Homebuilt or Buy - Choosing The Right Helicopter As A Hobby

When flying on your own with the use of homemade and "ingenious" constructions are discussed, it is not surprising if some would react with a laugh. That is, if you are still talking about some weird inventions that could be seen on some video clips taken way, way back where people try to fly using wings made out of wood strapped on each arm or machine with an umbrella used as a source of lift. The fact is, modern homebuilt helicopters surpass way too far from these early helicopter concepts.

For those who have heard this for the first time, you should realize that you only require standard parts from an auto parts and hardware store to create a helicopter (that can really fly). These parts can cost you a little under a thousand dollars if you know how to select good parts. Or, if you want instant parts, homebuilt helicopters are sold in kit. You can order this online complete with instructions on how to build it. This is becoming more and more popular for its guaranteed safety and sure flight.

With an engine, rotors, rotor head, rotor blade, control stick, foot controls, a seat, and other basic component of a conventional helicopter, the homebuilt helicopter can lift you off the ground.

You might question the danger it can present to the pilot. The reality is homebuilt helicopter are as stable as any other types of helicopters provided it flies on a good weather condition. They can fly as fast as 80mph and as high as 10,000 - 12,000 feet.

Homebuilt helicopter imposes great experience. It gives opportunity for individuals to fly their own helicopter without the need to spend so much money on flight training school. Since homebuilt helicopters are considered ultralight helicopters (weight usually at the range between 150-190 lbs), you don't have to acquire Pilot license. Flying a homebuilt helicopter can convert you from a simple mechanic into a pilot instantly. Here's the analogy: if bicycle is to motorcycle; homebuilt helicopter is to twin-engine helicopter. The main difference is, the homebuilt helicopters are motorized (although wit less power) and can lift you off from the ground with the same experience you can get from a conventional full-size helicopter.

Or if you still prefer to buy it off the shelve, here are some facts to read. Helicopters are measured in terms of passenger capacity, comfort, versatility, speed, and of course cost. Choosing the right one for you depends on these criteria. For example, if you want a cost effective helicopter strictly for personal use, you can take the Schweizer 300 or the Robinson R22 (helicopter for 2). It has basic comfort and few features.

The exact opposite are the McDonnell-Douglas 500, Enstrom Shark, and the Agusta 109A. They are fast and more convenient to fly. In between these 2 extremes are Eurocopter Squirrel and the Bell Jet Ranger. These are single turbine-engined helicopter that are more commonly used for filming work and charter flying. The Eurocopter Squirrel and the Bell Jet Ranger are agile, fast, and comfortable, but are constrained to fly on a fair weather.

This is not the case with the Sikorsky S76 and The Eurocopter Dauphin 2 which can fly at 200mph and can accommodate up to 14 people safely and comfortably. With these, we can narrow down your selection into 3:

Light Piston-engined Types - If you want a cheap personal helicopter that could sit for two, the Schweizer 300 or the Robinson R22 would be your choice. They can fly at the speed of 80-110 mph. With a seating capacity and small size, these helicopters are light, easy to fly, and easy to maneuver. Surprisingly, the light piston-engined helicopters use a more expensive fuel than that of the kerosene based turbine engines but they consume less fuel. However, the Schweizer 300 or the Robinson R22 is less buyable for charter and corporate use. They are more popular, however, on training and personal use.

Light turbine helicopters - McDonnell Douglas 500E, Eurocopter Squirrel and the (Agusta-) Bell Jet Ranger are widely used around the world for its practicality and mid-range amenities, comfort, size, speed, versatility and price. Private owner often prefer light turbine helicopters among other types for these given reasons. The look is sporty and performance is almost perfect (if not perfect).

Twin Engined Helicopters - Stronger, safer, faster and more versatile helicopters are the likes of the Dauphin, Sikorsky S-76, Agusta 109, and Eurocopter Twin Squirrel. These are powered by 2 engines and can go places that other smaller helicopters can't go. These are far better choice for high-end market with high price bracket.