Hey Chris! What an awesome video! As you may know, I am just starting to play around with jets and am just browsing the web for my next possible addition. Really great video 👍⚓😎
Great video Chris, love the format, the build and set up tips then the flying. By the way, I’ve been flying in Realflight 9.5 for a few days now and have been flying this Viper 70mm a lot! Easy to fly and easier to land. My first physical plane will probably be the E-flite Valiant and this Viper probably my second. Really wanted a Mustang but am having a hard time landing it without bouncing it big time.
Flew mine this weekend for the first time, I love this little jet. It is fantastic! Only been flying one year, and I can already tell, its going to help me tremendously transition to being a confident EDF flyer. Its on rails and fast enough! I love it, and this review is on the money! I am so happy I bought one, and right now want to fly it every day, its really that fun to fly. It has no evil traits I can find. it tracks down our club runway very straight, which is not so smooth, and is providing me with the the skills I need to proficiently land EDF type model aircraft! Thanks for the GREAT review Chris!!
Congrats man!! I'm so glad you're stoked with this airplane. It truly is an ideal first jet in my mind. I really appreciate your feedback. Enjoy the viper!! :)
IMO, the best overall would be the viper. It flies more on the wing like a traditional airplane and the flaps and retracts are a nice to have. It’s really hard to beat. A close second would be the F-16. It’s every bit as good, but it flys more like a scale fighter and has a really wide speed envelope being able to fly really slowly in the high alpha. The habu is good too, but for me personally I prefer having the options of retracts and in the case of the viper, flaps.
That’s not true. It’s all in how you size the battery with respect to the capacity to the current draw and how you take care of the packs. These packs still look and operate as though they were brand new and this video is 2+ years old now.
hi Chris nice vid ..I always learn something from your reviews...flying my viper with a roaring top 3300 35c about 3/4 inch from the front of battery box...seems a bit nose heavy but I kinda like it there,,ill check my cg with your 85 to 90 mm cg and hope it has a little more elevator authority ..
Thanks man! No need to change things if you're happy with the airplane. You will get a little more elevator authority moving it back. These vipers are such good flying airplanes!
just got one of those and your review was OUTSTANDING !!! everything i needed to know awesome..! I'm using a 4500mah batt same size as the 4000 thanks !!!
Love my Viper Jet too, but at the field we fly at, Its Very Easy to Jack up the nose gear! Lol. It does take time to learn how to “slow her down” for me I guess. My first few landings were wayyyyy too hot! Great video as always dude! BTW- I use the China Hobby Line 3700s in 6S in mine. Work great in it also
Isn't that Miramar in the background - thats actually where I work. I've got a 70mm Viper I'm about to take out for its maiden. Its been 15 years since I've flown - been practicing in RF.
Yes, that is Miramar and the field was on the base. This was the best place to fly in SD until the base commander permanently shut it down a couple years ago (in addition the the flying leatherneck museum too). That was a very sad day. 😢
We can agree to disagree on that one. 😉. As a learning tool, it is very handy, but it can also train some habits that can require some re-training once starting to fly without safe. Plus, can’t do any type of maneuvering (loops, rolls) with safe on. 😉
Hi Chris, Just heard 10:53 you mention your Spektrum file for this plane. Last night in Pilot Ryan's live chat he was mentioning getting the F14 file from you but he flies DX8. I'm not familiar with the functions of the F14. Anyway, maybe I'll see if you have a video on the F14 and learn a bit.
I know I'm a little late to the party on this one... but no doubt you are aware that Horizon Hobby markets the Habu as a trainer jet. How does this one compare to the Habu that you know of?
This is a step above the habu imo with the flaps and retracts. It also flies a bit more jet like too. Of the two, my preference is the viper as I like the flaps and retracts options.
I’m sorry to hear that! Since you’re using the nx radio, you can actually set safe in the forward programming menu. I talk through how to do that in my eflite fw-190 review video here: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE--doRRnznhlI.html it starts at about the 3:30 mark.
