Thinking about doing a build rather than buying a kit

[AUsome]

I see a lot of stuff available on eBay, but most comes from China and while I don't have anything against China, and they do make some good stuff...but that isn't always the case. They do have some nice looking frames for what appears to be reasonable prices. My biggest concern would be replacement part availability. However, a nice frame for around $35 (fiberglass or aluminum) or carbon fiber for around $100...I'd think maybe buy two and keep one around for spare parts. Anyway, can anyone shed any light on the pros/cons of buying off eBay?

If things like the frame are ok, but if I should steer clear of the electronic items, this would be good to know...or same for things like motors, etc. I'd like to save some money and build my own first copter, but I'd like to buy quality stuff that shouldn't be scrimped on...like the electronics, motors and stuff. I'd think if the frame is basically solid, is there any reason not to buy at least that off eBay?

If anyone HAS bought a RTF kit off eBay that was a good price...and has proven to be a good solid item, please let me know the vendor name.

 

[Mike]

Sorry no one has responded yet. Your concerns about ebay/China are logical, but honestly - just about everything for this hobby comes out of China/Hong Kong and many of the major websites that sell parts are based out of Hong Kong and ship from Hong Kong. Frames are the exception. There are an abundance of frame designers and builders from around the world, including the USA, that make great quality, highly desired frame. Examples:

http://www.hoverthings.com/

http://www.fpvmanuals.com/products-page/

There are also some very good frames from China. One of the most popular is the DJI Flamewheel frame - which has been cloned by many different companies and most of those clones are of great quality.

When it comes to Electronics, you're pretty much stuck getting something that is designed and made in China - and likely shipped from there. You can usually find the same product from a seller based in a different country to gain more confidence in the buying process, but you'll usually pay a premium. The good thing is that, unlike other industries, there are some very reputable manufacturers and retailers of Hobby Parts in China. A couple of the most popular are:

http://www.rctimer.com/

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/index.asp

Replacement parts are usually never an issue because there are a lot of reputable manufacturers and sellers. As with anything you buy online, make sure the seller seems legit. If it's Ebay, look at the feedback. If it's a different website, do a search to make sure it has a good reputation... or check here and someone will tell you if they've heard of it, used it, and their experience.

Also, when it comes to quality, I personally feel like there are more issues than I'd like to see from these Chinese parts - but you have to understand that it's the nature of the game and you have to be careful and test everything before you do any flying. I also always order extras when I order parts. You don't want to get a bad ESC or something and then have to wait weeks or more for a replacement to come from China. Or you don't want to crash and have to wait for replacement frame parts before you can fly again. Also, shipping from China is usually pretty high. You may see cheaper shipping on some sites, but they usually just build it into the price. These guys buy most of their parts from the same suppliers and work on very small markups to remain competitive.

HobbyKing does have warehouses in different areas and the shipping is much cheaper, with only a bit of markup in price from their hong kong warehouse... but they don't always have everything you need in the local warehouse.

My best advice is to do a lot of research and to plan everything carefully, then strategically order your parts all at once to get the best quality, price, shipping,. etc.

 

[AUsome]

MM, thanks. That is what I needed to know. Most appreciated.

 

[Mike]

No problem! Just reply if you have any more questions. Also, I would definitely research and build something yourself. RTF is great and all, but I notice a lot of people who buy RTF kits don't understand all of the components as well and when something goes wrong, it's harder for them to troubleshoot.