The Best RC Helicopter Hobby Stores: A Guide to Finding Quality Products and Expert Advice
Remote-controlled (RC) helicopters are a popular hobby for both adults and children alike. With the advancement of technology, RC helicopters have become more sophisticated and complex, adding to the enjoyment of flying them. However, to truly experience the thrill of flying these helicopters, you need to have access to quality equipment, spare parts, and repair services. This is where RC helicopter hobby stores come in. These specialized stores offer everything you need to get started and stay engaged in the hobby, from beginner models to advanced flying machines and equipment. Whether you are looking for indoor or outdoor RC helicopters, you can find them in hobby stores that specialize in remote control helicopters, which are usually staffed by experts who can provide you with technical advice and recommendations on the best products to buy. Additionally, hobby stores present an opportunity to connect with other enthusiasts, who can share their experiences, skills, and tips on how to fly and maintain your RC helicopters effectively.
Finding the Best RC Helicopter Hobby Stores
If you are in the market for an RC helicopter hobby store, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you are getting the best product and customer service available. Here are some tips on how to find the right store:
- Check online reviews and ratings to make an informed decision.
- Look for trusted sellers who have good reputations within the RC helicopter community.
- Consider shopping at brick-and-mortar hobby shops or online hobby stores.
- Check the website of the hobby store to ensure they have a wide range of products and accessories available.
- Look for a store that offers after-sales support, technical advice, and spare parts for your helicopters
Some of the keywords related to this paragraph are hobby store criteria, RC helicopter customer service, trusted sellers, online hobby stores, and hobby shop reviews. One good example is the Horizon Hobby store, which has a wide range of RC helicopters, parts, and accessories. They offer expert advice, technical support, and online resources for budding hobbyists. Additionally, they provide free shipping for orders over a certain amount and have a 30-day return policy for customer satisfaction. Many top-rated RC helicopter hobby stores usually offer additional benefits to customers such as rewards programs, discounts, and free shipping deals for purchases over certain amounts. By taking these steps, you can be confident that you have found a quality RC helicopter hobby store that will meet all of your needs.
What size RC helicopter is best for beginner?
For beginners, it is best to start with a smaller size RC helicopter such as a 2-3 channel helicopter. This size is easier to control and less expensive to repair in case of crashes. It is important to choose a helicopter with a stable and sturdy design to ensure safe and enjoyable flying experience. Websites such as Amazon and RC Planet offer a range of beginner-friendly RC helicopters.
When searching for an RC helicopter hobby store, it is essential to find one that meets certain criteria. Here are some aspects to consider when looking for a good RC helicopter hobby store:
- A wide selection of RC helicopters, parts, and accessories for beginners and experts alike.
- Knowledgeable staff who can help you with technical questions, repairs, and maintenance of your helicopters.
- Competitive pricing that is fair to both the customer and the retailer.
- Good customer support that is available online, by phone or in-person.
- A proven track record of reliability and customer satisfaction.
These factors are important as they can help you determine which RC helicopter hobby store to choose. For example, one of the most reputable RC helicopter hobby stores is AMain Hobbies, which has been in business since 2004. Not only do they have a broad selection of products, but they also offer free shipping on orders over $99, a 30-day return policy, and excellent customer support. They also have a dedicated support section on their website that offers a plethora of resources such as manuals, videos, and tech articles.
Additionally, there are some interesting facts to note about RC helicopter hobby stores. One example is the availability of a build-your-own kit, which can be a rewarding experience for those who are interested in constructing their own helicopter from scratch. Several online hobby stores cater to this niche by providing kits that include all the necessary components, such as a frame, motor, and rotor blades.
To sum up, finding a good RC helicopter hobby store should be a priority for anyone who wants to pursue this hobby. By looking for stores that offer a wide range of products, knowledgeable staff, fair pricing, good customer support, and a proven track record, you can be confident that you will get the best value for your money on your RC helicopter purchases.
It is worth noting that the table below showcases some top-rated RC helicopter hobby stores and their respective features.
| Store Name | Selection of Products | Knowledgeable Staff | Pricing | Customer Support | Proven Track Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horizon Hobby | Yes | Yes | Fair | Excellent | Yes |
| A-Main Hobbies | Wide range available | Yes | Competitive | Excellent | Yes |
| HobbyKing | Yes | Growing community and knowledge base | Affordable | Good | Yes |
| RC Superstore | Yes | Yes | Competitive | Good | Yes |
Some of the keywords related to this paragraph are RC helicopter selection, hobby store prices, reliable customer service, knowledge base, and build-your-own kit.
Are RC helicopters hard to fly?
Flying an RC helicopter can be difficult for beginners, requiring patience, practice, and understanding of the helicopter’s controls. It’s important to start with a simple model and learn the basics before moving on to more advanced flying techniques. If you’re a beginner, websites like RC Helicopter Fun offer tips and advice on how to get started. There are also beginner RC helicopter products that can help ease the learning process, such as the Blade Nano CP S and the E-flite Blade 70 S.
Top RC Helicopter Hobby Stores in the US
There are many excellent RC helicopter hobby stores across the United States. Here are some of the best ones:
- Horizon Hobby – A well-known hobby store with a vast selection of RC helicopters, parts, and accessories from major brands such as Blade, E-flite, and Spektrum.
