Radio Control

DroneDroneRadio Control

ZoneZone

All-new Goblin model from SAB is very different inside and out

February/March 2021

Electric Lama Converting the popular S30 Lama using Hirobo’s own electric package

Drone Z

one

Radio

Control

ISSUE

30Feb/Mar

2021

£5.50

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DRONES, QUADS, UAVS & HELICOPTERS

A Kraken Review

Duncan Masters BuckminsterOsbourn shines at Freestyle Masters 2020 hosted by BMFA Buckminster

First For BladesEquipping the Soxos Strike 7 with 1st-RC's Carbon Fibre Blade Set

Air TimeUpdated DJI Mavic Air 2gets more than a quick make-over

THIS IS JUST A SMALL SELECTION OF THE HIGH QUALITYPRODUCTS DISTRIBUTED IN THE UK BY 360 RC TECHNOLOGIES

in association with

TH

IS I

S J

US

T A

SM

ALL S

ELE

CT

ION

OF T

HE

HIG

H Q

UA

LIT

YP

RO

DU

CT

S D

IST

RIB

UT

ED

IN

TH

E U

K B

Y 3

60

RC

TE

CH

NO

LO

GIE

S

Alig

n R

C a

re d

istr

ibut

ed t

hrou

ghou

t th

e U

K b

y 36

0 R

C T

echn

olog

ies,

Uni

ts Z

2 &

Z3

Rad

ius

Cou

rt, M

aple

Dri

ve, H

inck

ley,

Le

ices

ters

hire

, LE1

0 3B

E. T

el: 0

1455

637

151.

Em

ail:

keit

h@ro

bbeu

k.co

.uk.

(3

60 R

C T

echn

olog

ies

is a

tra

ding

nam

e fo

r R

obbe

Sch

lute

r U

K L

td).

Looking Forward

“The RC drone and

heli communities are

still strong, despite

the best efforts of a

worldwide pandemic

and we are here to

support it in 2021

and onwards...”

With a number of vaccines in the testing

phase and the one from Pfizer actually

administered to the UK public as I type,

it does seem that there is a little light at

the end of the tunnel of what has been a

challenging year for many, not only on a personal level but for

industries and much more. It was nearly a year ago when we

first heard the word “coronavirus” and, like “social distancing”

and “lockdown”, it has become so common that it is pretty much

one that is used in everyday conversation just like the weather!

Looking to the future, it’s great to see that we are already

receiving confirmed news of shows and events for 2021 that

we truly missed last year. We were lucky that the Freestyle

Masters 2020 was rescheduled and we have a report courtesy

of Julie Fisher on page 48 from that event. In 2021 it will return

to its traditional date in May at BMFA Buckminster, as will

other UK events including Popham Model Show, Weston Park

International Model Air Show, Wings & Wheels/Drone Fest,

AHA Charmouth, Mini Airshow, the Southern Model Show and

Full Pitch Fun Fly to name just a few that have graced our pages

over the years...

And of course it wasn’t just here at home that was affected

as we were hoping to have our team attending some of the

major international flying competitions like Global 3D in the

Netherlands, Rotor Live in Germany and the huge IRCHA event

in the USA that includes the Jamboree and their Nationals.

We cannot second-guess the future but if just a few of these go

ahead it will be appreciated...

Many thanks for your prolonged support as a reader of the

magazine and we hope to continue into 2021 with all the usual

event reports, drone and heli reviews, product tests, interviews

and much more. n

Matt Benfield, Editor

RotorWorldDroneZone 4

Contents

Insight

6 Front Page Breaking news stories from the world of drones, multi-copters and UAVs

46 What’s New The latest new drones, products and accessories launched for this

growing market

56 Coming Up Looking ahead to heli and drone events for the coming months

60 Buyer’s Guide Our comprehensive listing of available multi-copters in all classes

66 Contacts & Info Information and contacts that will help you get the most from your drones

Features

14 DJI Mavic Air 2 This new aerial photography drone from DJI targets the prosumer market

and with bigger and better features it is a notable improvement over the

original Mavic Air model. Focusing on aerial imagery it’s capable of

capturing 48MP photos with its 1/2-inch CMOS sensor while the 3-axis

gimbal lets you create extra smooth 4K/60fps video. Find out just how

good it is on page 14

24 Hirobo S30 Lama The Lama is an iconic heli with its large glass dome cockpit and the

boom with its lattice design. And now you can take a traditional S30

Lama and convert to electric power with a complete package from

MEMFlight. Jon Tanner runs through the process

36 F3N League Competition The first league event took place at the home of Flyin’ Fish in Ickenham,

Middlesex that was attended by many of the top heli pilots as the likes

of Aaron Cole, Duncan Osbourn and Dave Fisher battled it out for top

honours

40 SAB Goblin Kraken With their new model, SAB claim that their Kraken, “sets a new standard

in RC helicopters” incorporating a huge change in direction for the

Goblin design. Notable new features include the enclosed power train

system, independent belt transmissions and lighter, stronger main and tail

rotor systems. Our in-depth review focuses on the build, settings and of

course its flight performance

48 Freestyle Masters 2020 In one of the few RC heli events to take place in a coronavirus-hit year,

the top 3D pilots headed to BMFA Buckminster in September to compete

alongside the famous fixed-wing event and the Freestyle Masters

52 1st-RC Carbon Blades Most of today’s high-end helis are equipped with carbon fibre blades

as they offer fantastic performance especially in 3D. Our long-term test

Soxos Strike 7 was crying out for some carbon fibre blades so Heli-

Professional kindly provided us with a set from 1st-RC to test

54 AccuRC 2 We get our hands on the AccuRC 2 sim that the brand claims, “is the

world’s first aerodynamically accurate RC flight simulator.” The UK-

based company’s software is designed to work on all major brands of

transmitter and gamepad, and has had some fantastic feedback from

those that used it, but what do we think...

Looking ForwardPUBLISHER

Doolittle Media Ltd

Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane

Totternhoe, Beds, LU6 1QX

Tel: 01525 222573

[email protected]

www.doolittlemedia.com

EDITOR

Matt [email protected]

DESIGN

Alex Hall

Peter Hutchinson

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Richard Andrews

Tel: 07708 028024

[email protected]

DISTRIBUTION

Seymour Distribution

2 East Poultry Avenue

London, EC1A 9PT

Tel: 020 7429 4000

NEWSTRADE

Select Publisher Services

3 East Avenue

Bournemouth, BH3 7BW

Tel: 01202 586848

[email protected]

No part of this publication may be copied orreproduced in any form whatsoever without

written consent from the publisher. Thisincludes the scanning and re-use of

photographic or written material on theinternet, whether for commercial purposesor otherwise, photocopying and information

retrieval systems.

The publishers cannot be held legallyresponsible for any errors in the content of

Drone Zone magazine, nor are they liable forany loss resulting from such errors, including

negligence. Readers place reliance on theinformation contained within at their own risk.

© DooLiTTLE MEDiA 2021


Never miss an issue!

Subscribe to Dronezone/Rotorworldand never miss an issue

from £28 for 6 issues (1 year/uk)

Issue 19 - Oct/Nov 2018 Issue 20 - Dec/Jan 2019Issue 18 - Aug/Sep 2018

Issue 24 - Aug/Sep 2019 Issue 25 - Oct/Nov 2019 Issue 26 - Dec/Jan 2020

Doolittle Media Ltd., Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane, Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, Great Britain

DRONEZONE/ROTORWORLD

SUBSCRIPTION

Don’t miss a thing!Find full details of all our back issues at www.doolittlemedia.com

from £7.50 each (1 year/uk)

Issue 21 - Feb/Mar 2019 Issue 22 - Apr/May 2019

Issue 28 - Apr/May 2019

Issue 23 - Jun/Jul 2019

Issue 29 - Dec/Jan 2021Issue 27 - Feb/Mar 2020

W. www.doolittlemedia.com E. [email protected] T. +44 (0) 1525 222573

DRONEZONE/ROTORWORLD

BACK ISSUES


LATEST NEWS...

FRONT PAGE

The original Mavic Mini from DJI was designed to

be easy to fly making it ideal for beginners, fun,

affordable and being lightweight, meant it was

safe for everyday use coming in under the 250g ceiling

set by the CAA. With the Mini 2 the manufacturer has

opted to increase its size, and yet have been able to

keep it below the weight threshold. But that doesn't

mean the functions and features have been affected

as it offers enhanced imaging capabilities, retains

great flight performance and there is a significant

improvement to the transmission technology for longer

and more reliable connection.

You can see that the Mini 2 includes their iconic folding

design that makes traveling easy, whilst the size and

weight adds to the portability. Other standout features

OcuSync 2.0 that DJI has been using on other models

like the larger Mavic Air 2 that delivers a stable, long

distance and reliable connection between the remote

controller and the drone. Dual-frequency technology

automatically switches between channels to help

against interference. The drone has a maximum

transmission range of 6km (for Europe), which is a

200 per cent increase in range when compared to the

original Mavic Mini. Upgraded motors provide up to

31 minutes of flight time, faster acceleration and speed,

along with the ability to withstand winds up to 24mph.

A live feed from the drone’s camera is sent to a

connected smart phone so that you can see exactly

where Mini 2 is and what it sees whilst simplified

buttons and functions keep things streamlined and easy

to understand. The model is equipped with high-grade

positioning and vision sensors that helps the Mini 2 is

hover precisely in place; GPS keeps track of where the

drone is while the vision sensors on the bottom map out

the ground below it and assist automated landing. To

enable pilots to fly safely there is geo fencing to keep

drones out of sensitive areas like airports, Return to

Home, and Altitude Lock, which is an adjustable limit

on how high the drone can go.

If you are more interested in the photography and

video capability of the latest mini-sized drone, then it

has a 1/2.3-inch sensor capable of recording 12MP

images and a maximum video resolution of 4K 30fps at

100Mbps. If you are looking to manipulate the images

after, then as well as the standard JPEG setting th3re is

a RAW option for advanced users.

A 3-axis gimbal compensates for drone movement

and wind so makes for smooth video. While recording

in 1080p resolution pilots can benefit from the 4x

zoom whilst pre-programmed intelligent modes mean

the drone does the hard work of capturing beautiful

footage with set movements and imaging features.

The Mini 2 is available in two options with the standard

package including the drone, controller and battery for

£419 whilst the Fly More Combo comes with an extra

couple of batteries, a charging hub and carry case for

£549. To find out full details on the Mini 2 head to DJI's

dedicated product page at

https://store.dji.com/product/mini-2

We will have a full review of the Mini 2 in the next

issue, on sale Thursday 8 March 2021. n

MORE MiNi FOR YOuR MONEYThE FOllOw-uP TO ThE POPulAR DJi MAvic MiNi, ThE MiNi 2 hAs bEEN

RElEAsED AND cONTiNuEs ThE TREND OF bEiNG sub-249G iN wEiGhT AND

PAckED wiTh FEATuREs FOR ThE hObbY PilOT MARkET

FiNANciAl iNcENTivE FOR YOuNG PilOTs

The Royal Aero

Club Trust has

announced

that their bursary

awards scheme for

young persons in

2021 has begun,

following the same

proven arrangements

since 2018. The last

three years has seen

the RACT hand out

financial support to 48, 35 and 33 bursaries young

persons in 2018, 209 and 2020 respectively. In order

to qualify applicants need to be aged between 14 and

21, or can be aged up to 24 in the case of a follow-on

bursary. Those who are involved in a wide range of

airsports from full-size machines through to RC such as

building and operating model aircraft including drones,

and flight simulator pilots may apply for an award.

If you are interested in improving your skills in one of

the eligible sectors it is well worth investigating further.

The BMFA has commented that, "In previous years

a significant number of those who were awarded

bursaries have been able to compete in championship

events and have been included among those who have

been given the highest places in the events." Enclosed

is a photo of heli pilot George Isaacs who is a former

beneficiary of the scheme.

Full details of the rules of the scheme as well as

application forms are available on the Royal Aero Club

Trust website at www.royalaeroclubtrust.org, or you can

e-mail David Bills, who is the Bursary Administrator by

emailing him at [email protected]. The

closing date for applications is 31 March 2021. n

YOuNG PilOTs cAN APPlY FOR

FiNANciAl suPPORT cOuRTEsY OF

ThE ROYAl AERO club TRusT iN 2021

FREEsTYlE MAsTERs 2021

The 2021 Freestyle Masters date has been confirmed

and will take place over the weekend of 8-9 May.

Once again this will be hosted at the BMFA site at

Buckminster and the competition will cater for both heli

and fixed wing pilots. You can read all about the 2020

heli event that was rescheduled and held later in the year

than usual in this issue. n


Holmes DeclareD 2020 BritisH cHamP

The British Drone Racing Association has been finally

able to announce that the 2020 British Champion

is Harry Holmes. The XBlades Drone Racing Team

member has utterly dominated the racing this year taking

seven first place spots cementing his position him firmly at

the top of the BDRA Championship. n

DJi's new agricultural Drone

Fast cHarge For anaFi usa

Parrot has teamed up with Colorado Drone

Chargers and created the new CDC Anafi

USA PRCS Elite charger, that claims to be "the

highest-speed drone charging systems on the market."

The tie-up means that the package offers greater

flexibility for a drone that has become a popular choice

for commercial, emergency services and governments

agencies around the world.

Parrot and CDC's new charging system for the batteries

in the Anafi USA allows the user to simultaneously

charge four 3400mAh flight batteries in the field and

in less time than a standard charging system. The new

CDC Anafi USA PRCS Elite will recharge four batteries

from a 20 per cent charge level to a full charge in

approximately 60 minutes for all the four batteries

and as a result, means more time in the air, with less

batteries to charge and to carry into the field.

The charging system has been designed to be powered

from diverse power sources ranging from pure sinewave

to modified sinewave, often provided by inverters and

generators.

Both parties "understand the importance of rapid drone

deployment and rapid charging. For many of our

professional users, time spent recharging batteries is

time away from saving lives and impacting productivity

and efficiencies."

“Time spent recharging can be the difference between

saving life for first responders or even professional pilots

losing a contract,” said Johnny R Podrovitz, the Founder

and President of Colorado Drone Chargers, LLC.

“Creating a quick charging system to charge Parrot’s

Anafi USA’s flight batteries will make a monumental

impact on the professional industry. Needs are evolving,

and we’re continuously listening to customers and the

drone industry to make essential changes.” n

tHe raw is cominganotHer new 700 Heli is on its waY From italY...

We will hopefully be

seeing the new

Goblin Raw 700

model from SAB in the flesh

that they teased us with in an

online video. The trailer at

https://youtu.be/rarCsYFBHig

states the new Raw heli will

be, "light, strong, unique, easy

maintenance, extremely rigid".

The competition 700-sized

machine is expected to be

the heli of choice in 2021

for Goblin fans and it will be

interesting to see what SAB

come up with after the huge

changes they made with the

Kraken. Check out our review

of the SAB Goblin Kraken

on page 40 to see what the

Italian manufacturer has come

up with... n

The 73rd Annual General Meeting of the Society of Model

Aeronautical Engineers Ltd took place in November

2020 as an online webinar. The proposal put forward by

the BMFA Council that membership fees remain unchanged for

2021 was accepted so therefore the fees are as follows:

Senior .................... £38

Junior ..................... £17

Family Partner ......... £25

Family Junior ........... £13

The optional plastic membership card will also remain at

£3.50 and that the CAA Registration and registration renewal

fee is still £9.

The BMFA stated. "We would like to thank all our members

and affiliated clubs for their ongoing support in what has been

a very challenging year for us all."

To find out more or to simply renew your membership head to

www.bmfa.org n

no cHange For 2021 BmFa memBersHiP Fees

DJI has launched its latest agriculture drone,

the Agras T20 that targets operators requiring

an “intelligent” UAS for varied tasks. The

newest agricultural drone to join the DJI fleet features

a modular and portable design, that "makes it

accessible and scalable for farmers who are ready to

apply digital insights and automated spray technology

into their operations" according to DJI. With

autonomous flight planning and terrain-sensing radar,

long flight times with high payload capacity make this

ideal for challenging and demanding work.

The Agras T20 can carry a up to 20kg and with the

nozzle layout, DJI claims it can achieve, "an effective

spray width of seven meters." n


LATEST NEWS...

UrUkay Genesis Final DesiGn

With the Kraken still a very new model, SAB

has released a few photos of the final

version of their new F3C Urukay Genesis

canopy and boom design. The striking looking heli

was expected to be released at end of 2020 but looks

like there is a short delay which is to be expected in a

year that has been disrupted by a global pandemic.

SAB states that this is a completely new model that will

come with new F3C 747mm main blades although it

can accept blades up to 760mm. n

With the Parrot Anafi

USA finding favour

as a versatile and

powerful UAV solution for the likes

of first responders, firefighters,

search-and-rescue teams, surveying

and inspection professionals, the

manufacturer has announced a

partnership with FoxFury Lighting

Solutions. The latter is an industry

leader in professional drone lightning

and the two have developed

a tailored system for the Anafi

platform, allowing professionals to

attach up to three D10 lights modules

on the drone. The intuitive saddle

mounting system and the lights are

made in the USA and provide up

to 40 minutes of continuous use in

“High” mode and 80 minutes in

“Strobe” mode, with self-contained

LiPo batteries. Professionals from the

public safety and inspection verticals

will be able to extend crucial work

in the most extreme situations, such

as a search and rescue missions at

night or traveling through dimly lit

structures like tunnels.

Jerome Bouvard, Parrot's Director of

Strategic Partnerships stated, "The

power of our ecosystem relies on

both state-of-the-art software and

deep hardware integration. The

compatibility of FoxFury solutions

with Anafi’s range will make

of our drones the most efficient

and customizable tools for all

professionals."

"With more industries using drones,

we saw an opportunity with Parrot

to provide a one-of-a-kind option

for professionals looking to brighten

their surroundings" said Mario

Cugini, CEO of FoxFury Lighting

Solutions. "Our new lights on an

Anafi drone will provide a unique

and crucial resource for professionals

like first responders in high-risk

environments." n

Fortress UAV is an American company based in Texas who are is now offering field drone repair kits, allowing

users to get their UAV back in the air quickly with kits that are specifically catered to the make and model of

the owner’s drone. In a post on their website (www.fortressuav.com) they stated that they will, “offer various kit

levels (Standard and Deluxe) based on maintenance needs and usual wear-and-tear”.

The company currently offers kits for the most popular DJI models from prosumer including the Mavic Pro, Mavic

2 and Phantom Pro 4 v2.0 through to professional level machines such as the Matrice 200 and 210. Each

Fortress UAV kit is usually made up of the required tools like

screwdrivers, wrenches and tweezers, the necessary screws

as well as USB cables and other commonly replaced parts,

all contained neatly in a protective heavy-duty box.

