Radio Control: Helicopters
After you can hover . . . I have received many questions asking what the next step in the learning process is once the new flier has mastered hovering. Although there isn't one right answer, there are several alternatives, depending on your specific situation and desires, and whether or not you have an experienced flier to help you with the learning process. One of the best teachers is the flight simulator, because it lets you practice in the comfort of your own home at any time, in any weather, and without fear of crashing. So if you have been wondering if they are useful and worth the money, the answer is a definite yes.
Radio Control: Helicopters
Buying a New or Used Helicopter: The winter is the time when most of us perform major maintenance on our helicopters and give thought to our next helicopter projects. However, for those who are considering entering the helicopter hobby, this time is often used to ask questions before that first flying season. Two of the questions that I am most frequently asked are "Should I buy a new or used helicopter?" and "What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?" Because there are no clear-cut answers that will fit everyone's desires (or budget), let's start by taking a look at what a new helicopter entails.
Radio Control: Helicopters
MOVING TO FLORIDA: After many years in Ft. Worth, Texas my wife and I have decided to move to Bradenton, Florida to be closer to my son and his family. Although it's exciting to move to a new area and start a new way of life, I will miss all of my close friends and flying buddies in Ft. Worth. This news should not be of special interest to you helicopter enthusiasts, but hopefully this announcement will help you understand if I am shy on some photos in this or the next issue. Photos add depth to an article and help emphasize the major points, but everything I own is in boxes in transit to Florida!
Radio Control: Helicopters
MUNCIE, INDIANA: A bunch of great fliers and their helicopters, sunny days with light winds and temperatures in the mid-70s-what else could you ask for? If this gives you the idea that you missed something if you didn't attend the 1996 Nats-you're right. Unfortunately, because of my work I was only able to spend one day at this year's championships, but that one day was enough to whet my appetite to come back, and to make me appreciate what a great flying site AMA has at Muncie. Located in the heartland of America, Muncie is easy to reach from either coast. I found that flying into Indianapolis the easiest for flight connections; less than an hour's drive in a rental car brought me to the flying field.
Radio Control: Helicopters
THE NEW JR ERGO .32 to .46-size helicopter is JR's recent entry into the helicopter field. Until now, JR has been known for its worldwide reputation as a leading manufacturer of radio control equipment. The company keeps on the cutting edge of new design features while continuing to maintain outstanding reliability. I don't know why JR decided to begin designing and building helicopters, but such a well-known and respected company can only add to the enjoyment of your hobby with even more fine products. Since I have just finished building the Ergo, I'll give you my impressions of the kit in this issue, and next issue I'll cover how it performs in the air with the new Webra .33 engine.
