DREMEL STYLUS CORDLESS ROTARY TOOL

This Dremel tool offers a contour-grip design with the latest in lithium-ion battery technology. This tool feels almost like an extension of your hand and allows precise control. This is a tool that gets a workout on every project we do, and it’s equally valuable in the workshop and as a field-box tool. With the tremendous variety of materials it can cut, the Dremel Stylus is one of the most versatile tools around.

K&S TUBING CUTTER & BENDER

Whether your plane runs on gas or glow, you will need to cut and bend tubing for it. The K&S Cutter can cut tubing of up to a 5/8 inch diameter without crimping it. The easy-to-use bender works well on tubing of up to a ^3/16-inch diameter and allows you to bend it without crimping it.

DU-BRO E/Z THREADER

Tired of nursing your sore fingers after you’ve threaded on all the clevises? Then this tool is just what you need! It makes installing swivel ball links, nylon clevises and cup-style ball links quick and easy.

GREAT PLANES EASY-TOUCH HAND SANDER & CONTOUR MULTI-SANDER

Sanding is never fun, but the Easy-Touch Contour Multi-Sander and Hand Sander make the job much easier. We use three of each size, one for each grit: coarse (80), medium (150) and fine (180 or 220).

MIDWEST PRODUCTS EASY MITER BOX

This miter box offers many features that make cutting balsa and other woods a simple job. It can handle material as wide as 2 inches and as thick as 1/4 inch. It enables you to make straight cuts as well as angled cuts of 22.5, 30, 45 and 60 degrees. The best things about this miter box are the three cam clamps that hold the material firmly in place while you’re cutting.

HANGAR 9 Z-BEND PLIERS

A Z-bend is probably the easiest way to make a solid connection on at least one end of a pushrod (save the other end of the pushrod for an adjustable connector). These Z-Bend Pliers make this and many other jobs considerably easier.

DU-BRO KWIK-HINGE SLOTTER KIT

This slotting kit takes the hassle out of cutting or reopening hinge slots. Included in the kit is a center guide that fits any type of hinge and helps you achieve perfect alignment slots.

GREAT PLANES C.G. MACHINE

The most important way to guarantee a successful first flight is to balance your plane properly. For this important step, we rely on the Great Planes C.G. Machine for all but the largest airplanes. This tool is easy to use and is much more reliable than balancing the plane by picking it up by its wingtips.

GREAT PLANES PROP REAMER

This is an essential tool. It seems as though whenever we use new props, the hole almost always has to be enlarged. The only sure and safe way to do this is with a prop reamer such as the one from Great Planes. Using a hand drill or a drill press means that you run the risk of off-centering the hole and rendering the prop useless. This will never happen with a prop reamer.

HOBBICO BUILDER’S TRIANGLE SET

A squarely built plane will fly well and true. At some point, every ARF that you build will require the rudder to be squared up with the stabilizer. This tool simplifies that task.

CHARGER RC BEVELING TOOL

If you like to build flat foamies, you will love this tool. With one simple pull across any control surface, it makes a clean, perfectly beveled cut that is ready for hinge tape.

GREAT PLANES DEAD CENTER ENGINE MOUNT HOLE LOCATER

This tool is just the ticket for marking the exact location of the mounting hole in an engine or motor mount, but we also like to use it to mark the locations of the servo-mounting holes and for other critical hole placements.

MIDWEST PRODUCTS EASY CUTTER ULTIMATE

Sometimes, we modelers need only a quick trim on a stick of balsa, and one way to do this is with a hobby knife. A much more accurate and cleaner method of cutting sticks of balsa, however, is to use the Midwest Easy Cutter Ultimate. Set the fence on the cutter at the angle of the cut, and make as many repetitive cuts as you need.

DU-BRO TRU-SPIN PROP BALANCER

Balancing your prop is an absolute necessity; it saves wear and tear on the plane and on the motor. One of the best ways to do it is with a Tru-spin prop balancer. This tool can handle props, spinners and rotor heads of any size and results in a precise balance every time.

The post RC Modeler Must-Haves: 14 Essential Tools appeared first on Model Airplane News.

A Main Hobbies Electron 65 AC

Price: $49.99

→amain.com

This is a solid, well-built compact machine that has many advanced features. Because it’s AC/DC, it’s perfect for both field and bench charging, and it’s easy to transport. It only supports charging one battery at a time, but it does handle up to a 6-cell LiPo and allows balancing. The menu system is intuitive and offers a number of user settings.

Hitec MultiCharger X2 Ultima

Price: $150

→hitecrcd.com

This is the perfect middle of the road charger for the pilot who flies park flyers to larger electric birds. DC input voltage and sleek design makes this the perfect charger for the field. The X2 is capable of charging all sizes and types of batteries, and can be connected to a PC for a graphic view of charging performance. Its intuitive menu system along with its four-button entry system makes it very easy to use. If you need a good field charger, this would be a wise investment.