Thanks for the review!! I am new to RC Jets and I was thinking about getting the E-Flite 70mm EDF Viper Jet BFN Basic version w. AS3X AND Safe select instead of the What are your thoughts and concerns?
I think the eflite viper in any form is a great option to get into jets. If you’re learning, having safe there as a backup isn’t a bad thing and can be used to help stabilize the airplane in takeoff and landing. but to really progress your flying you’ll want to fly without safe as much as practical imo.
This was the 3rd in line of the EDF purchases. After two years of therapy and overcoming my fear jets I went ArrowsRC Viper and then the Marlin and felt I was ready for 6s power. This Viper was perfect and the timing was perfect. After the shock of the cost of 6s batteries and the weight of a jet with a 6s battery in it, I was ready. AS3X is a wonderful thing. This is just a great jet from the ground up. It even sounds good. But it got banished to the basement rack. The worst thing it did was help me think “I can fly anything 6s now!” And I started ordering and buying... The Eflite F-16 Thunderbird, the Eflite a-10, the Freewing Me-262, the Freewing 80mm a-10. And what did the Viper get for my confidence boost? Middle row on the corner rack in the basement. I did spend $70 on the Avanti v2 gear/strut upgrade on the Viper. Flew it twice to see how my skill with an Exacto knife, Dremel and sandpaper turned out. Anyway, it’s about as perfect an EDF as there is on the market. Never an issue taking off or while it’s in the air. There’s just something about it that makes it easy to skip over.
What do you consider a better first EDF? Eflite 70mm viper or the eflite 70mm F16? Also, did you end up creating a deflection gauge for sale as mentioned in your comments? Thx
You know, that’s a hard question but I don’t think you could go wrong either way but they fly uniquely different. The viper flies more like a traditional airplane flying in the wing. The F16 is more brute force like it’s full scale counterpart. I tend to recommend the viper though because it is more of a traditional flyer.
I forgot to mention, I have the deflection meter design done and ready and am working on getting it on my website. I’m also working on a RU-vid announcement as well.
Hey Chris, when you give your spektrum setup will you please say the percentage of throw instead of the measurement of throw. I don’t have a control surface throw gauge so I can’t setup my transmitter like yours, even though I am the hugest fan of your videos. Thanks.
I understand, but honestly, the physical deflection is what matters and is meaningful, not the percent value it’s set to get it. I’d recommend simply cross checking with a ruler. Also, I have all my spektrum files available for download too at thercgeek.com/downloads if that helps.
Thanks! You should be able to use this info for the fms viper too. It’s essentially the same airplane. Consider it a starting point though as the as3x gyro does desensitize the feel a little bit compares to without it.
I would think so. Obviously airplane flying is quite a bit different than drone flying as you're aware, but with your experience, I'd think it would come pretty easily. Especially if you're good on the sticks with other fixed wing aircraft.
Hey Chris! Nice review!! I just wanted to ask, should I get the new Habu SS, or this 70mm Viper as a first jet? I just don't know what to get. Also, is the retracts strong (I fly at a grass field)? Thanks for your help!
Thanks! I would lean towards the viper personally. The advantage it has is the retracts and flaps compared to the viper. I never had any issues with the retracts but I also never flew it off of grass either.
Hey Chris! I have one more question. I went your recommendation, and got the viper. It look SOO nice! When I was setting it up, I noticed that the throws and the surfaces don't have that much throw without any Dual Rates and Expo. This is my first jet and I'm flying with safe. Do I you think I actually need Rates and Expo because the throw is so little? Thanks again.
Well, you’ll want to set the throws as recommended. If you have safe on and plan to fly with safe most of the time, then you’ll want to set 100% all around. Safe will limit the travel and the max angles are a function of the rates that are set. That’s what I’ve found in the times I’ve played with it.
Hey Chris! Excellent video! your not cocky like that other guy who assembles planes in his kitchen ;-). Could you send me a link for the afterburner kit? maybe do a vid on its assembly?...(If you can) Thanks from Brooklyn, NY!
