E-flite A-10 Thunderbolt II 64mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL01150)

Detailed guide: E-flite A-10 Thunderbolt II 64mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL01150)

The E-flite A-10 Thunderbolt II 64mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL01150) is a highly developed model aircraft aimed at model flight enthusiasts looking for an exceptional flight experience. This article provides a comprehensive overview of buyers and answers all important questions about technology, flight experience, quality, operation and alternatives.

Technical data and facts

Customer reviews and experiences

Flight model builders and RC pilots are largely in agreement in their opinion: The model is considered one of the best and easiest to fly A-10 jets in its category. Many users praise the excellent stabilisation by AS3X and SAFE Select, which also allows beginners in the field of jet aircraft to quickly experience success.

Positive highlighted:

• The excellent flight stability, especially in slow flight and when starting.
• the enormous power reserve; the model effortlessly manages vertical climbs and rapid overheads.
• The high-quality optics with realistic details such as mountable outdoor tanks and rockets.
• The suspension also allows start-ups and landings on short grasses, which offers flexibility in use.

Critical points:

• Some users want longer flight times, especially in sporty flight style, time drops to less than five minutes.
• The overall construction instructions are considered good but not perfect; individual steps could be more detailed for beginners.
• Some report individual problems with the electric retracts at very rough slopes.

Test results

In independent tests, the E-flite A-10 convinces in particular by:

• A wide range of speeds: from slow, scale-scattered flyover to high-speed solutions with over 170 km/h.
• Precise control capability, including roles and loopings.
• Electronic support: AS3X actively stabilizes the model against wind and turbulence, SAFE Select helps in the flight situation if pilots lose orientation.
• Handling on the ground, especially when starting and landing, benefits from the robust, spring-mounted chassis.

Test pilots confirm the plant value for climbing performance and are looking forward to “unlimited vertical flights” as otherwise only possible with larger and more expensive Impeller models.

Material and processing quality

The model consists of specially dense, shaped EPO foam. This offers:

• High resistance to minor crashes and hard landings.
• Longevity and dimensional stability, even after frequent use.
• The tarn coating applied from the factory is UV-resistant and resists light impacts and scratches.

The installed components – in particular the digital servos, ball head linkages and the electric chassis – are described as precise and durable.

Flight times

The flight time of the model depends significantly on the battery and flight style used. With a 6S-4000mAh LiPo you can reach around 5 to 7 minutes in the “mixed operation” (soft cruise, some climbing flights, landings). If the model is flying athletic, the time is reduced to about 4 minutes. The efficient drive and the aerodynamically optimized design bring out the maximum from any battery charge.

Increased power and speed

The A-10 by E-flite impresses with real “unlimited climbing performance”: With full gas, the model disappears almost vertically from the field of view. The two 64mm emitters accelerate the jet in a matter of seconds, so that even dynamically flew figures and fast overtime are no problem. The maximum speed is specified in a horizontal flight with up to 110 mph (approximately 177 km/h) – values that protrude in the 64mm class.

Transport capacity

Despite the fair size, E-flite attaches importance to practicality during transport. The wing can be disassembled with a handle and is connected to a plug system without a cable salad. This significantly shortens up and downtime and facilitates transport in the trunk. Removable additional tanks and ordnance further reduce the width, allowing models to fit up to the golf class in many cars.

Spare parts supply

E-flite is known for a very good spare part supply. The following parts are readily available for A-10:

• Impeller, motors, regulators, surfaces, guides, chassis parts, linkages and decorative arches.
• Spare parts are available via numerous dealers and online shops, often including explosion drawings for easy assignment.
• Many pilots report that repairs are possible even after harder landings with EPO adhesive, which further increases longevity.

Target group

The E-flite A-10 is suitable for:

• Model pilots with first jet experiences looking for an uncomplicated entry into the Twin-EDF class.
• Advanced pilots who value scale optics and high flight performance.
• Lovers of military role models as well as technology fans who want to take advantage of AS3X and SAFE.