HobbyKing Neutron 200W

Price: $70

→hobbyking.com

This is another great field charger that can hold its own on the bench. It is the only charger available that can fully charge Turnigy’s new Bolt Series LiHV (LiPo high-voltage) packs. The intuitive menu system is operated by an easy to navigate touch screen. An integrated internal resistance checker allows you to monitor the health of the batteries. This is a great field charger that can easily serve on the bench.

 Hobbico/Duratrax Onyx 245 AC/DC

Price: $120

→duratrax.com

The Onyx is a very portable small lightweight charger that is perfect for both the bench and field box. In fact one of the main features of this charger is that you really don’t have to do anything! To charge your battery all you have to do is select the battery type, plug it in and start the process. The Onyx charger does the rest. While it can charge two different batteries, with two different chemistries at the same time, it can only handle up to a 3-cell LiPo. But if you don’t need all the whistles and bells and just want a charger to do it’s job and charge efficiently and quickly, this is the charger for you.

 Graupner Polaron AC/DC 240W

Price: $259

→openhobby.com

The Polaron AC/DC has all the same features as the EX model with two key di erences. It can use AC and DC current and can handle a maximum of 8A charge current. The touchscreen makes menu movement very intuitive and it has all the whistles and bells you could ever need in a charger. The Polaron AC/DC can easily handle all the needs for most flying enthusiasts.

Graupner Polaron EX

Price: $319

→openhobby.com

This is the flagship charger for Graupner and it rightfully deserves this title. This charger can handle just about all of the batteries that are currently out there. The color touch screen makes moving from menu to menu very intuitive. Another key feature of this charger is the viewing of individual cell performance including voltage and resistance during and after charging. The 12 V input can makes this a field charging, however, the design is perfect for a permanent place on any workbench. If your modeler who has a wide diversity of battery types and sizes then this is the perfect charger for your bench.

A Main Hobbies Prodigy 612 duo AC/DC

Price: $169.99

→amain.com

This is a well-built midsize charger that has dual charging ports. A perfect charger for electric pilots who use a lot of batteries each time they go to the field, this unit can charge a 6-cell LiPo up to 12A/100W for each charging port. The 20-model memory (10 each side) makes it easy to select your most common battery types. The menu system is intuitive and easy to follow with the 2-line LCD backlit screen. The Pre-Charge function gives users an opportunity to save Lithium batteries that have been discharged too far.

Horizon Hobby Prophet Sport Duo 50W

Price: $99.99

→horizonhobby.com

This is the perfect charger for the person who just wants to charge the batteries in a quick and efficient manner. This charger just requires a switch selection for battery type (one of two) and turning the knob to the correct amperage up to 6A. It is AC only so it’s perfect for your main bench charger. It is easy to use but you will have to refer to the manual to learn what the error codes mean when they pop up.Horizon Hobby Prophet Sport Quattro 4 100W

Price: $280

→horizonhobby.com

If you take a lot of batteries with you when you go flying, this is the charger you what to come home to. The Quattro has four channels that can supply up to 8A charging power per channel. This would be a great club or event charger if you have a power supply. Because it’s DC power, it requires a separate power cord (not included). This large charger is very easy to use: select one of the three battery types, dial in the amps up to 8 and hit the start button. The charger will let you know when the battery is fully charged.

 Thunder Power TP610C AC/DC

Price: $120

→thunderpowerrc.com

This is Thunder Power’s all in one charger, which can be used in the field and on the bench. The intuitive menu system is easily navigated by using the four arrow buttons at the bottom of the screen. The ability to perform different charging procedures, charge different battery chemistry and 10 amps of charging power will satisfy most RC pilot’s needs. If you’re looking for a good all-around charger that can also handle larger packs, then be sure to check this one out.

Thunder Power TP820CD

Price: $270

→thunderpowerrc.com

This has been the benchmark charger for years and one that will last for years with its solid construction. It has a simple four button, intuitive navigation that guides you through all the menus for the correct selection of battery types and size for each charging port. This makes an excellent field and bench charger when used with an ample power supply. If you’re going to have only one charger for all your battery needs, you just can’t go wrong with the TP 820 CD.

Electrifly Triton2 EQ

Price: $185

→electrifly.com

The Triton charger has been around for a few years and this newly updated model keeps up with all the latest battery technology. Two buttons and a pressable rotating knob navigate the user through the intuitive menu design. This would make an excellent field charger for the pilot who is flying with a number of different battery types and sizes. If you need a solid performing charger that has stood the test of time, seriously consider the Triton2 EQ charger.

