Why get into R/C Helicopters?

Flying Radio Control helicopters is fast becoming one of the major forms of Radio Control modelling all over the globe. Why? Well it seems to be one of the more addictive aspects of R/C, and for good reason.

While flying helicopters is certainly one of the more expensive aspects of radio control (probably only surpassed by Radio Control Jets), it doesn't have to break the bank. For approximately NZ$1200 you can get yourself into a good second hand machine with fairly good radio gear. This will get you started and for many people, they're quite happy to stay with what they have and just fly around. For the rest of us, it's the beginning of an addiction. Once you've tasted your first hover, you don't want to stop!

It seems with RC helis, you're enjoying yourself the most when you're shaking with fear and sweating. When you're doing this you know you're learning new things! The best days are always when you bring your helicopters home in one piece, but the next best days are when you come home from the field having accomplished something new.

One of the things I most enjoy about RC helis (and RC as a whole infact) is the people. For me, part of going out to the field is meeting up with my fellow enthusiasts. We swap stories (which are often likened to that of a fisherman - "You should have seen this loop I did! Curtis couldn't have done it better!"), swap tips and generally help each other out.
We also travel to competitions and funfly's and meet up with other enthusiasts from all over the place. Everyone builds up a good relationship with each other and we all have a lot of fun.

Some people like me like to push themselves and learn new tricks and things, while others are just happy to fly around or hover etc. There's room for everyone in this hobby. You're never too old to start. You're never too young either, if you can afford the sport.

Plus, above all else, helicopters are just plain cool.

This site is designed to help people who are just starting into R/C helicopters and those who are already deep in it. If you have any suggestions as to how to improve the site, I'd be glad to hear from you!

Simon Lockington
littlerotors.com