Thanks! I actually did a video on the centerburner which is here: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-tKKCqjzNfSk.html The installation is a little different for the 70mm in that the 3d printed tailcone simply slips over the back of the inrunner motor vs replacing a stock tailcone. It is still held on the same being clamped on by 3 set screws. They can be ordered through my site at thercgeek.com/the-centerburner/
The viper is a really great choice as a first edf. For grass ops, I can’t say I’ve done much of that as everything is over out here in SoCal. Mostly expect a longer takeoff roll. The airplane lands really nicely too, especially with the flaps. It will need a small elevator mix, so do pay attention to that from the vid.
Hey Chris, excellent video. Due to budgetary constraints, I've been looking at my 1st 6S EDF. I was looking at the Eflight Habus SS 70mm and this Viper 70mm (90mm too much $$$). I like having flaps and landing gear (always an issue). The Habu SS 70mm looks like a really nice 1st 6S EDF but this Viper looks way sexier and fun. I'm wondering how difficult landing is on the Viper. The Habu looks like it'll float on its own.
My recommendation would be the viper because of the flaps and retracts. Landing isn’t hard, but it’s important to flare to avoid hitting nose gear first on the landings. The habu does float forever, but that’s not always what you want when landing.
@@Thercgeek Very good. For the 4000mAh battery here, you move it back aft as possible. But this appears to leave you with only one strap to fasten it to the tray, I'd think this may be a problem.
Hi! Is it a good 3rd plane? I flew a super cub s, a dynam c182 and another 4ch small plane (the xka600, so small it doesn't count). I can fly pretty well
If you can fly pretty well, I don't think you'll have any issues. The key to remember is that things happen a lot quicker with jets at the higher speed, but this airplane is such an easy and honest flyer at any speed.
I've been on the fence about this one?? Probably gonna get it as it can takeoff and land in a small area. I only have a local park with size of 2 baseball fields.
That might be a little tight. It’s a pretty quick airplane, so will probably eat up that space rapidly. That being said, it slows down really nicely and maneuvers well. So, flying across those fields may be ok. It’s a great flyer!
Awesome 👍 I have the F27 Evolution that I use with 4s max speed really fast . Do you think I can handle this one also with AS3X only ? I really want to buy one I have different plane the F27 it’s the fastest one at this moment. Thanks
I think you'd be ok with this one if you're handling the F27 on 4s ok. Obviously, it's more complex with the flaps and retracts for the ROG ops, but otherwise in the air I would think it would be kind of similar.
Hello Chris...always a please to watch your channel. Quick question. Have you had any issues with the Eflite Viper and 25C RoaringTops? I know you said they were ok in your initial comments given the amp draw. Anything different given more flights since then. I am new to the hobby and just being overly cautious given the 30c reco. I have the roaring tops already, so not looking to buy any 30c 6s if i don't have to. Thanks
Thanks for commenting! The RT 4000s have been fantastic, no issues at all. I've been using them most lately in the E-Flite F-16 and they've been killer in there.
The viper has a 28mm diameter motor, so the 8mm design would be the correct choice. If you plan to hook it up through a y harness on the throttle, then yes you will need to provide that. It can also be operated through a spare channel too.
Really depends what you’re looking for. A ring type will certainly work. The centerburner is about as good of a look as you can get for a simulated afterburner though.
If I get the inrunner burner for my Viper, do I have to sacrifice flight time because of a less voltage battery? What would be the max recommended Lipo battery to use without destroying electronics? Thanks for helping.
Hi Chris, I have been watching your Assembly & Flight Review. I had concerns in regard to how close the receiver antenna is to the battery. In this model Viper do you relocate the main antenna towards the tail? Or have you left the receiver antenna as per the original build? I was worried about signal loss being so close to the battery.
Hello Chris : You can send a couple of your planes to Argentina to take care meeting of the G-20..?? This is getting very difficult, really : very difficult.! Have nice good night.!
Something I’ve had for a long time that’s unfortunately been discontinued. I’m looking into how I can bring it back and start offering it. I get regular questions about it.