Graupner Ultra Duo Plus 80

Price: $189

→openhobby.com

This one is a solid piece of machinery. The DC only operations makes this a nice field charger, although because if it’s solid construction it is a good size unit. This charger can cover all of your battery packs and packs in a bit of power in performance. The menu system is different than most of the others and takes a little bit of getting used to, but you will find it easy to navigate. If you’re looking for a field charger that has everything you could want in one machine, this may be the one.

 Hitec X1 Pro w/Epowerbox 17A

Price: $180 (charger/ePowerbox combo)

→hitecrcd.com

You just can’t help but love this little powerhouse charger. The menu system is intuitive but it does take a little time to get used to the single button navigation. This is a very solid, compact charger that is easy to have on the bench and in the field while only requiring minimum effort to transport. The balancing board can accommodate just about any type of balancing plug from your particular brand of battery. If you’re looking for a compact charger that can take care of your battery needs in the field and on the bench, this is the charger for you.

The post Top Chargers appeared first on Model Airplane News.

FIELD EQUIPMENT

Sullivan/Marcy’s Marvelous Wheel Chocks

Made out of anodized aluminum, these chocks are designed for maximum safety and security for your plane during transport. They conserve space in trailers and vans, enhance storage eflciency, and can be used on the workbench during hardware and radio installation.
$21.95 | sullivanproducts.com

WingTote Wing Bags

Designed for RC planes with two separate wing panels, the Double Totes (available in several sizes) include a central ⅜-inch foam center layer enclosed in fleece to separate the two wing panels, and they use Velcro to secure it to the bottom. On the front is a long joiner tube pocket that’s large enough to easily insert and remove the tube. A pocket to hold a spare prop is also included.
$99.99 | wingtote.com

Graupner Polaron EX 800 7S Charger

Available in five colors, the Polaron is equipped with a color touchscreen and has two charger connections. It features DC 120W, AC 60W per output and can be adjusted for each channel. It has a 40-battery memory and charges 1- to 7-cell LiPo packs, 1 to 14 Ni-Cd/NiMH cells, and 1 to 12 Pb cells.
$249.00 | openhobby.com

Great Planes Precision Propeller Reamers

Available in various sizes (in metric and standard SAE), these stepped T-handle propeller reamers are a must-have for your field box. Reamers accurately size the holes in propellers, so they will precisely fit your engine. They also make balancing your props more accurate.
$10.99–$14.99 | greatplanes.com

Futaba BR-3000 Battery Checker

Great to keep in your flight box, the Futaba BR-3000 battery checker quickly displays voltage levels of battery packs. It shows the total voltage and remaining capacity on a bar graph and as a percentage. It can be used with 2- to 7-cell LiFe, LiPo, and Li-Ion packs as well as 4- to 7-cell Ni-Cd and NiMH packs.
$59.99 | futaba-rc.com

Zurich Extreme Glare sunglasses

Designed for extreme-glare conditions, Zurich Extreme Glare sunglasses are nonpolarized and ideal for anyone flying RC. You can order custom and prescription lenses, which can be made to fit any optical frame designed for removable lenses (shown: ready-to-wear “King” by Bolle with Dark Density Rose Z|XG lenses). Mild “Single Vision” prescription lenses start at $110.00.
$145.00 | extremeglaresunglasses.com

Red Baron Storage Bags

Stay organized with these high-quality carry bags, specifically designed for RC equipment. Red Baron Hobbies has several bags for different-size wings as well as these ultra handy battery and propeller bags. Made with a vinyl-backed polyester exterior with a 1/4-inch foam-lined tricot lining, these bags protect your gear at the field and in the shop.
$67.30 (battery), $37.30 (propellers) | redbaron hobbies.com

ProgressiveRC Multi-Connector

Made from high-quality materials, this multiple-connector lead includes 18 of the most popular connector types, all wired in parallel to one set of banana plugs for attaching to your charger. Heavy-duty 10 AWG silicone wire makes up the main charge lead, while the individual connector leads use various gauges of the same-quality wire.
$16.99 | progressiverc.com

ProTek R/C Universal Radio Case

This case has a tough aluminum shell with reinforced corners, locking latches, and a high-density foam-lined interior. A foam insert is not included but is available to fit RC airplane transmitters. It will accommodate Airtronics, Spektrum, JR, and Futaba transmitters. Interior dimensions are 14 × 10 × 5.5 inches.
$49.99 (case), $17.99 (Pick-n-Pull foam insert) | amainhobbies.com

