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Lion Models Heli Cat ($249.95) is an excellent entry-level kit for building a model helicopter. It has modular construction and is designed for a wide range of engines.

The Cyclone II can be purchased as either a standard or semi-finished kit. The 50.39-inch helicopter uses a five-channel radio and Webra 50 powerplant and makes an excellent first helicopter.

The Advance 6FM-H is a six-channel transmitter for radio-control of model planes. It does not have fancy mixing circuits, but it meets all the basic needs of novice and intermediate flyers. This 'excellent' radio is available at a competitive price.

The article evaluates the Blade 250 CFX Basic, a model helicopter from Horizon Hobby.

The article presents tips on maintaining and preparing model helicopters for the summer flying season. Topics covered include tips on the careful handling and maintenance of batteries, how to reinforce canopies, and how to check the overall balance of the rotor blades. It also discusses how to do routine maintenance on rotor heads, tail rotors, and servos.

The article discusses the use of multiblade rotor heads in helicopter model aircrafts instead of the traditional two rotor blades and flybar with paddles. Multihead rotors are noted to be designed and traditionally used for scale applications which is now being experimented for its application to sports and aerobatics. Adjusting blade tracking and rotor blade matching are also mentioned.

Examining a helicopter from different angles reveals the different forces that affect its flight. Lift, generated by the rotor blades, counters weight. Tail rotor thrust counters torque generated by the rotor blades.

The article offers information on importance of balancing rotor blades. Topics discussed include various designs of the rotor blades being used in model helicopters like improving autorotation using reflex airfoil, weighing each blade for finding the center of gravity (CG) and correct positioning of the blades for proper centrifugal force with no vibration.