Sab Goblin Helicopters: Expert Review and Buying Guide
The first time I saw SAB Goblin helicopters lift off, I understood what precision flight truly meant. After countless test flights, late-night tuning sessions, and more hangar-talk than I’d like to admit, I’m convinced SAB’s Italian engineering unlocks a different league of control. Sleek carbon fiber, razor-stiff frames, and a sound that whispers efficiency—this is the brand that turned my curiosity into obsession.
In this guide, I’ll unpack what makes SAB Goblin special: the engineering decisions you can feel in the sticks, real-world flight impressions, and a clear look at models like the RAW, Kraken, 700, and 570 Sport. These 3D aerobatic helicopters redefine remote control flying with unmatched agility and responsiveness. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or new to RC helicopters, understanding the performance pedigree behind these electric RC models is key.
I’ll also compare alternatives for different budgets and skill levels and share the maintenance habits that kept my Goblins crisp and precise for seasons.
The Engineering Behind SAB Goblin Helicopters
What truly sets SAB apart is their unwavering commitment to build quality that enhances the overall flight feel. The use of carbon fiber rotor blades and carbon fiber frames ensures not only low weight but also exceptional rigidity, allowing the helicopter to track smoothly like it’s on rails. While many Goblin models traditionally employ a belt-driven tail for smooth power transfer and effective noise management, pilots familiar with torque tube drive system will appreciate SAB’s equally precise tail authority combined with simpler crash recovery.
The main rotor head geometry is expertly crafted for optimal performance in a flybarless setup, delivering rock-solid stability while retaining the agility to snap into 3D maneuvers at a pilot’s command.
Key design highlights demonstrating SAB’s dedication to innovation and aerodynamic design include:
- Frame and boom: constructed from carbon fiber plates with a streamlined boom that resists torsion, effectively locking the tail in place even during hard collective punches.
- Drive system: features a front transmission paired with a belt-driven tail providing quiet, efficient power delivery; having fewer gears reduces resonance points significantly.
- Rotor system: equipped with carbon fiber rotor blades and rigid dampers to ensure crisp cyclic response, alongside smooth feathering spindles for predictable flips and tic-tocs.
- Accessibility: bolt-on modules and pre-aligned components guarantee assembly precision and repeatability, facilitating easier maintenance and upgrades.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Build Quality | High-grade carbon fiber materials improve durability and flight performance. |
| Carbon Fiber Rotor Blades | Enhances rigidity and cyclic response for precise control. |
| Torque Tube Drive System | Provides precise tail authority and simpler crash recovery. |
| Belt-Driven Tail | Ensures smooth power transfer and reduces gear noise. |
| Flybarless Setup | Delivers rock-solid stability with agile 3D maneuverability. |
| Innovation & Aerodynamic Design | Streamlined boom and rotor head geometry maximize flight efficiency. |
| Assembly Precision | Bolt-on modules and pre-aligned components ensure repeatable builds. |
| Noise Management | Fewer gears and a belt-driven tail reduce resonance and operational sound. |
Explore current kits and parts for detailed sizing and specifications at Swell RC’s SAB Goblin collection.
Flight Experience: Performance That Redefines Control
The first spool-up told me everything: a clean, low-vibration hum and a hover that felt laser-etched into the air. After tuning throttle curves and practicing figure-eights, I realized how forgiving yet responsive the Goblin really is. At moderate head speed, it’s smooth and confidence-building.
Bump it up, and it dives into hurricanes, funnels, and piro flips with a one-piece feel—no lag, no slop, just a predictable arc you can repeat. This level of precision control makes mastering dynamic maneuvers in 3D aerobatic helicopters both thrilling and accessible.
In gusty conditions, the rigid frame combined with efficient disc loading greatly enhances flight stability, keeping the model composed even during unpredictable gusts. The excellent blade inertia ensures autorotations feel unhurried, adding valuable control for both novice and experienced pilots. When I finally tuned the rotor pitch perfectly, the iconic tic-tocs started clicking like a metronome, a testament to the helicopter’s responsive design and quiet operation.
| Feature | Goblin Helicopter | Gaui Helicopters | XK K110S Helicopter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame Stiffness | High (excellent for tracking and stability under load) | Moderate (lightweight agility for snappy transitions) | Low (micro size for tame park flying) |
| Flight Stability | Superior in gusty conditions | Good, favors agility over rigidity | Basic, ideal for orientation practice |
| Dynamic Maneuvers | Excellent responsiveness with no lag or slop | Agile but less stiff frame | Not suited for aggressive 3D flying |
| Resilience in Crashes | Robust build tolerates impacts well | Moderately resilient | Fragile, designed for learning |
| Use Case | Advanced 3D aerobatics | Intermediate, versatile flying | Beginner practice & orientation |
For anyone stepping up from a micro helicopter, the XK K110S helicopter offers a solid introduction to basic controls and flight characteristics before entering the Goblin’s impressive power envelope. Meanwhile, the Gaui comparison showcases how different design philosophies affect agility and stability, aiding pilots in selecting a helicopter that matches their flying style.
