If you are a long-term lover of models and know your way around the world of RC helicopters, it probably will not be hard for you to choose the right model helicopter kits to meet your needs.
However, those who are shopping for gifts for those with an interest in the hobby can find the selection of kits overwhelming. They are not “insiders” and can benefit greatly from a few pointers about finding the right model helicopter kits. Here are a few recommendations to make purchasing a helicopter kit easier.
First, beware of cheap items. Model helicopters are like virtually everything else in the world: You get what you pay for. When you see bargain basement kits with “too good to be true” prices, you are probably looking at a low-quality item. If you are giving a kit to a hobbyist, they will appreciate your intent but they will not get a great deal of use from the actual present. Avoid the cheap stuff!
Second, consider the scale of the kit. Many hobbyists prefer to work with models at a particular scale. Those who like the larger RC helicopters may have little interest in smaller versions and vice versa. Find out what size your intended recipient builds and flies and choose from the model helicopter kits in that same size range. If you are not sure, ask. If asking runs the risk of spoiling a surprise, ask someone close to the individual for whom you are shopping. That person may be able to offer some additional hints to guide your shopping.
Third, think about the age and skill level of the person for whom you are buying. Some simple helicopters are ideally suited for younger people. They can be fun, but they do not offer the degree of complexity and detail that fascinates adult hobbyists. Some of the more realistic model helicopter kits can be too difficult for younger hobbyists.
Fourth, do not limit yourself to actual model helicopter kits. RC helicopters are like every other hobby–there are a number of accessories and related products on the market. You do not necessarily need to buy a new helicopter kit to give the perfect gift. In many cases, choosing a few commonly desired accessories and bundling them up as a present is a better idea than blindly purchasing a kit. That is particularly true when you do not know a great deal about the details of the gift recipient’s helicopters and specific tastes.
Buying model helicopter kits can be a great way to bring smiles to the faces of hobbyists. Unfortunately, it can be extremely challenging for an outsider to choose the right kit. By avoiding obviously cheap options, considering scale, thinking about the recipient’s talents and exploring accessory options you can be certain to make a hobbyist’s birthdays or holidays a real treat.
