I’ve always been interested in learning how to fly a helicopter and I finally took the time to get started on that path. I don’t have a lot of time to put a helicopter together because of my responsibilities with Radio Control Car Action so I decided to speed things up a bit by picking up a Raptor SC which is an almost ready-to-fly heli. Generally it’s easier to start with an electric heli but since I am a fan of nitro and have a lot of engine tuning experience, I went with nitro power. I just took it out of the package and now I have some minor assembly ahead of me to get it ready to fire. I have to install the tail and main blades and then make sure the radio is setup properly.

 

The frame of the Thunder Tiger Raptor SC is designed to fit a .30 to .50 size engine and it comes with a Thunder Tiger PRO-39H engine installed; you can also pick one up with a .50 engine. A Sky Tech TS6i Radio System and a TG-7000 Heading Lock Gyro controls the flight of the heli. I think the hardest thing for me to learn will be trying to get used to operating the multi channel stick radio. I’ve only used a few in my RC lifetime and I always get confused on what stick does what. I’m used to the good old pistol grip radios that I use on all my vehicles.

 

One of the great things about the Raptor heli is that it’s very popular and there are so many option and aftermarket parts available for it. I already want to start modifying my heli but I think I’ll try to wait until I learn how to fly it first. It’s not easy leaving things stock so we’ll see how long that lasts.

 

Now I have to start figuring this sucker out. I have a manual to read and the editors of Model Airplane News to bug for information. I also have to look into joining the AMA and finding someone to help teach me how to fly this thing at the flying field. I’m super excited about my new heli and I can’t wait for my first flight. I’ll be giving you updates as I get there right here on my blog.