Junior aviators will enjoy flying the Air Hogs Switchblade, a unique remote-control plane that hovers like a UFO and flies like a jet. Designed for ages ten and older, this marvel-of-the-skies transforms in midair with the push of a "morph" button that propels it forward from a hovering position with incredible velocity. Ideal for play in a neighborhood park or spacious backyard, kids can put on a show with this remote control plane.
The Switchblade can hover in mid-air and then transform to fly like a jet. View larger. |
Plug the charge nozzle into the plane's charge port and the plane will be ready to fly in 30 minutes. View larger. |
Prepare for Take-Off With a 17-inch wingspan, durable polyfoam construction, and black-and-yellow designs, this remote-control plane can hover in mid-air and then transform to fly like a jet. The remote control features a throttle, direction toggle, trim knob, and "morph" button, making it easy for junior aviators to pilot the Switchblade from up to 300 feet (91 meters) away.
Before take-off, adults should install the controller/charger's eight "AA" batteries (not included), then plug the charge nozzle into the plane's charge port. In approximately 30 minutes, a flashing green light on the controller, indicates the plane is ready. First-time pilots then adjust the controller's trim knob to make the plane hover, rather than spin.
Take to the Skies like a UFO The Switchblade is ideal for use in a neighborhood park or spacious backyard. Pilots can position the plane on the included launch base for take-off, or simply release it by hand. Arrows on the plane's body show what direction to rotate the plane's wings so that the propellers are facing opposite directions. When the trim is properly adjusted, the plane will ascend with ease.
Fly with the Stealth of a Jet Plane The plane's steady ascension is a marvel to watch, but it hardly compares to the sudden midair transformation that takes place at the touch of the "morph" button. Instantly, the plane shoots forward with remarkable speed. From there, it's up to you to steer it safely.
The Switchblade should be piloted over grassy areas in temperatures of 45 degrees Fahrenheit or above for safe flying and optimal performance. In the event of an accidental air collision or landing mishap, a piece of tape is usually sufficient for repair.
The plane also comes with four replacement propellers which should be installed with adult supervision.
Included with this Product Switchblade remote-control plane (Black & Yellow), controller/charger, controller antenna, launch base, wind speed/direction ribbon, four spare propellers, and instruction manual.
Reader Reviews
So, I have gotten my son almost every air hog there is and all the flying ones stink. This is the first one that actually flies somewhat decently, however, we had to go play with it on a football field. You need a lot of room.....I mean A LOT of room. First let me say that I found this to be very durable. This dropped easily 50 feet into the hard dirt many times and it still works (they do give you extra parts). If you are unfortunate enough to break the styrofoam, you are done. I was unable to get a launch with the launch holder but was very successful with a manual launch. A word of caution here: although it is styrofoam, beware, this is a dangerous toy. The props are quite strong and caught the inside of my palm that almost gave me a two inch cut. Though it did not break the skin, my hands are fairly tough, and I believe it would have easily cut through softer skin, especially a childs. I would keep children close and behind you in case you need to deflect it. Some words of advice for an easier launch, send it up in a twist (it's actually fun to let it climb and try to make it hover) then press the mode button when it is at least 30 feet up and then practice steering. Try to find a big field, because it will hit the hardest when it is in flying mode (versus the twisting helicopter type mode). I don't know how easy it would be for a 10 year old, as I had to take a lot of time to get even basic controls working. The worst part is that once you get fairly comfortable the battery dies out and you need to recharge it. That's frustrating. Those are all worth a total deduction of 2 stars. Still, it is fun, and your kids will love it (if they can get it out of your hands). Do not use this in windy conditions as the wind will just take it away or send it crashing down. Use it in a field to help avoid a catastrophic crash. Send it up spinning and practice with that first so that you are comfortable with the controls. I think this one will actually work well with enough practice and adjusting the trim. I was not impressed with the "carrying case," which turns out to be the box it came in with a cardoard handle. Most of these are completely useless. This one actually does what it says, and with some patience, you should be able to have some fun (but you will also spend some time going after it to pick it up).
