NewComers
Bob Underwood Box 40, St. Peters, MO 63376
As a newcomer, you very often find yourself with far more questions than answers. Even more perplexing, sometimes the answers prove to be incorrect, or answer a question you haven't even thought to ask. How frustrating!
What is one to do?
The key to this problem is that the newcomer must be willing to seek help and be able to separate the wheat from the chaff when it's received. Let's explore the avenues available. Please understand that these are not necessarily in order of importance.
Magazines
The monthly magazines are a very good source of information for the most part. The mere fact that the ads contain available products is important. Beyond that, most provide construction articles, tips, and new-product listings. A few provide product reviews. Be aware that the latter can vary sharply in overall objectivity; this depends on the individual who does the review and the policy of the magazine relative to "telling it like it is."
Most magazines try to eliminate editorializing on the political issues of aeromodeling; it doesn't always happen. While these issues tend not to be of concern to the newcomer, they can be a source of confusion about specific facts. One shortcoming is that many magazines feature radio control (RC) or are exclusively RC oriented. As a result, Control Line and specifically Free Flight receive diminished coverage.
Books
Over recent years we have seen an increasing number of books written on various aeromodeling subjects. Generally, these concern building techniques and materials. Many of them are very good, containing photos and drawings that greatly aid the newcomer. They range from simple 8 x 10-inch saddle-stitched (stapled) paper-cover issues to hardback books.
It is important to ascertain the most recent publishing date, however. There are two reasons for this: first, the time lag to produce a book can be quite lengthy; second, materials and techniques have tended to change very rapidly in recent times. As a result, it's possible that a book can become dated quickly in some areas. I would suggest contacting Zenith Publications, Box 1, Osceola, WI 54020 for some of the most comprehensive listings of available materials.
Instruction Manuals
Yes, I know this is an obvious one. However, experience suggests that many individuals subscribe to the old saying, "When all else fails, read the instructions!" Don't be that way. Start a folder and keep every piece of material you've been provided in the way of instructions. In this day and age, manufacturers tend to err on the side of too much as opposed to not enough.
Don't be offended if the instructions seem to be overkill. Remember, there is a vast latitude of ability in understanding instructions. In recent years, we've enjoyed some excellent presentations in this regard, with highly detailed step-by-step descriptions. Remember that the manufacturer will generally be pleased to note any discoveries you make relative to glitches in these presentations.
Manufacturers or Distributors
Both of these sources generally will supply help. I know this because one of the largest manufacturers-distributors provided a phone number to call in their kits and materials. Unfortunately, the manner in which the text was presented resulted in the calls going to the AMA. Generally, as Technical Director, I wound up getting the calls. Since they were kit-specific, all I could do was pass along the proper phone number. I do know that the help provided by the company will probably be slanted toward specific products, but the help is there if it is needed.
Hobby Shops
Historically, a first line of help—a bastion of knowledge—has been the local hobby shop. Generally operated by someone who is or was an aeromodeler, these enterprises can be an invaluable aid in getting you started and keeping you moving along in your skill progression.
In recent years, many shops have felt beleaguered by the competition imposed by mail-order sources. While the hobby shop owner was called upon to be a fountain of wisdom, a source of encouragement, and a purveyor of nuts and bolts, the modeler obtained big-ticket items such as kits and engines from other sources. While both types of dealers provide needed services, it would be most unfortunate if the local hobby shop were passed on to the great modeling heaven in the sky.
In a very small number of instances, you may find a shop that has a very strong bias in merchandising or may tend to the hard sell. While this is rare, the caution must be given. If you feel that you are not receiving the straight skinny, check out the information or guidance with other sources.
The newcomer must be willing to seek help and be able to separate the wheat from the chaff when it's received.
Clubs and Other Experienced Individuals
A very valuable step in your education process is to contact local clubs and/or aeromodeling individuals in your area. As you can see, the progression of listings in this column has moved from very generalized types of information gathering to this one which can be much more personalized.
Whether they are club-associated or acting as individuals, aeromodelers tend to be most willing to share their experience and expertise. Again, care must be exercised on the part of the inquirer. Some individuals tend to be very strongly biased in the types or brands of equipment they use. You may feel that obtaining a second opinion is a good idea.
Where do you find these clubs or individuals? You may locate them through a hobby shop or the AMA. In some cases, a local event such as a contest, fun-fly, or mall show will provide the source. A picture or article in the newspaper might be the key for finding them. Remember that the ability to contact an individual and sit down with them to solve your problem is a zillion times easier and more effective than trying to rely on telephoned or printed instructions.
Academy of Model Aeronautics
The AMA can be a very valuable resource for the newcomer. This may be in the direct form of supplying materials or answering questions or by other means. Examples include:
- Need a contact for a club? The AMA Membership Department can provide a club listing for your district. The information in that document provides the name of the club, the contact person's address by city, and the interest of the club (Free Flight, Control Line, Radio Control, or multi-interest).
- Looking to go to an event? Every month, Model Aviation provides a list of events. In the July issue, for instance, there were 18 pages of them.
- Need some AMA news? Again, check the magazine. There's a whole section called "AMA News." It's toward the back of the magazine and it provides much information. Each month your district vice president provides items of local interest as well as a list of personnel who can assist you. You will also find other association officials listed who can help with specific questions.
- Need some association details of operation? Check out the "Membership Manual." Not only will you find safety suggestions, bylaws, and the like, but also complete frequency-related information. The material is mailed yearly to each AMA member.
- Need a safety code? You'll find it in every issue of Model Aviation in the "Membership Manual."
- Need insurance information? Specific help can be obtained from the Special Services department at Headquarters. In Model Aviation you'll find a page devoted to a listing of department extension numbers. There's also a fax-on-demand system with many forms that can be obtained through a simple faxing procedure.
These are just a few ideas about where you can obtain information and help. The key to making it all work for you is to carefully monitor the printed matter that filters your way. Seek the resources that are available in your immediate area. Collecting a set of phone numbers and addresses is also helpful. Help is all around. Don't be reluctant to use it!
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
