How to Buy Indoor-Flight Model Planes

Indoor-flight model airplanes permit hobbyists to indulge their passions year-round, regardless of the season or the weather. Low cost and relative simplicity mean youngsters can have also fun learning about aerodynamics by constructing a real flying model.

Things You'll Need

  • Airplane Glue
  • Modeler's Tools And Supplies
  • Glue Guns
  • Hot Glue Sticks
  • Razor Knives
  • Superglue
  • R/C Modeling Construction & Operating Publications
  • 14-function Pocketknives
  • Dremel Rotary Tools
  • Phillips Screwdrivers
  • X-Acto Knives
  • Electric Screwdrivers
  • Needle-nose Pliers
  • Nut Drivers
  • Pliers
  • Razor Plane Sets
  • Razor Saw Sets
  • Screwdriver Bits
  • Slotted Screwdrivers
  • R/C model airplanes - Pica Corsair F4U electric, GPM Electricub, Kyosho T-33 electric, Slowflyer electrics
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Instructions

  1. Rubber-powered or Glider Airplanes

    • 1

      Read and learn. Indoor flying of rubber-powered or glider airplanes is "free flying" - the models fly without being controlled by the modeler.

    • 2

      Remember, indoor flying models are light and delicate whether constructed from a kit or from scratch.

    • 3

      Be aware that most indoor flying models are either gliders or powered by rubber-band-driven propellers. Indoor radio-control flying generally involves electric-powered scale models.

    • 4

      Remember that you'll see familiar airplanes such as the Piper Cub or a Fokker tri-plane, but also you'll see fanciful designs, for which no full-size counterpart exists.

    • 5

      Think about the scale with which you want to begin. A popular scale is "Peanut," which consists of a tissue-paper-covered wood frame with a wingspan no greater than 13 inches.

    • 6

      Remember that while some indoor-flight modelers build and fly for fun, many enjoy competitions involving flight duration.

    • 7

      Join a free-flight model club.

    • 8

      Find a friendly mentor among club members to help you learn about kit selection, construction techniques and competition.

    Electric-powered Airplanes

    • 9

      Remember, electric-powered model aircraft are also radio-controlled and, thus, you'll make a more significant investment.

    • 10

      Consider investing in an almost-ready-to-fly electric airplane kit - one that comes complete with scale-model aircraft, electric motor, radio-control transmitter, battery pack and accessories.

    • 11

      Find a flying club in your area.

    • 12

      Check to see if there's a member who enjoys electric-powered airplane models and ask for tips.

    • 13

      Find your local hobby store, visit and look around. Ask for literature.

    • 14

      Remember that the Internet is a valuable tool. Use it to contact other enthusiasts or follow a Web ring.

Tips & Warnings

  • Electric-powered flying scale models generally are more economical to purchase and maintain than "wet fuel" flying models.

  • Indoor flying of electric-powered models is limited to relatively low-speed designs.

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