The Ultimate Kit Guide

RC

ArduCopter 3DR Quadcopter

ArduCopter 3DR Quadcopter

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ArduCopter 3DR Quadcopter

$589

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Reviewed: November 12th, 2011

Quadcopters rely on computer stabilization to fly. They can be radio controlled, but with an onboard computer, why not let it fly itself? The community at DIY Drones developed the open source ArduPilot Mega (APM), an Arduino-based autopilot that lets you control multi-rotor (and other) aircraft autonomously, or via R/C. The ArduCopter 3DR Quad Kit […]

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Engel Submarine Type 212A

Engel Submarine Type 212A

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Engel Submarine Type 212A

$800

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Reviewed: October 27th, 2011

The high-quality Engel Type 212 submarine kit is perfect if you’re into scale models, history, and realism. Modeled after the German Navy’s advanced Type 212 sub, this functional 1/70 scale model goes together smoothly using cast-resin, CNC’ed ABS plastic, brass, and stainless steel components. Engel’s innovative Tech Rack mounting ensures that your electronics stay dry, […]

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Align T-REX 450 Sport Super Combo

Align T-REX 450 Sport Super Combo

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Align T-REX 450 Sport Super Combo

$500

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The Align T-REX 450 Sport is a terrific, well-supported copter that will satisfy trained beginners and advanced pilots. The Super Combo package includes all but the transmitter, receiver, batteries, and blade pitch gauge. The comprehensive manual advises that you rebuild the pre-assembled parts, checking alignment, using thread-locker on all screws and bolts, and lubricating where […]

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R/C Superhero

R/C Superhero

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R/C Superhero

$365

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This wild-looking R/C plane is life-sized (78” tall) and can take off vertically! The kit makes a superhero-shaped fuselage; you add R/C gear. Directions are clear, and the laser-cut parts go together smoothly, but it’s a bit tricky — a fun and unique kit for experienced builders that will definitely command attention! 57” hero plans […]

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66-inch Indoor Blimp

66-inch Indoor Blimp

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66-inch Indoor Blimp

$347

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Who doesn’t love blimps? They’re quiet and slow but leave a huge impression. This kit goes together easily using basic hand tools and the included directions, and has almost everything you need to get airborne; you supply R/C gear, servo, battery, and helium. The vinyl balloon can be decorated with paints or computer-cut graphics, which […]

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T-IFO Indoor Trainer

T-IFO Indoor Trainer

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T-IFO Indoor Trainer

$54 and up

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This unique, rugged R/C trainer is assembled by bending carbon fiber rods, binding with Kevlar thread, and then covering with polyester fabric. The build takes an evening or two; add a radio, servos, and batteries, and enjoy a remarkably good airplane for beginners and experienced pilots. Plus, it folds flat, so you can take it […]

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Trail Finder Truck

Trail Finder Truck

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Trail Finder Truck

$300

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This 1/10 scale kit has amazing realism and performance, with aluminum and steel chassis and body components like those of a full-sized vehicle. You’ll feel like a mechanic building it. You add motor, speed control, radio, servo, and battery.

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Killer Krawler

Killer Krawler

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Killer Krawler

$700 chassis kit, $1,300 ready to run

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In my opinion the coolest innovation in R/C vehicles is the crawler. As the name implies, crawlers are incredible crawling machines that are super fun to build and to run. Like a good video game, they’re easy to pick up but hard to master. Crawlers are built to climb over serious terrain, and some are […]

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