Brendon Mills, CEO of Fortress UAV made the

following statement:

"I am proud that our team is bringing this product

to the drone market. It is our hope that the drone

field repair kit becomes an essential tool for drone

operators on location in need of quick access to tools

for basic repairs and drone maintenance." n

Caa appoints BraDley

The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has

announced the appointment of Glenn Bradley

as its new Head of Flight Operations. The

former Royal Air Force pilot brings three decades

of aviation experience to the role, having worked

as a pilot and in aviation management. He will be

responsible for will be responsible for the oversight

of both commercial and non-commercial aircraft

operations, approved training organisations, and

special operations across the UK.

Glenn's role will include maintaining the UK’s

excellent aviation safety record and making

improvements for all airspace users. He joined

the CAA in 2017 as a flight operations manager

before being promoted to his new role.

Rob Bishton, Group Director of Safety and Airspace

at the CAA, said: “Glenn has worked with us since

2017 and we are delighted to announce his new

position as head of flight operations.

His work will be extremely important throughout

the UK’s exit from the European Union Aviation

Safety Agency; a transition that will bring both

opportunities and challenges.

He has done an excellent job since his arrival

and I know he will continue to deliver for the UK’s

aviation sector in the years ahead.”

Commenting on his appointment, Glenn Bradley

said: “I am thrilled to have taken on this role at

such an important time for the UK and its aviation

sector. I look forward to continuing to work with

colleagues across both commercial and general

aviation to maintain our position as one of the

safest aviation communities in the world.” n

Fortress UaV has releaseD Details oF their

new ‘FielD Drone repair kits’ For DJi proDUCts

parrot liGhts Up with FoxFUry

FielD repairs For DJi Drones

Doolittle Media Ltd., Doolittle Mill, Doolittle Lane,

Totternhoe, Bedfordshire, LU6 1QX, Great Britain

W. www.doolittlemedia.com

E. [email protected]

T. +44 (0) 1525 222573

Digital Subscription

Read your magazine on your phone, tablet or computer

visit www.doolittlemedia.com for more information


in association with

Align RC are distributed throughout the UK by 360 RC Technologies, Units Z2 & Z3 Radius Court, Maple Drive, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 3BE. Tel: 01455 637151. Email: [email protected].

(360 RC Technologies is a trading name for Robbe Schluter UK Ltd).

in association with

https://avxlive.icu/


FEATURE DJI Mavic Air 2

Air Squar


ir Squared

We have seen plenty of DJI’s products

in these pages over the years having

reviewed their aerial photography drones

since our first issue with the Phantom 2, pinnacling

with the Phantom 4 Pro, before branching out into DJI’s

‘new order’ of folding, smaller lifestyle drones. The

revolutionary Mavic Pro, diminutive Spark, Mavic Air,

Mavic Mini (which we saw in issue 28) and now, the

obvious, but actually quite surprising Mavic Air 2. Why

surprising? Well, because the Mavic Air was always

the light, ultra-portable, but still capable Mavic (itself

a light, ultra-portable but still capable Phantom!) and

then the Mavic Mini came along and blew us away

with features that pretty much had parity with the Air,

but super light and small and just beautifully designed.

That is a machine that still sticks out as being one of

DJI’s most amazingly engineered products of the last

few years.

SO WHY THE AIR 2?

Well of course, in the incredibly fast-paced world of

consumer drone technology, which must be second only

to smartphone technology in this respect, it was obvious

that DJI were going to bring out an Air 2. We were

expecting the usual advances in camera technology,

perhaps speed and some fancy new smart photography

modes, but we didn’t think they’d be doing all that and

a lot more. We’ll go through the main features of this

new machine as we review it, but suffice to say, this is a

huge upgrade and offers some features (such as terrain

mapping technology for obstacle avoidance) that aren’t

available on any other DJI product yet.

OVERALL IMPRESSIONS

When we got the Air 2 out of the box, the first

impression was of solidity, the Air 2 is definitely larger

than the old Air and compared to the last DJI we

handled which was the Mavic Mini, it’s a behemoth!

That said, this is still very much a small ‘pocketable’

class drone, being realistically a third the size of a

Phantom 4 Pro. The light grey colour is a common

element amongst DJI’s smaller consumer drones and a

move away from the white and black look of old. We

quite like this as it reduces impact in the sky, unlike an

RC helicopter, where you want the craft to be visible

in the air, actually having a lower visual impact is

normally a good thing with a camera drone to avoid

it getting caught in shot. Compared to the old Air, the

camera is a more significant unit too, reflecting the

upgrade to the optics on board such as the 0.5-inch

sensor. One of the biggest changes though is the

controller, this is a complete redesign compared to what

we have seen before – gone are the fold-out aerials,

which were always a slight breakage risk, and also

the old phone holding arms that held your smartphone

somewhat precariously below the controller, replacing

it with a larger and more robust sprung-loaded mount

above the sticks. This, we feel, is a much better idea as

it holds the phone more securely, in a better location

and allows a wider range of phones to be used. The

screw in sticks (which are a great idea) remain, and

(if these things matter to you) it is a lighter colour that

matches the craft itself.

SurpriSe, SurpriSe, a new aerial

photography drone and dJi

iS back again with bigger and

better. the Mavic air haS a

repriSe and SoMe of the

featureS will aStound you

We think that the

benefits of the Fly More Combo (FMC) is worth the investment

The Mavic Air Fly More Combo package is extensive



CAMERA UPDATES

Compared to the old Mavic Air, the camera system,

which is the heart of a machine like this, has had a

huge upgrade. A 3-axis gimbal remains, but the larger

sensor is far more capable than before, being able to

capture (quite stunning) 48MP stills with a far larger

ISO range (100 to 6400) in manual mode. Superb

HDR processing means that the images absolutely pop

and show an incredible amount of detail, especially

when zoomed in. The panorama mode from the Mavic

Air remains, but because these are now HDR enhanced,

you don’t get the effect that parts of the panorama are

over/underexposed as could happen before, and as

a result, these new panoramas are far more visually

stunning and presentable. The sensor as we mentioned,

is larger, and in fact the whole unit and housing is a

lot larger too, but as the craft has grown too, it doesn’t

adversely affect how it performs in use (again, as was

the criticism of the Phantom 4 Pro with it’s much larger

camera than before).

VIDEO PERFORMANCE

Again huge improvements feature – pretty much all the

numbers have doubled – 1080P footage framerate is

240fps meaning you can take incredible slow motion

shots or super smooth real-time video. HDR features on

the 4K footage, but remains at 30fps. We’d have liked

butter smooth 60 frames per second here, but this would

mean a significant upgrade to the bandwidth of the

internal video processor, which you just don’t get without

spending a lot more and making everything bigger. An

H.265 codec from the professional line now features,

which is much more efficient as well as better quality.

Overall, a solid upgrade, which when combined with

the physically better optics gives Mavic 2 Pro rivalling

performance in a smaller, cheaper package.

NEW VIDEO MODES

Again, big changes are abound with the signature

DJI intelligent flight features – ActiveTrack 3.0 offers

subject tracking with improved obstacle avoidance and

Spotlight 2.0 does similar whilst keeping the subject

locked in the centre of the frame whilst circling it. The

8K Hyperlapse is an effect which is better shown not

in the media of paper(!) and is popular, but perhaps

not what most buyers will be doing all the time (which

is effectively capturing one moving static scene for a

whole battery). ActiveTrack was always a bit risky if

there was stuff to crash into, which is likely the case if

you’re close enough to be videoing a ground based

subject, so the better obstacle avoidance is a godsend

here and makes the feature far more useful.

OCUSYNC UPGRADE AND MORE

Finally, the Mavic Air moves away from a limited

WiFi-based control and video transmission modulation

to OcuSync 2.0 like the Mavic Pro and Phantom 4 Pro

2.0 – this system offers a solid 10km (6km EU) range

1080P streaming of video to the controller, and support

for multiple controllers and DJI Goggles. DJI Lightbridge

and OcuSync have always been the gold standard

for video and control in in drones, and it is nice to see

them here replacing the sometimes "leggy" WiFi system

of the old Air. In our testing, we can confirm this new

machine was amongst the best we have ever tested

for interference rejection and video quality. There are

many RC systems out there, but few, if any, have the

range of DJI’s OcuSync system, it really is that good. In

terms of the other significant updates here – DJI’s APAS

(Advanced Pilot Assistance System), which is their name

for their industry-leading automated obstacle avoidance

system, which actively terrain maps in real-time has

moved to version 3.0. DJI is not really clear about what

this means in reality compared to the previous systems,

The props are handed but are easy to change if they get damaged

An LED is located on each of the legs to help with orientation

Foam pads to protect the motor are fitted for shipping

The narrow waist allows the arms to tuck in out of the way when not in use

Each prop folds in half for the ultimate in compact design

Dual vision sensors are a new feature on the rear of the Mavic Air 2

The long arms extend out wide for stability in flight


otect the motor are fitted

You don’t need to remove the props as they are neatly protected when the drone is folded

The forward facing sensor has a detection range of up to 44-metres

With the 3500mAh battery removed

Access to the microSD card can be made easily at the side

Dual Vision sensors, Time of Flight (ToF) sensors and a single LED underneath

You can hook up the drone to computer via the USB-C dock in the side

The underside is machined from alloy to help with air flow and coolinge

When not being flown it’s recommended that the protective cover is fitted over the gimbal and camera



The 3S LiPo will offer flights of up to 34-minutes

Also part of the FMC package we tested are these ND filters

The “Battery to Power Bank Adapter” allows the main battery to be used as a power bank

As the Fly More Combo includes three packs you get a Battery Charging Hub to look after them

All the details of the Intelligent Flight Battery

The Mavic Air 2 design continues DJI’s distinctive look


but it is supposedly ahead of all their other products

at this stage however, we wouldn’t be surprised to

see this coming to the rest of the updated range.

The last feature that we definitely welcome is even

more flight time. Now up to 34 minutes, it really

is incredible compared to most other quadcopters.

In reality, from testing, it is more like 25 minutes

plus mixed flying, but it is certainly long enough,

especially with multiple batteries like you get with the

Fly More Combo we have tested here.

CONCLUSION

We feel like we often say this with DJI reviews, but it

seems once again, DJI has pushed the boundaries of

what is possible with a small camera drone product.

Range, flight performance, industrial design and

even the controller are best of breed at the moment,

and this actually feels like a sweet spot in the range

that makes you wonder a little bit why you’d buy

a Mavic Pro or Phantom Pro right now. Yes, you

will get ultimately a bit more quality out of those

drones, and they can certainly fly a little faster and in

more wind, but if this was my hard-earned that was

buying a product, then this Mavic Air with Fly More

Combo would be the one to get. It does everything

astoundingly well for the money, and having been

flying some older drones such as the Phantom 3 and

4 and a number of helicopters recently, it’s easy to

forget just what a polished product DJI’s latest stuff is.

In terms of downsides, it is still expensive (albeit

cheaper than a Mavic Pro), and £1000 to spend on

a mid-level drone is a lot. DJI’s app (even this new

supposedly slimmed down DJI Fly version) is complex

and nags about stuff all the time – you wish it had

a ‘Pro user’ toggle on install that just let you fly and

not tell you about your blade fitment, et cetera. Also,

you’re stuck in DJI’s ecosystem for parts and repairs,

and seeing as the RC world in general is going a

bit more open source these days, DJI feels like they

are trying to be a bit like Apple. However, when

the product works this well and feels so good, like

Apple, you kind of have to hand it to them. n

Everything in the FMC can be stored in the included shoulder bag

The ergonomics are great as is the design of the all-new DJI controller

The old arms have been replaced with a larger and more robust sprung-loaded mount

The new controller eliminates the need for fold-out aerials



We could not wait to get outside and fly

It is hard to find fault with the Mavic Air 2 in any aspect and especially from a performance perspective


Aircraft Specifications:Weight:............................................................................... 570gSize Folded: .........................................................180×97×74mmSize Unfolded: ....................................................183×253×77mmMax Ascent Speed: .............................................................. 4m/sMax Descent Speed: ............................................................ 3m/sMax Flight Time (without wind): ......................................34 minutesMax Flight Distance: ..........................................................18.5kmMax Horizontal Flight Speed: ........................................................ ........................19m/s (S Mode)/12m/s (N Mode)/5m/s (T Mode)Propellers: .................................... Quick release, low noise, foldingSatellite Systems: .................................................. GPS+GLONASSCompass: ............................................................. Single CompassIMU: ........................................................................... Single IMUInternal Storage: ....................................................................8GB

Battery Specifications:Capacity: ..................................................................... 3500mAhVoltage: ...........................................................................11.55VBattery Type: .....................................................................LiPo 3S

Camera Specifications:Sensor: .....................................................................1/2” CMOSEffective Pixels: ................................................... 12MP and 48MPLens FOV: ..............................................................................84°Equivalent Focal Length:.......................................................24mmAperture: ............................................................................ f/2.8Focus Range: .............................................................1m to infinityISO Video: ................................................................... 100-6400ISO Photo (12 MP): ............... 100-3200 (Auto)/100-6400 (Manual)ISO Photo (48 MP): ............... 100-1600 (Auto)/100-3200 (Manual)Max Photo Resolution: .............................. 48MP 8000×6000 pixelPhoto Mode - Single: ......................................... 12 MP and 48 MPPhoto Mode - Burst: .......................................12 MP, 3/5/7 framesPhoto Mode - Timed: ..12 MP 2/3/5/7/10/15/20/30/60 secondsPhoto Mode - SmartPhoto: ....Scene Recognition, HyperLight and HDRPhoto Mode - HDR Panorama: ..............Vertical/Wide/180°/SpherePhoto Formats: .................................................. JPEG/DNG (RAW)Video Resolution and Frame Rates: - 4K Ultra HD: ................3840×2160 24/25/30/48/50/60fps - 2.7K: ..........................2688×1512 24/25/30/48/50/60fps - FHD: ...........1920×1080 24/25/30/48/50/60/120/240fps - 4K Ultra HD HDR: ..........................3840×2160 24/25/30fps - 2.7K HDR: .....................................2688×1512 24/25/30fps - FHD HDR: ......................................1920×1080 24/25/30fpsVideo Formats: .... MP4/MOV (H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, H.265/HEVC)Max Bitrate: .................................................................120 Mbps

Gimbal Specifications:Stabilization: ...................................................3-axis (tilt, roll, pan)Mechanical Range Tilt: ............................................... -135° to 45°Mechanical Range Roll: ................................................ -45° to 45°Mechanical Range Pan: ............................................ -100° to 100°Max Controllable Speed (tilt): ..............................................100°/s

Vision System Specifications:Forward Precision Measurement Range: ........................0.35-22.0mForward Detection Range: ..........................................0.35 to 44mForward Effective Sensing Speed: ........................................ 12m/sField of View (FOV): .......................... 71° (horizontal), 56° (vertical)Backward Precision Measurement Range: ......................0.37-23.6mBackward Detection Range: .........................................0.37-47.2mBackward Effective Sensing Speed: ...................................... 12m/sBackward Field of View (FOV): ........... 44° (horizontal), 57° (vertical)Available Downward Sensors: ....................................................... .............................Dual Vision Sensors + Time of FlightSensors (ToF)Downward ToF Measurement Range: ...................................0.1-8mDownward Hovering Range: ............................................0.5-30 mDownward Vision Sensor Hovering Range: .........................0.5-60mLeft/Right: ........................................................................... NoneDownward Auxiliary Light: ............................................. Single LED

Video Transmission Specifications:Transmission System: OcuSync 2.0 2.4GHz/5.8 GHz Auto-SwitchingMax Transmission Distance: .......................................................... .............................. 10km (FCC)/6km (CE)/6km (SRRC)/6km (MIC)Live View Quality: ...............................720p@30fps/1080@p30fpsLatency: ..................................................................... 120-130msVideo Transmission Encoding Format:........................ H.265/H.264 (Auto-switches depending on encoding capabilities of device)Max Transmission Bitrate: .................................................12Mbps

Remote Controller Specifications:Remote Controller Transmission System: ....................... OcuSync 2.0Supported Mobile Device Connectors: ........................................... ..................................................Lightning, Micro USB, USB Type-CMaximum Supported Mobile Device Size: ...............180×86×10mm

RRP: ............................................£949 (Fly More Combo as tested)

Available from: .............................................All good model shopsManufacturer: .......................................................................... DJIWebsite: .................................................................. www.dji.com

DJI MAVIC AIR 2


in association with

TH

IS I

S J

US

T A

SM

ALL S

ELE

CT

ION

OF T

HE

HIG

H Q

UA

LIT

YP

RO

DU

CT

S D

IST

RIB

UT

ED

IN

TH

E U

K B

Y 3

60

RC

TE

CH

NO

LO

GIE

S

Alig

n R

C a

re d

istr

ibut

ed t

hrou

ghou

t th

e U

K b

y 36

0 R

C T

echn

olog

ies,

Uni

ts Z

2 &

Z3

Rad

ius

Cou

rt, M

aple

Dri

ve, H

inck

ley,

Le

ices

ters

hire

, LE1

0 3B

E. T

el: 0

1455

637

151.

Em

ail:

keit

h@ro

bbeu

k.co

.uk.

(3

60 R

C T

echn

olog

ies

is a

tra

ding

nam

e fo

r R

obbe

Sch

lute

r U

K L

td).


FEATURE Hirobo S30 Lama

Jon Tanner Takes The popular

s30 lama and adds a new

hirobo elecTric conversion

package ThaT makes scale

super easy and convenienT

addiTional phoTography nick rodd

Hirobo Electrify their S30 LamaL

et’s begin this article by asking what’s changed?

Hirobo has brought their S30 Lama right up to

date by offering an electric conversion and adding

a new all-metal 3-blade rotor head making this ‘easy

entry to scale’ model ideal for the modern day.

THE LAMA

Hirobo have been producing this S30 Lama for over

two decades, but it is now offered with an optional

electric conversion kit and a new all metal 3-blade rotor

head. The original model was released in 1997 when

it created a lot of interest because by using modified

Shuttle mechanics with a scale cabin, plastic moulded

side panels, dummy undercarriage braces and that

wonderful truss tail, it made scale ‘easy’. At first it used

the Shuttle flybar rotor head and was powered by a

.32ci nitro engine making it easy to fly and very reliable

– no wonder it was such a success. Next, they added a

3-blade rotor head, but this was a flapping design that

proved to be pretty difficult to fly. Remember this was in

the days long before we had reliable 3-axis gyros…

Hirobo UK dealer, MEMFlight offers a package

including the electric motor conversion, so this

easy entry to scale helicopter can be much more

convenient, and can include the new scale 3-blade

rotor head; adding electric power makes it

completely practicable – perfect!

Classy packaging. This version contains the 3-blade rotor head


Hirobo Electrify their S30 LamaKIT OPTIONS

The Lama is available in its original format with a

flybar rotor head, ready to accept a .32ci engine and

can be ordered in either red or white colourways.

