RC Model Building – Helicopters for Beginners

By: Jason Petrina



Flying RC Model helicopters is a lot of fun. A lot of time and effort – not to mention money – can go into building and flying RC model helicopters. If you are just getting into this hobby, you have quite a few things to learn about the art of building, flying, and racing RC model helicopters. Eventually, you may want to build your own RC model helicopter from scratch – selecting and purchasing the parts individually. But beginners should really start with a basic kit that doesn’t cost very much. You need to realize that controlling the aircraft isn’t as easy as it looks. It takes a lot of practice, and your RC model helicopter will experience a lot of crashes before you become an expert pilot.

Because of these crashes, you need a kit that doesn’t cost too much. At the same time; however, you do need a body construction that can withstand some abuse. You don’t want to have to go out and purchase a new kit each time you crash. Start with a very inexpensive kit with a RC model helicopter that is basically ready to fly. It may not be the best, the sharpest looking, or the fastest. That doesn’t matter. The point is to learn the basics of controlling the helicopter – before sinking more money into this hobby.

Once you become fairly good at controlling your RC model helicopter, you should consider upgrading. You can upgrade by buying better quality individual parts – or by purchasing a more advanced kit. The choice is yours. In some cases, it will be cheaper to upgrade individual parts, while in others it will be cheaper to buy a more advanced kit. Start slowly, and work your way up. Remember that the better the machine is, the harder it may be to control. More advanced machines have more advanced capabilities – requiring more advanced skill.

When you are ready to advance, make sure that you purchase a radio controller that is specifically meant for RC model helicopters. The controllers that are for RC model aircraft are not as versatile or as advanced as the ones that are specifically for helicopters. These cost a little more than the regular aircraft controllers, but they are worth the extra expense in the long run. There is a ton of accessories, field equipment and add-ons that you can purchase for your RC model helicopter. However, only buy what you absolutely need to start with. Then, purchase additional equipment as you see fit. As you advance in the sport of RC model helicopter flying you will know what you need, and what you do not need. Don’t buy what you don’t need. Instead, use that money towards upgrading your helicopter, or towards a more advanced helicopter kit.

A basic beginner’s kit should include everything that you need to get started. A beginner’s kit should include a helicopter that is basically already built and just needs batteries. It should include the radio, the receiver, the servos, and the gyro. The receiver transmits the signal from the radio to the servos. Servos are mechanical motors that are linked to the receiver and the helicopter’s control center. The gyro is an electronic and mechanical device inside the helicopter to help automate the response of the tail rotor somewhat. It is not completely automated however.

You will also need some field equipment that is largely dependant on the type of helicopter you have. You may need fuel, a fuel pump, and a glow plug igniter. If your helicopter does not have a pull start, you may need an electric starter and a 12 volt battery to start the engine. Bring along a basic tool kit which includes screwdrivers of varying types and sizes, wrenches, pliers, fuel filters, additional glow plugs, and any other tools that may come in handy when you are out in the field. This will allow you to make field repairs as needed. Also, consider purchasing a rotor blade pitch gauge and learn how to use it. This handy tool will help you prevent a lot of crashes! The most important thing is to have fun. Learning to fly RC model helicopters isn’t always easy – but it should always be enjoyable!



Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com