RC Model Planes: Getting Started

Attack of the Acronyms

Until recently, most RC model planes came in Kit form-a box full of parts, diagrams, and a manual. Unfortunately, assembling one could take weeks or even months. Nowadays, RC model planes are available in several additional flavors:

ARF- "Almost Ready-to-Fly." These models can be made flight-ready with as little as 16-20 hours of assembly. Major structures such as the wing halves, fuselage, and tail fins all come entirely built and covered. You simply assemble those sections, install a few miscellaneous pieces of hardware and you're done.

RTC- "Ready-to-Cover." Like ARFs, these models come largely preassembled. However, their wooden surfaces are left exposed. You must apply your own choice of film covering. The upside of this is that your finished model will have a unique look-you create its colors and trim scheme. The downside is the extra time required to do so.

RTF- "Ready-to-Fly." These models can be airborne 20 minutes after you open the box. You'll still have a few final parts to assemble, but far less than even ARFs require. The catch is that they are generally heavier and harder to repair.

Choosing the flavor that suits you best is a matter of taste. Some suggest acronym models for beginners because they don't require as much skill to assemble, and if you crash them, you won't feel as bad because you have less emotional investment. Others insist kits are the way to go because neophytes can gain valuable building experience and learn to do repairs themselves.