Hitec RCD X1 Touch

The X1 Touch 55-watt AC/DC charger has a 3.2-inch-high resolution touchscreen for effortless data monitoring and retrieval. With a built-in cell balancer and multiple safety functions in a compact package, it’s easy to use and transport. It easily charges NiMH, Ni-Cd, LiPo, LiFe, Li-Ion, and lead-acid batteries with adjustable charge current rates of 0.1 to 7.0 amps.
$99.99 | hitecrcd.com

MaxAmps 1SQ/1Si Parallel Charging Adapter

Charge up to three 1S LiPo packs at once! These parallel-charging adapters are specifically designed for MaxAmps’ 1S 400mAh packs for the popular Heli-Max 1SQ, 1SQ V-Cam, and 1Si series of quadcopters.
$11.99 | maxamps.com

TOOLS

BB Tools Classic Cutters

Considered by many as the best wire and cable cutters around, BB Tools’ Classic Cutters are available in two sizes. The 001 is ideal for stranded cable wire up to 3/32 inch in diameter and can cut music and piano wire up to 5/64 inch in diameter. The 002 is perfect for cutting stranded cable wire up to 3/16 inch in diameter and cuts music and piano wire up to 1/8 inch in diameter.
$16.00, $18.00 | bbtools.net

Hangar 9 Angle Pro Digital Meter

This digital incidence meter is just the thing for checking and adjusting the angles of your wing, tail surfaces, and control throws. It can even be used to check the thrust off set angle of your engine. It comes with the digital meter and battery, a long aluminum extension, two attachment brackets, and a control throw attachment clamp.
$79.99 | hangar-9.com

Kylin Precision Tool Kit

This 20-piece tool set includes machined and anodized metric screw, hex, and nut drivers in a soft nylon organizer case. Specifically intended for RC helicopter lovers, this tool set is also perfect for people who want quality and precision on their workbench or in their flight box.
$63.48 | kdsmodels usa.com

AeroBroach Hinge Slot Cutter

Including three popular sizes, these slot cutters are easy to use. The “CA” broach is for use with thin CA type hinges. The “60” broach is for standard pinned hinges for up to .60-size airplanes, and the “1/4” is for heavy-duty, two-piece pinned hinges used in larger 1/4-scale airplanes
$17.95 | aerobroach.com

X-Acto Basic Knife Set

The Compression Basic Knife Set offers X-Acto’s most popular hobby knives and blades used by serious modelers and hobbyists. Three X-Acto knives are included with a full set of precision knife blades. Housed in a soft nylon compression case, an instruction guide and reference booklet are included.
$29.99 | xacto.com

Harry Higley Easy Hinger

These slot cutters make installing perfectly aligned hinges a piece of cake. Specifically designed for instant CA glue hinges, these tools are made out of aluminum and use common no. 11 hobby blades. Packed in pairs, the smaller hinge uses a single blade, while the larger one holds two blades for a wider slot.
$15.39 | harryhigley.com

Tingler Innovations SolderBuddy

This handy soldering aid holds all of the most popular connectors used by RC hobbyists. It can secure several connector types, including Deans, 3.5mm bullet, Molex, 2mm, servo, and 5.5mm power connectors, while providing a convenient and stable platform for soldering your connectors. Several types of SolderBuddy holding fixtures are available.
$44.75 | solderbuddy.com

Robart Paint Shaker

For serious scale modelers who paint with Model Master and similar scale paints, the Robart Paint Shaker operates at 5,000 shakes per minute to quickly blend your paints. This ensures proper color saturation and smooth application with airbrush spray equipment.
$40.45 | robart.com

Robart Super Stand II

Quick to set up for any building, maintenance, or transportation needs, the Super Stand II is fully adjustable to fit any-size RC airplane. Sturdy, lightweight, and unaffected by glow fuel, the stand is equipped with soft rubber pads to prevent damage to your model airplane.
$26.45 | robart.com

TrakPower TK950 Soldering Station

This heavy-duty 60-watt design heats quickly to temperature and has a range of 392°F to 896°F. It holds temperature settings to within 1.8°F when idle. The station includes a soldering iron with stand, a sponge, a temperature-control unit, chisel-point and pencil tips, and an instruction manual.
$79.99 | towerhobbies.com

Du-Bro Tru-Spin Prop Balancer

One of the most precise balancers available, the Tru-Spin Prop Balancer features a specially designed locking cone to securely center and lock the prop on the balancing shaft. For use with airplane props as well as spinners, helicopter rotor heads, ducted fan jet impellers, and flywheels, each balancer comes complete with assembly instructions and prop-balancing tips.
$39.14 | shop.dubro.com

Master Airscrew Razor Plane

Made out of tough filled-composite plastic, the Master Airscrew Razor Plane is for all serious builders of wood airplane kits. It is adjustable, removes material quickly, and comes with extra single-edged razor blades. Replacement blades are also available.
$7.35 | master airscrew.com

