The world of RC model flight has been thrilling young and old for decades. A very special model that currently focuses on many model flight enthusiasts is the E-flite Commander mPd 1.4m PNP (EFL4875). In this detailed guide you will learn everything you need to know before buying: from technical data, customer reviews, tips, tricks and frequent questions. So you can decide whether this model is the right one for you.
Characteristics | Data |
---|---|
Range | 1,400 mm |
Length | approx. 1.057 mm |
Weight (ready for flight) | ca. 1,600 - 1,650 g |
Material | Light, high-strength EPO foam |
Drive | Brushless outer runner, 15BL 870Kv |
Controller | 40A Brushless |
Servos | 4x 9g Digital-Servos (built) |
Recipient type (for PNP) | Not included (receiver must be bought separately) |
Battery recommendation | 3S 2200-3200mAh LiPo |
Flight time | 6-10 minutes (depending on battery and flight style) |
Control functions | Height, side, crosshead, motor |
Scope | Ready-to-air model (ready assembled, PNP), instructions |
Difficulty | Advanced and Experts |
Feedback from users to the E-flite Commander mPd 1.4m PNP (EFL4875) is mostly positive. Particularly praised are the balanced flight behavior, the high-quality processing and the appealing retro design. Many users report that the model is flying excellently at work without rework and has a very good, yet agile flight image.
A review highlights:
"The assembly was uncomplicated, the instruction was well understandable. The first flight was without any problems – a great flight experience with a good mix of stability and maneuverability."
Further advantages from the user experiences:
Despite the overwhelmingly positive votes, there are also some indications of possibilities for improvement, such as the standard wheels that can be too small for uneven grass pistes. Here some users have upgraded larger chassis.
The specialist press, as well as numerous reports of experience, certify the Commander an outstanding flight picture. The model is particularly convincing:
A test report also highlights that the model is very clean and the electronic components work reliably. The PNP version allows a fast setup without much weight.
High-strength EPO foam is used for the Commander, which is light and yet very resistant. The material absorbs small remplers or hard landings well and is easy to repair in case of damage. The lacquering and the stickers are high quality and are durable. The plug-in connections of the support surfaces are cleanly processed and provide a high torsional stiffness.
Even after several flights, users hardly report material fatigue. Only the undercarriage should be checked regularly after continuous flights on grass pistes. Here, a reinforcement with some epoxy resin can be useful.
With a 3S 2200mAh LiPo battery, flight times of about 7 minutes can be reached in mixed flight style. Those who upgrade to 3S 3200mAh and fly moderately can stay in the air for up to 10 minutes. Art flight takes the battery stronger and shortens the time accordingly.
Tip: A battery with at least 30C discharge rate ensures sufficient power and also protects the drive.
The built-in Brushless engine ensures more than sufficient climbing performance, which also predestines the Commander for ambitious climbing flights and over flights. A vertical gradient is well possible with the recommended battery, unless the model is excessively difficult. Overall, the motorization is rated as very powerful for the model size.
The surfaces can be removed with few handles, which significantly facilitates the transport of the model. Thus, the pilot fits easily into the trunk of a middle class car. The hull is compact and slightly sensitive to impacts. Those who often swing to the airfield will appreciate this property.
E-flite is known for its good spare parts supply. For the Commander mPd 1.4m, virtually all important components are available individually:
If you place value on long-term maintenance or repair, this model is on the safe side. Many dealers guide the spare parts permanently in the assortment.
The model is aimed primarily at advanced pilots who already safely master the control of a cross-ruder model. Also re-enterers will find a perfect partner in the Commander to find a hobby after a long break.
For absolute beginners, the commander is only recommended with flight instructors, as the model unfolds its full agility and speed and requires basic knowledge in taxes.
The installation time is limited to about 30-45 minutes thanks to the PNP version.
As used by E-flite, the accompanying guide is very understandable and equipped with meaningful pictures. Even without knowledge of English, the assembly is well understandable.
Note: The model is not RTR (Ready-to-Run), a suitable receiver and a transmitter are required.
The e-flite commander enjoys a growing community. Many forum posts, YouTube videos and Facebook groups deal with tips and tricks on this model. Particularly in the case of questions about the choice of the optimal battery, for fine tuning or for repairs, you can quickly find advice and assistance.
Adaptations such as reinforcements for the chassis or individual paintings are also popular – the imagination is not limited here.
Those interested in the Commander often look around similar models. Here is an overview of popular alternatives:
The Commander scores against many alternatives with a particularly elegant appearance and a unique feeling of flight, which is located between scaling flight and art flight.
Compared to other PNP models on the market, the Commander offers a very good equipment at a fair price. The high construction quality, the factory-built digital servos and the powerful drive ensure a coherent overall package. Due to the robust design and the availability of spare parts, the model is also a rewarding acquisition in the long term.
A 3S 3200mAh battery fits perfectly into the fuselage and ensures balanced flight characteristics. The recommended focus (approximately 65-70 mm from the front edge of the wing) should be set exactly to take advantage of the full potential.
Those who often start on uneven grass pistes should think about a small reinforcement or upgrade of the suspension wheels. High-quality foam wheels with a slightly larger diameter facilitate rolling and prevent sticking in the grass.
The rudder paths are ideal for relaxed flying. For art flight, it is recommended to increase the Expo values at the transmitter and to adjust the outputs easily.
A strip of transparent adhesive tape (tape) on the bottom of the hull protects the paint from unaffected landings on hard slopes.
If you want to give a personal touch to the Commander, you can get creative with modelling lacquer or stickers – the EPO foam can be painted well.
Experienced crafters like to equip the model with LED lighting or a simple FPV camera, which allows a completely new flight experience.
The E-flite Commander mPd 1.4m PNP is an exceptional RC flight model and enthuses pilots with its unique mix of classic look, modern technology and impressive flight performance. Especially advanced pilots and newcomers will appreciate the balanced flight behaviour. Thanks to the sophisticated design, high-quality components and excellent spare parts supply, the Commander is a rewarding investment for many years of flight fun.
If you are looking for a reliable, versatile, yet uncomplicated model, you should definitely get closer to the E-flite Commander mPd.
Note: Please note that this article serves only for information purposes and all tips and optimizations are based on community experiences. Before implementing modifications, the warranty conditions of the manufacturer should be checked.
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