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Model Gliders
Starting off with model gliders is similar in many respects to starting with fixed wing powerered aircraft, but generally simpler and cheaper. Less equipment is needed, you can get along with 2 channel radio radio control and you don't have to operate a thirsty model engine. Personally I think beginning with model gliding is the best approach to model flying. It may end up being all you want to do.
With gliders there are two main types. Slope soarers which use ridge lift, and Thermal soarers. Slope soaring obviously needs a suitable hill which can present a problem. Thermal flying can be done off any ordinary flying site.
I recommend starting with a 2 Metre training glider, and 2 channel control over rudder and elevator. One of these planes could be flown off a slope, or towed up on a bungee at any flat flying site.
If you are building your own, then the same stuff used for building power models would be needed. The support equipment is much reduced however, and just consists of a bungee to launch the glider into the air & umm.. well that's about it for support equipment really, some epoxy maybe, and of course a stake to attach the elastic end of the bungee to.
Training gliders fly quite slow, and hence are that much easier than power models to begin with. Every landing is a deadstick(NO POWER) landing though, so needs to be well planned. You only have one shot at it. If you make a mistake they tend not to trash themselves as badly as a power model, so you have a better chance of going it alone with a glider.
I personally started with power models. I did notice however that after a spell flying model gliders, my power flying had improved considerably. So if you have you're heart set on power model flying, any time spent on gliders should be well spent.
Wil Van Gestel
  
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