- A-Main Hobbies – A popular destination for those interested in high-quality RC helicopters and a range of other hobbies such as model trains and drones.
- HobbyKing – A leading online hobby store that provides affordable RC helicopters and parts to enthusiasts worldwide.
- RC Superstore – An extensive selection of products including RC helicopters, airplanes, cars, trucks, and boats from multiple brands such as Traxxas, DJI, and Blade.
It’s important to note that each of these hobby stores offers different incentives to make the shopping experience more enjoyable. For example, Horizon Hobby offers free shipping on orders over $99, while A-Main Hobbies provides reward points that can be used towards future purchases. HobbyKing offers free standard shipping on a select range of products and a satisfaction guarantee, meaning customers can return items within 30 days for a full refund.
Moreover, the popularity of these stores has led them to develop their own product lines, including beginner-friendly RC helicopter models. The Blade Nano S2 from Horizon Hobby, for example, is an excellent pick for beginners. It’s small, affordable, durable, and easy to fly. HobbyKing offers the Quanum Nova Quadcopter and DJI Phantom 2 Vision+, while RC Superstore has a range of kits, including the Blade mCX2, for those who want to build their own.
In conclusion, whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned RC helicopter hobbyist, there are numerous hobby stores to choose from that specialize in this area of interest. Shopping from reputable and knowledgeable sellers will enhance your enjoyment of the hobby.
The table below showcases some key information about these popular RC helicopter hobby stores.
| Store Name | Location | Website | Notable Products Sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horizon Hobby | Champaign, Illinois | https://www.horizonhobby.com | Blade Nano, E-flite Blade Glimpse, Spektrum DX6e Transmitter |
| A-Main Hobbies | Chico, California | https://www.amainhobbies.com | Align T-Rex Helicopters, Castle Creations ESCs, SAB Heli Division Goblin Black Thunder T |
| HobbyKing | Hong Kong | https://hobbyking.com | Quanum Nova Quadcopter, DJI Phantom 2 Vision+, Turnigy Micro-X Quadcopter |
| RC Superstore | Wentzville, Missouri | https://www.rcsuperstore.com | Blade mCX2, DJI Mavic Pro Platinum, Traxxas X-Maxx |
The additional keywords related to this paragraph are top RC helicopter stores, notable products, RC helicopter kits, and reputable sellers.
Which is better RC drone or helicopter?
Drones are considered better than RC helicopters for aerial photography and filmography due to their stability and ease of control. They are widely used for both commercial and recreational purposes. If you are interested in purchasing a drone, you can check out websites such as DJI.com or Amazon.com for a variety of options.
When it comes to purchasing RC helicopters, hobby stores offer a vast selection of models, parts, and accessories of varying brands and designs. These stores cater to both novice and professional RC aircraft hobbyists, providing everything necessary for flying, repairing, and upgrading RC helicopters.
RC helicopter hobby stores provide a convenient online shopping experience for customers, allowing them to browse their extensive product offerings from the comfort of their homes. Shopping online also provides easy access to customer service, technical support, and product reviews. One can take advantage of online discounts, bundle offers, and package deals while having access to exclusive products not available in physical stores.
Before making a purchase, it is important to research the products and the sellers thoroughly. Check the store’s return and exchange policies and warranties, product specifications, and customer support channels. Look for online reviews and ratings from other customers and make sure the store has a secure website for online purchases. It is essential to avoid scam sites that sell fake products or deceive customers.
Some popular RC helicopter hobby stores include Horizon Hobby, HeliDirect, and Tower Hobbies, among others. These websites offer a vast array of products, including RC helicopters, drones, aircraft, and accessories, as well as technical support and expert advice.
For example, Horizon Hobby offers a companion app for mobile devices, providing customers with easy access to their products and services. The app allows for in-app purchases, browsing for specific parts, and tracking shipping details. HeliDirect offers fast shipping and a rewards program for frequent customers, while Tower Hobbies provides a vast selection of parts and accessories in addition to its RC helicopter offerings.
Overall, RC helicopter hobby stores provide an excellent option for purchasing RC helicopters and associated products online. By following proper precautions and researching thoroughly, customers can find the perfect model and accessories to suit their needs.
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How to choose a motor for RC helicopter?
When selecting a motor for an RC helicopter, a good rule of thumb is to aim for around 250-300 watts per pound for 3D flight. For example, if your helicopter’s all up weight is 10 pounds, a motor capable of outputting around 3000 watts would be suitable. You can find motors and other relevant products on websites like HobbyKing or Horizon Hobby.
Conclusion
In summary, RC helicopter flying is a popular hobby that offers endless hours of entertainment. Selecting a reputable RC helicopter hobby store is crucial to ensure that you buy quality products and receive adequate customer support. Besides, buying from authorized dealers is essential for valid warranties that protect your purchase.
When shopping for RC helicopter hobby stores, consider online stores like Horizon Hobby, AMain Hobbies, or RC Planet, or well-known physical hobby stores like Hobbytown or Heli World. Also, have in mind the tips presented in this article when buying online.
Remember, RC helicopter flying requires commitment, determination, and skill. Therefore, purchase quality products, practice safety measures, and seek support and advice from experienced hobbyists. Happy flying!
The keywords related to this conclusion are reputable hobby stores, authorized dealers, quality products, safety measures, and experienced hobbyists.
