Guide To Rc Airplane Kits

How to select the perfect RC plane kit. Few things are more enjoyable in the RC world than an RC plane. RC boats, cars, trucks, motorcycles and skateboards are all neat but they lack the total freedom you have available to you from an airplane. You can pick up very nice models for a modest fee but they may not be exactly what you are looking for. That's where the RC plane kit comes in.

There are a couple of things to consider when building an rc plane. These considerations are your Budget, your ability with woodworking and or materials, your engine (electric or internal combustion), your ability with rc planes, and the availability of spare parts.

Your budget will probably be the first thing to consider. RC planes are not cheap and if you want a great plane you will need to consider the cost of materials.

RTF (ready to fly planes) are the easiest for beginners to work with. They come practically built with just the need for attaching wings, engine, and tail sections.

Before these became popular the only way to build an RC plane was a balsa wood kit. These old fashioned kits included the option of gas or electric and allowed you to build a plane from the ground up. They required minimal wood working skills and some you could even hot glue together. These kits are for the dedicated hobby lover who knows his craft and wants to use a specific engine or radio with his plane.

Almost ready to fly (ARF) RC planes are the next step up and usually require some finesse and skill as you will be handling small parts. These planes allow some of the greatest options (aside from the traditional planes) as you can choose your own engine and radio equipment. An ARF plane also requires you purchase the radio gear separately. They also usually require you to apply either decals or paint your plane.

A new breed of planes called plug and play planes are complete kits that come with everything included but requires assembly. They can be made out of a variety of materials and can be high end or very cheaply made.

When beginning the process of building an RC plane it would always be beneficial to try one out first. Join a local RC plane group and watch how other planes handle. If you have a willing friend take the controls and see how you like it. Everyone's tastes and preferences are different. Some prefer a heavier plane that is very sturdy, while others will want a quick nimble plane that handles lightly.

Lastly check for availability of spare parts. Whether you lose a tire or break a wing accidents happen. You want a place close by so you can go and get parts in case you need them. RC Planes can be a lot of fun and a build it yourself kit can introduce a new aspect of ownership. Your handiwork will soon be conquering the skies.