Where do you buy your RC Stuff?

[LLoo]

Hello fellow Canadians,

I don't know about you but I'm very jelous of our friends towards the south who have a seeminly endless supply of RC Stores. I thought it might be a good idea for us to share with each where we buy our RC stuff and our experiences, either local, or online. How did the shipping go, comments on support...etc.

Let me start with my comments:

I personally am a fan of discount RC equipment, mostly because I want my RC budget to go as far as I can and since I still consider myself a novice flyer my planes meet the ground in unpredictable was ;-)

Zebra Hobbies (www.ZebraHobby.ca (http://www.zebrahobby.ca/))
Pro's:
They keep adding new stuff to their lineup
They're now carrying the cheap BP motors
Delivery is QUICK.
I don't have to pay PST

Con's:
I can't think of any....

Wold Hobbies (http://stores.ebay.com/WORLD-HOBBY_W0QQssPageNameZstrkQ3amefsQ3amesstQQtZkm) (Located in Hong Kong, sales via EBAY)
Pros
Their prices are really cheap!

Con's
They're in Hong Kong, so delivery takes a long time
Others on RCGroups have had problems with their orders....but my transacations have gone fine.

I've purchased from (many) other places but I think I've blabbed on long enough for now. Let's here from others....Leon.

================================================== ===============
Added summary of links from this thread - I'll do my best to keep it up to date
================================================== ===============

Canadian Online Stores
http://www.zebrahobby.ca/ (http://www.zebrahobby.ca/)
http://www.truenorthernhobbies.com/ (http://www.truenorthernhobbies.com/)
http://home.comcast.net/~truerc/index.htm (http://home.comcast.net/%7Etruerc/index.htm)
http://www.hobbywholesale.com/ (http://www.hobbywholesale.com/)
http://www.greathobbies.com/ (http://www.greathobbies.com/)
http://www.icare-rc.com/ (http://www.icare-rc.com/)
http://www.rctoys.com/ (http://www.rctoys.com/)
http://skyhooks.ca/ (http://skyhooks.ca/)
http://shop.eliminator-rc.com/ (http://shop.eliminator-rc.com/)
http://www.truerc.net/canada2/home/homeca.html
http://www.rcmodels.ca/
http://www.hopuphelihobbies.com/

Local Hobby Shops with online presence:

Calgary
http://www.actionhobby.ca/

Winnipeg
http://www.eliminator-rc.com/ (http://www.eliminator-rc.com/)


Scarborough
http://www.advancehobbies.com/ (http://www.advancehobbies.com/)


Richmond Hill
http://www.advance-rc.com/index.html (http://www.advance-rc.com/index.html)

Streetsville Mississauga
http://www.hobbyhobby.com/ (http://www.hobbyhobby.com/)

Markham
http://www.ajhobbies.net/textlinks.asp?page=about (http://www.ajhobbies.net/textlinks.asp?page=about)

Kitchener
http://www.flitecraft.com/ (http://www.flitecraft.com/)

World wide online hobby shops which ship to Canada
http://www.hobbycity.com/ (http://www.hobbycity.com/)
http://www.bphobbies.com/ (http://www.bphobbies.com/)
http://www.allerc.com/index.php/ (http://www.allerc.com/index.php/)
http://www.horizonhobby.com/ (http://www.horizonhobby.com/)
http://www.espritmodel.com/ (http://www.espritmodel.com/)
http://www.aircraft-world.com/ (http://www.aircraft-world.com/)
http://www.amainhobbies.com/ (http://www.amainhobbies.com/) (cars & trucks)

Customs Information
http://www.ups.com/content/ca/en/shipping/cost/zones/customs_clearance.html (http://www.ups.com/content/ca/en/shipping/cost/zones/customs_clearance.html)

[The Enemy]

Hey Leon, great thread idea!

I have a few different places I go through.

www.TrueRC.com is great for discount batteries. The service is second to none. (Chicago, but never a shipping problem. Just started in Quebec, but I haven't ordered from there yet... I'll probably stick with Dan in CHI.)

HobbyHobby in Mississauga / Streetsville. Nice guys, very busy, fair prices. Sometimes difficult to get someone to help you out though...

Flightcraft in Kitchener. Overpriced but convenient. Didn't like them as a newbie, but after I was intermediate, they're much more palletable. (Don't deal with the young kid, he really doesn't care...)

www.ZebraHobby.ca .... Only ordered once, but got pretty good service. I did hear about an issue of missing parts in a couple shipments, but it was most likely a one time incident. And their selection is definitely getting much better.

That's all I can think of for now...

Corey

[bororin]

Hi Guys!

I share your envy to our friends down south... It is not easy to buy around here... Local hobby shops in Montreal are over priced and low on inventory (specially electrics).

I usually buy on... www.gwsexpert.com... also www.allerc.com even though I had a problem once that was difficult to solve but since then they made it up and I gave them another chance and all the other orders have come thru pretty smooth.

Also a friend recomended www.balsapr.com but I have never tried it.

Good idea LLoo...

Bororin

[LLoo]

I've used www.allerc.com and www.balsapr.com as well. Both were positive experiences. I have not seen gwsexperts before, I've added them to my bookmarks.

I was just at HobbyHobby today, I was like a kid in a candy store. Great place.

Thanks.

[Cam Galbraith]

I use www.greathobbies.ca and www.zebrahobby.ca. Good service from both, with many orders. Only snag I had with GH is when I had a pair of servos back ordered forever.

I also support AVF my LHS.

[P-38J-Lightning]

i also use www.greathobbies.ca but i find www.hobbywholesale.com has better deals!

[P-38J-Lightning]

oh and both are based in Edmonton, Alberta

[The Enemy]

Well, just placed an order through www.horizonhobby.com

I'll be sure to let you guys know how it goes. It's even being shipped from 2 different warehouses, one in IL and one in CA!