At some point I’ve got to purchase this Viper. I’ve seen and heard only great things about it. Looks like a fun EDF to fly and very stable. At my level (Advanced Intermediate) those are the two most important characteristics. “Unfun and Out of Control”... I’m not there yet. With that said, my dad helped build the XB-71 with a pencil and a slide-rule. I guess the aviation stuff skips a generation...
@@Thercgeek Dad was born at a good time. Caught the end of WWII and got to fly P-51’s and P-38’s. Trained in B-25’s. Got his jet legs in the T-33/F-80/F-86, got his engineering degree while in the Air Force, (Oklahoma State Agets to work on the XB-70, goes to a Patrick AFB and work with NASA. He missed flying and started flying C-130’s in Vietnam. Pretty good life. And I’m flying toys... and not very well...
im new and confused confused . I just got my viper, im new . you have link to that battery . S4/S5/S6?..so confused about batteries ( great job thank you
Check out my written article that goes with this video: thercgeek.com/2018/11/e-flite-viperjet-70mm-edf-assembly-flight-review/ There's some additional info and links there. This model is designed to fly with a 6 cell (6s) battery. So, that's what you want. It's just a matter of finding the capacity that fits in the airframe. I did do a discussion on batteries a while back too which may be helpful also: thercgeek.com/2019/05/from-the-bench-lipo-batteries-c-rating-and-tips-for-best-battery-performance/
I maidened it Sunday afternoon. I was really nervous. About ten seconds after takeoff, the jitters went away. What a wonderful little DF jet! It has zero bad habits and I didn’t have to trim it at all. It has one heck of a glide slope for a jet. My only gripe is it doesn’t turn well on the ground. I had to place my it on the runway before taking off and retrieve it after landing.
I have mine on the workshop bench, just waiting for a nice day to fly it. Someone posted a canopy mod that I did to move the pilot up, and that worked great for fitting in my oversized 6s batteries. Your review gave me added confidence to have a successful maiden flight, so hopefully all goes well. Thanks for your video!
Hi Chris, am I right in thinking I need to order the 70mm Inrunner afterburner unit, looks great and at least I'll be able to see it disappear over the horizon!!
They are actually in the front of the manual. That said, if you use my recommended settings in the vid (starting at about the 6:00 mark) that should be a good starting point.
Well, it depends on what you're after. IF you want plastic, there are 3d printed options. Otherwise, foam is the most prevalent at this size. The most durable though is composite, but it's also considerably more expensive.
The RC Geek can you please suggest a nice plastic and composite model ? What’s the best R/C aeroplane overall ? Are gliders worth it ? I think they are much slower.
Great video Chris! That is a very nice flying edf for sure.I really like the slow flight it can do,but it's a great fast flier as well! Looks like a good one to learn with while working on my A-4 project.You look tired or like you've been partying Chris,get some sleep or pass it! Hope you are doing well,cheers!
You aren't there yet,lol. Raising a family and working and then trying to have a bit of fun after working and taking care of the family is not an easy task! You're doing a great job!!
@@Thercgeek exact. I would like to buy it too. but I have 2 main questions for you: 1 # to calculate the CG, some overturn the plane (with the cabin down), others leave it straight (with the cabin up) -> which is the right method? 2 # if the method is to flip the plane, for the best CG, does the viper's muzzle have to be up or nose down? Tnk1000 for reply
When checking the cg, it doesn’t matter if it’s right side up or upside down, you can check it either way. For a low wing aircraft, it can be a bit simpler to check it with it inverted just from a handling standpoint, but again, it can be done either way. In all cases, you want the airplane to be about level or slightly nose down. If the tail down, that means it’s tail heavy and so needs adjustment of the battery up front to get it to balance level or slightly nose down. I hope that helps!
