Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Air Models / June 2004

This is probably a good choice.  You may want to look at the T-Hawk at
www.readytoflyfun.com , it comes with two wings, two tails and two battery
packs (Ni-Hi).  It is almost indestructable.  Parts for either of the planes
are readily available.

Mark

While it's a great plane, you'll have difficulty learning to fly with it.

There are two better choices, IMHO, the EZ-Star and the GWS Slow Stick.
Both can be up and running for less than $200.

See http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXFXV0&P=ML for the
EZ*, $169.00
See http://www.gwsexpert.com/product_info.php?cPath=34&products_id=345 for
the Slow Stik, $160 with radio.

--
Dave Thompson

EasyStar
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=238073

GWS Slow Stick

I also love my Slowstick, but have no experience with the *bird family, so i cant really
compare. I can say that the *bird planes use, with the exception of the Thawk, proprietary
electronics and servos - all built onto one circuitboard. The SStick uses regular ol' mini
servos and radio gear, which are easily replaced, repaired, upgradeable, transferrable to
another plane, and by building it yourself (easy) you will get a full understanding of how
everything works.
Additionally - and this is personal preference - i think the SS looks better than the Pod
& Boom type planes. Not that she's pretty,  but it looks more 'purpose-built', like a hang
glider or Ultralight. The *birds just look goofy.

Pro's
1. SS can fly much slower than the *birds. From a quick walking pace to a top spd of maybe
13mph (est.) MUCH more time to react for newbies.
2. standard radio gear.
3. Can accept pretty much any battery within reason
4. Possibly the Best aerial photography plane ever.
5. Easily repairable and durable to begin with.
6. With controls set for full travel, shes amazingly maneuverable.
7. within your budget.
8. isnt sexy, but doesnt look like a Wal-Mart toy either.

Cons:
1. You'll break a dozen propellers to every one you break on a pod&boom plane. With the
prop out front, its always the first thing to hit the ground. Props are abt $2 each.
2. Parts shortage at the moment. Manufacturer setting up distribution in US at the moment.
3. slower top speed - not bad though, and not a bad thing either for a beginner.

If your interested, LMK. I can hook you up with the best setup & suppliers.

I don't recommend an "everthing you need in one box" cheap outfit. They
usually don't fly well and the cheap R/C gear, motor, charger, etc  is not
usually high enough quality  to use later in a decent built up or almost
ready to fly model. You really need a mentor to help you select a good radio
system, motor, speed control, servos and a good flying starter kit. Plan on
spending $300 and save your money until you have enough. There is probably
somebody in your area that will be happy to get you started properly.