P-38,
Hey, good to know that they're in Canada. I'll be looking at those places too in the future.

Corey

[LLoo]

Corey, what did you buy? Anything exciting?

I purchased 4 x HS-55 servos from Great Hobbies for $14.95 each! I've never found a better price, even from US sites! Their still on sale if anyone is interested. Great little servos, great price. http://www.greathobbies.ca/products/productinfo.php?prod_id=HITHS55S What's AVF? Do they have an oline presence? I'm in London every once in a while.

Leon.

[The Enemy]

Leon,
I bought some new wheel pants for my Ultimate Bipe. (Had an unscheduled meeting with Terra Firma on Wed...) And just to make it all worth it, I got a TigerMoth slope kit. Comes without the motor and LG so it's a TON cheaper. But I love my TigerMoth and had to retire it because it was my feline's favorite till he got hit. The new Moth will be specially painted and named "Tiger's Moth" in his honour.
Corey

[Cam Galbraith]

Leon- Nice snag! I'm ordering 3 as we speak, but the shopping cart won't let me check out for some strange reason :confused:

Cam

[Cam Galbraith]

Never Mind! All figured out. I think all the Hitec stuff is on sale, the electron 6's are down to 45 from 59 or so I think...after I get paid next week I might pick one of those up!

Cam

[rkhoo]

I have used Zebra, thery are good. Price and service.

I have used backyardflying.com in Q, he is cool too.

AlleRC is fast.

HobbyLobby is fine too, esp with their @2.5 shipping for unit under 4"x4"x4".

I like to support my local shop if applicable. If compared to typical online shops, I am willing to pay a 20% premium on items less then $100; and 10% on anything above. Afterall we need to pay for our convient. right? Anything more then 30% is unacceptable. Am I too far off?

There are time the LHS has a better price and other time they just can't match up.

How much will my LHS charge on a $15US GWS 2205 outrunner, when they become available My guess is $39 CAD :rolleyes:

I still want to support LHS if I can help.

Regards.

[LLoo]

rhkoo,

I certainly support my LHS, I've given them a small forturne. ;-) But sometimes it's just too hard to part with my money. I think your guess on those GWS motors will be bang on. My LHS brought in some of those BP21 motors, online US stores sell them from $14 to $20 but my LHS had them priced at $39.

Here's another good Canadian deal I found, Zebra has the BP21 (http://www.zebrahobby.ca/cgi-bin/cp-app.cgi?usr=51F1196382&rnd=4355146&rrc=N&affl=&cip=70.31.30.181&act=&aff=&pg=prod&ref=BM2408-21&cat=BMCompany&catstr=HOME:motorsbrushless:BMCompany) motors on for $19.50.

[The Enemy]

Leon,
Was it FlightCraft that had them for so much? ;)
I asked them what they would sell my Bipe for... Let's just say TWICE as much as my brother paid for it!
Corey

[LLoo]

Yeah, it was in FlightCraft. That was quite a while ago and I have not seen them in stock since. If they get them back in stock, perhaps their prices will be a little lower since there are a lot more sources for them.

Corey, check your email if you want to try some combat tomorrow.

Leon.

[P-38J-Lightning]

:O Buy electron 6 from here! www.hobbywholesale.com i got four HS-55, Electron 6, Crystal, Harness for $116.95 CAN

[Cam Galbraith]

Yeah, next week I'm definately going to get the BP 21 and Thunderbird 18 ESC from Zebrta next week...like 20 for the motor and 39 or 49 for the esc...great deal.

Cam

[Hetman]

For what I was buying, I found that both Zebra hobbies and www.backyardflying.com had similar prices. Backyardflying is out of Quebec and he gave me excellent help.

[tommyeflight89]

I've ordred from:
Zebrahobby.com --> Extremly good! The carry Stevens Aero planes...
Greathobbies.com --> O.K. I didn't like the shipping thing where they add it on after order is complete.
Backyardflying.com --> Good, I got alot of GWs stuff there.
AVF Hobbies in London --> Pretty good. I usually order stuff from them that I can't get online. They have depron and carbon rod (parkjets, 3D foamies etc). Thy can order basically anything for you. They need T Rex parts, but I'm sure they have Mx 400 stuff.

[Cam Galbraith]

FliteCraft blowwss....about the only thing that they're good for is all their planes on the ceiling and the free flight sim use.

I didn't know AVF had depron...that stuff is my favourite.

[The Enemy]

FliteCraft blowwss....about the only thing that they're good for is all their planes on the ceiling and the free flight sim use.


HAHAHAHAHA...........ROFLMAO.......

Totally. The only reason I go there is 'cause Steve (the owner) has a full size Tiger Moth, and he's a pretty nice guy. Too bad he's not there all that often.

Corey

[Cam Galbraith]

Wait...I forgot one thing. That full scale spit on the building across the road is pretty killer. The surplus store is probably good for burnt CD rom motors.

[pmackenzie]

It has already had a lot of mentions, Zebra Hobbies is excellent.
For Thunder power lipos, Hacker motors and Castle controllers try http://www.rctoys.com/parts.php.
Ordering from http://www.aircraft-world.com/ in Japan is usually faster than from the US, and for some reason Customs almost never adds any fees!
http://www.icare-rc.com/ has a good selection of higher end stuff.

Pat MacKenzie

[The Enemy]

Yeah, KW Surplus... REALLY great deals on certain things. They toss all of their old CD drives as soon as they're removed though. So hitting up a computer store is more likely to have a box to gladly give you. But if you need computer fans, power supplies, cheap spray paint, cheap tools, army surplus stuff (clothing, tents, ammo boxes, boots, brain buckets) they're the place to go!

