pilgrim
06-24-2008, 06:06 PM
I just wanted to take a minute to say thanks to HeliFreak for this part of their web site. I've spent quite a bit of time here lately checking the threads and posts and I am a changed man! Now don't get me wrong I'm not some kind of safety nut but after spending many years riding motorcycles (43 to date) and about 4 or so racing I know first hand the things that can happen. I've lost several friends along the way and most were new riders who didn't have the experience to do what they were trying to do.
When I got into RC airplanes 20 or so years ago it was the type of hobby that required such dedication just to build one and get it into the air that a person was well grounded by the time they flew. I remember the first ARF's that came along and and how a lot of the old timers were disgusted at the lack of dedication they required. I wasn't one of them and bought one right away just to get another plane in the air. But now I think I understand more. With RTF's (I also own a RTF heli so I once again am not totally opposed) it is so easy for just anyone to grab a plane or heli, charge a battery and go fly. The problem with this is that anyone can pick one up, on a whim or for a gift, and immediately go out and put themselves and others in danger.
Please don't think I'm ranting on about these things, I do love our sport, but I do wish there was more of an emphesis on safety. Many of the video's here show the total lack of understanding of what they actually have. Personally I believe that an area like this is about the best step forward we have today.
Anyway, I now practice safer flying and it's all due to this area. Once again thanks HeliFreak!
When I got into RC airplanes 20 or so years ago it was the type of hobby that required such dedication just to build one and get it into the air that a person was well grounded by the time they flew. I remember the first ARF's that came along and and how a lot of the old timers were disgusted at the lack of dedication they required. I wasn't one of them and bought one right away just to get another plane in the air. But now I think I understand more. With RTF's (I also own a RTF heli so I once again am not totally opposed) it is so easy for just anyone to grab a plane or heli, charge a battery and go fly. The problem with this is that anyone can pick one up, on a whim or for a gift, and immediately go out and put themselves and others in danger.
Please don't think I'm ranting on about these things, I do love our sport, but I do wish there was more of an emphesis on safety. Many of the video's here show the total lack of understanding of what they actually have. Personally I believe that an area like this is about the best step forward we have today.
Anyway, I now practice safer flying and it's all due to this area. Once again thanks HeliFreak!