Thanks to electronic flight stabilization, the model is also suitable for ambitious changers from the propeller area. However, beginners in the RC flight are best advised to gain experience with slower aircraft before the first flight.

Construction and Guidance

The structure is prefabricated to the greatest extent. In a few steps, the model is ready for flight:

• The hull, surfaces and height guide are plugged and screwed.
• Chassis and armoring are mounted quickly.
• The guide is clearly illustrated, but oriented to advanced pilots.

Experienced model builders need about 30–60 minutes to first flight. Beginners should plan one to two hours for careful construction and control.

Community support

The model enjoys a big fan community:

• Online forums and Facebook groups offer help and exchange on tips and tricks.
• Video tutorials help build, repair and setup AS3X/SAFE.
• Many pilots upload flight videos and discuss improvements or modifications.

Exchange with experienced model builders is a valuable resource for less experienced pilots.

Alternative products of competitors

The market for 64mm-EDF jets offers some alternatives, but the combination of twin drive, scale details and electronic stabilization is rarely comparable. Here are the most important competitors at a glance:

The E-flite A-10 convinces with the combination of simple flight characteristics, scale optics, AS3X, SAFE and tested service. It is especially interesting for pilots who place value on the best round package.

Value for money

Despite the premium price, the aircraft offers excellent value for money. Beginners in the Twin-EDF class receive a technically and optically mature model with high reliability and enormous performance. The long availability of spare parts as well as support by the community will further increase the useful value.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

1. Choose batteries correctly:
A 4000mAh 6S-LiPo ensures longest flight times, a 3200mAh pack saves weight and makes the model more splashy. Fly both variants to find your own favorites.

Two. Priority:
The factory-recommended center of gravity works well, but slight forward shifts make the first flight even more foolproof – especially for stronger winds.

3. Handle the chassis:
Land If possible, always on flat surfaces that are as flat as possible and avoid coarse ballasts to protect the retractor. Who often starts on lawn pays attention to a well-stretched background.

4. Further development:
Anyone who controls the model can further optimize the performance using telemetry, monitor telemetry values and thus achieve even longer flight times or more safety.

Five. Upgrade scale optics:
Retrospective aging with airbrush, attaching decals or cockpit interiors provide more realism.

Questions and problems – solutions and answers

Frequent user questions:

• Why does the model run slightly to the left or right after the start?
  In most cases, the reason is not exactly straight mounting of the suspension, or the center of gravity is slightly offset. Check the wheel setting and balance the battery.

• How do I use AS3X and SAFE Select optimally?
  SAFE Select can be activated or disabled by pressing a button. For the first flight it is recommended to use SAFE Select. Experienced pilots turn on AS3X-only to enjoy maximum manoeuvre.

• What to do when landing on grass if the suspension doesn't want to go in?
  Check dirt or small stones in the suspension mechanism. The electrical retracts generally operate very reliably, but benefit from occasional cleaning and lubrication.

• How do I achieve the optimal flight time?
  Before the first flight you should set a timer and target landing at about 30% residual capacity. After some flights you have quickly found the optimal timing for your flight style.

• Are there any weaknesses in processing?
  Individual pilots reported loose connections after several flights. These can be tightened with screw securing.

What buyers are interested in

• Upgrades: For even more power, retrofitting impellers with higher efficiency or even aluminum chassis parts are suitable.
• Finishing: The “Flipper” clothing is already attached at work, but can be further refined individually.
• Bind and Fly: No expensive additional receivers are required – the model is immediately operational with many popular spectrum transmitters.
• Realism: The mobility of the flaps and the sound experience of the two Impellers ensure real jet feeling.

Conclusion

The E-flite A-10 Thunderbolt II 64mm EDF Jet BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL01150) is an almost perfect bind and fly model for jet beginners and advanced RC pilots. It offers an impressive combination of scale optics, flight performance, electronic support and practicality. The high material quality, easy handling and large community support complete the entire package.

Anyone looking for a powerful, detailed and easy to fly Twin-EDF-Jet will find one of the best offers in the current model flight market.