The place with the replica Spitfire on the roof is a book and static model store. They have everything you could imagine in books, movies/DVDs, paintings, and static models on every conceviable aircraft. Helpfull staff too! I was looking for a specific Me-109 model, and they said they would special order it in one of 3 scale sizes! Thats above and beyond in my book. (Or just good business practice. Which happens to be lacking for the most part in many businesses. Possibly mentioned earlier... ;) )

Corey (sorry 'bout the blab...)

[LLoo]

I met the ICare guy's at the Toronto Hobby Show in November, nice guys. I ended up buying an AXI 2808/24 from them, they gave me a good price.

KW Surplus is a great place, I love going in there and just sifting though all the junk. A friend purchased a cheap 12v power supply from them and uses it for his lipo charger.

Leon.

[LLoo]

I ordered two of the Blue Arrow Rx's from Hobby-Lobby's Crash Sale (http://www.hobby-lobby.com/ezonegeneral.htm?c1=ezone&source=bar&kw=gen) today. I also added a 400XT motor for another $25. I know people have their resvervations with the Blue Arrow Rx's but for my needs they'll be fine. I think these are great deals especially with shipping at $2.50. Once these items arrive I'll post a followup on how long it took, and any hidden costs (aka brokerage/duity...)

Does anyone have a good (aka cheap) source for EPP foam in Canada? I'm planning on ordering some 9mm sheets from slofly.com once they're in stock but if someone knows of a good Canadian source I'd appreciate it.

Leon.

[The Enemy]

Well, after ordering on the 12th, I received a package in the mail from www.lightflightrc.com .......

I had ordered 2 of their PolyQuest 600mAh 3s batteries.

I received 2 PolyQuest 600mAh 2s batteries...
Waiting on a reply to my email sent this morning. (~9am)

Last time I ordered through them, I got one of my Himax gearsets without a pinion...
This was resolved within a couple days.

I think they have some tired staff working for them. That or someone in shipping definitely needs glasses! lol

Corey

[The Enemy]

Got a reply stating that the proper cells will go out today.

I will be shipping back the 2s cells first thing tomorrow morning, and all shipping costs will be refunded!

Sounds like a perfect ending so far. I will let you all know when they arrive.

Corey

<edit> Still no word on the package from Horizon which shipped on the 10th. <edit>

[The Enemy]

Horizon Hobby package arrived today! Everything as ordered, and the packaging was great. My only beef is that I got ding'd by the border for holding fees and crap like that... Another $10 bucks... First time in many over the border transactions though. (Fingers crossed.)
<singing> Hands in my pockets, hands in my pockets, hands in my pockets... <singing>

As far as the LightFlightRC shipment goes. I got a nice "thanks for being understanding" email from Dave. Heck, stuff happens, and it doesn't bother me to have it corrected right away! But the correct package was sent out of CA yesterday, and the incorrect one sent back this morning.

Other than that, I just deal with my car accident. (Taxi hit it outside of my apartment while it was parked... Grrrrrr) And deal with a little "inverted brain fart" I had today with my Ultimate. Dunno how I'm gonna fix this one! Seems to be mostly internal...


So what about the rest of you guys? Is anyone else gearing up for the impending flying season other than me? I guess it's good to know that not many of us Canadians are having shipping issues!

Corey

[Cam Galbraith]

I'm trying to find money for a formosa SG + battery + motor + ESC. All together it isn't that much (~170 plus tax) it's just trying to do it AND save at the same time!! From the looks of it though I still have a few weeks to do it.

Cam

[LLoo]

I received an email from Hobby-Lobby, they sent out my 400XT but my Rx's are on back order. I really don't mind as it it will split the costs between two boxes and perhaps avoid brokerage/duity. (I've jinxed myself).

Leon.

(The wind has finally stopped. Yeah!)

[LLoo]

Cam, where you planning on buying your Formosa SG from?

[P-38J-Lightning]

grr i hate border fees! they charged me $30 bux border fees for my 9C

[Cam Galbraith]

I bought my 9C Super from Great Hobbies. They had to order it in but it came in pretty quick(3 weeks)

Lloo, www.hobbywholesale.com. 39 bucks plus tax or shipping or both.

[biggy boy]

I received an email from Hobby-Lobby, they sent out my 400XT but my Rx's are on back order. I really don't mind as it it will split the costs between two boxes and perhaps avoid brokerage/duity. (I've jinxed myself).

Leon.

(The wind has finally stopped. Yeah!)
Hi guys
I've had bad luck only once with shipments from the US. It was sent by UPS
But now I only have stuff mailed no Currier's to much for the brokerage fees.
Mailed: if it's under $20.00 CDN there's no taxes/duty, but over $20.00
CDN value, they charge $5.00 for opening your package and interrogating it
Gee thanks :confused: and then GST and PST.
I also shop Zebra and Dragenfly. And lots of Ebay.

Glen

[biggy boy]

I received an email from Hobby-Lobby, they sent out my 400XT but my Rx's are on back order. I really don't mind as it it will split the costs between two boxes and perhaps avoid brokerage/duity. (I've jinxed myself).

Leon.

(The wind has finally stopped. Yeah!)

I bought 3 of the crash sale receivers yesterday, they are back ordered will get them in mid April. Oh well :rolleyes: such is life.

Glen

[LLoo]

Glen,

How successful are your ebay purchases? I've purchased from World_Hobby via EBay, their prices are good but they ship out of Hong Kong so it takes a few weeks to arrive.

Leon.

