E-flite Extra 300 3D 1.3m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL11550)

E-flite Extra 300 3D 1.3m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select: The comprehensive purchasing consultant

For pilots looking for top performance, precise control and spectacular art skills, the Extra 300 model is one of the leading choices in the field of RC aircraft, 1.3 m from E-flite. In this detailed guide, we illuminate all facets of this popular art flight model and offer buyers a deep insight into technology, flight experience, practicality and alternatives.

General technical data and facts

To give you a quick overview of the model, find the most important technical data in the table below.

Customer reviews and practical experiences

The response from the international and German RC community is mostly positive. Particular emphasis is placed on:

• Precise flight behaviour: Many users praise the exact control, high maneuver and the ability to safely complete both classic art flight figures and sophisticated 3D maneuvers. The combination of AS3X stabilisation and SAFE Select provides additional security, while beginners are also carefully approached in advanced flight modes.

• Robust material: The long-lasting EPO foam construction protects the model from greater damage when “harder landings”. Damage to the fuselage or to the surfaces can be easily repaired with commercial adhesives.

• Short assembly time: Experienced model builders report very short installation times. As a rule, 30–60 minutes are sufficient for final assembly, as most of them are already installed at work.

• Reliable technology: Both the brushless motor unit and the reliable digital servos and the innovative receiver with AS3X ensure a long service life with low maintenance costs.

• Spare part supply: If there is something to break, spare parts are usually available quickly via dealers and online shops.

Critical votes

Individual users mimic the high level of manoeuvrability with full failures, which can be overwhelming for absolute beginners. It is therefore recommended to start with reduced failures and help by SAFE Select.

Test results and independent reviews

In relevant model flight journals and online portals, the Extra 300 3D regularly cuts with best notes in 1,3-m format. The testers emphasise that the model offers an exceptional degree of precision and power reserves.

• Flight stability: AS3X technology also provides a calm flight picture in windy conditions. The aircraft remains precisely controllable and provides a safe feeling of flight.

• 3D accuracy: In 3D modes, Torque Rolls, Harrier, Knife Edge and Hovering are easily possible – thanks to the oversized rudder surfaces and the powerful servos.

External landings and crash resistance

The robust design from EPO offers very good protection for hard landings and small crashes. Spare parts are available so that even after an accident the repair is usually uncomplicated.

Material quality in detail

The model consists of high-quality reinforced EPO foam, which is not only very light, but also offers enormous strength. All surface transitions and structural reinforcements are worked cleanly. In the area of the engine suspension and the surface fastening, E-flite sets on additional plastic reinforcements. The digital servos and the components are perfectly fitted, cablings are mostly protected.

Flight times and climbing performance

Flight times

The flight time varies depending on the battery used (e.g. 2200 mAh or 4000 mAh) and flight style:

• Normal art flight: 5–7 minutes (with 2200 mAh)
• Gentle flight and larger batteries: Up to 10 minutes possible
• 3D flight: 3–5 minutes as the maximum engine power is retrieved

Increased power

With a good 4S-LiPo battery, vertical climbing flights from the stand are easily possible. The power weight is high so that even demanding maneuvers such as vertical gradients, “Unlimited Vertical” and “Blenders” can be flown without power breakage.

Transport capacity

The model is designed so that the surfaces can be removed without tools. This makes it easy to fit in most station wagons, limousines or even larger trunks. The compact design and the low weight contribute to the fact that the transport is also easy to handle on its own.

Spare parts supply and repairability

E-flite guarantees comprehensive spare parts supply. Everything is available from surfaces to chassis to individual small parts and electronic components. The modular design allows simple repairs. Especially damage to wing tips or torso can be quickly repaired with some exercise and commercial adhesives (e.g. foam adhesive, second adhesive with activator).

Target group: Who is the model suitable for?