Model Lineup Overview and Comparisons
SAB’s lineup spans from approachable mid-sizes to competition-class flagships, perfectly suited for a wide range of pilots looking to advance their skills in electric RC models. Here’s how I match models to pilots and battery packs, focusing on SAB Goblin RAW, SAB Kraken, SAB Goblin 700, and the popular Goblin 570 Sport, emphasizing important considerations such as model comparisons and battery requirements, particularly the choice between 6S vs 12S setups.
| Model | Pilot Level | Battery Requirements | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goblin RAW 700/760 | Advanced/Competition | Typically 12S packs for maximum power | Serious 3D and big-air performance; rigid, serviceable layout; massive authority and long, controllable autorotations |
| SAB Kraken 700/580 | Advanced | Often 12S for refined tuning | Signature aerodynamic shell; ultra-precise mechanics; rewards advanced tuning and integration |
| Goblin 700/770 (Classic Series) | Big-air and smack pilots | Versatile with 6S or 12S options | Proven geometry; excellent parts support; reliable for a variety of flying styles |
| Goblin 570 Sport | Intermediate | 6S or 12S common setups | Powerful yet transportable; the sweet spot for many; easy to grow with your skills |
| Goblin 420/380 | Beginners to Intermediate | Typically 6S packs | Compact, budget-friendlier entry; ideal step-up after micro trainers |
For those exploring other paths while learning, there are excellent resources on gas-powered options and beginner trainers with stabilization. True beginner trainers and budget-friendly collective-pitch gateways offer smooth introductions to the hobby, while specialized categories like FPV RC helicopters or classic scale models like the RC Bell 47 cater to diverse interests.
- Beginners should consider micro or stabilized trainers first, then gradate to Goblin 380/420 models with conservative head speed settings.
- Intermediate pilots looking to upgrade often select the Goblin 570 Sport as their stepping stone, given its versatility and transportability.
- Advanced or competition pilots will find the SAB Goblin RAW or SAB Kraken 700-class offer the ultimate precision and power they seek.
- All models support broad electronics choices and feature upgrade-friendly layouts, making them ideal platforms for customization and skill progression.
Maintenance, Repairs, and Upgrades
What kept my Goblins flying like-new wasn’t luck—it was routine care and well-implemented maintenance tips focusing on durability and performance. Regular inspections every 5–10 flights include checking the rotor head links, dampers, and feathering spindle for any play, ensuring to re-Loctite metal-to-metal screws if disturbed to maintain structural integrity. Verifying belt tension and tail pulley alignment is crucial, as proper belt tension prevents premature wear, while checking tail case screws after hard flights safeguards against unexpected loosening.
Spin-testing bearings by hand enables the early detection of roughness, prompting timely replacement to avoid in-flight failures, emphasizing the importance of bearings lubrication and condition. Additionally, monitoring main gear mesh and canopy grommets helps reduce vibration, leading to a smoother flight experience.
- After flight days: Wipe blades and frames diligently and remove dust from the tail belt area; this simple act extends belt life and overall component longevity.
- Electronics and firmware: Keeping the flybarless (FBL) system and ESC firmware current is vital for optimal function; recalibrate the governor whenever gear or motor changes occur. Bench-testing failsafe and throttle hold before every session ensures reliability.
- Crash-ready spares to stock: Essential common parts to stock include the main shaft, feathering spindle, tail shaft and belt, main gear, linkages, landing gear skids, and a spare canopy latch, facilitating quick repairs and consistent operational readiness.
- Upgrades that made a difference: Investing in premium carbon fiber blades enhances cyclic precision, high-quality tail blades improve hold, robust cyclic/servo horns increase durability, and telemetry integration offers real-time pack health monitoring.
- Community tip: Joining local clubs and online groups provides access to tuning files and proven head-speed presets, significantly reducing your learning curve and helping refine your flybarless setup.
How SAB Goblin Compares With Other Helicopter Brands
When you compare brands like SAB and Gaui, several performance metrics stand out that can influence your choice. SAB excels in frame rigidity, parts fit, and repeatable assembly, ensuring that in fast forward flight and hard collective stops, the airframe remains stable without winding up. This contributes to the model tracking cleanly in the air.
