Thoughts from the workbench of Radical RC. The online retailer of electronics and kits for radio control aircraft. Dave Thacker shares his thoughts and knowledge of electronics, batteries, kit design and overall enjoyment of the hobby.
Check out our updated testimonials! So many people have been kind to us over the years and really, without them, and you, we’d not have had so much success. Thanks to everyone for all the good words and encouragement! ~Dave and the Radical RC Crew
Copied from an RC Groups posting: RC Groups Thread
“These guys seem to go the extra mile to help you out.
I’ve always been pleased with the service from Radical RC. A real person answers the phone and answers questions, usually an owner. I see a lot of concerns over shipping times from overseas but Radical RC sends there stuff out, regardless of weight, for $3 USPS first class. I usually get it in 2-3 days. And, it’s supporting a US hobby store!”
“Hoppy”
March 2009
“Dave always took the time to talk to me and give advice at Toledo even though I didn’t even buy anything from him. He even stopped what he was doing, got his laptop out and ran motor specs for me for a kit I got at the swap meet. It was a classy thing to do and he is a fantastic ambassador for RC! Keep up the great work Dave!”
“Carnifax”
March 2009
“Their service is top notch. I have ordered wheels, other parts, they came ASAP. Each year at Toledo, they have a booth, I try to get lots of parts from them. Dave and his crew are really good. Dave did a seminar at the JR Indoor Festival a couple of years ago about lipo batteries. I was so glad I went and listened. He saved me many dollars and prevented me from making some really stupid mistakes. I also got an ammo box from them at the JR Indoor Festival. So, Radical RC is a great place to shop.”
“Conehead”
March 2009
“Hi Dave and all, I need to tell you something. I discovered your website last night. I read most of the content, and finally placed an order. Last night. The shipment is apparently on its way – now. Like most in this hobby, I never knew your company existed – all I’ve ever known are the big 2, and a few “Mickey mouse” sites that struggle to speak proper English. Your website is much more logical, informative, truly professional, and in good form than either of the big 2. I’ll tell the guys. And, when I begin using the items that you are sending, for all to see, that may be the best “thank you” that I can express.”
“Looking forward, Jay”
December 2008
“How much I love Radical RC… also Mini Stick fun…”
“Greetings…My name is Mitch, and I’ve been doing business with you folks for the better part of this year. I’m fortunate enough to be able to drive a short distance to the RRC shop. Ever since my first visit, you folks have treated me to fantastic prices, and best of all, priceless advice and knowledge. I live on a disability income, due to a severe back injury, and even despite my limited amount of money, I’m still able to have a fulfilling hobby due to the affordable prices you are able to pass onto your customers. It also helps to have Dick give me his opinion, maximizing my bang for my buck.
I’ve built a RRC intern trainer which was my 2nd RC aircraft, and I’ve just recently upgraded to one of your mini sticks.
First of all, your laser cutting is fabulous. It’s enough to spoil you if you have to go back and build a traditional die-cut or even scratch built plane. Its true, you can actually frame up nearly the whole plane without a drop of glue. The supplied balsa is light and strong as it should be for this ship. The magnet wing hold down is simply genius, and makes battery swap outs painless and quick. Instructions are clear and concise, but once you build one Radical RC kit, you probably won’t need them much honestly. =)
The mini stick is running a Radical RC CDROM brushless motor (1000KV) on a Castle Creations Thunderbird 9 amp speed control, plugged into a Berg 4L receiver. I’m running 3S 800-1025mAh lipos in that little plane, and the performance is fantastic. The 1025mAh pack just BARELY fits in the fuselage, but once it’s in the air, the added weight isn’t very perceptible amazingly enough. With 3 high capacity packs like that, you can fly until your thumbs wear out! I’m no expert pilot or anything, but it’s an absolute riot to flog this little thing around the sky, and with its diminutive size, its opens up a lot of opportunities for new places to fly. The little outrunner swings a 7×6 prop, and it’s not outrageously fast, but it’s got straight up vertical, and will anxiously climb out from just about any attitude. 3 GWS Pico BB’s servos are a nice match for the control surfaces.
My next project might be another Mini Stick on the opposite end of the spectrum. A 12mm inrunner turning tiny props at super high RPMs for ‘blink-and-you’ll-lose-it’ supersonic speed. =)
All in all, I just had to say thanks for all your hard work and dedication to this hobby. I am blessed to be able to know you guys and do business with you.
P.S. I call dibs on the double-size Intern Trainer if they ever make it to production!”
“Mitch”
September 2008
“Hi Dave, Just a courtesy note to let you know that the Fokker DVII arrived safely this morning. Box is in perfect condition and although I haven’t had a chance to “rummage” yet, everything appears pristine and intact. I am delighted and must again compliment you on your service- it has been an absolute pleasure dealing with your company. Your service has been refreshingly personal and exceptionally reliable, which is not all that common these days. Thanks once again and I will certainly be buying from you again in the near future. Please feel free to quote this correspondence on your testimonial page if you’re so wish.
Kind regards,
Steve Dakyns, South Africa
PS- We have the most beautiful skies in the world!!!”
March 2005
“Hello Dave, I just wanted to send you a quick note thanking you for some advice. I talked to you briefly at the Dayton show. I asked about crimping terminals onto wires with the pin crimp tool. Two or maybe three years ago I bought terminals and the crimper tool from you. I have tried many times to make the crimper work but they would always come out wrong. I kind of gave up since I couldn’t get them to work. You pointed out that the tool has a raised spot to roll the fingers on the terminal into the wire instead of jamming into each other. I had to study the jaw of the tool to see the nub but it is there. I guess my eyes aren’t as good as they used to be. This has made all the difference in the world. Thank you for the help this has been a source of aggravation for me for quite some time. Now they come out perfect every time.
Thanks again, M. Herman”
February 2005
“WOW! I ALREADY GOT IT! I CANNOT BELIEVE IT!!!!!
I ORDERED IT LAST NIGHT!!!
THANKS!!!
I’ll post this up on the RC Groups!
Thanks again!
Don D
Temecula, CA”
December 2004
“Thank you for the quick service and an awesome product. Well worth the money. I bought the HECO Lipo Solution Charger from you about a week ago.
Happy Holidays,
Josh, Charlotte NC”
December 2004
“Dave, I Got to fly my lazy bee today and I only have one comment.
YEEEEEEHHAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!
She flies every bit as good as with gas! Thanks for the set up!
My lazy Bee is a 42in wing with ailerons. Current setup is now a Himax 2812-0850. a Phoenix 25, and a 3S2000 mAh 15c LiPo. 10×6 e-prop. The bee went from 1lb.4oz (less fuel) with O.S. LA.010 to 1lb 14oz electric. The 10×6 prop only clears the ground on all three tires but I had no luck with ground launches anyway. It’s the same plane now with no mess. I just charge, assemble, and fly, at will! I’m drooling to get the Magic ARF set up the same way.”
Maranatha!
Jim Rose”
November 2004