Getting started with Giant scale

[Bob White]

Hi,

Would be grateful for some advice please regarding giant scale. I have built small control line planes many years ago as a youngster and am now considering RC. I am only interested in giant scale though and recognise that this is NOT the place to start.

I am very comfortable with all aspects of building and programming the more complex model and I have a private pilots licence so I understand why and how planes stay in the air - I have even done the aerobatics course.

I have recently got myself a copy of RealFlight G4 and I have become comfortable flying, for example, the Yak 54 in both of the dual rate modes and with crosswind and turbulance set.

Here's where I need some strong advice! All of these factors are leading me to the conclusion that it would be ok to make the Aeroworks 42% Yak 54 my first project provided I set the control throws to low and maybe put in a gyro.

So, three questions: 1 - just how realistic is G4? Does it flatter the pilot or can I really expect to fly safely in the real world, given due deference to the weather? 2 - Am I deluding myself? It's very easy to rationalise away all the good advice about starting with a small basic trainer just because I think I'm better than I actually am. 3 - Is it reasonable to think in terms of starting with a large plane and, if so, could the Yak be a good starting point or is there another large scale and more realistic option?

Thanks in advance for any help you can offer and, as a first timer to any forum, may I congratulate you on yours. Its the liveliest and most informative I have found.

Thanks

Bob

[JoeMacD]

Hi Bob, I recently last year got back into the R/C aircraft Hobby being absent for close to 10 years from flying. The first thing I did before going to my old flying field as I held on to the trainer that I built for my son's was to invest in the G 3.5 simulator.I too have some real plane hours and it is different flying R/C. The New G4 real flight is a much better improved system. I highly recomend it as you can make it as hard or as easy as you are willing to make it. You have full control over wind,weather,sun position,veiw of aircraft.All of the aircraft are like it says real, you can actually feel the aircraft if they are light or heavy on the stick. there is alot of data and parameters that you can use or change, some times being overwhelming.Its also fun to just go into like a flying chat room and meet new flyers as your flying your planes together on the internet.
well I rambled on too much. Bob its well worth the money to get started.Enjoy Bob!

sincerly
Joe

[Bob White]

Hi Joe,

Many thanks for your insights - its nice to know that G4 gives me a fair representation of what I can expect with the real thing. All I now need to do is figure out my first project!

Thanks again

Bob

[JoeMacD]

You might have a better idea if you fly the G4 first they have many Giant scale Aircraft to fly in the program in which to base your decision!
Ive flown the Twin B-25, The Large scale P-51,The stinsen, and some Large scale areobatic planes. I'm sure you will be more decisive if you fly them first!

[Bob White]

Am comfortable flying the G4 Yak 54 which is why I wondered whether this might be a good starting place. On reflection though, I suspect something a little less 'capable' might be more prudent. Thanks again for the thought and I'll give those you suggest a try!