[headviking]

I am just starting out, and would like some advice to some first purchases and am planning to make. First off this will be my first rc quadcopter or any flying aircraft for that matter. I am looking to purchase a BTF system. First for some training and getting used to plying I was looking at the Blade 180 qx BTF and the Spectrum DX6i transmitter. Thinking that by spending my money on a transmitter that can be used if and when I upgrade to maybe the 350 QX soe something in that line. Am I thinking relatively in the right way?
Any suggestions would be helpful.

[duffmcsuds]

The thing you want to keep in mind is that you will crash ALOT. So you want to get something that isn't too expensive and has cheap replacement parts. That said the 180 QX or the nano QX are both great options for beginners. the Safe technology on the Blade quads make it really easy to get started, but allows you to turn it down or completely shut it off once you get more comfortably flying.
In terms of transmitter, the dx6i is a good choice to begin with, but keep in mind that if you upgrade to a bigger more complex quad later on, you may need more channels to take advantage of all the features.

Once you feel you are ready to move onto something with a little more oomph, there are a lot of things you need to take into account. Do you want to do stunt flying, AF, FPV? Short range/Long range? Do you want a pre-built or do you want to build your own? All of these things will play a part in deciding what you go with, but the best thing to do is take your time and do lots of research.

Just remember to take your time and practice ALOT, but most of all have fun!

[Max]

Originally Posted by duffmcsuds

The thing you want to keep in mind is that you will crash ALOT.

I disagree 100% You will crash a lot if you are stupid or buy cheap hardware.
Crashes can be avoided by buying the right gear and taking the time to learn and fly within your limits.

My success rate for helping a total noob who has never flown any kind of prior RC experience learn to successfully fly a quad is 3 for 3. I'm talking guys that have NEVER touched an RC controller before coming to me for assistance in buying/flying a quad.
The only guy who has ever come to me for help afterwards (about a month later) was the guy that was too impatient to wait for the quad to properly initialize before he flew- he crashed that one. He (and I) put that fault in the "Stupid" class. Needless to say, he has not crashed ever since he learned that lesson.

So if the intention is to get a 350qx, why buy cheap stuff and "crash a lot" when you can get a good (relatively) multi like the QX350 off the bat? It has such great stabilization and flight assistance features like position hold and autoland, it really takes a load off to PREVENT a crash. When you add up the cost of buying cheap and crashing often , the cost of repair doesn't make it cheap anymore, does it? Add up the cost and you will quickly realize you could have bought a better quad from the getgo. So why suffer the frustration? Get something good now.

Most importantly is if you can get someone to help you out. It really helps with your chances of success.

[headviking]

Thanks guys. Both pieces of advice seems valid. I will do some more research as to what I really need and want. Because this is a first in flying RC of me I am treating all advice seriously.

[Max]

Originally Posted by headviking

Thanks guys. Both pieces of advice seems valid. I will do some more research as to what I really need and want. Because this is a first in flying RC of me I am treating all advice seriously.

Good to hear. Doing your homework is always the best first step.

Keep us posted and keep asking questions.

[kayaker]

I didn't have a mentor, and wasn't sure how far I was going to go with my new interest, so I bought a Blade 180QX. Lower initial $$ input and still a fun toy. Looking into building a more interesting kit later on.

Cheers,

kayaker