[RAY GWS]

I've ordred from:
Zebrahobby.com --> Extremly good! The carry Stevens Aero planes...
Greathobbies.com --> O.K. I didn't like the shipping thing where they add it on after order is complete.
Backyardflying.com --> Good, I got alot of GWs stuff there.
AVF Hobbies in London --> Pretty good. I usually order stuff from them that I can't get online. They have depron and carbon rod (parkjets, 3D foamies etc). Thy can order basically anything for you. They need T Rex parts, but I'm sure they have Mx 400 stuff.

our dealer in Canada.
http://www.gwsus.com/english/dealer/north%20america.htm

[biggy boy]

Glen,

How successful are your ebay purchases? I've purchased from World_Hobby via EBay, their prices are good but they ship out of Hong Kong so it takes a few weeks to arrive.

Leon.
Only one problem out of tons of purchases.
I bought a used brushless motor and speed control from a guy in Toronto.
The speed control was shorted out had a burn mark on it .
He stated it was unused in his E bay listing.
Ended up he reinburst me $10.00 for the burnt ESC.
I paid 21.00 for the pair.

Other then that one, no problem :D
I' am thinking of buying from world hobby!
Hey check out
http://www.hobbykong.com
It's the same guy as world hobby!! but the prices are cheaper then what he sells them for on Ebay!!!!!!!!!

Glen

[world_hobby]

Only one problem out of tons of purchases.
I bought a used brushless motor and speed control from a guy in Toronto.
The speed control was shorted out had a burn mark on it .
He stated it was unused in his E bay listing.
Ended up he reinburst me $10.00 for the burnt ESC.
I paid 21.00 for the pair.

Other then that one, no problem :D
I' am thinking of buying from world hobby!
Hey check out
http://www.hobbykong.com
It's the same guy as world hobby!! but the prices are cheaper then what he sells them for on Ebay!!!!!!!!!

Glen
Please be aware that all eBay pages are down at the moment as we re-configure our postage prices to better reflect the exact weight and price of postage when ordering multiple items.

[LLoo]

Hi World_Hobby,

Great to see you on these forums. Do you also run www.hongkong.com?
If I could combine shipping for multiple itmes I'd buy more stuff from you guys.

Hi Ray,

it's also good to see GWS here too. Thanks for the links. I've yet to see any Canadian GWS supplier provide those new $15 (US) GWS brushless motors. I really hope your Canadian dealers sell them for under $20 (CAD) and the ESC's for under $30 (CAD).

Leon.

[steveorbst]

I bought everything Plane kit,Radio Building suppliesETC... From Tower Hobbies on line and on the phone. No complaints
Some one has suggested Great Hobbies up here and I will give them a shot with my next kit,Thier prices are even better with the exchange and all

[The Enemy]

Alright, here's the scoop...

Those 2s batteries that I received instead of the 3s ones have gone back. The new 3s batts have arrived. Though, one of them has a puffed cell!!!! I have already emailed Dave at Lightflightrc.com and am awaiting an answer. Kinda loosing my patience with this one...

Corey

[biggy boy]

Hi World_Hobby,

Great to see you on these forums. Do you also run www.hongkong.com?
If I could combine shipping for multiple itmes I'd buy more stuff from you guys.

Hi Ray,

it's also good to see GWS here too. Thanks for the links. I've yet to see any Canadian GWS supplier provide those new $15 (US) GWS brushless motors. I really hope your Canadian dealers sell them for under $20 (CAD) and the ESC's for under $30 (CAD).

Leon.
Leon it's hobbykong.com (http://hobbykong.com)
Not hongkong.com :D

Glen

[The Enemy]

Dave at LightFlightRC.com said to keep the puffed pack and make a 2s pack out of it. (Even said only do this if I can do it safely. ;) )

I'll still be sure to let you guys know when the last pack arrives...

Overall, I'm still happy with the transaction. Just a little dissapointed. It's probably just my luck anyway. But Dave has been great to communicate with. A real stand up guy regardless of these little issues...

Corey

[rooster]

For those of you who order from Japan, do you get dinged for duty like ordering from the US?

I prefer to order from Canada but often it's hard to find what you want. Ordering from the US gets a lot of money dinged in handling fees from the couriers and customs.

Thanks

[biggy boy]

For those of you who order from Japan, do you get dinged for duty like ordering from the US?

I prefer to order from Canada but often it's hard to find what you want. Ordering from the US gets a lot of money dinged in handling fees from the couriers and customs.

Thanks

Hi rooster
anything you bring into the country that has a marked value of $20.00 CDN
on the duty packing slip, you will get charged, just the same as from the US.

Glen

[LLoo]

Yes those are the rules, anything over $20 are subject to import duties and taxes. In addition if Canada Post processes the fee collection, they will charge an extra $5 for their efforts. In reality they do not flag all packages for collection. From my own personal experience I find I get dinged for duity/tax about 1/4 of the time and I find the larger the physical package the greater the chance of it being taxed. I still try to by locally if I can.

Leon.

[pmackenzie]

I have placed several orders with ACW, and the ones that were shipped by regular mail were not charged customs.
This despite having the little customs labels with the correct value listed.
The only time I have been charged was when the shipment was by "EMS".
Perhaps I should order something and see if it still holds true! As good as an excuse as any :)
Pat MacKenzie

[kawika1kalina]

Here is a couple of sites I bought from, http://www.rctoys.com/ and http://www.espritmodel.com/

RCtoys has some great combo sales (motors, ESC and lipos) and the shipping is cheap and quick (2 days). And they are from Saskatoon.

Espritmodels is down in Florida, they have great prices, shipping is cheap but it takes about a week or so to arrive.

I have bought from other places but wasn't too happy about thier inflated shipping cost for Canadians.

I'll check out the sites you guys mentioned, always looking for a good deal.

