Assembling the helicopter

Most helicopter kits require a certain amount of assembly although you can buy some ready built minus radio equipment (Raptor 30).
Unlike conventional model aircraft, helicopters are built from components that require no finishing i.e. covering, painting etc. This is good if you have a crash as you just unbolt the broken bits and replace them.
Open the Box ! You will find loads of poly bags filled with mysterious aluminium and plastic components, a body shell some blades maybe and some stickers. Some kits number each bag and are used in sequence according to the instructions, this is not always the case but ALL the parts will be used and none should be left. Take your time and be methodical it will go together. If you come to a stop, consult your model shop (they get this all the time and don’t mind). It may take several trips to the shop, better safe than sorry. Good model shops will check your work and set the model up for you free of charge and may test fly it (at your risk however).
Here is an example beginners start-up from scratch, it is not the cheapest solution, but will be suitable for beginners to intermediates and keep you going for a couple of years of solid flying. Don’t forget to look for second-hand helicopters that often come with engines, be careful though, choose a modern kit with spares availability - cheap can be a false economy !