Alternatively and as we have here, you can buy the

red version with the new 3-blade rotor head and rotor

blades. This package is currently only available in

red, although it may be possible to make a special

order for the white version with 3-blade rotor. Then you

can add the electric power conversion that includes a

special Scorpion 890Kv motor with motor mount that

replaces the engine mount. Thus, all you need add are

four servos, a 60A speed controller, receiver with your

chosen 3-axis gyro and LiPo battery packs. MEMFlight

offers the package that I have here of the red Lama with

3-blade rotor head and the conversion.

The MEMFlight package that included the brushless motor kit was purchased



ASSEMBLY

When it comes to quality, Hirobo is at the top of the

list and this ‘plastic’ scale model is no exception. The

presentation is high quality, as is the packaging with

the parts for each building stage in its own numbered

bag. There are only a few pre-assembled parts so if

you enjoy building, you’ll enjoy the experience because

everything fits as it should with no room for error, which

makes it a perfect choice for a first time scale builder.

The mechanics use a mechanical mix for controlling

the swashplate, so your radio will need to be set to its

‘single servo’ or ‘normal’ swashplate setting and your

3-axis gyro will need setting to this as well. If this is

new to you, it means that single servos operate each

control individually - roll, elevator and collective pitch

- as opposed to eCCPM control where the three servos

operate together for all three controls.

Assembly starts with the elevator and aileron levers,

which is your first look at the quality of the injection

mouldings - the ball bearings fit perfectly into the

moulded bell cranks. This is followed by the clutch

bell assembly – yes this is used with the electric motor,

although the fuel tank is definitely not required…

The side frames are really high quality mouldings

as they house the ball bearings for the clutch, main

shaft and tail drive adapter. The frames incorporate

the engine cooling duct and I had been warned that

some of the material needs removing because the

supplied motor has a slightly larger diameter than the

cooling fan fitted to the nitro engine. About 2mm needs

removing and I used a flap wheel in an electric drill,

managing to remove more than needed! The frames

are joined with M3 machine-type and self-tapping

screws - make sure the bearings are seated properly

and then the collective pitch levers can be added. The

plastic front servo frame comes next and once screwed

in place is suitably rigid.

The injection mouldings are first class with the bearings fitting securely. Spacers are included to prevent them being squeezed during assembly

The clutch bell assembly is used with the electric conversion including the start shaft that holds the bell in place

The intricate side frames snuggly house the shaft bearings et cetera. Note the integral cooling duct

Here you see the motor diameter is larger than the space in the frames, so the plastic lip has to be removed for the motor to sit in the correct position

Clutch bell, tail drive assembly and shaft bearings in place ready to join the side fames

Chassis with front servo frame and collective pitch levers in place


ELECTRIC CONVERSION

As I had the electric conversion, the instructions on

engine assembly are largely ignored however, some

is still relevant… The Hirobo motor supplied is in

fact manufactured for them by Scorpion, who have

been making high quality motors for many years – I

have used them in many other models and never

had any problem. In this case the motor has a 49mm

outside diameter and the top of the casing has been

machined to accept the standard clutch. It is for 6S

operation with an 890Kv winding, which puts it in the

600 class of motor. I suspect it is based on Scorpion’s

HKIII-4025 series – these are capable of a continuous

2700 Watts (3.6HP) which is 3.5 times more power

than the original .32 nitro engine… a bit overkill!

As mentioned, the standard clutch is screwed direct

to the motor top casing while the bottom screws to

the supplied mount and thus the assembly locates

in the same way as the nitro engine. Aligning the

clutch accurately inside its bell is important for smooth

operation without causing nasty vibrations.

With the motor in place the undercarriage is added

along with the main shaft and main gear. The gear

has been improved

over the years

from the original

moulded item, and

the mesh with the

clutch pinion gear

and the tail drive

is pre-set with quite

generous backlash.

3-BLADE ROTOR HEAD

An addition instruction booklet covering the 3-blade rotor head

and associated parts is included, which replaces sections of the

main manual. An improved wash-out assembly is included that

clamps to the main shaft and is used to set the correct phase

angle of the rotor head.

The rotor head is one of the few ready to fit parts. The

schematic shows it to be a flapping head with each axle pivoting

on a 3mm cross pin in the metal yoke and a large damper rubber

provides quite stiff damping. The aluminium blade grips are

supported with the usual twin ball and single thrust race.

A further supplement shows a new universal GRP swashplate

that will accommodate both single servo and eCCPM servo

control, while the inner ring can be used with 2-, 3- or 4-blade

rotor heads. It is simply a matter of attaching the control balls in

the correct holes for your particular model. It slips onto the main

shaft and the elevator lever clips onto the front ball preventing it

from rotating. The wash-out assembly follows, secured to an inner

ball and is ready to set the phase angle.

A 3mm steel pin sitting in the lower of the two main shaft holes

drives the rotor head via a slot in the bottom of the yoke. There

is a small spacer between the top of the shaft and the rotor head

and an M3 screw runs down through the yoke screwing into

the main shaft that holds it all together. A pair of pinch screws

prevent the yoke from rocking on the shaft.

This rotor head is also supplied with the similar-sized

Schweitzer 300 kit so you need to choose the correct linkage

rods and make them equal in length before fitting. The wash-out

assembly that clamps to the main shaft is used to set the phase

angle for the rotor head and a diagram shows this, although

it doesn’t show its vertical position on the shaft - about 6mm

from the rotor head is OK… The phase angle rule is to position

one blade grip directly in line with the tail and then rotate the

inner swashplate ring until the ball for that blade is precisely at

90-degrees to the longitudinal axis of the model. The final check

is, with a blade grip over the boom, its pitch should not change

when fore/aft cyclic is applied.

You will notice the ball on the blade grip pitch arm is in line

with the cross pin that retains the blade axle – this is so that as

the blade axle flaps it does not change the pitch angle, which

in is known as zero delta… This means the pitch rod is not quite

vertical but it matters not.

The 890Kv motor is made by Scorpion and provides more than enough power. The motor mount was included

Here the clutch is screwed to the top of the motor that’s fitted to the mount, which positions the clutch in exactly the same position as a nitro-powered version

This image shows the clutch correctly positioned and how some of the plastic has been removed to clear the motor

Simple and effective ender carriage

The improved main gear is in place with the main shaft and the gear mesh is pre-set. I later realised the control ball on the collective arm needed to be in the lower position!

The new 3-blade rotor head with the universal swashplate and improved driver

The blade axles are retained with a cross pin and a rubber damper limits the flap. You can also see the slot in the hub that locates on the drive pin in the main shaft

The lower hole in the main shaft carries the cross pin that drives the rotor head and the small spacer positions it correctly



THE TAIL

Assembling the tail starts with the tail rotor and pre-

assembled gearbox, all of which is straightforward. The

gearbox itself is a closed unit with a tail drive adapter

for the wire drive. The tail rotor itself is the usual Shuttle

unit that uses a single thrust race to carry the tail blade

grip while the pitch slider uses a pair of ball bearings.

This is a tried and tested set-up that works brilliantly.

When the Lama first appeared, I can remember

being a bit underwhelmed by the plastic tail truss

however, it is a brilliant design that is light, cheap to

produce and simply works. The top section has two

aluminium rails moulded into the plastic truss, while

the lower fixing points and tail skid are moulded to

the bottom rail. This leaves the side trusses that are

very flexible, but when screwed to the top and bottom

sections, and with the tail holder locating the rails, it is

surprisingly rigid – it really is a very clever design!

Fixing the tail to the chassis is equally clever using

two standoffs attached to the chassis with the upper

rails passing through them. A third aluminium spacer

screws between the rear side frames and the lower

rail passes through this. The rear side frames are

screwed to the chassis and also to moulded points on

the tail truss, all of which position it correctly and once

tightened, grub screws are used to lock the rails in

position in the stand offs. The end result is a strong and

accurate fixing that is surprisingly rigid.

Fitting the tail gearbox into the holder is easy – you

do need to attach the wire tail drive to the adapter

with four grub screws tightened onto the round end of

the drive wire - the end with the flat slides into the front

drive adapter. I should mention the tail drive wire runs

inside a metal tube that sits in moulded recesses in the

truss, retained with cable ties, as is the plastic tube for

the tail pitch control wire. It’s not exactly an elegant

fixing method, but it works. I took the precaution of

oiling the tail drive wire in its tube.

The tail gearbox comes assembled with the wire tail drive adapter ready to fit

The tail rotor hub is simple using single thrust races to carry the grips. It is a well tried and tested method that has proved itself over the decades

The top rails are moulded to the top truss, while the bottom rail has the skid and fixing points. The side trusses are very flexible

Then screw it all together…

With the tail gearbox holder locating the rails in place it’s time to join the halves

The finished tail assembly Aluminium standoffs hold the top rail with a spacer for the lower rail and the rear side panels set the alignment


CONTROLS

Standard-sized servos are used and, with a 3-blade

rotor head, it is best to use good quality digital

servos. They don’t need to be super quick but ones

with good holding power and reasonable torque

are advised… also the three cyclic servos need to be

the same spec otherwise it won’t fly very well! I used

two Spektrum A6020 with a S6020, which have

exactly the same spec - the A version is aimed at

aircraft and the S for cars (surface)… I added a high

speed Spektrum H6080G (H for heli) for tail control.

I used the supplied control rods – including the

elevator and collective links with their Z bends (!)

using the advised servo horn positions. The servo

arms were first centred on the servo as accurately

as possible – I do this using a receiver before

connecting the 3-axis gyro. I did find the tail pitch

rod was obstructed by a protrusion on the frames – it

was as if there should have been a hole through it… I

removed some of the plastic to clear the rod resulting

in a nice smooth operation.

The servo swashplate links are fixed length, so the

servo control rods are used to level the swashplate,

which again can provisionally be done using a

receiver. The swashplate to blade pitch lever length is

provided in the supplement and here I noticed the ball

on the collective pitch arm should be fitted to the lower

hole and not the upper one as shown in the main

manual. I spotted this very late and then understood

why I had so much collective pitch movement!

Final fine-tuning would come later when setting up

the 3-axis gyro.

Good quality servos are best used for the flybarless rotor head

Here you can see the control rods in place as well as the protrusion on the frame that was trimmed to give a straight run for the tail pitch rod. You can also see the angle of the blade pitch rod

SET-UP ET CETERA

Bearing in mind most of the front tray is covered by the scale

cockpit, space for the drive battery and gyro etc is a bit limited.

Following MEMFlight’s advice, I decided to first use two 3S

LiPo packs wired in series to power the model through the very

reasonably-priced Hobbywing Platinum 60A speed controller

that includes a governor in helicopter mode. The speed controller

fits easily beneath the motor and I connected the input wires to

two XT60 connectors wired in series. The two 3S packs would

sit across the frames under the servos. The packs need to be

about 100/105 mm long, however the rear of the cabin will

need trimming to fit round them. I had two well used Overlander

2900mAh 30C Supersport packs and bought some Turnigy

2700mAh 20C/40C packs to try as well.

This left the 3-axis gyro and I used a JR Propo Tags Mini that I

taped to the bottom of the collective pitch servo. As mentioned the

Lama needs a gyro that will operate with single servo mechanics

mounted on its side for this installation. There wasn’t room for a

separate receiver so I bought one of the new JR/DFA RA03TL sub

receivers, which is a full range model with a pair of antenna and

receiver voltage telemetry that plugs direct into the Tags Mini. The

Tags Mini came programmed for the Forza 450, so I downloaded

a data file for 600 class models from the JR Propo website. With

these basic settings loaded, the next job was to program the Tags

Mini for the Lama, which uses the buttons on the unit to set servo

neutrals, direction and throws as well as gyro sense. The Tags

Mini also allows you to set the head and tail gyro gains from the

transmitter, which is a useful bonus, but note this gyro only works

with JR Propo’s XG transmitters!

The Hobbywing Platinum speed controller came pre-programed

for helicopter use including governor mode, which was good

because you need a programmer to change settings, which I didn’t

have! I then tested everything worked as it should and ran up the

motor (without rotor blades), it seems quite odd to hear the motor

spin up freely and then engage the clutch. The gear train seemed

to run smoothly although there was quite a bit of gear noise, so I

applied DryFluid Gear Lube to the gears which quietened it down

– I then noticed a small sachet of grease was included in the kit!

This left the included main rotor blades. These are narrow cord

wood blades with a semi-symmetrical section covered with heat

shrink tubing. You need to attach the root cuffs to the blades by

cutting away the covering so they can be glued direct to the wood

with epoxy glue. The blades weighed within a gram of each other

and the span wise centre of gravity was pretty much identical.

Hobbywing Platinum 60A speed controller used with two XT60 plugs wired in series

The Tags Mini 3-axis gyro was taped to the collective pitch servo

This shows how the two 3S LiPo packs fit

I used this RA03TL sub receiver with one of the aerials running forward underneath the front tray and the other pointing skywards

Wooden rotor blades are supplied and you need to glue the root cuffs in place. The weight and centre of gravity of the three blades was good



SCALE BITS AND CABIN

With the mechanics done it is time to add all the scale bits, many

of which need painting, which I am not good at… Assembly

starts with the red side panels which simply screw in place,

although the left one has the dummy oil tank attached. This is a

white plastic moulding and I used a black marker pen to colour

the straps. The dummy undercarriage struts have dummy dampers

and I used the marker pen to colour them.

Next up is the rather nice replica engine, which is made up of

several plastic parts all of which need painting and the manual

suggests colours. I used Humbrol Acrylic Matt paints applied with

a brush and two coats gave a satisfactory finish. The exception

was the exhaust that was shown as gold, so a visit to the local

Halfords produced a spray can of Ford Tibetan Gold metallic,

which turned out more a bronze colour that looks good to my

eye. Be aware that while these spray cans are acrylic paint, you

must use them in well a ventilated space – preferably outdoors.

The cockpit is next and again the parts need painting before

the seats and consul are glued onto the base portion.

The cabin halves are screwed together and it is a slide fit onto

the front tray of the model, while the one piece bubble screen

has to be carefully cut out from the moulding. Cut-lines are in the

moulding but are rather faint in places, so take great care. I slid

the cabin into place on the model and then attached the screen

using the provided screws – again take your time because the

mouldings are quite flexible.

Finally, with the seats attached to the cabin, I was ready

to apply the white decals that depict the bubble frame. I was

dreading this but in fact it went well, mainly because I used water

with a drop of liquid soap so the vinyl could be slid into place

and repositioned if needed… The same technique was used to

apply the other decals.

The side frames screw to the chassis. It is a shame about the cut-out for the exhaust...

These are the dummy exhaust parts. Note the different plastics used and yes, they all need painting

I was pleased with the result and considering the lack of painting skills it’s pretty good...

Seat and instrument panel parts also need an artistic touch

Double-sided tape was used to secure it in place

We were pleased with the instrument panel, which is included in the kit

Rear of the cabin needs trimming to clear the battery packs

All the effort paid off!


A pretty good job all round I think

The two 3S packs sit side-by-side LiPo packs in place with the canopy hiding them

The OptiPower 6S 2700mAh 30C pack is a bit longer, but provided improved performance and is simpler to fit and less bulky



FLIGHT

And then there was the Covid lockdown, which put paid to

test flights for months, and for that matter, publication of this

very magazine. Then the lockdown eased and model flying

was OK with social distancing.

The first flight was with a pair of new Turnigy 3S 2700mAh

packs, which showed the model flew but with a bit of

vibration on the tailplane and I noticed the blades were

slightly out of track, which would be the culprit. Head speed

felt high and the controls were pretty sharp for a scale model.

After about five minutes the head speed decayed and so I

quickly landed – I’m glad I did as the LiPo packs were down

to just 2 per cent! One thing I learnt a while ago is the higher

the head speed, the more power is used, which leads to

shorter flights. Thus, for the next flight the throttle curve was

reduced to give a slower head speed. This certainly helped

with a seven-minute flight but again with very little left in the

pack; better, but I hoped for more duration.

For the next outing I had adjusted the blade tracking,

which smoothed out the tail and I wanted to set the head

speed at about 1300RPM, which was achieved with a

helping hand using a tachometer. At this RPM the controls

were well balanced being powerful but not overly aggressive

and was a delight to fly. For this flight I fitted a pair of

well used, older generation, Overlander Supersport 30C

2900mAh packs which gave a seven-minute flight with 12

per cent left.

I was looking for more duration than I was getting and

so decided the Lama deserved some new LiPos… I had

heard good reports of the latest Overlander Supersport Pro

35C 3S 2900mAh packs, but I wondered if there was a 6S

pack that would fit the limited space; the benefit being one

connector instead of two and hence less wiring. After quite

a bit of searching, I found OptiPower offer a 2700mAh 6S

30C pack that looked a possibility. This pack was listed at a

bit longer than the 3S, at 108mm but would fit… So, a pair

were ordered, however when they arrived I was surprised to

find they are in fact 120mm long, with the cross section being

42x38mm and weighing 410g (including an XT60 plug). To

fit these, I needed to open out the rear of the cabin a bit more.

More flight testing was next on the list, and a calm day

presented itself, so with all the packs fully charged, I set

the timer on my transmitter for seven minutes and flew a

succession of gentle flights and noted the capacity left in

the packs at the end. The used Overlander Supersport 30C

2900mAh 3S packs had 12 per cent left. Both pairs of

Turnigy 20-40C 2700mAh 3S packs had 4 per cent left. The

first OptiPower 2700mAh 6S 30C packs had 20 per cent

left and the second, after a harder flight, had 21 per cent left

plus the rotor RPM was noticeably higher! All of which goes

to show older packs do not perform as well as new ones, and

some new ones are better than others, but we all knew that!

Subsequent to the above, I reset the Hobbywing speed

controller to its Heli StoGov mode, which stores the governed

rpm on the next start up, and all subsequent flights would be

at the same RPM… I used a pair of the Turnigy packs, which

had given a nice rotor speed, to set the RPM and had more

flights with the OptiPower 6S packs – at this RPM they had

30 per cent capacity left, which was a big improvement and

proved the advantage of lower RPM and top quality packs!

SUMMING UP

I am very pleased with this electrified S30 Lama, it goes

together so well and flies superbly, looking very scale like

and sitting well in the air. Its size makes it really convenient

to transport and battery power simply adds to its ease of use.

The OptiPower 6S packs have given me the duration I was

hoping for with eight minutes of gentle flying and power in

reserve, which for a model weighing 3957g, is impressive.

It is ideal for anyone looking for their first scale

helicopter and is a welcome addition to anyone who

wants to add a hassle free model to their fleet. Plus the

added benefit that, if it goes wrong, it is much easier to

repair than a full fuselage model! n

February 2021 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

March 2021 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

THROUGH THE LENS

23 24 25 26 27 28

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Ahead of our review in the next issue, here is photo taken from the simply brilliant Mini 2 drone from DJI that features an awesome specification which belies its light weight. With a flight time potential of over 30 minutes, not only do you have plenty of opportunity to take stunning photos like this or cinematic-quality video, but at sub-250g it’s agile and great fun to fly too...