Dave

[DHC-2T]

I may be wrong here.. but I was under the impression that hobby stuff was duty free..??? NAFTA and all. I live in the u.s and canada I use to import russian combat engines in to the u.s. and never once had to pay duty (I did have to, by hand engrave 300 engines with "made in russia" before customs would release them to me-- not fun)

[kawika1kalina]

It is duty free if the declaration slip is filled out properly, what burns me is the inflated brockerage fees UPS charges, plus the GST and PST. By the time you pay for shipping costs you could end up paying an extra 50.00us for your order.

USPS is the best way to ship.

Does anybody know where I can find a solid CF rod .312" (5/16") Dia. x 24"?

[Cracroft]

DHC-2T,
Don't forget NAFTA only applies for things Made in North America, it doesn't apply if you're ordering & it's shipped from the U.S., if the origin is Asia or Europe. Most couriers (FEDEX, UPS,DHL) will get you for the brokerage fees when the item is over $20CDN as Kawika explained. Be very careful how it's being delivered.

[biggy boy]

DHC-2T,
Don't foget NAFTA only applies for things Made in North America, it doesn't apply if you're ordering & it's shipped from the U.S., if the origin is Asia or Europe it doesn't apply. Most couriers (FEDEX, UPS,DHL) will get you for the brokerage fees when the item is over $20CDN as Kawika explained. Be very careful how it's being delivered.
I only order stuff from the states if they mail it. No more Currier for me too much for the handling fees :censored:
The $5.00 handling fee that the post office charges makes me mad too.
I don't mind paying the GST and PST, just not the five bucks.
Oh well most if not all of the stuff I get online is cheaper then at the
local hobby shop. Ebay has some great bargains :)

Glen

[DHC-2T]

well it sounds as if I will need to make a shopping list prior to my adventure to the north and haul it with me.
So do I understand this correctly that ups and fedex charge a handeling fee of sorts for shipments to canada. but the postal service dose not??

[DHC-2T]

It is duty free if the declaration slip is filled out properly, what burns me is the inflated brockerage fees UPS charges, plus the GST and PST. By the time you pay for shipping costs you could end up paying an extra 50.00us for your order.

USPS is the best way to ship.

Does anybody know where I can find a solid CF rod .312" (5/16") Dia. x 24"?
CST has them
my old affiliate company --Superior balsa had them (not sure if they still do)
Midwest is now selling cf and depron you should be able to get it from one of these places.

[pmackenzie]

well it sounds as if I will need to make a shopping list prior to my adventure to the north and haul it with me.
So do I understand this correctly that ups and fedex charge a handling fee of sorts for shipments to canada. but the postal service dose not??
Canada Post charges a flat $5.00 fee, in addition to GST and PST of course.
Some things shipped USPS to Canada end up being handled by Purolator. They charge a flat $6 fee + GST/PST.
UPS charges are explained here (http://www.ups.com/content/ca/en/shipping/cost/zones/customs_clearance.html)

What C/L combat classes do you fly?
Pat MacKenzie

[biggy boy]

well it sounds as if I will need to make a shopping list prior to my adventure to the north and haul it with me.
So do I understand this correctly that ups and fedex charge a handeling fee of sorts for shipments to canada. but the postal service dose not??

I'v been charged as much as $17.00 for handling fees by fedex and UPS
for Items over $100.00 plus the taxes.

[LLoo]

I received my 400XT today from Hobby Lobby, my two Rx's are on back order. Shipping took 3 weeks, kinda long but it was only $2.50 so it's good value if you're not in a hurry. The package did not have a import form stuck to it, nor did it get flagged for any Taxes/Duity. :D :D

The odd thing is that this package looks like it originated in Hobby-Lobby USA but somehow it was mailed from Sweden! Have a look at the picture.

I can only assume they do it this way to reduce shipping costs. Creative!

Leon.

[biggy boy]

I received my 400XT today from Hobby Lobby, my two Rx's are on back order. Shipping took 3 weeks, kinda long but it was only $2.50 so it's good value if you're not in a hurry. The package did not have a import form stuck to it, nor did it get flagged for any Taxes/Duity. :D :D

The odd thing is that this package looks like it originated in Hobby-Lobby USA but somehow it was mailed from Sweden! Have a look at the picture.

I can only assume they do it this way to reduce shipping costs. Creative!

Leon.
That Sweden thing is odd!
I ordered the servos from the crash sale two weeks ago.
It's been 14 days since Hobby Lobby shipped it. It must be sitting in customs :confused:
Hopfully it comes soon.
I was thinking of getting that motor for $19.00 good deal.
The receivers, I ordered 3 will come in on Friday. I was told and will then ship
shortly after that. :)

Glen

[pmackenzie]

There must be something going on at the post office in TN.
I just had a package go via Malmo Sweden as well!.
Mine took over a month to get to me. Shipped on Feb 16, arrived on Mar 30.
Probably something could be said here about the American educational system, not knowing the difference between Canada and Europe.
Or maybe someone at the post office has something against Canadians :)
Pat MacKenzie

[LLoo]

I bet your servos are in Sweden!

I paid $25 for my 400XT (ordered between sales :( ) but still consider it a great deal for a great motor. Now that they're on for $19.90 again and shipping is only $2.50, it's very temping.....

Leon.

[biggy boy]

I bet your servos are in Sweden!

I paid $25 for my 400XT (ordered between sales :( ) but still consider it a great deal for a great motor. Now that they're on for $19.90 again and shipping is only $2.50, it's very temping.....

Leon.
I hope not I'm waiting to put those guys into a plane :)
What are you planning on putting your 400XT in?

Glen

[LLoo]

This is my 2nd one, my first one went onto a BlueFunder, flies great on a 2S 1500mah. I keep changing my mind with this one....the current thought is a slowflyer, a Slow Stick type plane....but we'll see. Other ideas are....an EPP (If I can find some at a reasonable price) delta wing, or maybe a 3D type plane, an ultimate bipe would be nice....so many planes.....so little money. ;-)

What are your plans for your 400XT?

