Choosing the right helicopter!

This article will talk about the points you should consider while selecting your first helicopter. This is the first part of the article and is meant for the beginners, If you are an experienced pilot, please wait for the second part.

Unlike RC Planes, where flying is about 10% of machine and 90% the pilot; in case of RC Helicopters it is 90 % machine and 10 % of you i.e. the pilot. While having the right heli and the right equipments, will ensure fun-flying and learning, Wrong heli or equipment will bring you crash and trouble.

It is really very hard to point out a single manufacturer as the best, in today’s world, where we have ample good options, however I will try my best to do that.

If you are a beginner, I recommend you go with a 50 sized machine (A helicopter is designated by the engine size), I know that many of the well-experienced pilots will differ from me here and will recommend a 30 sized machine. I assure you that buying a 50 sized machine will save you lot’s of bucks and will make you learn faster. A 30 sized machine is not that stable and requires constant stick input and when you have learned it all, it is quite difficult to perform the 3D aerobatics (or the appealing stuff!) due to lower power-to-weight ratio, going for a 50 sized machine will save you from these perils.

Cost of repairs is also relatively lower than that of compared with a 90 sized machine, which will ensure that crashes burn a smaller hole in your pocket. A number of after-market upgrades are available in the market to boost the performance of your heli. You can choose you Helicopter from the following two manufacturer, as they are the best in the market as of now

1. Thunder Tiger.
2. Align RC.

Now, the question comes down to, whether to go for a Nitro powered heli or to go with a Electric one ? Well, the answer is, it depends on your personal choice, However if I was a beginner, I would go for a nitro powered heli as I could fly it for a number of times within a single day (which maximises learning) without any need of frequent recharges or having multiple batteries.

Choosing the right engine is also equally important, do your research and buy the one which suites you performance wise and is financially viable, I recommend OS engines, as I have been using them for a while now.

However, if you choose to go for a electric powered helicopter, I recommend you buy good batteries and good motor, please do not go for cheaper alternatives as they will cost you more in the longer run.

I hope you enjoyed the article, please leave your feedback, Thank you.