ACCESSORIES

Du-Bro Super Strength Servo Arms

Available in sizes to fit all major brands of standard servos, Super Strength Servo Arms are made out of long carbon-fiber composite for added strength. Packaged in eight-count bags, they are available for Futaba, Hitec, JR, Airtronics, Tower Hobbies, Hobbico, and Command servos.
$10.42–$13.13 | shop.dubro.com

Sharp RC ArmSafe

Equipped with 12AWG wire, the Sharp RC Arming Kit is a great way to add safety and convenience to your electric RC airplane. All hardware and arming plugs are included. Simply remove the Deans connector to make it impossible for your plane to accidently start.
$13.40 | sharprc.com

Hitec RCD S60 Camera

This rugged professional-grade action camera is designed to capture 16MP still photos and HD 1080p/60fps video. It comes with a waterproof case and a detachable 2-inch LCD back screen for viewing your footage. It is Wi-Fi—enabled and can be controlled with your mobile device using a downloadable app.
$299.99 (full package #44551) | hitecrcd.com

Ram Wireless Nav Lites

Ram’s new micro wireless flashing LED Nav Lites come packaged with three dimesize red, green, and white modules that weigh a total of 5g. Powered by a replaceable button battery, there’s no wiring or soldering required. They can be easily attached to any model that weighs 1 oz. or more.
$14.95 | ramrcandramtrack.com

Eagle Tree Guardian 2D/3D Stabilizer

Suitable for gas or electric power, the Guardian smooths out air turbulence and provides true wing-leveling capability to help recover from lost orientation. It helps compensate for nonideal flying conditions. A spare transmitter switch lets you select 2D wing-leveling mode, 3D aerobatic mode, and no stabilization mode.
$63.74 | eagletree systems.com

SUPPLIES

BSI Foam-Cure

A silicone-based adhesive, BSI Foam-Cure works well on EPP and EPO foams. Crystal clear, it forms a more flexible bond than CA. It is, however, not an instant-bonding glue and has no accelerator to speed cure time.
$6.49 (4 oz.) | bsi-inc.com

Great Planes Plan Protector

Available on a 25-foot-long roll, this clear plastic Plan Protector material keeps your model plans in crisp, clean condition. The Plan Protector resists modeling adhesives and makes removing your parts from the workbench easy. No more peeling and sanding paper scraps off your glue joints!
$11.99 | towerhobbies.com

Zap Silicone Tape

Available by the roll (1 in. x 10 ft.) and in black, red, and white, this silicone tape leaves no sticky residue, is waterproof and airtight, and seals wet or dry. Simply stretch and touch the tape back onto itself and it makes a permanent bond. Because it’s fuel resistant and unstretched off the roll, it is easy to use for fuel-tank installations and can insulate electrical wires up to 8,000 volts.
$5.95 | zapglue.com

RTL Fasteners Hardware

Perfect for RC pilots and hobbyists, RTL Fasteners offers bulk packaging for all commonly used and specialty hardware. Metric and standard SAE sizes are available in small 10- to 100-count bags as well as in handy assortment packaging. From standard servo screws and nylon wing hold-down bolts to socket-head screws, brass inserts, and stainless-steel hardware, RTL Fasteners has it all.
Pricing varies: $3.63 (2-56×⅜-in. Socket Head Cap Screw, 24 pcs.), $98.95 (#1450 Standard Assortment, 1,228 pcs.) | rtlfasteners.com

Precision Aero Glue Caddy Kit

This light-ply, laser-cut kit assembles in minutes and helps organize your workbench. It holds three sizes of glue (½, 1, and 2 oz.) as well as round epoxy bottles. Store your epoxy right side up or upside-down so that it’s always ready to use. The caddy also offers a place to keep your pencils, pens, or hobby knives.
$12.95 | precision-aero.com

Zap-A-Gap Single Use Tubes

Ever break something at the flying field and need just a little glue? Now packaged in five 0.01-oz. (0.5g) single-use tubes, you can now use Zap-A-Gap CA+ glue a little at a time whenever you need it. It’s ideal for the flight box or the workshop.
$4.99 | zapglue.com

The post 35 Field & Bench Favorites appeared first on Model Airplane News.