Leon.

[biggy boy]

This is my 2nd one, my first one went onto a BlueFunder, flies great on a 2S 1500mah. I keep changing my mind with this one....the current thought is a slowflyer, a Slow Stick type plane....but we'll see. Other ideas are....an EPP (If I can find some at a reasonable price) delta wing, or maybe a 3D type plane, an ultimate bipe would be nice....so many planes.....so little money. ;-)

What are your plans for your 400XT?

Leon.

Not sure to many choices at this point in time.
I've got several motors not in planes that need to be flown and tested first.

I realy need to stop buying motors for a while.
I keep giving them to my son for his planes.
And I still have a bunch :p

[DHC-2T]

I received my 400XT today from Hobby Lobby, my two Rx's are on back order. Shipping took 3 weeks, kinda long but it was only $2.50 so it's good value if you're not in a hurry. The package did not have a import form stuck to it, nor did it get flagged for any Taxes/Duity. :D :D

The odd thing is that this package looks like it originated in Hobby-Lobby USA but somehow it was mailed from Sweden! Have a look at the picture.

I can only assume they do it this way to reduce shipping costs. Creative!

Leon.
As a former rc industry guy I know that several distributors will Drop ship from the Manufacturer if somthing has been on back order for a while. I am not sure where the 400xt is made but it kinda seems like this was the case. oryou were rite and it was a case of some stupid american (I can say this as I am an American) not knowing where Canada is.

EDIT: Ok Ok so I read the last page of the posts and it seems that the person in Tn. dose not realise that 4billion sq mile land mass directly above the U.S. is Canada. (sorry guys we are not all like this)

[freddy warbird]

***** nevermind

[DHC-2T]

So has the snow melted yet??? I am Anxious to get to work. however I did get to fly most of the day today and that was better than work. I flew my FSk Fw-190 it now has 12 real hours of flight time on it I put 2 on today. I also dumb thumbed my MiG-15 on launch. it was 28 deg today..... So how about that snow ????

[biggy boy]

So has the snow melted yet??? I am Anxious to get to work. however I did get to fly most of the day today and that was better than work. I flew my FSk Fw-190 it now has 12 real hours of flight time on it I put 2 on today. I also dumb thumbed my MiG-15 on launch. it was 28 deg today..... So how about that snow ????

What snow are you talking about? Where? :)

Glen

[kawika1kalina]

So has the snow melted yet??? I am Anxious to get to work. however I did get to fly most of the day today and that was better than work. I flew my FSk Fw-190 it now has 12 real hours of flight time on it I put 2 on today. I also dumb thumbed my MiG-15 on launch. it was 28 deg today..... So how about that snow ????

The snow is all gone and most of the lakes will be open by the end of this week, with any luck I could be fishing on Tuesday. Sad part is, no more snow for my less then perfect landings. Guess I'll have to make the planes waterproof.

Dave

[kawika1kalina]

OR buy a seaplane. :-)

[biggy boy]

Does anyone know where to get Polyspan covering material from a supplier in Canada?
If not how about a good US supplier?
or another covering material that spray paints well.
Thanks
Glen

[DHC-2T]

Poly Tissue is avaliable through this link www.clcentral.com
This is the stuff that "Tom Morris" sold, my Buddy is now selling it as well as the rest of his stuff. Poly span as some know it and poly tissue as it is now is very much like silkspan but heat shrinkable. it can be glued or doped or polyurithane(SP) on. it will seal up tight and fuel proof with 3 coats of dope @ a 50% or 1 coat of water based polyU. I also use it as a fiberglass for smaller park flyers I think it is 10.00us for a 20foot X 20inch roll

[biggy boy]

Poly Tissue is avaliable through this link www.clcentral.com
This is the stuff that "Tom Morris" sold, my Buddy is now selling it as well as the rest of his stuff. Poly span as some know it and poly tissue as it is now is very much like silkspan but heat shrinkable. it can be glued or doped or polyurithane(SP) on. it will seal up tight and fuel proof with 3 coats of dope @ a 50% or 1 coat of water based polyU. I also use it as a fiberglass for smaller park flyers I think it is 10.00us for a 20foot X 20inch roll

Thanks DHC-2T
That sound perfect :)

Glen

[DHC-2T]

Will work on that shipping issue for the poly tissue. Canada Dose Exist dosent it ???

[biggy boy]

Will work on that shipping issue for the poly tissue. Canada Dose Exist dosent it ???
Sure we do, were just above you :p :D

Glen ;)

[biggy boy]

It is duty free if the declaration slip is filled out properly, what burns me is the inflated brockerage fees UPS charges, plus the GST and PST. By the time you pay for shipping costs you could end up paying an extra 50.00us for your order.

USPS is the best way to ship.

Does anybody know where I can find a solid CF rod .312" (5/16") Dia. x 24"?
Dave
Are you saying we as Canadians do not have to pay GST and PST on
hobby items over $20.00 CDN?
Or are you saying that we do not have to pay duty on Items over $20.00
but still have to pay the GST PST?? I'm confused
Thanks
Glen :)

[pmackenzie]

Duty is different from GST and PST.
With free trade there is no longer any duty on goods from the US, but we still pay tax.
The softwood lumber issue is all about the US imposing a duty on imports.
Duty rates are/were set depending on the type of items being imported.
Before the FTA, if you knew the correct category model plane stuff was duty free, but if you didn't duty was charged.

Does any one else remember having to go down to Union Station to the customs clearing centre to pick up your shipment and pay the duty and taxes owing?