FEATURE F3N League Round 1FEATURE F3N League Round 1

The firsT league compeTiTion Took place in middlesex and iT was

The align facTory piloT aaron cole would Take The win geTTing

The beTTer of duncan osbourn

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII Aaron and Align Take The Win

With Covid-19 restrictions finally lifting and

with advice from the BMFA indicating

that we could safely go ahead with

a competition as long as we stuck to government

guidelines, we were finally able to hold our first F3N

competition of 2020. The venue was to be the Flyin’ Fish

field in Ickenham, Middlesex on Sunday 16 August.

Six of our regular F3N pilots turned up to compete

(Duncan Osbourn, Aaron Cole, Dave Fisher, Ethan

Williams, Summer Fisher and George Isaacs) together

with F3N newbie Andy Kirby. Being under 18, Summer

and George are both classed as juniors. We also had

five judges with us for the day: head judge Jamie Cole,

Paul Bellis, Alex Hawtin, Rachel Plant and John Nobbs.

Although a seasoned pilot, this was the first time that

John had judged F3N.

NEW MANOEUVRES

Once everyone had arrived, we had the pilots’ briefing,

The first job of the day was to look at the seven new (for

2020) set manoeuvres all of which were being flown

in today’s competition. Each pilot is able to choose

whichever seven manoeuvres he or she wants to fly out

of the 40 available in the Sporting Code. They have

varying K factors (the level of difficulty) ranging from 4

to 11.5 and as this was the first time these manoeuvres

were being flown in competition in the UK, it was

important for both judges and pilots to fully understand

how each one should be flown to gain maximum points.

SETS 1

Once the competition was ready to start proper, the

first pilot to fly was Ethan Williams, but he had taken a

break from F3N in 2019 so was a little rusty which was

reflected in his overall score for this round of 2368.5.

George Isaacs followed and finished his round feeling

reasonably confident. Unfortunately he had not read

the rules with regards to how a Pirouetting Loop should

be flown (with a minimum of two and a maximum of

six pirouettes). He had flown the loop with more than

six pirouettes which meant the manoeuvre was scored

five out of 20 and so he finished with a score of 1935.

Dave Fisher flew next with his Rolling Globe Reversal

being his weakest scoring manoeuvre giving him a

score of 3237 for the round. It was then Andy Kirby’s

turn to fly who was extremely nervous with this being

his first F3N competition and it showed in his flying

scoring 1171. Summer Fisher was next to fly and she

had been working hard on her sets increasing the

difficulty of the ones she had chosen in comparison to

last year. Her last manoeuvre, the Pirouetting Globe

was her weakest being misshapen and not flowing

as it should, scoring 2380.5 for the round. The last

two pilots to fly were Aaron Cole followed by Duncan

Osbourn. Aaron looked confident as he walked out

to the flightline; he had chosen to fly two of the ‘new’

manoeuvres – the Vertical Tic Toc Eight and High

Seas. The Vertical Tic Toc Eight was actually an ‘old’

manoeuvre from a few years ago which had been

The judges hard at work

Andy Kirby with caller Mark preparing to fly

Judges’ feedback after calibration

Father and son, Paul and George Isaacs

Ethan with his XL 700 Specter


revived. High Seas was a totally new manoeuvre and

was Aaron’s weakest as he finished with a score of

3547.5. Now it was down to Duncan to see if he could

beat Aaron’s score. He was flying the new Align T-Rex

650X so we were all eager to see how he would do.

Duncan had chosen to fly the Time Travel Manoeuvre as

well as the Vertical Tic Toc Eight and High Seas, but this

was unfortunately his undoing. The Time Travel proved

to be much more difficult to execute cleanly and his

score suffered – he finished with 3362.

CONVERSATION POINTS

At the end of each round, once all the judges’ scores

have been input into the scoring programme, the

scoring sheets are given out to the pilots for them to

digest. Pilots also have the opportunity to ask the judges

why they were scored the way they were and how they

could improve. The FAI Sporting Code goes into great

detail as to how a manoeuvre should be flown and

what the judging criteria is but often it is only when you

fly in a competition scenario with feedback from judges

and other pilots that you can fully understand what is

required and what will score well.

FREESTYLE

After a short break we started the second round –

Freestyle. Each pilot flies for between three to four

minutes. Judges each give a score out of 20 for five

categories: Difficulty, Harmony, Creativity, Precision and

Safe Presentation. With Difficulty and Precision both

having a K factor of 3, it is focusing on these areas that

will earn the pilot the highest scores. It was Dave’s turn

to fly first this time and he flew a varied routine with

lots of technical manoeuvres and finished with a score

of 433. Andy was next, still nervous but eager to show

us what he could do; he flew a solid round scoring

351. Summer followed and knowing she wasn’t (yet)

flying as technical as her fellow pilots, concentrated on

Harmony, Creativity and Precision. She scored 376. It

was now Aaron’s turn to take to the skies. Having won

the first round he was determined to maintain his lead

and flew his socks off, the reward being a score of

484. Duncan followed and put in an equally impressive

flight however, scoring one point less in both Difficulty

and Precision (with a K factor of 3) but beating Aaron

by one point in Creativity, he finished with a score of

479 (five points behind Aaron). Ethan, now starting to

brush off his F3N cobwebs, flew a great freestyle flight

scoring 412. It was down to George to finish off the

round and he was keen to beat Summer in this round,

which was exactly what he did, scoring higher in

Difficulty, Harmony and Precision, ending with a score

of 392 (16 points ahead of Summer).

SETS 2

After a break for lunch we started our third round

of the competition – another round of Sets. An F3N

competition consists of two rounds of Sets, a Freestyle

and a Music flight, the lowest of which is discarded

leaving each pilot with the scores from their three

highest rounds. This means that at least one round of

Sets will always count in a pilot’s final result so although

many may find this the most boring round to practise,

it is essential that time is spent making them as strong

as possible.

Summer was first up in this round and she flew much

better this time (including a much improved pirouetting

globe) scoring 2622.5. Aaron also improved his score

Aaron and Align Take The Win IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

Another father and son team, Paul and Ethan Williams

Count to ten, then come and find me

“I’m sure I put the canopy clips here somewhere!”

George getting ready to fly

Summer advertising her sponsors


FEATURE F3N League Round 1

finishing with 3769. Now we would have to see if

Duncan could claw back a round having dropped the

Time Travel manoeuvre for the Rolling Globe Reversal.

He did fly an exceptional round of Sets and finished

with a score of 3809.5. Each of the remaining pilots

managed to improve on their score from the first round

of Sets with the most marked improvement being from

Andy who had watched the other pilots’ flights and

taken note of what the judges had told him at lunchtime

– it certainly paid off for him.

MUSIC

As we readied for the fourth and final round (Music),

it could not have been closer between Aaron and

Duncan. In this round the same 5 categories are scored

but the emphasis is on Harmony and Creativity each

having a K factor of 2.5. Difficulty and Precision have

a K factor of 2 so when a pilot is putting together his

flight he needs to be aware of this so that he can fly in

a way that will score him maximum points.

It was Duncan’s turn to fly first; he had chosen to fly

to parts of the soundtrack to Rocky IV. He knew that to

beat Aaron he would have to pull out all the stops and

to that end he flew hard, aggressive and low. It was all

was going well until about halfway through his flight he

flew a manoeuvre extremely low and for a split second,

he thought that the tail had hit the ground. Duncan

instinctively hit throttle hold and landed only to discover

there was no damage and he hadn’t hit the ground

after all. Unfortunately as he was less than two minutes

into his flight, as the rules dictate he was zeroed for the

Wayne and Duncan Osbourn form a formidable team The father and daughter team of Dave and Summer Fisher

George's Music round

Duncan flying his first round of Sets


round. After this shock start to the Music round, Ethan

was up next. His Music flights are always entertaining

and this was no exception – he scored 423. George

followed scoring 402. It really does pay to have a

honed routine when flying both the Freestyle and Music

rounds – winging it rarely scores well. To prove the

point, Dave’s music flight scored 493.5 – his highest

ever Music round score. Next up was Andy who made

the mistake of choosing a fairly non-descript piece of

music to fly to with very few beats or areas where you

could really make the heli fly ‘to’ the music – he scored

355.5. The penultimate pilot to fly was Summer – she

had also been practising her Music flight and it showed

as she rarely missed a beat and she was rewarded

with a score of 458. Aaron was the final pilot to fly and

with Duncan zeroing the round, he knew he couldn’t

lose. Aaron flew his 2019 Global 3D routine; one that

is well-honed and practised. He scored an impressive

522, winning this fourth and final round. The final

results were as follows:

THANKS

A huge thank you to Dave of Flyin’ Fish for allowing us

to use his site for the day. Thanks also to the judges for

giving up their Sunday and to the pilots for competing.

Covid-19 permitting, we will have two more competitions

this year which will also incorporate our Team Trials for

the F3N World Championships in 2021. If you would

like to find out more about F3N, join our Facebook page

at F3N UK or email [email protected]. n

Pos Pilot Score

1 Aaron Cole 30002 Duncan Osbourn 2937.363 Dave Fisher 2756.154 Ethan Williams 2452.355 Summer Fisher (Junior) 2342.656 George Isaacs (Junior) 2178.267 Andy Kirby 1902.35

Aaron with caller Ethan

Judges feedback at the end of the competition

Nice to see the judges smiling

There was nothing between the two

top pilots Duncan and Aaron


FEATURE SAB Goblin Kraken

The KraKen is a myThical sea monsTer said To

appear off The coasT of norway, buT This one is

definiTely for real, is iTalian born and bred, and

is a whole loT more eleganT and fun...

TexT and phoTos dave dijKmans

Monster


Monster

Around this time roughly three years ago,

Goblin unveiled a brand new concept model

in Italy at their Goblin Day 2018. The model

was called the Kraken and it was advertised as a brand

new 700 heli design from SAB. After the release we

heard very little about this helicopter until the middle of

February 2019 when SAB announced they would show

it at the Rotor Live show in Germany. It was one of the

highlights of the new show garnering a lot of attention.

With the new Kraken there are many original

solutions that never have been seen in the RC heli

world, that SAB has achieved by listening to the

feedback from its customers and pilots. The Kraken has

been redefined in a number of ways, offering fans of

the Goblin helicopter line “more of what they love.”

The new fully-enclosed power train is perhaps the

most notable change compared with other Goblins, and

you will notice this immediately as soon as you open

one of the smaller boxes inside the main Kraken box.

However, there are other great improvements compared

with the rest of the Goblin range.

The new Goblin Kraken is packed with upgrades,

and for example the independent belt shafts for the

transmission and the tail which makes the build and

the maintenance much easier. It also has a new and

improved ultra-light, 7075 aluminium alloy rotor head,

ultra-light tail case with quick tail fin replacement that is

similar in its design to that of the Goblin Thunder T-Line.

All these new upgrades implemented on the Kraken

does not only make it easier than ever to build and

maintain, but it also makes this machine much more

durable in a crash, and all of this with an airframe

weight of just 2680g.

DESIGN

At first glance, the new Kraken doesn't look at all

like any other Goblin 700-sized model. That is a

remarkable achievement, considering the current Black

Thunder series of 700 sizes all follow the same design.

SAB is taking this model to another level redesigning

the Kraken from scratch but of course including many

original solutions of the Goblin range.

The Kraken is really a beautifully designed machine,

inside and out. Put aside the F3C jokes and just look at

it; there is a helicopter that is precisely engineered. The

full body and boom design, with integrated frames is

instantly recognisable. The boom detachment system for

improved crash durability is a really nice feature and

the whole thing is ridiculously amazing in flight. The

Kraken allows you a very wide range of dampening

set-ups to ensure that this model adapts to all the pilots.

The dampers are composed of three O-rings (that

defines the rigidity) and a techno polymer damper

(that controls the maximum possible movement of the

spindle). Using different O-ring and dampers you can

get different responses of the model.

Inside, you can find every inch of this machine

masterful engineered by SAB and not one element that

they didn’t think about. The blade grips are made from

7075 T6 aluminium, and the blade grip arms are made

from 6061 T6 aluminium - this way when you have a

crash you can bend the blade grip arms, but you will

never (depending on the crash) damage the main blade

grip. Using an M4 screw makes it very easy to replace

just the arm, unlike the previous HPS rotor head that

had the screw from the inside.

As well as the important detailed instruction manual you also get a SAB workbench towel which is nice!

The main components of the rotor head. SAB uses different alloys for the blade grips and blade grip arms

Carbon fibre is used for the frame sides with inserts pre-installed by the factory

The upgraded titanium main shaft

The head design oozes quality and looks to be very durable

We fitted a full set of high-performance BK Servos. Their design matches the Kraken perfectly



The power train supports three shafts; the main shaft

to the rotor head, a shaft to the motor and the shaft to

the tail. The one-way system inside the module is very

reliable and is suitable for transmitting any power, but

it does not require maintenance and is very strong in

case of a crash. It is possible to replace the main shaft

by removing just one single screw. The transmission

module is assembled and checked by the factory so it's

ready to be used straight out of the box.

ONLY THE BEST MATERIALS

The full body and boom design with the integrated

frames are one of the new highlights compared to the

other Black Thunder models. As usual SAB decided

to go for high-end materials so the main frame uses

carbon fibre. At first it looks weak, but after installing

the new power train its really reinforced. In the front of

the Kraken we have the speed controller support, which

is a composite tray with sacrificial plastic insert with

edges covered in rubber for wires protection.

The newly redesigned ultra-light tail case with quick

tail fin replacement uses a 3mm full carbon side plate

that is 23g lighter than the Black Thunder tail case, and

is a very simple, but strong, reliable and durable design.

The plastic battery tray is also a redesigned version

of the ones we have seen on the Black Thunder T-Line

but on the Kraken its much wider and its mounted to the

frame upside down. It comes with all you need to install

your batteries with a carbon fibre battery protection,

double-side tape and the battery straps.

The landing gear on the Kraken is similar to the one

from the Kyle Stacy Goblin 700 or the Black Thunder

Sport. Our opinion is that it’s the perfect landing gear

because it can resist very hard landings and skid bumps.

It’s very well explained in the manual were to put

which glue or thread lock but we always recommend

that the screws which are threaded into metal are

treated to a little thread lock. It is very important to use

it to prevent stripped bolt heads or broken screws and

you only need a little on the tip of the screw.

Some parts are factory pre-assembled but we always

check everything to ensure the correct assembly and if

thread lock is applied, although we never found any

mistake on the pre-assembled parts.

It's time to turn our attention on the carbon fibre frame

where all the mechanics are installed including the

servos, in this build we decided to use the well proven

BK Servos DS8002HV brushless items for the cyclic. We

highly recommend to use the original servo horns from

SAB (HA050-S or HA051-S) to get the perfect geometry

and to avoid servo damage in crashes. For the record

the anti-rotation guide is now on the front servo mount.

The Z60 main pulley, along with the front tail

belt pulley are the only two transmission gears that

are visible on the new Kraken as all the others and

associatd parts are enclosed in the new power train.

Unlike other 700 Goblins the new Kraken doesn't

require a tail belt idler or any other system to control the

tension during flight so it seems the new design is better

than before. Interestingly although the manual clearly

says how to mount a belt tensioner correctly, we have

seen many pilots mount it the wrong way round and

struggle to figure out how to set the spring tension! And

talking of manuals, SAB's are some of the best around

with very clear and detailed drawings. Everything in the

manual is detailed, like for example on the motor mount

section they clearly give all the information required

including the maximum size and length of the motor

shaft up to all the different ratio configurations.

As if you didn’t know this was a SAB product... The branding is etched on to nearly every component!

The rotor head with cyclic servos installed and fitted to the carbon fibre frame

Only the best materials are used like carbon fibre and are complimented by machined alloy components

The low side frames are painted to match the canopy

The Z60 main pulley, along with the front tail belt pulley are the only two transmission gears visible. All the other parts are enclosed in the new power train


A KONTRONIK PACKAGEIt is very important to choose the correct ratio that

maximizes efficiency depending on the motor, pinion

and RPM we want to fly. As usual, and thanks to

Kontronik for the support, we opted for a Kontronik

Pyro 750-56L Competition paired with a matching

Cool Kosmik 200A. We used the pinion included in the

kit, a 21T pinion that gives us a ratio of 10.4:1 with

maximum 2250RPM at 80 per cent throttle curve. This

is perfect and recommend by Kontronik to assure a

correct function of the governor.

The tail is one of the characteristic items of the

Goblin with nothing to do with a traditional tail boom

design. SAB has manufactured an oversized high-tech

composite carbon and airex sandwich tail boom that

comes factory painted in the same design as the canopy

and the low side frames. It is rigid enough so no need

for tail boom supports. Another great detail from SAB

is the way its fitted onto the frame with the aluminium

boom block support, three plastic M10 bolts and three

plastic M10 nuts that ensures the boom construction

works as a failsafe in a crash. Note the kit includes a

special G10 tool for this. The goal of this anchoring

system is that when you crash the screws breaks and

saves as much as possible of the tail assembly.

For the tail servo we decided to go in the same BK

Servos brushless line and used the DS8005HV, which

is mounted upside down in the lower part of the boom.

More or less in middle of the boom in the lower part

we can find the tail push rod guide and this is made of

carbon fibre. A tip when building this model is to glue

them together using an epoxy as one of the first steps as

his ensures that the glue is dry and hardened enough

for when you need it. The kit comes with all you need,

including an extension cable for the tail servo to ensure

when you crash and boom detaches from the main

frame, you don’t break the servo cable. Small details

like this are the things you really appreciate when you

are building the machine.

UNBOXINGAs expected the kit is presented in the usual

professional manner. When you open the box, the first

thing you will find a SAB workbench towel followed

by the full colour manual and a product card with the

serial number to register your kit online via

www.goblin-helicopter.com. The rest of the parts are

located in black boxes filled with form foam and all

loose parts are nicely classified in numbered plastic

bags. The canopy and boom come very well protected

in a large foam insert in side two other bigger boxes.

All the CNC parts are protected with foam trays

to avoid scratching and again the rest of the parts all

well marked in plastic bags - all are numbered and

correspond to the assembly procedure on the manual.

SET-UPThe basic set-up of this model used in this review is the

following with a Mikado VBar Control and a VBar Neo

flybarless system with Pro Version. Since this was not

the first Goblin 700 we have ever build, we really know

the settings that both Goblin and the pilot require as a

starting point, but we know it will need a little tweaking

since it comes with new mechanics. We tested various

settings and this is how we liked it the most. On the main

rotor settings, we use an Expo of 20, Style is set to 98,

Rate++ to 124 and a head gain of 51. For the tail we

use expo at 20, Rate++ at 114 and tail gain is set to 50.

