This text is machine translated.
RC Helicopter: Flight models for hobbyists and enthusiasts
Modeling is one of the most popular hobbies of the Germans. In addition to RC helicopters, there are quadcopters, model cars, model ships and many other models that are very popular. Flying models are especially desired, since one can install small cameras in the devices and make great aerial photographs. In our CONRAD Online Shop you will find many remote-controlled helicopters in the kit or as a ready-assembled RTF model. This way you can enjoy your hobby and muffle at the same time.
-
What was RC
-
What different RC helicopter versions are available?
-
What was to be observed when purchasing an RC helicopter?
-
Legal specifications on the subject of RC helicopters
-
Conclusion: You will find a remote controlled helicopter according to your taste
What was RC
RC helicopters are small, motorized flying models that can be moved with a remote control. RC model helicopters are often modeled to the exact scale of a flight model from the man-carrying aviation industry. They are much smaller and cannot carry people themselves. RC stands for "Radio Controlled" or "Remote Controlled". This abbreviation is due to the remote control operation of the devices.
True-to-scale replicas
In RC helicopter models, there are different scale models, semi-scale models and fun-scale models. Scale models are almost completely modeled on a model from manned aviation in form and color. Semi-scale models also have a helicopter model, but are changed in some details. In addition, there are fun-scale models. These are in the same shape as a helicopter from the man-carrying aviation, but are changed in color. They have fantasy colorings that do not exist in reality. You can also find RC helicopters that do not have a real role model. These are often referred to as trainer models. They are often equipped with a camera and are used in photography or in film.
What different RC helicopter versions are available?
Would you like to buy a finished RC helicopter or assemble the individual parts of the model yourself? The answer to this question determines which model type is suitable for you. In modeling, a distinction is made between different versions, which are marked with abbreviations such as BNF, RTB or RTF. Was you interested in the abbreviations? You can find out here:
Assembly Kit
You are skilled in craftsmanship and like to make crafts? Then a kit is just the right one for you. Here you will receive your remote-controlled model helicopter in individual parts. These must now be joined together with the corresponding tool. Model making tools can also be found in THE CONRAD Online Shop.
ARF (most ready to fly)
ARF helicopters are almost ready to fly. Here, a few components have to be joined together. Depending on the model type, you may have to install the wings or install the motor.
BNF (bind and fly)
BNF flight models are ready-made helicopters. Here, however, the remote control is still missing. Either you already have a remote control at home or buy an appropriate device, which is compatible with the flight model.
RTB (ready to bind)
RTB is a synonym for BNF. The designations are manufacturer-dependant.
RTF (ready to fly)
RTF helicopters have everything was needed for flying (planes, transmitters, chargers, rechargeable batteries). All you have to do is charge the battery and start flying. If you have two left hands or do not want to buy an additional model construction tool, you are well advised with an RTF model.
Practical advice
You do not want to buy a model helicopter, but a different RC model airplane? No problem, you can also find model airplanes, quadcopters, Multicopter and race copters in THE Conrad online shop. Quadcopters are particularly popular. With an integrated camera you can conjure up breath-taking aerial photographs. Even those who prefer to stay on the ground with their model or prefer the water, will find it in our shop. Choose from cars, model ships and motor boats the right model for your taste.
What was to be observed when purchasing an RC helicopter?
If you want to buy an RC helicopter, you have to consider a few criteria when buying it. For example, observe the type of control, the maximum speed, the number and size of the rotor blades and the battery life. The CONRAD Online Shop offers a wide range of models, so you can find the right product for your needs.
The most important thing to buy RC helicopters
- RC helicopters are remote-controlled model helicopters, which are modeled on flight models from manned aviation.
- Remote-controlled helicopters are supplied in different models. Hobbyists can pick up a kit and work on their own. If you are a little bit more unsmart or don't like to make it, you will benefit from a completely assembled RTF helicopter. All you have to do is recharge the battery.
- In addition to the model design, consider other purchase criteria. For example, observe the number and size of the rotor blades, available control functions and the runtime of the rechargeable batteries.
Number and size of blades
There are single-rotor helicopters and helicopters with several rotor blades. Most models have a large main rotor, which is located above the cabin, and a smaller tail rotor. The larger the rotor diameter of the main rotor, the heavier the RC helicopter is in general and the quieter it is in the air. Small gusts do not matter for helicopters with a large main rotor. They are ideal for outdoor flights. Helicopters with a small single-rotor are, on the other hand, more intended for the indoor area, since they lose their flight direction even with small wind gusts.
Control
When controlling model helicopters, a distinction is made between different control functions, such as pitch, roll, yaw or pitch. Nick stands for giving the helicopter around its own transverse axis. With the control function Nick, the helicopter can be tilted forward or backward. Roll, on the other hand, refers to the swiveling around the longitudinal axis, i.e. the inclination or the rolling of the helicopter to the left or right. With the yaw control function, the helicopter is turned around the vertical axis and aligns itself to the left or right. With the pitch control knob, you can lift and lower the model airplane. Here, the rotor blades are changed in their angle of attack. Take into account which control functions the remote control of the desired helicopter contains.
Model helicopter for beginners
There are special model helicopters for beginners. They have excellent hovering properties, are easy to install and dismantle and are particularly durable. If you buy the first model helicopter and have not gained any experience in flying, this model is the right choice for you. In addition, the CONRAD Online Shop also offers RC helicopters for advanced and professional users.
Battery life and charging time
In most cases, the effective flight time for RC helicopters is just five to ten minutes. Due to the short battery life, you should purchase several replacement batteries if you want to enjoy a longer flight time. Otherwise, the rechargeable batteries are recharged relatively quickly. Some batteries only take 20 minutes to charge until they are fully operational again.
Legal specifications on the subject of RC helicopters
Please note that flying RC helicopters is regulated by the German Air Traffic Regulations. Therefore, you must not simply let your helicopter ascend everywhere, but also have to find out beforehand whether this is permitted. This way, you may only carry out your RC helicopter start on foreign land if you have asked the owner beforehand and received a positive response. Do not start the RC helicopter near airports and residential areas. Keep a distance of at least 1.5 kilometers here at all times.
Also make sure that you have a valid liability insurance, which covers any damage caused by your helicopter. You may need to take out additional insurance.
Would you like to make photo or video recordings from an airy height with your helicopter? There are also legal provisions to be taken into account here. In this way, the people you record with the camera must not be recognizable. Otherwise, you will need to obtain prior approval from those individuals.
Conclusion: You will find a remote controlled helicopter according to your taste
RC helicopters are great hobby model flyers. If you do not want to purchase a quadrocopter with a camera, you can also install the camera on the model helicopter and create magical aerial photographs. When purchasing your helicopter, you should first pay attention to the model version. If you want to start flying right away, you can buy a Ready to Fly model (RTF). If you like to build and bring the necessary skill, you can also buy an ARF helicopter or grab a kit. Also read THE CONRAD product descriptions of how many rotor blades the RC helicopter has, how large they are, what control functions there are and how long the battery life is. If you are a beginner in RC model construction, you can buy a special helicopter for beginners. These models are easy to navigate and also particularly suitable for children. Always observe the legal requirements and never let your RC helicopter fly in unauthorized areas.