Meanwhile, Gaui often leads in delivering a featherlight feel and quicker transitions, showcasing a different approach to stability vs agility.
SAB’s smooth head assembly combined with boom stiffness provides unmatched stability, especially under high disk loading conditions. This contrasts with Gaui’s agility, highlighting how different designs cater to various flying styles and pilot priorities.
| Brand | Component Quality | Performance | Price vs Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAB | Precision machining, premium materials | High rigidity, smooth stability, durable assembly | Higher upfront cost, balanced by crash resilience and long-term parts support |
| Gaui | Good quality, lightweight components | Featherlight feel, quick transitions | Usually lower initial cost, performance favors agility |
From a community perception perspective, SAB’s Goblin series is a staple on flight lines and competitions worldwide. This entrenched presence means pilots have access to abundant setup files, head-speed recipes, and tuning assistance—an invaluable asset for those emphasizing precision and a well-engineered build rather than a model that feels merely assembled.
Ultimately, choosing between these brands involves weighing component quality, price vs value, and your preference on the stability vs agility spectrum. SAB’s commitment to engineering excellence and durable design tends to appeal to pilots who value consistency, precision, and long-term reliability, making it a strong contender for those seeking superior frame rigidity and stable flight characteristics.
Conclusion – Why SAB Goblin Helicopters Stand Above the Rest
After extensive time tuning, crashing, rebuilding, and perfecting, the consistent story emerges: SAB Goblin helicopters blend engineering precision with a flight feel that fosters confidence and control. These models feature rigid frames and butter-smooth heads, delivering not only flight excellence but also an aesthetic appeal that is both purposeful and stunning.
If you’re looking to step up your remote control flying experience, the Goblin 570 Sport alongside the 380/420 models make this transition both exciting and manageable. For those deeply invested in 3D flight, the SAB Goblin RAW and SAB Kraken truly redefine what it means to be “locked-in,” raising the bar for precision and responsiveness.
Once you experience a Goblin helicopter in flight, returning to previous models becomes almost impossible—and honestly, you won’t want to. These advanced helicopters are essential additions to your collection of RC hobby supplies, perfectly aligning with enthusiasts who value top-tier performance and design.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What company makes SAB Goblin helicopters?
They’re designed and manufactured by SAB Heli Division (SAB Srl) in Italy, commonly known in the hobby as SAB Goblin. - How expensive are SAB Goblin helicopters?
Airframe kits typically range from about $350–$600 for smaller sizes (380/420, 570 Sport) to $800–$1,200+ for 700/760-class flagships. Electronics (motor, ESC, servos, FBL, batteries) can add $600–$1,500 depending on quality and power level. - Are SAB Goblin helicopters good for 3D flying?
Yes. Their rigid frames, efficient power transmission, and precise flybarless-friendly head geometry make them favorites for advanced 3D maneuvers and competition-level flying. - What are the differences between SAB Goblin models?
Mainly size (blade length and battery), frame and boom architecture (e.g., RAW open layout vs. Kraken’s integrated shell), weight, and power setups. Larger models offer more disc inertia and authority; smaller ones are more convenient and budget-friendly. - How do SAB Goblin helicopters compare to Gaui helicopters?
Gaui often emphasizes ultra-light agility and value, while SAB leans into frame stiffness, refined mechanics, and a premium build. In practice, Gaui feels very quick; Goblin feels exceptionally locked-in and stable at high load. - What’s the best SAB Goblin helicopter for beginners?
Absolute beginners should start with a micro trainer, then move to a Goblin 380/420 at conservative head speed. For emerging pilots, the Goblin 570 Sport is a balanced next step with room to grow. - How difficult is it to maintain a SAB Goblin?
Moderate. The modular design and access are good. Routine checks of belts, bearings, dampers, and fasteners keep the airframe tight. With a simple maintenance schedule, reliability is excellent. - Do SAB Goblin helicopters come preassembled?
They are sold primarily as kits. You assemble the airframe and install your own electronics. Ready-to-fly packages are uncommon at this class and price point. - What power setups can be used for SAB Goblin helicopters?
Electric brushless setups are standard: 6S on smaller models (380/420), 6S or 12S on the 570, and typically 12S on 700-class. Some advanced builds run 14S, but that’s niche. - Which accessories or upgrades improve SAB Goblin performance?
High-quality carbon main and tail blades, a solid FBL unit with a good governor, precise cyclic and tail servos, fresh dampers, telemetry for packs and RPM, and well-balanced batteries/props all sharpen response and reliability.