The settings are always a personal choice but this is the

way we liked the model the best. We used a Kontronik

Kosmik 200A with the internal governor enable (Mode

4) so we can set three head speeds using straight linear

throttle curves. The correct ratio as previous explained

with a 21T pinion and a 560KV motor is 10.4:1.

With this set-up we can reach a maximum head speed

without governor overturn (80 per cent) of approximately

2250RPM and this was the range we wanted to fly this

helicopter. The motor is a 560Kv model and we used a

12S set-up with Gens Ace 5500mAh 45C Ultra packs

and the included 21T pinion.

The throttle output was set as follows:

Throttle Output

Setting Output

Bank 1 60%

Bank 2 75%

Bank 3 80%

Flight Mode

Setting Approx RPM

Bank 1 1750rpm

Bank 2 2050rpm

Bank 3 2250rpm

Pitch curve have been set in all Banks to -13 at low stick, 0 at mid stick and +13 at high stick as a personal preference.

A proven Kontronik package was specifically chosen for the Kraken build

The Kosmik 200A HV speed controller, carbon fibre mount and composite tray

This design allows for quick tail fin replacement and is similar to that found on the Thunder T-Line

The Pyro 750-56L Competition motor installed on the alloy mounting plate

The boom design features plastic fixings that work as a failsafe in a crash

The oversized boom helps to make a super stiff tail

The VBar Neo flybarless unit located on its own mount

The striking blue and yellow canopy is one of the included upgrades



TEST FLIGHT

Initially we programmed in normal flying mode

1750RPM. During hovering the Kraken remained very

stable without any wobbling even at this low speed.

With this RPM setting the behaviour of the helicopter

is very smooth and predictable. When we switched to

Bank 2 the head speed was raised to about 2050RPM

and we started out with some fast forward flying and

the heli traced a perfect straight line without any strange

tendencies. We really love the smooth sound coming of

the Kraken and thanks to its design and colours, it has

fantastic visibility in flight in all directions.

But we all know that a Goblin and pilots like higher

RPM so we changed to Bank 3. The sound changed

completely, now it really started roaring with a perfect

flight behaviour at all time! We started with some

fast manoeuvres like hurricanes, kaos and then some

stress tests to the machine to see what it is capable

off with some tic-tocs, wheel of fortune and the time

machine - the helicopter held really well during all these

manoeuvres and was really accurate and powerful.

The cyclic response is perfect in our opinion. The

flight characteristics offered by the brand new and

much improved 7075 aluminium adjustable rotor

head are very good with a different feeling than flying

with the HPS rotor heads found on the Goblin Black

Thunders. In my opinion the new rotor head is the

perfect mid-way between an aggressive and smooth,

precise flight. The Kraken is extremely agile and fast

with a very aggressive flying style you can feel the

rigidity of the model in flight. The tail performs well in

all kinds of manoeuvres with piros and reverses.

At the end of the manual there is a sheet called

"Maintenance" and here SAB explains some of the key

points of the helicopter where you should pay attention.

Although today's RC helicopters are prepared for more

radical 3D, all will wear and require maintenance so

there is also a sheet included marked "Tips & Tricks".

VERDICT

Although this is a review of the brand new Kraken, we

realised that it performs so similar to that of the 2011

Goblin 700 - the results and feeling are so similar. With

the new model, SAB has made a beautiful helicopter

with some remarkable advances for RC heli design.

When you build one and switch the idle up, you truly

unlock the potential of this machine, and you will enjoy

great flying characteristics. n

The colour scheme looks great in the air as is complimented by the black and white landing gear


As SAB wanted to hide as many of the cables on the Kraken, it includes a very clever solution for it. The included wire support makes it easy to guide the wires on the main frame.

A Nice Touch

Features:- New drivetrain in aluminium housing, stable, lightweight, modular- New main rotor shaft made of a steel alloy with integrated freewheel- Independent shafts for rear and main belt drive for easier construction- New ultralight 7075 aluminium rotor head. Highly adjustable, leading linkage and fully adjustable damping system

- New rear body and faster replacement of the tail fin- 22 per cent lighter than the old Goblin rear body- New chassis and rear design with integrated components and lightweight hood

- New improved tail boom crash system- Crash-resistant mechanics

Technical Specifications:Rotor Diameter: ...............................................................1558mmRotor Blade Length: ...........................................................690mmWeight:............................................. 3820g (without flight battery)Main Rotor Diameter: .......................1558mm (with 690mm blades)Main Blade Length: ................................................ 650 to 730mmTail Rotor Diameter: ...................... 284mm (with 105mm tail blades)Tail Blade Length: ................................................... 105 to 115mmCyclic Servos: .................................................40mm standard sizeTail Servo: ......................................................40mm standard sizeMain Ratio: ...........................12.1 to 8.8:1 (21T included - 10.4:1)Tail Ratio: .................................. 5.0 to 4.8:1 (27T included - 4.8:1)Typical Speed Controller: ........................................ 12S 160-200ATypical Motor Size: ............................12S 500-560Kv, 4525 series (maximum 62mm diameter, 70mm height)Battery compartment: ....................................12S 4200/5500mAh (max dimension 56x70x320mm, suggested weight 1400g to 1700g)

Recommended Components (not included):- Motor (520-540KV, maximum 64x64mm)

What’s Included- SAB Goblin Kraken- SAB TBS Carbon Main/Tail Rotor Blades- 21T motor pulley (other sizes available)- Two battery tray with straps- 690mm main blades- 105mm tail blades

Upgrades Included:- H1137-S Canopy yellow/blue- H1142-S Boom yellow/blue- H1143-S Carter DX yellow/blue- H1144-S Carter SX yellow/blue- H1070-W-S White landing gear- H1138-S Titanium spindle- H1054-T-S Titanium main shaft

What’s Required:- Transmitter (at least 6-channel)- Receiver (compatible with transmitter)- Three swashplate servos (standard size 40mm)- One tail servo (standard size - 40mm)- Flybarless system (for example MicroBeast Plus)- Flight battery (1x 12S 44.4V 4200-5200mAh/2x 6S 22.2V 4200-5200mAh)

Manufacturer: ............................................................. SAB GoblinWeb: ..................................................www.goblin-helicopters.com

Equipment Used:Blades: ............................................. SAB Thunderbolt TBS 690mmFlybarless: .................................................................... V-Bar NeoCyclic Servo: .............................................. BK Servos BLS8002HVTail Servo: ...................................................BK Servos DS-8006HVBatteries: ..........................................Gens-Ace 5500mAh 45C (x2)Motor: .................................... Kontronik Pyro 750-56L CompetitionSpeed Controller: ..................................Kontronik Kosmik 200A HV

SAB Goblin Kraken


NEW ITEMS...

WHAT’S NEW

SpEkTrum NX rAdioSThere are three new radios from Spektrum in their NX line up is an evolution in Spektrum air radios that for the first

time builds the connectivity and telemetry advantages of the brand's Smart Technology into a range of transmitters.

Starting with the NX6, this is the first 6-channel radio in the Spektrum line-up to be equipped out-of-the-box with

Smart Technology compatibility so is perfect when paired with Spektrum Smart

batteries and Smart Avian speed controls. It has WiFi connectivity so you can complete the product registration

straight from the transmitter and to download firmware updates. An easy-to-use roller wheel interface simplifies

programming, with a large 3.2-inch, high-resolution colour display to make menus easy to read. Spektrum even

includes a rechargeable 1S 2000mAh Li-Ion transmitter battery.

With the Spektrum NX8 you get greater flexibility with more channels but the same specification at the NX6

including 250 model memory, backlit colour display and built-in Smart Technology support. There is dedicated

programming for airplane, sailplane, multi-rotor and helicopter, ten programmable mixes, two sequencers and up

to ten different flight modes, model templates for BNF aircraft, all based around superb ergonomics optimised for

comfort and precise, fatigue-free control.

Finally there is NX10 that will provide experienced pilots with all of the advantages available from next-level

Spektrum radio control. Targeting intermediate though to advanced pilots, it has some of the same features and

capabilities found in the top-of-the-line Spektrum iX Series radios.

The NX10 offers 14 programmable mixes and up to ten different flight modes, real-time telemetry, exclusive

Spektrum AirWare programming software and voice alerts that lets you keep tabs on important functions without

ever taking your eyes away from your aircraft. of course you can also connect the transmitter to a computer to

control most simulators, including RealFlight (only RF8 and RF9 currently). The top of the range NX10 comes with

a large capacity rechargeable 1S 6000mAh Li-Ion transmitter battery with magnetic USB cable and micro USB

adapter for convenient charging.

SPM6775EU Spektrum NX6 6 Channel System w/AR6610T Receiver

SPMR6775EU Spektrum NX6 6 Channel (transmitter only)

SPMR8200EU Spectrum NX8 8 Channel DSMX (transmitter only)

SPMR10100EU Spektrum NX10 10 Channel (transmitter only)

Available from: ........ Logic RCWebsite: ................. www.logicrc.comContact: .................. 01992 558226

ScorpioN TribuNuS ii 12-130AIn December 2017 Scorpion released the first

Tribunus 12-130A, which is one of the most

popular speed controllers for the 600 to 700

class helicopter. And now they have a brand

new model in the form of the Tribunus II 12-130A

SBEC. Taking into account user feedback from the

first-generation as well as their own experience

from our other Tribunus II speed controllers,

they have improved the design significantly and

now features a newly added USB port for PC

connection with/without a main power source,

improved BEC protection as well as Futaba

telemetry support without an additional adapter.

Additionally Android apps are now supported

to allow you to configure or update the speed

controller via USB port without main power

source. Other equally exceptional new features

are improved BEC current and voltage drop for

high amp servos, added gear ratio and motor

poles settings for Jeti and Futaba telemetry,

increased log size to 64kB, optimised current

protection and more PC motor control function.

Specifications:

Max Continuous Current: ........................ 130A

Peak Current: ........................................ 200A

Operating Voltage Range: ................14 to 52V

BEC Output Voltage: .... 5.1 to 8.1V (adjustable)

Max Continuous BEC Output:........ 10A @ 8.1V

Peak BEC Output: ........ 30A (1 second) @ 8.1V

On Resistance: .........................0.7 mOhms *2

Size: ...............................75.3x44.3x25.8mm

Weight (Without Connectors): ..................195g

Drive frequency: ............................ 8 to 32kHz

Available from: ........ ScorpionWebsite: ................. www.scorpionsystem.comContact: .................. [email protected]

blAckSHEEp SquAd cApThe BlackSheep Squad snap-fit caps are made in a very

reputable factory with only the highest quality materials, fully

customised for TBS. The logos are embroidered with the front

including the BlackSheep Squad logo and wording, the side

features the TBS logo, and the rear is the website address.

Available from: ........ Team BlackSheepWebsite: ................. www.team-blacksheep.comContact: .................. Via website


NewBeeDroNe 65 AcroBee

BeeBrAiNBL V1 crossfire BNfThe latest addition to the long range family from NewBeeDrone is their 65

AcroBee BeeBrainBL V1. This versatile whoop model can be flown both

indoors and out, using the popular AcroBee Brushless V1 as the base with,

as the name suggests a Crossfire receiver.

Specifications:

- Three built-in LEDs (programmable through Betaflight)

- Video transmitter control through OSD

- 2S capable

- F4 STM32F411 processor

- Approximately 23.5g dry weight

- 0802 18000Kv motors with a 1mm shaft

- Turtle Mode capable

- 4-channel 12A BLHeliS speed controller with BB21 MCU

- NewBeeDrone anti-reverse JST PH-2.0 power lead

- Voltage and current sensor

- NewBeeDrone OSD Chips (Betaflight compatible)

- Crossfire receiver

Available from: ........ NewBeeDroneWebsite: ................. newbeedrone.comContact: .................. Via website

PAchrAy 3-iNch frAme KitThe PachRay 3-inch kit uses carefully chosen and tested components that work together

seamlessly to provide FPV pilots with the best flying experience possible, that TBS claims, "rivals

the best 5-inch freestyle quads in terms of that hard to come by sense of organic feel and fine

control." Every part of the design serves a purpose from the thick X-style carbon fibre bottom

plate that provides strength and durability while its rigidity allows for a smoother and more

accurate flying quad. The canopy is 3D printed at an angle, which allows each layer in the print

to contribute maximum strength to protect your electronics in the event of a crash. The canopy is

also multi-functional by design. It carries and protects a nano sized FPV camera while providing

optimally placed, rigid mounting points for video transmitter and crossfire antennas as well as

providing crucial strain relief for the XT30 connector. It also offers a solid mounting point for a

variety of HD cameras along with an integrated socket to power a naked GoPro. The distinctive

‘wings’ on each side of the canopy which give the PachRay its name provide protection for

the flight control board and electronics inside while also providing important cooling for the

electronics so they can perform optimally, giving the best video signal and control range

possible without thermal shutdown or RF noise issues.

reALfLight 9.5 rc fLight simThe latest version of RealFlight adds even more exciting features to the

popular RC flight simulator including over a dozen new aircraft, AMA

Flying Site 3 and additional Virtual Flight Instructor lessons. Flight sims are

one of the best tools that new RC pilots can use when learning how to fly,

whilst also making it possible for experienced RC pilots to practice new

manoeuvres and to hone their skills so they can become even better pilots.

With more than 170 different aircraft to fly including airplanes, helicopters,

drones and more at over 40 different flying sites, plus the ability to edit

aircraft and sites, there’s an almost infinite number of flying options

available. Add in game-like challenges that make flight training fun,

multiplayer options so you can fly and compete with other pilots online,

compatibility with VR headsets, and many more features. RealFlight 9.5

adds more of the most popular aircraft

from the best brands in RC, along with

the AMA Headquarters’ International

Aeromodeling Center (IAC) Flying Site

3 and additional Virtual Flight Instructor

lessons to deliver a complete

experience. It also comes

with the Spektrum InterLink DX

simulator controller modelled

after Spektrum transmitters

including all standard switch

locations and functions so it

works just like the real radio.

RealFlight 9.5 includes more than a dozen new aircraft including models

from E-flite, HobbyZone, Hangar 9 and Synergy, and once activated

update it online to receive the latest versions of all aircraft.

RFL1200 RealFlight 9.5 Sim w/Spektrum Controller

RFL1201 RealFlight 9.5 Flight Simulator - Software Only

Available from: ........ Logic RCWebsite: ................. www.logicrc.comContact: .................. 01992 558226

memfLight cArBoN BLADes for

hiroBo mrB3 rotor heADMEMFlight now offer sets of 520mm carbon blades for the Hirobo Lama/Schweizer fitted with

the MRB3 rotor head. These are a straightforward replacement for the stock wooden blades

and are matched sets that will both improve flights and its looks. They retail at £120 for a set

of three. All these products are available from Midland Helicopters or direct from MEMFlight.

Available from: ........ MEMFlightWebsite: ................. www.memflight.co.ukContact: .................. Via website

Specifications:

- Unibody carbone true X main plate in 3mm carbon fibre

- Perfect centre of gravity balance in all axis with HD cam

on top

- 3D printed PETG canopy with integrated FPV camera,

receiver, video transmitter and GoPro power socket mounts

- Rear standoff with

integrated train relief for

the XT30 connector wires

- FC silicone dampeners

- 32g dry frame weight

- 12x12mm motor bolt pattern

- Sub-250g with LiPo and naked GoPro


What's Included:

- Carbon plate

- Canopy

- Screw set

- Receiver antenna tubes

- Battery pad

- 180x15mm battery strap

- XT30 connector

- 16AWG wires

- 35V capacitor

- PCB


FEATURE Freestyle Masters

George and Paul Isaacs with the fixed-wing flightline in the background

Eddie Thompson

Richard van Aken with his XL Power Specter 700

Duncan flying his Align T-Rex 700X

Andy Kirby (right) with caller Mark

Simon Hildrew with his own design of nitro-powered heli

The weekend of 12-13 September saw the first

ever inclusion of an RC helicopter competition

at the Freestyle Masters, traditionally a knockout

fixed-wing freestyle competition. Hosted at BMFA

Buckminster in Grantham, the home of the national

flying association, the forecast was thankfully dry

though a little windier than some would have liked.

Fifteen pilots had signed up including three who had

never flown in competition before – hats off to Eddie

Thompson, Adam Plumbridge and Steve Cardew for

taking the plunge. The judges for the event were Callum

Henson (Content, Variety & Technical Difficulty), John

Nobbs (Precision) and myself, Julie Fisher (Excitement,

Entertainment and Overall Impression). John also

took on the role of commentator and did a great job

entertaining the spectators who had ventured out to see

what it was all about.

This was my first time in a judge’s chair and by

the end of the weekend I had a true appreciation for

the focus required by those in the hot seat. An added

advantage of course was that we had the best seats in

the house (field) to appreciate the flying taking place in

front of us.

Although music was played for each flight it was not

a requirement to fly ‘to’ it. It was more a question of

using the music to ‘inspire’ the tempo of the three-minute

freestyle flight and also of course for the entertainment

of the spectators.

SATURDAY

On the first day each pilot was able to fly four rounds

(the lowest of which was discarded) in order to

determine their ranking. It was interesting to see how as

each round progressed, all the pilots pushed themselves

that little bit harder to try to improve their ranking.

At the end of the day, the top 12 pilots who would

then go through to Sunday’s head-to-head knock-out

rounds were announced. Initially Nick Stroud had made

it through to the knock-outs but he couldn’t be there on

the Sunday so his place was given to Mike Revuke.

FINAL FLIGHTS

Sunday’s competition saw the top 12 pilots quickly

whittled down to six. The rankings were accurate

and the top three pilots made it through to the semi-

final. It was very interesting to see the very different

models that made it this far - a 700 electric (Duncan

Osbourn), a 600 nitro (Stu Smith) and a 520 electric

(Ethan Williams).

Duncan Is the Master At Grantham

With the summer of 2020 being one of disappointment as one event after another Was cancelled

due to covid-19 restrictions, it Was great to finally head to bmfa buckminster knoWing We Were in

for an unfettered Weekend of great heli flying


Duncan Osbourn and Simon Hildrew

Stu Smith and Adam Plumbridge

Mike Revuke flying his Align T-Rex 600N

Mike Revuke looking happy with his flight

Andy Kirby heading out to fly

Mike Revuke and Andy Kirby

Adam Plumbridge flying his Oxy 5

Jim Saunders with caller Simon

Ethan Williams with his caller, dad Paul Richard van Aken with Rachel Plant

Mick Johnston with caller Steve Cardew

Stu Smith flying rerally low!


