Mini Telemaster Beginner Notes from Hobby Lobby!

HLA101 Mini Telemaster Electric RC Airplane Kit Outfit:	Grade:

1. What is the MAIN reason that this outfit is good for a beginner?
For me there is no other feeling of accomplishment like seeing an all-wood model that I constructed flying effortlessly. Slow stable flight is required for the beginner and this model delivers.
2. Instructions and/or plans:	5
The model is built right on top of the full size plans so placement position of the parts for assembly is easy to locate and secure. The written instructions are clear and easy to read and follow, but they are written assuming this is not your first model. The instructions should include more info on preparation for flight with pre-flight basic requirements such as wing alignment and basic flight theory to get though the first flight and landing. A note to warn that any wing warps must be corrected before flight (usually by holding the wing aligned correctly and re-heating the covering) would be helpful. A straight well-aligned wing is key for a successful first flight of any model.
3. Assembly difficulty:	6
Mini Telemaster is an all-wood model assembly kit that requires the ability to carefully read the instructions and plans to assemble. This effort will be well rewarded with your first flight.
4. How easy is it to fly without help?	10
Mini Telemaster like its stable mates Sr. Telemaster and Telemaster 40 is a great model to learn to build and fly RC models. It is always best to have an experienced RC modeler give your model a once-over "check-out" before your first flight. Mini Telemaster is a gentle flying model.
5. How repairable is it in case of damage during first flights?	9
Due to the all-wood construction any needed repairs can normally be made with glue and balsa. Covering can often be patched with a new piece over itself and small tears can even be repaired with clear tape.
6. Overall recommendation:	9
Once assembled there is hardly a model that can fly better than a Telemaster for the beginning modeler. I find beginners often over-control their first model and can become disoriented. The stable nature of Mini Telemaster will assist the new pilot. Simply releasing the control sticks will allow the model to return to straight and level flight. Some pre-flight ground school will help any beginning modeler with his first flight. Mini Telemaster will provide many satisfying flights.
7. Assembly time: 24 HOURS - (An honest estimate for a beginner)
Plan to spend several building sessions over a couple of weeks. Each building session would concentrate on one assembly, such as the fuselage assembly, wing assembly, covering, and installation of radio and power equipment.

Steve Fuqua

Steve Fuqua's Opinion of Mini Telemaster