The Extra 300 3D in 1,3-m format is aimed at advanced pilots and experts who want to further expand their art skills or convert them to 3D maneuvers. With SAFE Select, however, the ambitious beginner can take first steps – with caution and supervision of experienced pilots. The model is particularly popular with:

• Advanced semi-trailers
• 3D pilots
• Training purposes for club members
• Model flight instruction

Construction and Guidance

The assembly is done thanks to high pre-production in 30–60 minutes. The guide is clearly structured, richly illustrated and comprehensible. Model builders praise the clear step-by-step documentation that explains both the construction and the commissioning of the electronic components in a comprehensible manner.

Community support and exchange

The e-flite community is very active, both in international forums and on German-speaking platforms. Many pilots provide experience reports, optimization tips and help with problems. There are a number of tutorials and help options for programming remote control or setting up AS3X and SAFE Select. Some clubs even offer special workshops for art flight models like this.

Alternatives to E-flite Extra 300 3D 1.3m BNF Basic

Other manufacturers also have powerful art flight and 3D models on a similar scale. Below is a comparison of the common alternatives:

The E-flite Extra 300 convinces with its high level of detail, maximum control precision and very good availability of spare parts. The alternative models partially point with special features such as Biplane configuration (Mamba 10) or STOL capability (Night Timber X).

Value for money

In the retail trade, the price for the BNF variant with AS3X and SAFE Select ranges from 350–400 euros. In view of the high-quality components, flight performance and stable value retention due to good spare parts supply, the price-performance ratio is to be assessed as very good. Model manufacturers report that comparable models from other manufacturers often do not offer the same precision in the control or the same quality of electronics.

Tips, tricks and optimizations for maximum flight fun

Optimum batteries and focus

A 4S-LiPo battery with at least 3,000 mAh and 30C is recommended for best flight times and dynamics. The focus should be set exactly according to instructions, as this is essential for neutral flight behavior during the art flight.

Dual Council and Expo

Precisely at the transition from classic art flight to 3D, a staggered dual rate/expo programming for rows is recommended to have maximum comfort and control in each flight phase.

Use landing flaps

The pre-installed landing flaps can be programmed in such a way that they greatly slow down the aircraft when landing. This facilitates landings on short slopes.

Improvements by tuning parts

Some pilots replace the standard wheels against slightly larger light wheels in order to better start and land on uneven grass. A particularly popular modification is the installation of propellers with higher efficiency for longer flight times and even more thrust.

Frequent user questions, problems and solutions

Question: How do I correctly adjust the stabilization (AS3X/Safe Select)?
Answer: The receivers are configured from the factory. The SAFE Select function can be switched on and off as required by remote control. During the first flight it is recommended to activate both systems and to switch to AS3X-only only after being used.

Question: My plane is moving slightly to the left. What to do?
Answer: Check the rudder positions and recalibrate them if necessary. A review of the center of gravity and the propeller state is also advisable.

Question: What wear parts should I keep on stock?
Answer: Replacement propellers, suspension brackets, surface securing screws and possibly a set of servos are recommended.

Question: Does the model fit into a middle class car?
Answer: Yes, thanks to removable surfaces, the model can be easily transported in most vehicles.

Question: Are there any support for defects?
Answer: E-flite has a well-structured service network and many dealers also offer competent support.

What could a buyer be interested in?

In addition to the technical features and flight services, the community is also a decisive value: There are numerous club meetings, competitions and flight days where the Extra 300 is regularly represented. Special design films and tuning options allow individual customization to their own style. The high model loyalty in the look of the famous art aerial aircraft also ensures enthusiastic views of the airfield.

Conclusion: Who is the ideal model for?

The E-flite Extra 300 3D 1.3m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select is a sophisticated flight model with enormous potential for advanced and professional pilots. The combination of simple handling, maximum performance and high robustness makes this model one of the top products in its class. Those who value permanent spare parts, extensive community support and innovative technology will enjoy the Extra 300 for a long time.

Whether for dynamic art flights, challenging 3D figures or simply for extended evening flights – this aircraft meets high demands and sets standards in the RC area.