FEATURE Freestyle Masters

The three remaining pilots each flew an amazing

flight with very different styles and the judges scored

them in each category from first to third place as follows:

This meant that the final round would be a head-

to-head between Duncan and Stu with Ethan placing

third overall. The final showdown took place on the

fixed-wing flightline meaning that both the heli and

fixed-wing enthusiasts could watch and appreciate

each other’s discipline. Before Duncan and Stu flew,

George Isaacs (the Junior FSM Champion and fourth

placed overall) flew an excellent demo followed

by Ethan who unfortunately crashed his model (or

should I say his Dad’s!) when he flew too near to the

unforgiving ground.

It was now time for the final. As Duncan had ranked

just above Stu, he had the choice of whether to fly first

or second and he chose for Stu to fly first. This tactical

move proved crucial as Stu who had been consistently

smacking his 600 nitro at the ground throughout the

competition pushed it just that little bit too far and

crashed. It only remained for Duncan to complete his

flight in his usual inimitable style and the title of Heli

Freestyle Master 2020 was his.

My thanks go to Andy Ellison who organised

the whole event – we couldn’t have had a better

Competition Director – and to Louis who was in charge

of the sound system.

Next year’s Freestyle Masters should revert back to

its ‘usual’ weekend in May (after the early May Bank

Holiday). If you are looking for a fun ‘no pressure’

competition, then this could be the one for you.

Hopefully I’ll see you there… n

Content Precision Excitement Pilot Score

1 2 3 Duncan Osbourn 63 1 1 Stu Smith 52 3 2 Ethan Williams 7

Final Positions

Pos Pilot

1 Duncan Osbourn2 Stu Smith3 Ethan Williams4 George Isaacs (Junior Champion)5 Richard van Aken6 Andy Kirby7 Simon Hildrew8 Adam Plumbridge9 Jim Saunders10 Mick Johnston11 Rachel Plant11 Mike Revuke13 Nick Stroud14 Eddie Thompson15 Steve Cardew

John Nobbs (both Commentator and Judge) with Andy Ellison, the Competition Director

Duncan Osbourn (right) with George Isaacs

Fixed-wing often overshot the far left of the heli flightline which made for great photos

Ewan Williams with Andy Kirby

Stu Smith and Richard van Aken

George Isaacs returns looking happy with his flight


The semi-finalists: Duncan Osbourn, Stu Smith and Ethan Williams

The judges working out who the two finalists would be

George Isaacs was the Junior Freestyle Masters Heli Champion

Duncan heading out for his final flight of the competition

Duncan with his trusty Align T-Rex 700X The winner and runner-up with trophies

Ethan Williams with his damaged heli after a demo flight on the fixed-wing flightline

Stu looking over the remains of his Align T-Rex 600N after his flight in the final

Stu Smith relaxing before the final with his dog Scout The legend that is Wayne Osbourn

The lovely Williams Family Duncan pushing hard


FEATURE 1st-RC Carbon Fibre Blades

Carbon fibre blades are the norm

in today’s high-performanCe

world of 3d heliCopters however,

these are very Costly and piCking

the right pair will make a massive

differenCe to how your model

performs. in this review we put the

1st-rC Carbon fibre blades from

heli-professional to the test

CARBONFirst Choice and First Class


Main Bade Specifications:Blade Length: ....................................................................690mmMaterial: ...................................................................Carbon fibreBlade Grip Size: .................................................................14mmBolt Hole: ............................................................................. 5mmWeight Per Blade: ...................................................175g (approx)Max rpm: ............................................................................ 2600Blade Width/Depth: ............................................................60mmProfile: ................................................................ Fully symmetricalDirection of Rotation: ......................................................ClockwiseNumber of Blades: ..................................................................... 2RRP: .................................................................................£85.99

Tail Bade Specifications:Blade Length: ....................................................................115mmMaterial: ...................................................................Carbon fibreBlade Grip Size: ................................................................... 5mmBolt Hole: ............................................................................. 3mmWeight Per Blade: .................................................... 6.7g (approx)Blade Width/Depth: ............................................................32mmNumber of Blades: ..................................................................... 2RRP: .................................................................................£25.99

Contact:Manufacturer: .......................................................Heli-ProfessionalWebsite: ...............................................www.heli-professional.comUK Distributer: ...............................................www.hely-shop.co.uk

1st-RC Carbon Fibre Blades

The 1st-RC 690mm carbon fibre blades are very

stiff and almost flex free and are light at 175g

per blade (or 350g pair) and the design features

a 5mm hole with a brass liner for added support. Their

centre of gravity is 350mm out from the bolt hole, so

almost 50 per cent over the 690mm length.

Visually the 1st-RC blades look great with white

tips that have the 1st logo on them and some splashes

of white along the top and bottom. The blade size is

clearly marked in large white numbers towards the

blade root. This means you'll get a nice white ring

around your rotor disk when at speed whereas the rest

of the disk is completely black and the same goes for

the tail’s blades.

THE HELI OF CHOICEWe bolted a pair of 690mm 1st-RC main blades and

a matching pair of 115mm tail blades onto our review

Soxos Strike 7. We were immediately impressed

how it felt locked in when hovering, and the blades

also tracked perfectly. Once we started to move the

helicopter around, we noticed the cyclic and collective

felt crisp and hard stops were much more precise.

Acceleration was good and the fast forwards flight had

a solid feel to it. Tic-tocs required almost no input and

we felt we might back the collective off by a degree.

ON TESTWe conducted four test flights with head speeds from

2000rpm to 2500rpm and found collective lift on the

1st R 690mm blades was good. The blades are quite

light at 175g per blade and this makes them quick

to react to cyclic inputs. The 1st-RC blades have a

nice sound in the air, and we know this will appeal to

people. The 115mm tail blades gave great tail control

and a considerable amount of power also, flight time

was on par with other blades we have flown.

Auto performance was impressive, and we had a

fair amount of reserve in the blade at the bottom that

gave us the confidence to place the helicopter wherever

we wanted and take our time in setting down.

CONCLUSIONWe are very impressed with the 1st-RC 690 Carbon

Fibre Blades; they have awesome performance and

are great value for money. The 115mm tail blades also

gave a solid performance. If you’re looking for some

new blades to try we highly recommend the new range

of 1st-RC Carbon Fibre Blades from Heli-Professional.

THANKSWe would like to thank Alex Kung at Heli-Professional

for his help and support with this review. n


FEATURE AccuRC 2.0

A Sim For AllAccuRc 2.0 is the lAtest in Rc sims, thAt Aims to simulAte it All – cARs, AiRcRAft,

dRones And helicopteRs. the developeRs tRAsnAtech sent us A copy to tRy

foR ouRselves, so ReAd on to see how contRibutoR tom stAcey got on

It’s been a while since I used a flight sim on the

computer, in fact, going back through all my old

boxed software (what was that?!) it would appear

that I last had RealFlight 7, which was 7 years ago in

2013. As I’m mostly an Apple Mac user, running that

software required a PC at the time, this isn’t something

I really have the money or energy to keep up to date,

as well as my Mac. However, as something to keep

my thumbs in during the winter, the idea of a sim really

appeals, and the draw of AccuRC 2.0 was that it works

on Mac (albeit as a Beta) as well as PC. As I write this,

it’s actually a beautiful December day, and I really want

to be out flying, but my kit is arguing it is hibernation

time, so best to stick to the sim then!

As our seasoned readers will know, I am into RC

cars, helis and drones, and even fly the odd plane

too, so what appealed about this software was that

it simulates all of these, so you can get your kicks/

practice even if it is blowing a hoolie out there and

pouring with rain. I’ll make the point now that the car

side isn’t as good as the flight side – the physics are

there, but I feel, even with the different camera views,

it isn’t a replacement for the real thing. The flight side I

was really impressed with however, but read on to find

out the verdict..

EN VOGUE

I’d been keeping an eye on AccuRC for a while now

– an ex-colleague who used to edit a number of RC

titles asked me if I’d played with it as he’d heard good

things, and I’d spotted that it would soon feature the

OMP Hobby M2 heli, which I’d just purchased a real

one of. This was what was really appealing to me –

AccuRC 2.0 features real models, rather than generic

500/700 helicopters and the like, and so for me, this

meant I could practice with the actual models I own. As

well as the OMP M2, the developers have also worked

hard to integrate it to another of 2020s most popular

products; the Radiomaster T16S transmitter. So armed

with a code to download the software from Steam I set

about in-stalling it.

HOT STUFF

Steam (www.steampowered.com) is also one of

the big differences with this software. Rather than

downloading it from the developers website or buying

boxed software in a hobby shop, AccuRC is distributed

through Steam; a platform for buying and playing more

traditional video games, so if you’re a gamer, you’ll

already have the software and be familiar. If not, it is

easy to get your head around and it has the bonus of

keeping the sim up to date and secure. Be warned, like

most games, it is a large download at around 12GB,

so if you’re on a slower connection, be aware you may

want to leave it a few hours!

EVERYTHING IN ONE BOX

Once installed, you a greeted by a set-up wizard

which aims to get the software running best on your


Mac or PC, and lets you set-up your transmitter. In

terms of transmitter support, it is pretty comprehensive,

with everything from gamepads, to wired and wireless

traditional transmitter simulator adapters, OpenTX

transmitters (via the in-built USB) and even through your

soundcard via a 3.5mm jack! The good news is that it

certainly doesn’t require an expensive bespoke dongle.

I used the aforementioned Radiomaster T16S, and there

is a good set-up guide for that at https://youtu.be/

IpEbAP-9cDs. The rest of the software interface is pretty

simple and intuitive with a tiled interface that gives you

access to the various options. When playing you have

a quick navigation ‘circle’ that gets you back to the

main options with one click too – I found this a really

useful feature.

HOW DOES IT PERFORM?

Flight sims are a really handy thing to have, and I must

admit, when I ask fellow heli fliers how did they learn

to fly 3D, I reckon 95 per cent say ‘on the sim’. They

definitely save you a lot of crashes without doubt. They

are not quite a substitute for the real thing though, and I

think never will be as the perspective you get from them

isn’t quite like reality, albeit with VR goggles I think it’ll

be better as they get more widespread and supported

by developers. However, I think AccuRC is at least as

good as any other RC flight sim I have ever played and

significantly closer to real RC than some of the sims you

see on the App stores. The developers of this software

make big claims about this one being the closest to

reality you can get, and in some ways it’s right, as

you can select an incredible amount of changeable

parameters from servos, to blades, flight controller

behaviour et cetera. All the big name sims are pretty

good though these days, but what really sets AccuRC

apart is the price – it is at least half the cost of most

competitors. The models are also super realistic, and as

I said, real RCs too, which is brilliant as it isn’t the case

with sims of this price normally. The car section, I think,

needs more work. There are two 1:8-scale models from

Mugen Seiki included with the sim - the MBX-6 (nitro)

MBX-6 Eco (electric) – and as someone who has raced

RC buggies for 30 years, it just wasn’t the same for me.

But my primary interest in the sim was to fly a heli, and

for this, it does really well so I’m not too worried. Also,

there are a couple of DJI drones included, but without

simulating the camera and app interface, it just doesn’t

seem to really have a purpose.

If the above sounds negative, then please don’t

misunderstand what I think of AccuRC because actually

it is a stunning piece of software for the money, and

also gets significant updates and upgrades through the

Steam platform, currently, for free. At some stage it will

probably morph into AccuRC 3.0 (or 2.5) and will no

doubt require an extra purchase, but for now, it seems

to be getting better with each release, for no extra cost.

I mentioned the Apple Mac thing earlier – supposedly,

this support is only Beta, and I did get an issue when it

updated that it wouldn’t launch, but after re-installing it

was fine and so far, I’ve had no other issues running on

a Mac which is great.

CONCLUSION

Overall, I really enjoyed my time with AccuRC – it has

tons of models included that are officially supported,

and a whole lot more community ones you can

download. Everything is tweakable on the models –

even the battery which it attempts to emulate too! I love

how I can use it with my favourite transmitter, and the

community support is good too. The price is incredible

too and the developers are really engaged with the

programme. If your thumbs are feeling a bit too cold

when you go out this winter then try AccuRC, especially

if you’re a heli or plane fan. n

Developer: .......................................................................TrasnatechWebsite: ............................................................accurcsimulator.comAvailable from: ....Steam Store (PC and Mac)/www.steampowered.comVersion Tested: .......................................................................2.0.14RRP:.....................................................................................$49.99

AccuRC 2.0

Model AvailabilityHere is rundown of nearly on hundred models currently available in AccuRC 2.0 including nitro and electric helis, planes, drones and cars

Helis:

- AccuRC AH-64 Apache- Alees Rush 750- Align Airwolf 700E- Align Airwolf 700N- Align Bell 222 700E- Align Bell 222 700N- Align MH6 Little Bird 700N- Align T-Rex 450 Pro DFC- Align T-Rex 500 Flybar- Align T-Rex 550 SE- Align T-Rex 600 ESP- Align T-Rex 600E Pro Flybarless- Align T-Rex 600E Pro DFC- Align T-Rex 600N DFC- Align T-Rex 600N Flybarless- Align T-Rex 700E Flybar- Align T-Rex 700E Flybarless- Align T-Rex 700N Flybar- Align T-Rex 700N Flybarless- Align T-Rex 700X- Compass Chronos- Compass eXo 500- Compass Warp 360- CY Youngblood Rave ENV- E-flite Blade 130X- Gaui X7 FZ- HD Helicopters 750- Heli-Professional Soxox Strike 7- JR Forza 700- KDS Agile 5.5- KDS Agile 7.2- Lynx Oxy 5- Mikado Glogo 690 SX- Mikado Logo 200- Mikado Logo 480 XXtreme- Mikado Logo 550 SX- Mikado Logo 600 SX- Mikado Logo 600 SE- Mikado Logo 690 SX- Mikado Logo 700- Mikado Logo 800- Minicopter Diabolo- MSH Protos 700X- MSH Protos 700X Evoluzione- MSH Protos 800X Evoluzione- MSH Protos Max V2L- MSH Protos Nitro- OMP Hobby M2 V2- OMP Hobby M2 Explore- Oxy 5 MEG- Oxy 5 MEG (6S)- SAB Goblin Comet

- SAB Goblin Fireball- SAB Goblin Havok- SAB Goblin Kraken 580- SAB Goblin Kraken- SAB Goblin Kraken Nitro- SAB Goblin Urukay- SAB Goblin 380- SAB Goblin 570- SAB Goblin 570 Sport Line- SAB Goblin 700 Green- SAB Goblin 700 Yellow- SAB Goblin 700 KSE- SAB Goblin 770 Sport- SAB Goblin Black Nitro Sport- SAB Goblin Black Thunder

Sport- SAB Goblin Black Thunder T- SAB Goblin Black Thunder

Sport Drake Edition- Synergy E7- Synergy N556- Synergy N556S- Synergy N7- Synergy 516- Synergy 516S- Synergy 696- Synergy 766- Tarot 600- Thunder Tiger Raptor 50 SE- XLPower Specter 700

Planes:

- Hangar 9 Alpha 40 Electric- Hanger 9 Alpha 40 Nitro- Hangar 9 P-51 Mustang- Hangar 9 P-51 Mustang Camo- Kyosho Spitfire Electric- Kyosho Spitfire Nitro- Sebart Angel S 50E- Topflite AT-6 Texan

Drones:

- Align MR25 Yellow- Align MR25 Red- Armattan Chameleon- DJI Inspire- DJI Phantom- Emax Nighthawk- Scorpion SkyStrider 280

Cars:

- Mugen MBX-6- Mugen MBX-6 Eco

Please bear in mind that the developers are constantly adding new models so this list will continue to evolve. You can find out all the details and specs of the models listed by heading to https://accurcsimulator.com/models/


Do you have an event you’d like featured on this page? E-mail [email protected]

March 2021

14 Horam Swapmeet09:00 to 12:00 at Horam Village Hall, Horam, East Sussex, TN21 0JE. Hall opens for sellers at 08:15, table(s) must be booked in advance. Tables £7 each and includes one entry, buyers £3 per person. Please contact Martin Thompson on 07401 914341 or email [email protected]

28 Leafields Spring SwapmeetFrom 10:00 at Pinxton Miner’s Welfare, Wharf Road, Pinxton, Derbyshire, NG16 6NY. Traders welcome from 08:45, under 15s free, hot and cold refreshments available, tables £5. To book a table or join the club please ring Dave Moore on 07793 815654

May 2021

8-9 Freestyle Masters 2021The weekend event takes place at the home of the BMFA at Buckminster near Grantham. More information to follow...

8-9 Popham Model ShowFrom 10:00 on Saturday to 16:00 Sunday at Coxford Down, near Winchester, SO21 3BD. Hosted for Southern Area by Popham Airfield and Popham Aeromodellers. Marquee indoor catering, Bring & Buy, traders, FPV workshop. All flying disciplines catered for including fixed wing nitro, electric, turbines, control line, gliders, helis, drones and FPV. BMFA or equivalent insurance required. Swapmeet, Trade Area, Catering. Camping £60 all weekend, adults £10, children £5, family £25.

June 2021

18-20 Weston Park International Model Air ShowThe three-day show takes place at Weston Under Lizard near Telford. Gates open each day at 08:00, show starts 10:00 and ends at 17:00. All tickets to bought in advance. Official website at www.westonparkmodelairshow.co.uk. Contact Steve Bishop on 07758 895068 or 01952 587298 for more details. More information to follow...

26-27 Wings & Wheels/Drone FestAt North Weald Airfield, Essex. This weekend event combines many aspects of the RC hobby, with all types of RC catered for such as aircraft, helis and drones, as well as surface vehicles including trucks, tanks and model boats being put through their paces. Traders on site as well as a large Bring and Buy. Official website at www.wingsnwheels.net. More information to follow...

July 2021

2-4 Global 3DFrom Friday to Sunday at Venlo, Netherlands. This is one of the biggest heli events of the year. Official website at www.global3d.nl. More information to follow...

8-11 Full Pitch Fun FlyFrom Thursday to Sunday at Sandhurst, Gloucester, GL2 9NT. Full Pitch Fun Fly is the successor of the famous White Horse Fun Fly and takes place the week after Global 3D. It is an RC helicopter fun fly for everyone, from beginners to pro class pilots. Come and enjoy the fun and laid back and relaxed atmosphere where we everybody has the one common interest. Check out the Full Pitch Fun Fly Facebook page for details. More information to follow...

Coming Up...

NOTE: THESE EVENT ARE SUBJECT TO ANY GOVERNMENT RESTRICTIONS THAT MAY BE IN FORCE AT THE TIME AND SO COULD BE CANCELLED AT SHORT NOTICE


Next Issue...

The next issue of Drone Zone and Rotorworld is #31 April/May 2021 and this goes on sale on Thursday 8 March 2021

Also in the next issue, we bring you the latest RC drone news from around the world, the most up to date reviews, hop-ups and spares available, as well as reports from around the country. Although we try hard to ensure that these articles will appear in the next issue, there are instances where this is beyond our control.

