great for beginners!
Additional Information
Technical Specifications
Fully Assembled!
Length – 8.6 in. ( 21.9 cm)
Width – 1.4 in. (3.6 cm)
Height – 3.9 in. (9.9 cm)
For Indoor Flight Only
Instructions and Warranty Enclosed
Includes 3.7V Lithium Polymer Battery
3.5 Channel Infrared Controller
Controller Requires 6 – 1.5V AA Alkaline Batteries (not included)
Recommended for Ages 14 and Up
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004602 – R73-OPS™ Mini Attack Helicopter
Quick Overview
An amazing mini helicopter! The R73-OPS Attack Helicopter is a blast to fly! A must-have for any collection.
004602 – R73-OPS™ Mini Attack Helicopter Description
The R73-OPS Mini Attack Helicopter is an amazing mini heli! A counter-rotating rotor head allows steady flight and easy maneuvering, while LED search lights illuminate the path ahead. A military green finish and decals give it a rugged look, and the infrared controller makes flight easier than ever!
Estes R73-OPS Helicopter Flight

An amazing mini helicopter! The R73-OPS Attack Helicopter is a blast to fly! A must-have for any collection.
Additional Information
Technical Specifications
Fully Assembled!
Length – 8.6 in. (21.90 cm)
Width – 2.8 in. (7.1 cm)
Height – 3.7 in. (9.4 cm)
For Indoor Flight Only
Instructions and Warranty Enclosed
Includes 3.7V Lithium Polymer Battery
3.5 Channel Infrared Controller
Controller Requires 6 – 1.5V AA Alkaline Batteries (not included)
Recommended for Ages 14 and Up
Note: Please check with Estes directly, Tower Hobbies, your local hobby shop, or favorite online retailer for pricing and availability.
Source: Estes and Tower Hobbies









Does anyone know if this estes heli controller have a spring on the throttle stick?