HobbyZone Sportsman S+

This plane lands by itself! In fact, with its SAFE Plus technology, all phases of flight—from takeoff to landing—become worry-free to bolster the novice pilot’s confidence. What sets this model apart is the innovative technology offered by the installed Spektrum GPS module, which provides the pilot with attitude and positional guidance. This means that the Sportsman will not fly off into the blue or get into an orientation that’s difficult to recover from. And if you need time to sort things out, press the holding-pattern button and the Sportsman will circle overhead. The brushless motor, speed control, servos, and all the electronics are installed for you. Only some minor assembly is required, which we completed before the flight battery finished charging. In the air, it is inherently stable, and its AS3X three-axis stabilization gives the plane a much bigger feel. In the Beginner mode, releasing the sticks returns the plane to straight and level flight. When you are comfortable flying the plane in the Experienced mode, it is time to try some basic aerobatics. In the Experienced mode, the plane is agile and has enough power to perform loops, rolls, and stall turns. If you’re a beginner pilot who doesn’t have access to an instructor or who just needs the added peace of mind offered by the SAFE Plus technology, the Sportsman S+ is the ideal plane to earn your wings. $199.99 (BNF); $229.99 RTF); horizonhobby.com

Ares Fokker D.VII

This 15 3/4-inch-span model is just the thing for impromptu dogfights at the local gym. The Fokker D.VII incorporates the Hitec Red 2.4GHz protocol, which is compatible with all current 2.4GHz Hitec aircraft transmitters. It is available ready to fly, with a Hitec Red transmitter, or pair to fly, with a Hitec Red receiver that’s compatible with your own Hitec air transmitter. This 3-channel flier comes fully assembled and features durable foam construction with numerous scale details, like the dummy Mercedes D.III 6-cylinder inline engine, machine guns, detailed side panels, and an attractive paint scheme with authentic four-color lozenge camouflage on the wings. In the air, it has good stability and plenty of power for loops and wingover-like maneuvers. It is happy inside a large indoor flying area but can be flown outside on very calm days, but remember to keep the model upwind of yourself. It is easy to fly and sturdy enough to take mild bumps and hard landings. Should you hit the ground harder than you’d like, it’s quick to repair with foam-safe CA. $89.99 (PTF); $119.99 (RTF); ares-rc.com

E-flite UMX FPV Radian

The easy-to-fly, 3-channel UMX Radian includes the Spektrum VA1100 ultra-micro-airborne FPV system for a fantastic pilot’s-eye view. The FPV system is compatible with any Fat Shark 5.8GHz FPV headset or video monitor. The 28.7-inch-span UMX Radian features Spektrum AS3X flight stabilization for smooth and stable flights. A 4-channel minimum, DSM/DSMX-compatible transmitter is required to get the UMX Radian airborne. Assembling the UMX FPV Radian literally takes only minutes, and setup is quick and painless. Soaring is the Radian’s forte, and it is not designed to be highly aerobatic, although it is quite responsive. An occasional loop, however, is fun to do. Being a glider, the UMX Radian naturally excels in the glide. With only a few knots of wind, the plane can be held motionless in front of you. If flown aggressively, the plane will tip-stall but recovers quickly. The key to flying the UMX Radian is smooth control inputs to increase glide performance. The UMX Radian has gentle and relaxing flight characteristics and can be flown by anyone with a minimum of RC experience. These flight characteristics also make it ideal for the FPV experience, especially if you are new to this type of flying. $189.99; e-fliterc.com

E-flite UMX FPV Radian

The easy-to-fly, 3-channel UMX Radian includes the Spektrum VA1100 ultra-micro-airborne FPV system for a fantastic pilot’s-eye view. The FPV system is compatible with any Fat Shark 5.8GHz FPV headset or video monitor. The 28.7-inch-span UMX Radian features Spektrum AS3X flight stabilization for smooth and stable flights. A 4-channel minimum, DSM/DSMX-compatible transmitter is required to get the UMX Radian airborne. Assembling the UMX FPV Radian literally takes only minutes, and setup is quick and painless. Soaring is the Radian’s forte, and it is not designed to be highly aerobatic, although it is quite responsive. An occasional loop, however, is fun to do. Being a glider, the UMX Radian naturally excels in the glide. With only a few knots of wind, the plane can be held motionless in front of you. If flown aggressively, the plane will tip-stall but recovers quickly. The key to flying the UMX Radian is smooth control inputs to increase glide performance. The UMX Radian has gentle and relaxing flight characteristics and can be flown by anyone with a minimum of RC experience. These flight characteristics also make it ideal for the FPV experience, especially if you are new to this type of flying. $189.99; e-fliterc.com