Try binding with safe select, then assign it to a switch, and you may get more rudder travel. Horizon said there is a bug in the software giving limited rudder throw with safe bound off.
why disable safe in the first place? you dont have to use it and itll save your plane in a bad situation. Too many "ace combat" pilots feel they're too good for safe, but even pros mess up, the panic button has saved my plane so many times in rare uncontrollable situations. and the PNP doesnt have safe so if you have the BNF might as well keep safe on
@@JoeSmoe1 That is certainly a valid point. The truth is though if I got into trouble, that's probably the last thing I'd think of vs focusing on flying the airplane out of the situation. I'm fully willing to accept responsibility if I dumb thumb an airplane in.
What afterburner light is that? Never had one before looks really cool. Do you have a install video. I am purching the the same viper in the next week or so. I would like to have that on also.
That is a system that I sell (thercgeek.com/the-centerburner). It's a very simple installation as it comes with a 3d printed tailcone that gets clamped onto the back of the motor (after routing the motor wires through a slot in the cone) using 3 grub screws which you supply. This is the video I put together, though the installation is slightly different in the vid since it's a different fan. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-tKKCqjzNfSk.html The install is the same, except that you don't have to remove a tailcone and it clamps onto the motor OD instead of tailcone flanges.
@@Thercgeek watched the video seems very simple. If i didn't want to use another battery how would i do that? How much effect would it have on my flight battery?
You can use a separate BEC if you choose. A small 2s 350mah pack fits super easy and weighs pretty much nothing. And it'll last multiple flying outings on a single charge. That's what I used in the viper. Something like this: hobbyking.com/en_us/zippy-flightmax-350mah-2s-20c.html?affiliate_code=LFJGWVQPOBUAHTF&_asc=8354941552
ah good. Yeah, it's called an accuthrow meter and comes from Great Planes which means that it OEMs from Tower Hobbies. You can find it on amazon too: amzn.to/2L7ySw8
I don't typically use dean's, but that's what was on the battery and I was lazy, haha! Dean's becomes more of an issue at higher currents as opposed to voltage. For this setup at only 60 or so amps, it won't be a problem. For my high power stuff, I use 6mm bullet connectors.
@@Thercgeek ,yeah there good to 60.a had .bad experience with them.just picked up the efilte viper,got a JP 2250 kv and 100 a in her..ive had the roc hobby one for a year..it's the exact same bird .eflite rebranded it.flies like a dream.
It works quite well. A 30-35c would be better but at the time, that was what I was able to find in that capacity range. The thing to keep in mind is that c rating and capacity are tied together. So, for a given current draw when you run a larger capacity pack, you can use a lower c rating without issue.
@@ror-ys3qp I think you may have misunderstood what I was saying. Yes, a higher c rating means lower resistance, but for a given c rating so does higher capacity. My point is that there's a balance between c rating and pack weight. Can you run 100c packs? Sure, all day long, but you're also going to be carrying around additional weight in the process. Whereas you can get similar performance from a lower c rated pack of higher capacity and at a lighter weight. I put together a discussion on this a while back: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Q8UTO-u4l2o.html It's just my thoughts on it, but ultimately the best approach is the one that works best for each individual.
Thanks Chris for a very good review, especially the advice on how you setup the control surfaces. Can you briefly explain what effect moving the CG back had on the setup? I do not understand the strategy for doing this. Thanks
Moving the CG back just made the airplane fly better as a whole. Makes the airplane respond a little crisper in elevator and makes the landings a little easier as you have a little better elevator response.
This is the video for the install: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-tKKCqjzNfSk.html IT's all the same, but in the case of the 70mm, the tailcone simply slips over the back of the motor and 3 grub screws are used to clamp it down to hold it in place. If the tail cone is a loose fit on there, you can wrap a couple layers of tape around the back of the motor can which will tighten up the fit.
The RC Geek Thanks for the link,Chris. Doesn’t look to be too difficult. But not sure if it will add too much weight to my 64 mm 5 blade EDF. Adding some nylon or fiberglass fibers to simulate flame from exhaust nozzle might add to the effect ??
Here's a link to the centerburner. There was a link in the comments, but it wasn't very obvious. Sorry about that! thercgeek.com/the-centerburner/ It's a product that I sell. Let me know if you have any questions, thanks!