Hope that helps,

Pat MacKenzie

[kawika1kalina]

Hi,
I found the shipping invoices for the two planes I bought from the Southern States.
One was shipped USPS and the other was UPS, they both arrived from 7 to 8 days, USPS parcel arrived at my door on Saturday and the UPS parcel I had to drive to the other side of town to pick up because they only deliver from 9 to 5 weekdays and there was no one home to take delivery, because my wife and I both work Monday to Friday 8:30 to 5:30.

.......................USPS parcel --------------------UPS parcel

item cost ...............52.00.............................. .48.00
shipping cost...........25.00.............................. .45.00
total sale cost.....................77.00.................... ........... 93.00
declared value........(50.00).............................. ...(100.00)
item description....."RC toy"............................"RTF RC 2.5m Sailplane"
brokersge fee...........5.00................................ ...29.00
item GST.................3.64.......................... ..........8.16
brokerage GST............................................... ....2.44
CA COD surcharge......................................... ......4.25
COD GST............................................... ............0.30
disbursement fee............................................... .5.85
Charge at time of delivery for USPS 8.60,,,,,,,,,,,for UPS 50.00
TOTAL shipping costs for USPS 33.64,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,for UPS 95.00

These planes were made in China but there was no duty charged, so go figure.

Have a good day and insist on USPS
Dave

[pmackenzie]

the UPS parcel I had to drive to the other side of town to pick up because they only deliver from 9 to 5 weekdays and there was no one home to take delivery, because my wife and I both work Monday to Friday 8:30 to 5:30.

That is another problem with UPS, but usually you can have the package re-directed to where you work. You just have to phone and ask.
Pat MacKenzie

[biggy boy]

I received my 400XT today from Hobby Lobby, my two Rx's are on back order. Shipping took 3 weeks, kinda long but it was only $2.50 so it's good value if you're not in a hurry. The package did not have a import form stuck to it, nor did it get flagged for any Taxes/Duity. :D :D

The odd thing is that this package looks like it originated in Hobby-Lobby USA but somehow it was mailed from Sweden! Have a look at the picture.

I can only assume they do it this way to reduce shipping costs. Creative!

Leon.

25 days since HL shipped my servos and I still have not received them.
They really should send someone from their company to the post office to have a talk with them about shipping packages to Canada NOT Sweden.
I'm getting stuff from the states as fast as 7 days.

Glen

[biggy boy]

25 days since HL shipped my servos and I still have not received them.
They really should send someone from their company to the post office to have a talk with them about shipping packages to Canada NOT Sweden.
I'm getting stuff from the states as fast as 7 days.

Glen
Here is link to the answer from HL about the shipping to Sweden thing.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5383334&postcount=435

I don't know :confused: I have bought close to one hundred items from the states over the past couple of years and have never had to wait for a month or more for stuff to come.
Three weeks yes but not four. Even the post office told me that customs does not usually hold stuff for more then a week.
Glen

[LLoo]

Ah, that explains it.....but it still make no sense to me.....oh well I can't complain it's cheap shipping.

I've had stuff take over a month to get to me from the US....but that was at Christmas time.

[LLoo]

Looks like Back Yard Flying is gettin ready to close it's doors for good. It's too bad, they have a good online store. Some of the stuff is being discounted now. For example their selling their GWS 4 channel Rx's for $14.99 and a matching crystal for $1.49. I should have held off buying my Rx's from Hobby-Lobby's crash sale from a month ago.

http://www.backyardflying.com/securestore/index.html

Leon.

[mrebman]

Leon:
Thanks but be careful, those GWS R4N apppear to be only for JR/Aitronics (Positive shift). I don't think those will work with Futaba/Hitec Transmitters which are negative shift, is that right? :confused:

P.S. - Great Price though! I love GWS Naro receivers, just wish I had a JR radio instead of a Futaba.

-Mike-

[biggy boy]

Looks like Back Yard Flying is gettin ready to close it's doors for good. It's too bad, they have a good online store. Some of the stuff is being discounted now. For example their selling their GWS 4 channel Rx's for $14.99 and a matching crystal for $1.49. I should have held off buying my Rx's from Hobby-Lobby's crash sale from a month ago.

http://www.backyardflying.com/securestore/index.html

Leon.
Leon did you get your Receivers?
They have not even shipped mine yet (3).
Every week when I phone them they tell me they are comming in this friday
Ive asked three times now, must be a standard script they follow when people call asking about items. It's been what, 5 weeks now?

Glen

[biggy boy]

Leon:
Thanks but be careful, those GWS R4N apppear to be only for JR/Aitronics (Positive shift). I don't think those will work with Futaba/Hitec Transmitters which are negative shift, is that right? :confused:

P.S. - Great Price though! I love GWS Naro receivers, just wish I had a JR radio instead of a Futaba.

-Mike-
I bought some stuff from them on Saturday and they shipped it out the same day :)

Glen

[LLoo]

Good point Mike, I fly Futaba like you.

Glen, I have not received my receivers yet either, I've got two on the way. They'll arrive one day. I actually ordered them because they were a good deal, I don't really need them right now. ;-)

Leon.

[Cracroft]

Hey All,
I'm starting to build what I need to get flying. I went to backyardflying.com because you all have been talking about the deals. I got one of the gws ICS480Li ESC's, a GW/R4N/H JR/AIR 4ch FM Naro Receiver (will I still be able to use this with a 6 channel radio?)& some extra props. Ordered last Wed., arrived today.
I found a JR XP652 Tx on rccanada.ca and pick it up tomorrow. Will be stopping by hobby hobby at the same time to see if they have a SS. Called them and they were unloading a shipment so they weren't sure if they had one or not in the shipment.