Soxos Strike 7 Tail Upgrade - our long-term Soxos Strike 7 has been on the receiving end of many flights already, boasting an impressive spec with 1st-RC servos and blades, OptiPower batteries, Scorpion motor and speed controller, VBar Neo flybarless system, and it now has a tail upgrade courtesy of Heli-Professional. We fit and test the new tail package in the next issue.

DJI Mini 2 - like its predecessor, the Mini 2 from DJI still goes under the radar at sub-250g so there is no need for the pilot to take the required test which will make it appeal to the recreational flyer. But it's the spec and flying performance where the Mini 2 really shines with a 12 megapixel camera capable of shooting 4K video, a 3-axis motorised gimbal, OcuSync 2.0 HD video transmission up to 10km and 4x digital zoom. Not only is this specification very similar to the larger Mavic Air 2 as reviewed in this issue, but is it DJI's best portable drone to date...

Oxy Nitro 5 - The Oxy 5 Nitro or Nitroxy is the first nitro model from the brand and sees owner Luca Invernizzi go back to his roots as this was the only type available when he started flying before electric took hold. There is an added challenge of nitro power like tuning the engine as well as having a smoother flight and according to Luca, is more fun. Ian Peckett was fortunate enough to get his hands on the nitro model and in the first of a multi-part feature gets the heli built, engine installed and electrical items fitted ahead of the first test flights.

NewBeeDrone Vivid - the latest 5-inch freestyle frame from NBD is their Vivid and it has been designed to use with DJI's impressive HD Air Unit. We equipped the durable and lightweight model with a selection of NBD's equipment including their Infinity 4-in-1 speed controller/flight controller and Smoov motors, topped off with a 6S LiPo from OptiPower. Shaun Taylor puts the build to the test in DZ 31.


NEW ITEMS...

MEMFlight BattEry StrapSHook and loop battery straps are

always useful and MEMFlight offer

both 250mm and 350mm versions

that are available singularly for £2

or in packs of five for £9. These

straps are available directly from

MEMFlight and Midland Helicopters.


rotor riot StartEr Kit BundlENewBeeDrone has put together a package that

includes everything a new pilot needs to get in the air.

The Rotor Riot Starter Kit includes a quality FPV drone,

transmitter, goggles, batteries, charger and tools,

which is perfect for the new pilot that is starting out

from scratch. The drone comes tested and tuned by the

NBD team and is shipped ready to fly out of the box.

What's Included:

- Rotor Riot CL1 Budget Build Drone

- FrSky Taranis QX7 Transmitter

- Fat Shark Scout Goggles

- Two Tattu FunFly 4S 1300mAh batteries

- EV Peak E4 Easy Charger

- Rotor Riot Toolset

- Rotor Riot Lanyard


nEwBEEdronE MoSquitoThe new Mosquito frame from NBD is

designed to fit both their BeeBrainBL

V1 and V2 flight controllers. This frame

was designed tested and tuned to be

the ultimate 1S outdoor proximity flyer.

It uses all of the same components that

many already use on the NewBeeDrone

brushless BNF whoops. NBD say to install

the AIO and motors into the Mosquito and

swap the props to the 40mm Azi versions.

Included in the package is the Mosquito

frame and a set of mounting hardware.


tEaM BlacKShEEp M8.2 gpS glonaSS ModulEThis precision GPS/Glonass module from TBS is for use with Betaflight

or Pixhawk. It uses the ublox UBX-M8030 chipset and flash memory for

saving configurations. Measuring 20x22x6mm the module weighs just

5.2g and operates on 3.3 to 5V input voltage

Specifications:

Frequency: ............L1 1575.42MHz/L2 1561.10MHz/L3,1602.00MHz

Baud Rate: ........................4800 to 921600bps (9600bps is the default)

Channels: ......................................................................................72

Sensitivity: ........ 164dBm Tracking/159dBm Capture/147dBm Cold Start

Cold Start: ............................................................26 seconds average

Warm Start: ..........................................................24 seconds average

Hot Start: ................................................................. 1 second average

Accuracy: ..................... Horizontal Position: Autonomous <2m average/

SBAS < 2.0m average/Timepulse signal: RMS 30ns

Maximum Height: .................................................................. 50000m

Maximum Speed: .....................................................................500ms

Maximum Acceleration: ............................................................... ≤ 4G

Refresh Rate: ....................................................................... 1 to 10Hz


MEMFlight toolSMEMFlight is now developing their own range of

high quality tools that are ideal for every modeller.

First to be available are hex drivers, nut drivers

and screwdrivers available to suit every pocket

like the 4-in-1 Hex Driver that is perfect for a tool

box. This compact 4-in-1 set of hex drivers is

available for £20. The second and third items are

the 16-Piece Tool Set and Carbon Tool Stand. All

16 tools are available as a complete set for £95,

and you can add the Carbon Tool Stand that will

neatly house all 16 and take pride of place on

your workbench for £35. The tools and stand can

be purchased from both MEMFlight and Midland

Helicopters.


al'S ZonE SErvoSAl’s Hobbies own brand Al's Zone has added to

their line with some new servos, both of which

are full metal geared waterproof models. The

DS3325MG offers 25kg of torque while retaining

an agile response time. The more economically

priced DS3218MG-27 offers 20kg of torque,

again without sacrificing speed.

ALS190865 Al's Zone DS3325MG 25kg Full Metal

Geared Waterproof Digital Servo - £22.99

ALS190866 Al's Zone DS3218MG-27 20kg 270-Degree

Metal Geared Waterproof Digital Servo - £19.99

Available from: ........ Al's HobbiesWebsite: ................. www.alshobbies.co.ukContact: .................. Tel: 01908 313142


T-MoTor Velox V2.0The Velox 2.0 is the new motor line from T-Motor that they

claim offers smoother operation as well as being more

durable with better prop grip at a low price. They come

in three new colours and a range of specifications. With

V2306 1950Kv is recommended for 6S and 2400Kv for 4S.

The V2207 motor comes in three options with 1750Kv and

1950Kv for 6S and 2550Kv for 4S.

V2306 T-Motor Velox V2.0 1950/2400Kv

V2207 T-Motor Velox V2.0 1750/1950/2550Kv - £12.45

Available from: ........ T-MotorWebsite: ................. www.rctigermotor.comContact: .................. Via website

VannySTyle FraMeCreated in close cooperation with elite pilot

Alex Vanover, the VannyStyle is a slimmed down

version of the CL1 frame that is both lighter and

more aerodynamic. NewBeeDrone is selling

several items under the brand for both new pilots

and existing CL1 and HD1 owners. The first is

the VannyStyle Built and Tuned Bundle based on

Alex's set-up with the frame, Vanover motors and

a DJI HD and Caddx Vista. The VannyStyle is

built and tuned by NBD's certified experts in their

Florida warehouse and is available in both Ready-

To-Fly "RTF" and Bind N Fly "BNF" options.

The second option is the VannyStyle Edition HD1-

VS 5" Frame again made for the DJI Air Unit.

The HD1 comes with the VannyStyle edition arms

and at 132g the HD1 Vanover Edition is 20g

lighter than the original HD1. The narrow arms

are also more aerodynamic while still retaining

the strength to hold up to crashes by being 6mm

thick and shorter than the original HD1 Arms. The

HD1 Vanover Edition is a great freestyle frame

for all skill levels at an affordable price. Along

with the plates, braces and arms, you get the

aluminium standoffs, hardware, 3D printed TPU

micro camera mounts and antenna mounts, foam

landing pads, Rotor Riot Skidz, a silicone battery

pad and Rotor Riot battery strap.

The penultimate VannyStyle item is the CL1-VS

5" model that uses the proven frame but with

VannyStyle Edition Arms. Coming in at 112

grams, the CL1 Vanover Edition is 20g lighter

than the original CL1. Like the HD1 option it also

uses more aerodynamic 6mm thick narrow arms

and targets the same flyer. The CL1-VS 5" comes

with the same components as the HD1-VS 5".

Finally, if you already own a CL1 or HD1 frame

then there are these VannyStyle Arms which are

a drop in replacement for your existing build.

These replacement arms are from the Vanover

Edition CL1 and HD1 and are compatible with the

original CL1 and HD1 frames as well.


T12-D DigiTal ConTroller STaTionFeaturing PID temperature control, this soldering iron can operate between 150

and 450-degrees Celsius. Using the advanced PID algorithm for control, the

temperature rises quickly without losing the accuracy, no matter the size of the

solder joints can be easily handled. When the welding process encounters a

large solder joint, the temperature of the soldering tip is temporarily increased,

and then the normal temperature is restored to make the soldering smoother. You

can rotate the knob to the right quickly in normal mode to turn this feature on. In

order to save energy and extend the life of the tip, the user can manually operate

the soldering station into standby mode. Turn the knob to the left quickly to enter

standby mode from normal mode. When the soldering station switches between

various modes, the built-in buzzer emits different rhythm sounds so the user can

master the operation of the soldering station without having to watch the screen.

Specifications:

Power: ...................................................72W

Temperature: ..........150 to 450-degrees Celsius

Working AC Voltage: ...100 to 240V/5A/72W


SoxoS 550 anD 600 V2Heli-Professional have been in contact to tell us about their new Soxos 550 and 600 Version 2 kits. Both the 550 and 600

V2 come with a new rotor head designed that has an 8mm centre shaft, and a scaled down version of the impressive

Strike 7 arrangement that has specially developed head-dampers for the highest precision across a range of head speeds.

Both kits now also include a set of high-quality 1st-RC main and tail blades. Other features include a one-piece milled

aluminium main frame for minimal weight and maximum strength. A robust full helical drive train made of special

composite plastic ensures optimal power transmission. A large battery area that allows LiPos up to 6S6200mAh in the

550 and up to 12S in the 600.

There is also combo kits available of the 550 V2 that includes a full set of 1st-RC components such as servos, motor and a

Hobbywing 100A speed controller. Lastly there are multiple colour options for the canopy.

550 V2 Specifications:

Length: ............................................ 1150mm

Height: .............................................. 330mm

Weight: .............................................. 1780g

Main Rotor Diameter: ........................ 1250mm

Gear Ratio Main Rotor: ........1:7.94 to 1:10.06

Gear Ratio Tail Rotor: ............................. 1:4.8

Main Shaft: .......................................... 10mm

Spindle Shaft: ......................................... 8mm

600 V2 Specifications:

Length: ............................................ 1210mm

Height: .............................................. 330mm

Weight: .............................................. 1750g

Main Rotor Diameter: ........................ 1350mm

Gear Ratio Main Rotor: ........1:7.94 to 1:10.06

Gear Ratio Tail Rotor: ............................. 1:4.8

Main Shaft: .......................................... 10mm

Spindle Shaft: ......................................... 8mm

Available from: ........ Hely-ShopWebsite: ................. www.hely-shop.co.ukContact: .................. [email protected]

What's Included:

- T12-D Digital Controller Station

- T12 Handle

- Three T12 Tips

- Holder

- Sponge

- Wire Sponge

- Two T12 Handle Sleeves

(Grey and Blue)

- Power Socket Adapter

- Antistatic ESD Ground Strap

- Silicone Pad


INSIGHT Product GuideAs multi-rotors become more populAr,

there Are new models being lAunched

All the time, so here’s our guide to the

lAtest drones on the mArket in the

vArious size And price cAtegoriesbuyer’s guide

BrandModelSpecPriceDetails

Contact

Hubsan Q4 Nano Micro quad £31.99 Lightweight, easy to fly nano quad comes ready-to-fly straight from the box. One year under development, the Hubsan Q4 is the ultimate in micro RC technology. www.hubsan.comwww.cmldistribution.co.uk


Contact

BladeTorrent 110Micro Quad£192.98Micro brushless FPV racing is all the rage and the Blade Torrent is the latest generation that can be flown indoors and out. Based on a 2mm carbon fibre frame you get a 25mW video transmitter, 600TVL camera with 120-degree field of view, a A Betaflight configurable F3 flight controller and Spektrum Telemetry Serial receiver. Simply add a 3S 450mAh battery and bind it to a compatible Spektrum transmitter.www.logicrc.com


Contact

NewBeeDroneBee Brain LiteMini indoor FPV£94.99 - 107.99Micro FPV racing at it best with the Bee Brain Lte kit. Inlcudes frame, props, motors, flight controller, FPV camera, video transmitter and box. You will need to provide your own FrSky transmitter (DSMX version also available)www.dronejunkie.co.uk


Contact

DJISparkRTF camera-equipped mini quad£519The Spark builds on DJI’s incredibly successful Phantom range and the Mavic Pro with their smallest drone yet that will easily fit into a bag alongside your phone. The impressive features are all built around the control of the drone, introducing gesture controls allowing flight height and photo capture a simple wave of a hand or two away. Obstacle avoidance and camera stabilisation are included to add to the whole experience.www.dji.com

Micro/mini Hobby camera rigProfessional camera rig system

FPV Racing Quads

Recreational/sport Prosumer camera rig Flying Wings


Contact

Team BlackSheepTiny Whoop Nano

£94.99- £164.99Similar to the Tiny Whoop but smaller. 55mm is noticably smaller. first brushed tiny racer to be able to use turtle mode. Can be purchased as a RTF that includes transmitter and goggles.www.team-blacksheep.com


Contact

ParrotMambo FPVMini FPV drone£159The latest Mambo model features an FPV camera that can fit in the palm of your hand with Parrot Cockpitglasses 2 to complete the FPV experience. There are two flying modes – drift and race – and allied with the included battery offers around ten minutes of flight time.www.parrot.com/uk


Contact

Micro Drone3.0+Micro FPV drone$219 (Combo Pack)The 3.0+ is an update over the 3.0 and is now stronger and more sophisticated, and comes with the World’s smallest micro-gimbal. It offers a claimed top speed of 35mph, features such as Virtual Reality streaming and the ability to record 720p HD in-flight footage.www.microdrone.co.uk


Contact

EmaxTinyhawk RTFMicro FPV Quad£149.39From the maker of some of the most popular micro FPV drones ever comes the smallest one yet, the TinyHawk. The TinyHawk is a micro brushless quadcopter equipped with an amazing F4 processor, FPV camera, 15000kv brushless motors with durable ball bearings.www.unmannedtechshop.co.uk


Contact

BladeInductrix FPV +Mini Indoor FPV£145.45 (BNF)Perfect for the beginner, yet powerful enough for the advanced pilot, the Inductrix FPV + comes with 8mm motors, a fully integrated FPV camera and video transmitter, Spektrum 4.3” monitor with DVR and mount and a pre-installed LED tail light.www.logicrc.com


Contact

RyzeTelloMini camera-equipped drone£99Equipped with a 5MP camera with the ability to shoot 720p video, the Tello is packed with high-end components courtesy of Intel and DJI for a low-cost but very capable feature-packed camera drone.www.ryzerobotics.com



Contact

DromidaOminusFun quad£59.99This futuristic looking quad features gyro stabilisation, four flight modes, high-powered motors, intense LEDs and a USB charger.www.dromida.comwww.logicrc.com


Contact

Revell ControlNavigator (23899)GPS Camera Quad£299.99Stream live video from the Navigator’s on-board camera to the transmitter’s LCD screen to see what the drone sees, enable GPS for improved stability and shoot 1080p high-definition video and stills with ease. With auto height adjustment, brushless motors, on-board telemetry, return-to-home, headless and two speed/skill functions.www.revell.de/en


Contact

Revell ControlPulse FPVGPS Camera Quad (23875)£199.99Stream live video from Pulse FPV’s on-board camera to the transmitter’s LCD screen to see what Pulse FPV sees, enable GPS for improved stability and shoot 720p high-definition video and stills with ease. With auto height adjustment, on-board telemetry, return-to-home, headless and two speed functions.www.revell.de/en


Contact

Revell ControlVR Shot (23908)Virtual Reality Quad£99.99This camera-equipped drone features auto take-off and landing, shoots 720p HD video and stills, and stores them to an included micro SD card (or smartphone). Three speed levels, motion control, flip and headless functions and live WiFi video feed to your smartphone, mounted either on the included controller for FPV or inserted in the included VR goggles.www.revell.de/en


Contact

Sky HeroSpyderCarbon quadcopter kit£439.95Large diameter, high grade carbon fibre booms, make it not only very robust, but also allow wiring and ESC’s to be neatly located for a super clean and efficient layout.www.sky-hero.comwww.buzzflyer.co.uk


Contact

TraxxasAtonMulti-application easy to use quad£349.99With sport, film and expert modes, this RTF will suit a range of users. Traxxas are respected for their known for making things really easy to use and the Aton is no different. Will suit those getting into drones as well as existing flyers who can add an optional action camera for filming and aerial photography.www.traxxas.com


Contact

AlignM470LCamera rig quad£609.99 (£759 w/gimbal)The M470 is the entry level machine in the new Align quad range which comes with the all new Align G2 3-axis, brushless stabilisation gimbal for GoPro style and sized cameras.www.align.com.twwww.robbeuk.co.uk

BrandModelSpecPrice

Details

Contact

ParrotBebop 2Quad with built-in camera£439.99 (£759.99 w/Skycontroller)Compact, robust, stable and light at only 500g, the new Bebop 2 is equipped with the latest generation of sensors and technology, and boasts 25 minutes of flying time.www.parrot.com/uk


Contact

YuneecBreezeRTF camera-equipped quad£439.99The Breeze is controlled by either an iOS or Android device using the Breeze App. The on-board camera offers ultra high quality 4K video and 13MP photos, whilst the many automated flight modes means that it can be set for different demands.www.yuneec.uk


Contact

Sky HeroSpyDual prop hexacopter£359.95This strikingly original design is guaranteed to impress. Smaller and more compact then the Sky Hero Spyder, it shares many of the same features that make these new multi-copters so extraordinary.www.sky-hero.comwww.buzzflyer.co.uk


Contact

ParrotBebop 2 PowerQuad with built-in camera£629.99The Parrot Bebop 2 Power is the most advanced of Parrot’s consumer quadcopters. With 60 minutes battery life using the two included batteries, FPV goggles and a new flight assistance system, it offers even more freedom to explore.www.parrot.com/uk


Contact

DJIMini 2RTF camera-equipped quad£419The updated Mini 2 is a beginner-friendly, powerful drone that is super-portable and comes under the 250g weight limit. It features a 4K 12MP camera, 3-axis gimbal, up to 31 minutes flight time, intelligent flight modes, 10km video transmission, 4x digital zoom and level 5 wind resistance.www.dji.com


INSIGHT Product Guide

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

AlignM480LCamera ready quad with folding undercarriage £509.99MId-range machine that comes as the model only with no camera gimbal. Mainly carbon, the landing skids retract to ensure any camera mounted has no obstruction in a 360-degree view.www.align.com.twwww.robbeuk.co.uk