E-flite UMX J-3 Cub

If you are looking to move up from beginner to intermediate, the new UMX J-3 Cub is for you. Its small size makes it an ideal park flier. It is a nice stable airplane to begin with, but E-flite has made it even better with its AS3X stabilization technology. Foam construction makes this Cub a light and sturdy craft that is ready to fly right out of the box. The box itself is designed to hold the plane and has a Styrofoam frame inside that cradles the plane and gives it plenty of protection during transport. This Bind-N-Fly Basic model comes fully assembled, including landing gear, wing, motor, and all of the control surfaces. All you need to get it in the air is a compatible 4-channel radio and a 2S 200mAh battery and charger. If you care to fly off of the water, you can convert the Cub to a seaplane with the optional set of floats. In the air, the AS3X system allows the Cub to trim itself and gives the plane great stability. Basic aerobatics are a cinch to perform, and the plane always had a nice crisp response to control inputs. We were able to do loops and rolls with power to spare. The 200mAh 2-cell battery pack that we used provides about seven minutes of flight time. You’ll want to keep track of the time because the Cub needs a little speed to stay lined up with the runway. Overall, the J-3 Cub is a blast to fly, and you’ll want to keep it in the car for a little lunchtime flying. $129.99; e-fliterc.com

HobbyZone Conscendo S

The HobbyZone Conscendo S is available ready to fly as well as in a Bind-N-Fly version, which requires you supply your own Spektrum DSM2/DSMX-compatible transmitter. The Conscendo S comes with a brushless powerplant, folding prop and spinner, and perfectly sized actuators for all control surfaces. The small but mighty AR636A receiver has some really cool features programmed into it, from the limited Beginner mode to an Experienced mode. The Beginner mode is smart and lessens the control-surface authority available to keep a pilot from overcontrolling the aircraft. It also enables a self-leveling feature. The Intermediate mode allows for more pitch (elevator) and roll (aileron) control and does not have the self-leveling of the Beginner mode. Experienced mode gives you unlimited control authority. A 2-cell 1300mAh is included and provides plenty of flight time, but if you want to fly for longer periods, we found that a 2S 1800mAh pack fits just fine. Excellent instructions and a simple assembly will have you ready for the flying field in less time than it takes to charge the battery. $129.99 (BNF); $149.99 (RTF); hobbyzonerc.com

E-flite UMX J-3 Cub

If you are looking to move up from beginner to intermediate, the new UMX J-3 Cub is for you. Its small size makes it an ideal park flier. It is a nice stable airplane to begin with, but E-flite has made it even better with its AS3X stabilization technology. Foam construction makes this Cub a light and sturdy craft that is ready to fly right out of the box. The box itself is designed to hold the plane and has a Styrofoam frame inside that cradles the plane and gives it plenty of protection during transport. This Bind-N-Fly Basic model comes fully assembled, including landing gear, wing, motor, and all of the control surfaces. All you need to get it in the air is a compatible 4-channel radio and a 2S 200mAh battery and charger. If you care to fly off of the water, you can convert the Cub to a seaplane with the optional set of floats. In the air, the AS3X system allows the Cub to trim itself and gives the plane great stability. Basic aerobatics are a cinch to perform, and the plane always had a nice crisp response to control inputs. We were able to do loops and rolls with power to spare. The 200mAh 2-cell battery pack that we used provides about seven minutes of flight time. You’ll want to keep track of the time because the Cub needs a little speed to stay lined up with the runway. Overall, the J-3 Cub is a blast to fly, and you’ll want to keep it in the car for a little lunchtime flying. $129.99; e-fliterc.com

Ares Sopwith Pup

The Sopwith Pup is the perfect dogfighting partner for the Ares Fokker D.VII. With a 13 3/4-inch wingspan, it has pilot-friendly flight performance and stability. It is ready to fly out of the box and comes with a historically accurate paint scheme and surface details, like control surfaces and wing ribs molded into the lightweight foam airframe. For its size, the 3-channel Pup is very sturdy, and with its light wing loading, it has excellent slow-speed flight characteristics. An added feature is that the wooden interplane struts are attached to the wings with small magnets to prevent damage in a rough landing. It is available ready to fly, with a Hitec Red transmitter, or pair to fly, with a Hitec Red receiver that’s compatible with your own Hitec air transmitter. It has plenty of power for basic 3-channel maneuvers, and the rudder provides excellent turning and yaw control. Loops are easy to perform, but rolling maneuvers are limited. With the power reduced, the model slows down nicely, but because it’s a biplane, you need to keep the nose pointed down to maintain airspeed. Landings are a simple matter of closing the throttle and letting the model fly toward your intended arrival spot. When you are about to touch down, start pulling back on the elevator and your arrival will be soft as a feather. $84.99 (PTF); $109.99 (RTF); ares-rc.com

Multiplex FunCub XL

Made out of Elapor foam, this sturdy 67-inch-span model comes with all the molded parts needed to complete it and is available in kit and receiver-ready versions. Our kit version was easy to assemble in a few days in the workshop. Either way, you’ll need a 7-channel radio and receiver. Powered by a 6S 4000mAh flight pack, the FunCub XL has nearly unlimited vertical climb performance. Its aerobatic performance can go from mild to wild, depending on how you set up the control throws. We felt that the XL is very pilot-friendly on medium rates. With the throws cranked up to the max, roll rates are very quick and pitch changes are fast. This model would make a great first-competition fun-fly airplane. With its flaps, it also offers fun short-field performance, and we really enjoyed spot landings and touch-and-gos. $199.99 (kit); $399.99 (receiver-ready); hitecrcd.com