Will keep you posted

[Pa0222]

Hi John,

So you decided on brushed. Well let me tell you, after all the hassle with my brushless controller (ended melting) I think is not a bad idea to start brushed. I recommend you the 350 gear D motor that comes with the SS and some 1500-2100 mAh 11.1v lipos. You will not be dissapointed. You could also go 380 but it will be heavier and more difficult to predict specially when learning.
About the radio, you can use any receiver (same shift) with your transmitter but you'll have less channels to play with. You could also have a receiver with more channels than your Tx and that's OK, just empty slots.
Back to the plane. You'll need a wobbly or equivalent metal prop saver (3mm for the 350 or 4mm for the 380). Cut the shaft as short as possible and install the prop saver, this will minimize bending the shaft in the first flight (maybe in the second ;) ).
Take the tail section and put it in the garbage after taking measurements or better yet drawing its shape in a piece of fanfold insulation. That tail is good to nothing. All the control over your plane goes to the tail, that is why you need a strong square yet light tail and the stock foam is just not good enough.
OK, I got too excited. I may have some other tips on SS, just ask me when you get the kit.
Almost forgot: Do not cut your fuse aluminum boom as suggested by the instructions. The plastic piece to hold it back together breaks.

Pedro.

[Cracroft]

Hey Pedro,

I'm glad that I found rcgroups because the suggestions everyone has passed on have really been invaluable.

I decided to go brushed because the SS comes with that motor. I didn't want to buy another motor as of yet. I can wear the first motor out and not be out of any money for it.

When I'm more comfortable with flying then I know at some point it will be brushless.

thanks again for your suggestions it really does help us newbies

[Pa0222]

John,

I'm a newbie myself. I just happen to started 3 years ago with the SS and learned by crashing and slow/wrong building.
I'm tempted to recomend you to get the SS with the bigger 380 motor (400 size, but 380 performance and weight). The 4mm shaft in that gearbox is much more resistant than the 3mm in the 350. The other option is to get the 3mm alumminum shaft at zebra.ca, I don't have it but is highly recomended by them. But maybe you'll crash less than me. Pick your day, wind is the enemy, patience your best friend.
Actually the best motor would be the one your LHS have replacement parts for it. It's very frustrating when you have to wait days for a spur gear or a gearbox case.
I wish I had checked the internet before. RCG/RCC community is great.

Pedro.

[LLoo]

I just noticed Hobby Wholesale has HS-55's (http://www.hobbywholesale.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=669962320399) for $12.99, Canadian! And I thought they were a steal at $14.99.

Great Hobbies (http://www.greathobbies.com/products/productinfo.php?prod_id=HITHS55S) also has them at the same price! Gota love competition.

Leon.

[biggy boy]

I just noticed Hobby Wholesale has HS-55's (http://www.hobbywholesale.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=669962320399) for $12.99, Canadian! And I thought they were a steal at $14.99.

Great Hobbies (http://www.greathobbies.com/products/productinfo.php?prod_id=HITHS55S) also has them at the same price! Gota love competition.

Leon.

Don't forget free shipping for Macc members from Hobby Wholesale!!!

Glen

[Cracroft]

I'm looking for a charger for my JR Radio and wondering if you have any suggestions.I'll need one for batteries for the plane as well I'm sure but should I get a field charger, wall charger or both?

For the field charger would I be using my lighter on my car?

Hopefully it'll be another week for the SS and the build on it will start!

Cheers
John

[LLoo]

John,

I use a field charger at home with a 12 power supply to charge my plane batteries as well as my Tx batteries. I've used a Triton (now sold) and currently use a Field Charger MKII (http://www.hobbico.com/chargers/hcap0290.html) and a Hobbico Accu-Cycle Elite (http://www.hobbico.com/cyclers/hcap0280.html). Any of the above would meet and exceed your proposed uses. I like the Hobbico chargers as they let me charge more than one battery at a time. If you're starting out I'd suggest the Field Charger MKII as it can be purchased for about $60, you just need to find a 12 power supply (an old computer power supply works nicely).

Let me know if you have any questions about these chargers.

Leon.

[Cracroft]

John,

If you're starting out I'd suggest the Field Charger MKII as it can be purchased for about $60, you just need to find a 12 power supply (an old computer power supply works nicely).

Let me know if you have any questions about these chargers.

Leon.

Hey Leon,

You're the second person to mention that charger and I know where I can get the power supply out of an old pc. Do I need to make any mods to the power supply to connect the charger to it?

I just called my LHS and they seem to be getting expensive @ $69.99 for the charger. I'm in Mississauga and everything I've asked about seems to be $5-$10 or better more than everyone else.

Thanks so much for the suggestion

Cheers
John

[ecormier]

http://www.wikihow.com/Convert-a-Computer-ATX-Power-Supply-to-a-Lab-Power-Supply

You'll only need the 12V output. The 5V rail needs a minimum amount of load to regulate properly. That's what the power resistor is used for.

I built mine out of a older AT power supply, which needs an AC switch to turn on. I used a 22Ohm/2W load resistor on the 5V rail and it works fine (WMMV). Instead of banana plugs, I just used one of the 4-wire Molex connectors that came with the supply. I cut the aligator clips off of my MKII Field Charger and soldered a male Molex connector to the wires (which plugs directly into my 12V power supply). I'm going to buy a car lighter plug and will solder a female Molex connector at the other end, so that it too can plug directly into my MKII.

If you don't want to order a power resistor by catalogue, try your local electronics repair shop.

The PC power supply I used was something I picked off a discarded PC on the curb, during spring garbage pickup.

[Pa0222]

Hey guys, there is a sale going on!
Balsa products (www.bphobbies.com) have a sale on Feigao inrunners some of them for $16. It looks like a good deal to me. Enjoy :)
I have no link with balsa, I just get emails from them and I thought of letting you know.

Pedro.