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you buy which are classed as RTF (ready to fly) are anything but. An RTF model means that it is pre-built, and has all the electrics in place, including servos, esc, motor, battery, and, in the case of the King, a basic rate gyro. Unfortunately, it is anything but ready to fly, so a complete strip down is recommended. Not only will this allow you to check your heli is assembled correctly, but it will teach you a lot about how your King works, and what the bits do. Another excuse to indulge in a good strip down.

So, not only do you need to learn to fly the helicopter, but you have to know how to strip it down and repair it after each crash. Another thing about this hobby is that it is normal to crash, we all do. Crashing is part of the learning process. So we flyers get in a good supply of spares. In fact, most owners end up buying two of the same model. The idea behind such a purchase is that the second model is for spares. Unfortunately what usually happens is that you set up both for flying, and buy an additional set of spares for any crash repairs.

You can hone your skills without as many crashes by purchasing a good quality helicopter flight simulator software package, but nothing beats getting out there and flying live.

Where next, well I now have two 450 size helicopters, one of which I am considering fitting into a scale fuselage. This will have retractable wheels, and if I can figure out how to do it, a working winch.

Don't forget though, the blades of a radio-controlled helicopter spin at a speed of at least 200mph, so if they hit you, you'll know it. So, however much fun this hobby gives you, keep safe, and don't allow pets or children around where you're flying.

Learn more about this author, Mo Bruce.
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