SIG Kadet Seniorita Sport

The SIG Senior and Seniorita have probably helped more people to learn to fly than any other model out there. To create this “sport” version, SIG added ailerons and made it a tail-dragger. Construction is balsa and light ply, with the translucent covering that is a signature look for Kadets. You’ll need to add radio and power systems, and assembly should take eight to 12 hours. This plane is designed for the new pilot, so if you have flown a trike gear model successfully, you are ready for this plane. At the field, any semismooth surface will work as a runway. The main landing gear is placed far enough forward to keep nose-overs to a minimum, and the wheels are a good size to handle small obstacles. With the recommended power system, there’s plenty of get up and go for short takeoffs, and this model really slows down well for landings. Slow-speed handling is comfortable and forgiving. At speed, the plane is also comfortable and controlled. With its ailerons, all standard aerobatics are at your disposal. This includes—but is not limited to—loops, rolls, Cuban-8s, stall turns, avalanches, and point rolls. The stall is almost nonexistent, and while gliding, energy retention is very good. The Kadet Seniorita Sport is a ton of fun, and we think it’s awesome to kick back and enjoy flying, whether you’re cruising the sky or turning up the power and doing some aerobatics. $249.99; sigmfg.com

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Flysky i6

6 CHANNELS

The i6 front looks clean and uncrowded, yet all of the sticks, programming keys, knobs, and toggle switches are within easy reach. This transmitter is a bit smaller than others, is lightweight, and feels balanced and easy to grip. The Flysky i6 has all of the standard programming and an easy to use menu system. $89.99; diamondhobby.com

6 CHANNELS

Graupner MZ-12

6 CHANNELS

The Graupner name has always been synonymous with quality and the MZ-12 fits right in that group. This transmitter has 20-model memory, and it’s a high-contrast, 8-line blue-illuminated graphic display is easy to see in any light and perfect for reading the telemetry data in bright sunlight.
$149.99; openhobby.com

Futaba 6J

6 CHANNELS

Futaba’s FHSS technology is fast, so the 6J is a very fast entry-level system. In addition, it has 15-model memory and throttle and pitch curves for airplanes and helis. Heli pilots will appreciate the electronic swash ring as well as four swashplate options. Most of the 6J’s mixing functions can be assigned to any switch you prefer. $165.99; futaba-rc.com

Spektrum DX6

6 CHANNELS

This radio started it all and the new redesign has a ton of great features. This radio has programmable voice alerts for telemetry data, so when the alarm goes off you don’t have to take your eyes off of the plane. Have a lot of planes? This transmitter can handle 250 models. $179.99; spektrumrc.com

JR XG6

6 CHANNELS

All of the JR brand transmitters have a nice look and feel very comfortable in your hands; the XG6 is a lightweight feature-packed radio worthy of the JR name. This 6-channel radio comes with integrated telemetry with receiver voltage and up to five optional additional functions. $199.99; jramericas.com

Hitec Eclipse 7 Pro

7 CHANNELS

With numerous upgrades and added features, this Pro radio is a great value. It has 16-model storage, intuitive control switches, and a good selection of telemetry functions. It has programming for fixed wing, glow, gas or electric planes, helicopters, and sailplanes. $239.99; hitecrcd.com

Hitec Flash 7

7 CHANNELS

The Hitec Flash 7 can store up to 20 models and has full telemetry capability. This transmitter is great for planes, gliders and helicopters with select programing for each type. The push button/jog dial-programming interface makes data entry very easy.
$179.99; hitecrcd.com

Tactic TTX850

This radio is full of features at the right price and we found it easy to program for any aircraft, airplanes, helis and multirotors. With a 30-model memory, the TTX850 can easily take care of all your planes. The transmitter has a large LCD screen that includes backlighting and adjustable contrast for easy viewing.
$179.99; tacticrc.com

10 CHANNELS

FlySky i10

This cool looking 10-channel transmitter has 20-model memory, USB charging for its LiPo transmitter battery pack, and multiple touch screens for adjusting the transmitter setup and functions. The transmitter has an ultra-thin case profile, 10 switches and three dial knobs. $209.99; diamondhobby.com

Turnigy TGY-i10

10 CHANNELS

This very economical 10-channel radio is lightweight and has a touchscreen that you use to program it. The screen has a number of icons for different programing menus, to select one just press and adjust. It also has telemetry options and is easy to use. Price $169.12; hobbyking.com

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