Contact

HobbyKingQuanum Venture FPVRTF FPV quad£292.49This deluxe package uses only the best components which include a DJI Naza Lite with GPS, Fatshark 250mW video tx and 600TVL fpv tuned camera, MultiStar 2213 motors and matched 20A Afro ESC’s for a plug and fly FPV experience like no other.www.hobbyking.com

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

DJIMavic 2 ProPortable camera drone equipped with a Hasselblad camera£1349Featuring the unique foldable design of the Mavic Series, a huge maximum speed of up to 45 mph and the longest battery life of up to 31 minutes. The Mavic 2 Pro utilises a three-axis gimbal with Hasselblad camera and 1-inch CMOS sensor and F\2.8 to F\11 EQV 28mm lens, capable of capturing 4K UHD video and 20MP images. Perfectly designed for sunlight and sunset hours, giving the best results in the most challenging conditions.www.dji.com


Contact

DJIMavic 2 ZoomPortable camera drone with zoom lens£1099The new Mavic 2 Zoom is the latest addition to the foldable DJI Mavic Series. Featuring the iconic and ultra-portable design of the Mavic Series, allowing you to take the Mavic 2 Zoom anywhere. The Mavic 2 Zoom utilises a two-time optical zoom camera letting photographers and videographers get even more detail of their subject.www.dji.com


Contact

DJIPhantom 4 Pro V2.0RTF camera-equipped quad£1589Equipped with a 1-inch 20MP Exmor R CMOS sensor, the V2.0 comes with the OcuSync HD transmission that makes for a seamless connection to DJI Goggles. As well as offering 30 minute long flight times, 7km range and the ability to shoot 4K video at 60fps, the FlightAutonomy system includes dual rear sensors and infrared sensing for a total of five-directions of obstacle sensing and four directions of obstacle avoidance.www.dji.com


Contact

DJIMavic Pro PlatinumRTF camera-equipped quad£1119The Platinum version of DJI’s excellent Mavic Pro features new and improved 30-minute flight time coupled with 60 per cent noise power reduction makes this what the manufacturer calls, “DJI’s best portable drone yet.” To highlight this over the standard model it is finished in a platinum coloured scheme.www.dji.com


Contact

DJIPhantom 4 Pro ObsidianRTF camera-equipped quad£1459The Phantom 4 Pro Obsidian keeps the trusted qualities of the P4 Pro but with a new matte grey finish. The Obsidian can capture images with its 1-inch, 20-megapixels camera and video in 4K at 60 fps. The Obsidian’s Burst Mode is capable of capturing stills at 14 fps whilst the mechanical shutter eliminates distortion.www.dji.com


Contact

DJIMavic Air 2Portable camera drone£769With its 1/2-inch image sensor the Mavic Air 2 can shoot 4K/60fps video and take 48MP photos with cinematic options including 8K Hyperlapse. It also has a 34-minute flight time, APAS 3.0 obstacle avoidance and OcuSync 2.0 that offers up to 10km 1080p/30fps video transmission.

www.dji.com


Contact

HubsanX4 ProCompact camera quad£TBCSemi-professional RTF FPV quad that comes with three-axis brushless gimbal and full HD camera. It is equipped with the usual stabilisation including GPS, magnetic compass and height sensor and also has a 5GB video download link.www.hubsan.comwww.cmldistribution..co.uk


Contact

PowerVisionPowerEggRTF camera drone£1499With one-touch take off and return to home, the PowerEgg is an intuitive consumer drone that with Maestro, their gesture recognition remote control, anyone can fly right out of the box, whilst the pause button will see the PowerEgg pause and maintain its current position like an emergency brake for improved safety. PowerEgg is 4K capable, can operate up to 5km away and has a 23 minute maximum flight time.www.powervision.me/uk/


Contact

ParrotAnafiPortable camera drone£629.99Parrot takes on DJI with their new Anafi - an ultra-portable, compact, rugged, lightweight and foldable UAV with a 4K HDR camera and zoom, a 21MP sensor, a three-axis stabilisation system with, for the first time, a 180-degree vertically rotating camera with a zoom. Anafi has a claimed top speed of 55kph, a 25-minute flight time and a new intuitive app with automated movements of the drone and the camera.www.parrot.com


Contact

DJIPhantom 4 AdvancedRTF camera-equipped quad£1469With the Phantom 4 Advanced you get a 1-inch, 20-megapixel sensor and more powerful video processing that now supports H.264 4K video. It comes with Draw, ActiveTrack, TapFly, Gesture and Tripod automatic flight modes as well as the FlightAutonomy system made up of five vision sensors, forward-facing obstacle avoidance system, dual-band satellite positioning (GPS and GLONASS), and ultrasonic rangefinders.www.dji.com



Contact

YuneecMantis Q X-Pack LitePortable camera drone€599The foldable quadcopter is the perfect travel companion thanks to its handy size and the practical photo bag and can be easily recharged in the car with the car charger cable when travelling Comes with two batteries, photo bag, propeller protector and a car charge adapter. A set of spare rotor blades and screws is also included.www.yuneec.com


Contact

YuneecMantis QPortable camera drone£449A portable quadcopter that can receive voice commands and recognise faces. It can shoot 4K videos, take 13MP photos and has a flight time rated up to 33 minutes. With automatic flight modes such as Journey or Point of Interest, the Mantis Q also features face recognition and an Instant Sharing function that allows you to post your photos and videos directly from the app to social media.www.yuneec.uk


Contact

WalkeraScout X4FPV quad with GPS£1499.99The Scout X4 is capable of more than the average quad on the market. Its unique design allows for the user to add four additional motors for increased take off capacity. The Scout X4 also uses its advanced GPS system to enable the user to take advantage of the optional ground station.www.walkera.comwww.cmldistribution.co.uk


Contact

WalkeraTALI H500FPV RTF hexacopter£1499.99The Tali H500 is a ready to fly FPV RC hexacopter with retractable landing skids. It is the perfect one stop aerial video and FPV solution.www.walkera.comwww.cmldistribution.co.uk


Contact

YuneecTyphoon HRTF hexacopter with retractable landing gear£1099This compact drone uses a six-rotor airframe and comes with a three-axis, 360-degree unlimited rotation gimbal and the CGO3+ camera to take 4K videos and 12MP stills, with flight and image capture modes including Point of Interest, Orbit, Curved Cable and Journey. Innovative new safety features includes ultrasonic proximity detection to prevent collisions with obstacles and a redundancy failsafe system.www.yuneec.uk

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

DJIMavic 2 Enterprise DualFolding camera drone with two cameras£2669The Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual has been developed in partnership with FLIR systems. It features a three-axis gimbal stabilised camera housing a side-by-side 4K sensor, allowing users to capture visible light and a FLIR Lepton thermal micro camera for capturing thermal data.www.dji.com

DJIInspire 2Camera quad with folding arms£3059This pro rig features obstacle avoidance, a dedicated FPV camera for the pilot, twin battery system with redundancy and a pair of new cameras (the X4S and X5Swww.dji.com

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact


Contact

YuneecH520Commercial hexacopter£1450The H520 offers long flight times and was deve is built for inspection, law enforcement, security, construction, surveying, and mapping applications in addition to offering cinematic or broadcast-ready imaging payload systems. Six-rotor systems allow for stable, precise flight, long focal-length lenses, whilst data storage may be shared instantly from the ST16S Ground Station or delivered directly in 4K/2K/HD video or 20Mp stills.www.yuneec.com


Contact

ParrotBepop-Pro ThermalDual camera-equipped quad£TBCEquipped with two embedded cameras, the Bebop-Pro Thermal targets architects, builders, roofers and estate agents to safely carry out inspections. Videos and pictures can be taken of buildings and roofs in visual or thermal images, whilst the new FreeFlight Thermal mobile app provides live streaming and recording of both the visual and thermal images on a smartphone or tablet connected to Parrot Skycontroller 2.www.parrot.com/uk

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

DJISpreading Wings S1000+Professional aerial photo octocopter£TBCThe S1000+ puts DJI’s latest professional-line technology into its most advanced octocopter to date.www.dji.com


Contact

DJIMatrice 600Professional aerial photo hexacopter£TBCThe Matrice 600 is DJI’s new flying platform designed for professional aerial photography and industrial applications. It is built to closely integrate with a host of powerful DJI technologies, including their A3 flight controller, Lightbridge 2 transmission system, Intelligent Batteries and Battery Management system.www.dji.com

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

ParrotBluegrassDual camera-equipped quad£TBCThe Bluegrass is a multipurpose quadcopter designed for agricultural applications aided by a video camera and Parrot’s Sequoia multispectral sensor.www.parrot.com/uk



BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

YuneecH920Professional aerial photo quadcopter£TBCThe Yuneec H920 is a professional multi-rotor aerial photography and videography platform. Its unique design and innovative features make it possible to capture amazing photographs and video footage for a variety of uses.www.yuneec.com


Contact

YuneecH520 RTKCommercial hexacopter£2899This commercial version of the H520 comes with a Real Time Kinematic system fully integrated to help in difficult GPS conditions like in cities, canyons or forests. Thanks to Real Time Kinematics satellite navigation the new H520 RTK will be able to stand in the air with centimetre accuracy, enabling extremely precise, repetitive photos, faster 3D mapping and more accurate, even automated, inspection flights.www.yuneec.com


Contact

BladeTheory XFPV racing quad£51.99/£54.99/£74.99Available in 170 (4” prop), 195 (5” prop) or 220 (6” prop) sizes, these new race frames focus on simple, but durable and fast. Constructed exclusively for racing, the assembled kit containing carbon fibre and composite plates, and all recommended equipment has a flying weight of only 400 to 450g.www.bladehelis.com www.logicrc.com


Contact

BladeVortex 150FPV racing quad£259.99Blade and ImmersionRC have teamed up woith this 150-size racer equipped with Spektrum technology. It features a custom power system, cutting-edge 32-bit processing power and full-graphic OSD, plus a programmable LED system you can customise to flash at the competition. Perfect for smaller courses.www.bladehelis.com www.logicrc.com


Contact

GraupnerAlpha 250FPV racing quad kit£TBCA simple to handle little quad with a very robust carbon fibre frame and is suitable for model pilots of all skill levels. The double bottom allows an easy integration of the electronics and it lets you comfortably route all cables. Available from Augustwww.graupner.de


Contact

GauiEclipse E28R Racing Drone280-size FPV racing quad£121.46This ARF racer incorporates aerodynamics, strength and flexibility. The frame only means you can select your preferred power system, props, video transmitter, battery and radio and you are ready to race.www.hobbyking.com


Contact

RiseRXD250Expert-level 250-class quad$199.95The Rise Xtremely Durable is a lightweight stripped down design based around a high-impact foam and carbon fibre frame. Although Rise states the RXD250 as being an expert-level due to its high speed, it has been constructed to withstand a heavy impact. Requires a battery and receiver to get up in the air and can be used for FPV racing when a suitable camera is added.www.logicrc.com


Contact

Redcat RacingCarbon 210FPV racing quad£TBCThis RTF comes with a carbon fibre chassis, HD camera, brushless motors, 600TVL camera and 5.8GHz 40-channel video transmitter. Other features include an SPRacing F3 flight controller and transmitter that allows the pilot to select from three different flight modes. The Carbon 210 includes an aluminium carry case, 1500mAh 3S LiPo, charger and more.www.redcatracing.com


Contact

YuneecTyphoon H PlusRTF camera equipped hexcopter£TBCThe Plus version of the Typhoon H comes with a new flight controller based on PX4 with integrated backup and failsafe and a 1” sensor camera with 20MP stills and 4K capture at 60fps. The improved camera has increased residual light performance and dynamic range, and a distortion-free horizon and the package includes redesigned ST16 remote control with improved display.www.yuneec.uk

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

YuneecTornado H920 PlusProfessional camera hexacopter with folding arms€3599The Tornado H920 Plus is a multirotor aerial photography and videography platform. It is equipped with a CGO4 camera that was developed in close cooperation with Panasonic to combine the latter’s camera quality and Yuneec’s award-winning engineering. The CGO4 camera features a three times optical zoom lens, 16MP photos, 4K-resolution video and distortion-free picture quality.www.yuneec.uk


Contact

HubsanH122D X4 StormRTF racing drone£129.99The X4 Storm sees a combination of drone racer and FPV camera drone. Based on a carbon fibre frame, the model is equipped with a 5.8GHz FPV 720p camera and includes an LCD monitor to view the footage from. The model comes Ready-To-Fly with transmitter, battery and charger in the box.www.hubsan.comwww.cmldistribution.co.uk


Contact

BladeVortex 230 MojoBind-N-Fly FPV racing drone£381.81Blade and ImmersionRC team up once again with the Vortex 230 Mojo FPV racer that features a 4mm carbon fibre frame and Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX technology. It comes pre-built requiring a transmitter and battery to get into the air.www.bladehelis.comwww.logicrc.com



Contact

Unmanned TechTheFPV Source£206.59This is the ultimate beginners build kit, it includes, frame (tbs source 1, flight controller Mamba F4, vtx, fpv camera, esc and motors, controller and a battery. you will still need a charger and some goggles.www.unmannedtechshop.co.uk


Contact

Team BlacksheepOblivion PNPRace ready PNP FPV quad£264.40The first ever injected composite polymer unibody racing drone. Race ready, 120kph top speed and up to 11 minutes flight time out of the box.www.quadcopters.co.ukwww.team-blacksheep.com

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

SpedixS250High performance FPV racing quad frame£159This 250 size frame is made of carbon fibre central boards and engineering resin arms. The box shaped arm is reinforced with carbon fibre plate in the middle and aluminum columns in the root.www.modelhelicopters.co.uk

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

BladeUM F-27Flying wing£172.72The Blade Ultra Micro F-27 brings the excitement of FPV wing racing in a size that can be flown in most places. It comes equipped with SAFE Technology, a 25mW video transmitter, is capable of running 2S LiPo, has a 170-degree lens and 3000Kv brushless Outrunner motors.www.logicrc.com


Contact

BladeTheory Type W Team EditionFlying wing£290.90The Team Edition is a 4S LiPo capable EPP wing powered by a 2206-2450Kv brushless motor. It also comes with AS3X and SAFE technology to provide stability at all speeds.www.logicrc.com


Contact

BladeTheory Type W FPVRace wing£299.99This FPV-ready wing flies at up to speeds of 90mph using AS3X stabilisation technology and SAFE technology. The wings come off in a snap with a modular clip in connection, making transport a breeze and repairs even simpler.www.bladehelis.comwww.logicrc.com


Contact

YuneecHD RacerIndoor FPV drone£TBCSmall and compact enough to fly with in your living room you can use the built-in FPV camera on your smartphone display or use a compatible FPV headset. A number of modes cater for a range of abilities with a flight time of around six minutes.www.yuneec.uk


Contact

E-fliteConvergence VTOLFlying wing£251.99The Convergence is E-flite’s latest flying wing and comes with the ability to take off and land vertically. Its unique design and exclusive flight control software give you the best of both agility and stability while making the transition between multi-rotor and airplane flight so smooth and predictable.www.logicrc.com

BrandModelSpec

PriceDetails

Contact

E-fliteX-Vert VTOLFlying wing, vertical take off and landing£145.45 (BNF)The X-Vert has the ability for vertical take off and landing, making the transition between multi-rotor and airplane flight as easy as flipping a switch. It is equipped with Stability and Acro modes, 280-size brushless motors compatible with 2S LiPo batteries.www.logicrc.com


Contact

Team BlacksheepCaipirinha 2 PNPFlying wing$249.95It’s a gentle long range cruiser that turns into a fierce mountain diver with just a slight push on your pitch stick. The Caipirinha 2is based on the Wipeout by HappyFlyers from Switzerland.www.team-blacksheep.com


Contact

YuneecFirebird FPVFlying wing£TBCThe Firebird comes with a short-latency digital video link that transmits live images to your smartphone or record the 4K footage directly on to an SD card. Up to 30 minutes flight time and a safe flight operation at any skill level with different flight modes.www.yuneec.uk


Contact

ZOHDDart PNPFlying wing£60.36The ZOHD Dart with swept forward wing is the first sub 250g flying wing made from durable EPP foam. Featuring a detachable main wing and twintail wingwww.unmannedtechshop.co.uk



If you’re thinking of investing in a multi-copter drone, or even if you have one already there are some organisations, websites, companies and contacts that will come in useful, so we’ve listed them here for you in this handy guide

Unmanned TechUnmanned Tech is an online retail store that makes and sells all sorts of components of a build. The retailer states, :We exist in the same group as our customers, we are students, engineers, prototypers and hobbyists who love to build and fly.” www.unmannedtech.co.uk

BMFA – British Model Flying AssociationThe BMFA is the National Governing Body for the sport of model flying. Its aims are to promote, protect, organise and encourage model flying within the UK. Typically there are around 780 affiliated clubs and a combined membership of over 36,000 members, all of whom have entered a partnership to ensure that model fliers have a voice and their rights are recognised by the authorities. www.bmfa.org

RC Groups forumThe rcgroups online forum is the place to go and interact with likeminded modellers in all disciplines. Ask questions, get advice, tips and help for your own problem or help others, it’s a great online community and very useful resource. www.rcgroups.com

CAA – Civil Aviation AuthorityThe Civil Aviation Authority is the UK’s specialist aviation regulator. Through its skills and expertise it is recognised as a world leader in its field. www.caa.co.uk

Drone Safe RegisterMade famous on Dragon’s Den, the Drone Safe Register is the place to be for CAA approved pilots. Here businesses or individuals can find a legal drone pilot assured that they are employing the services of an approved drone pilot who operates in accordance with UK/ ROI drone laws. DSR also runs the Drones For Schools education programme where a professionally approved pilot delivers the session to children adged 7 to 11 years of age. www.dronesaferegister.org.uk

Build Your Own DroneBuild Your Own Drone is more than just a shop, it supplies parts to customers to build their own drones and undertakes bespoke building for any number of aerial platform solutions, UAV consultation services and onsite training for the professionally built UAVs, which it supplies to clients worldwide. www.buildyourowndrone.co.uk

QuadcoptersQuadcopters Ltd were one of the UK’s first dedicated multi-rotor specialists and still lead the way with innovation and continued expertise in this field. One of the UK’s largest DJI dealers with huge stocks of DJI Phantom 2 Quadcopters and Professional Multi-Rotors such as the DJI S900 and S1000 and the New DJI Inspire 1. Quadcopters also stocks a extensive range of FPV Equipment and have experienced technical staff on hand to help and advice with the purchasing of products. www.quadcopters.co.uk

Reference Guide

Our extremely durable HDPE racing, freestyle and sport frames (in 6 colour combinations) and new full carbon models are available from resellers World Wide

For further details check out www.ragg-e.co.uk or join our Facebook page

www.facebook.com/Raggedesigns and become part of the RaGG-e family

Radio Control

Documents

Transcript of Radio Control