About Buying Right RC Plane Kit
There are many important factors when deciding which RC airplane kit to purchase. Some devotees of this hobby, who choose to build their own planes, are faced with the choice of wood or plastic models. Other possibilities are almost ready to fly (ARF planes), and ready to fly (RTF planes). The different engine styles available require yet another decision.
A fun and exciting past time, it is easy to understand why radio controlled airplanes are popular. Those considering investing in a plane for the first time may be surprised at the various kits available. Materials, engine and control technology, the degree of assembly, and even the position of wings in relation to the plane body are all issues affecting the flying quality of a plane.
Experienced builders, as well as some neophytes, may prefer to build their own plane. They can choose from either traditional balsa wood, or the newer plastic material. Builders must then choose between a gas powered and electric motor. Again, those seeking a less labor intensive pursuit may determine that either an ARF or RTF kit fills their requirements.
The original model plane kits, still sold today, are constructed with balsa wood. These kits consist of either die cut parts, or parts the assembler would cut with the assistance of templates. After cutting and sanding the pieces they are glued together. They are then covered with tissue, and painted with multiple layers of a lacquer called plane dope. Applying a heat shrink film with an iron is another method.
An alternative to balsa wood planes are models built out of either plastic or molded foam. The plastic kits may be similar to the balsa wood type, but the airplane pieces are fabricated out of a plastic sheeting material called coroplast. Some model plane pilots prefer the molded foam type called foamies because they are virtually crash proof.
Occupying the mid ground of the RC plane market are ARF kits. They are called almost ready to fly because the plane pieces are finished, and partially assembled. Only the final assembly of the motor, radio controls, and body of the plane is needed to be ready for flight.
Some hobbyists would rather spend their leisure time flying a plane instead of building one. A great choice for them is an RTF model kit. These planes lack only the final assembly steps in order to be ready for takeoff. The flight controls and motors also require some attachment.
Model airplane motors can be purchased separately, or as part of a kit. The original standard for motors was the gas powered motor. However, electric powered planes are steadily gaining popularity as they become more powerful with longer lasting batteries.