How To Buy the Right RC Helicopter

When you decide to buy an rc helicopter, you could go into a hobby shop and pick one off the shelf, but it is in your best interests to research the options available to you before making the purchase.

There is more to consider than just initial cost when purchasing the model - the fuel that the helicopter will use, the availability of parts for the helicopter, the average repair costs for the helicopter, and the learning curve involved in flying the helicopter.

The first choice you will need to make when you buy an rc helicopter is what size of helicopter you want.

While the smaller helicopters tend to be less expensive, they are also harder to control. Larger helicopters need more flying room, but they are more versatile, and easier to fly, especially with precision parts.

However, they are more expensive, on average, to repair after crashes.

The size of helicopter you choose may also determine the fuel it uses. Mini and micro helicopters tend to be electric powered. The advantage to these is that they can be used in smaller areas - they can even be used indoors, because of the lack of fumes.

They also tend to be less expensive and often come as complete, ready-to-fly kits. However, because they are small, they are harder to fly.

Larger helicopters tend to be gas powered, and must be used outside, both because of the fumes and for safety reasons.

Depending on the kit you purchase, you may need to buy additional parts, such as servos, receivers, an engine, probably a gyro - and don't forget the radio!

You should also purchase any additional tools you will need at this time. You will need ball, nut and screw drivers, wrenches, and pliers to assemble it.

You may also want to purchase specialty tools like ball link pliers and a pitch gauge to make the assembly that much easier when you buy your rc helicopter.