The E-flite Night Timber X 1.2m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL13850) is a popular RC aircraft among model flight enthusiasts that convinces with innovative features, high material quality and versatile flight characteristics. This comprehensive guide provides all relevant information on technical data, customer reviews, practical tests, material quality, flight times, spare parts, target group, assembly, community support, alternative models, price-performance ratio and gives practical tips, tricks and answers to frequently asked questions.
Below is an overview of the most important technical specifications of the model:
Characteristics | Value |
---|---|
Range | 1.206 mm |
Length | 1.054–1.055 mm |
Departure weight | 1.613–1.698 g (with recommended battery 1.810 g) |
Flight battery (recommended) | 3S/4S 2200–3200 mAh LiPo |
Engine (Brushless) | Installed |
Controller (ESC) | Range Avian Smart |
Control | 6 channels, AS3X & SAFE Select |
Servos | Installed |
Aircraft | BNF (Bind-N-Fly); compatible with spectrum |
Flight time (depending on battery) | approx. 5–10 minutes |
LEDs | Full-integrated LED lighting, stroboscopes, landing lights |
Recommended field of application | Outdoor, day & night |
Working time | < 1 hour |
Special features | reverse thrust, smart telemetry, large flaps |
Enthusiasm for night flight and lighting system:
Buyers praise the integrated LED lighting that allows spectacular flights at night. The lighting is individually switchable and ensures optimal visibility – a highlight that lifts the Night Timber X from many other models.
Flight behaviour and tax support:
The combination of AS3X and SAFE Select ensures a very stable flight behaviour that benefits both beginners and experienced pilots. Wenigflieger report on safely operated flights, while professionals value the enormous art flight potential.
Robustness and longevity:
Many users report that the cell and the areas of the model also put smaller crashes away easily – an important plus point for beginners and advanced pilots.
Easy installation:
The assembly is described as fast and without problems. With less than an hour of construction, the model is ready for use quickly.
Use with different batteries:
Experience reports show that both 3S and 4S LiPos can be used, with 4S even much more power and gradient available.
Critical points:
In some cases there are indications of loose plug-in connections in LED lighting or that the landing flaps should be readjusted at work. Such small things can be easily fixed after a short inspection.
Professional magazines and online testers repeatedly praise Night Timber X 1.2m as an all-rounder model that is suitable for sports flyers, 3D pilots and night flights. In the test, the aircraft convinces:
Critically, it is occasionally noted that a modern spectrum transmitter is advantageous for the development of the full potential, since only all Smart Telemetry features can be used.
The model is made of hard-wearing EPO foam, which is both lightweight and resistant. This foam type is known for its impact strength and can be repaired well with minor damage. The rows and flaps are equipped with stable hinges and metal linkages, which allows precise control commands. The LED components are clean and dust-proof integrated into the structure.
The flight time depends essentially on the battery and flight style used:
The change of batteries is quickly done thanks to the large cabin hood.
The gradient power is described by pilots as excellent, especially in conjunction with a 4S battery. The powerful brushless drive ensures impressive vertical manoeuvres and even allows sophisticated art flight figures, such as torquen, urinary or flat spine.
Despite the span of about 1.2 meters, the model is very transport-friendly. The support surfaces are mounted with quick-release fasteners and can be quickly removed for transport. The Timber X can easily find space in the trunk of medium-sized vehicles.
For the E-flite Night Timber X, the most important spare parts and wear parts such as chassis, guides, surfaces, propellers, motor or LED elements are readily available from the relevant specialist dealers. The supply is considered very good as E-flite offers an established brand product and spare parts are usually available in the long term.
The model addresses a wide range of pilots:
The structure is exemplary documented. The guide is illustrated in detail, clearly described and also understandable for beginners. For final assembly, less than 60 minutes are usually required. The components are fit, no additional tools are required. Especially practical: All important components (receiver, drive, servos) are already installed.
An active online community has formed around this plane. In forums, Facebook groups and on YouTube there are numerous construction and flight tips, experience reports as well as individual modifications (e.g. for strengthening the flaps or installing other receivers). Troubleshooting and recommendations for settings are also shared extensively.
To make a sound purchasing decision possible, here typical competitors at a glance:
Model | Range | LED lighting | 3D art flight | Safe technology | Note |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
HobbyZone Carbon Cub S 2 | 1.3 m | No | Limited | Yes | Even more affordable |
FMS Kingfisher V2 | 1.4 m | Optional | Limited | No | Very robust, great float option |
Multiplex FunCub NG | 1.1 m | No | Yes | No | Known all-round model |
Dynam Turbojet Night Fox | 1.2 m | Yes | Yes | No | Significantly cheaper but simpler processed |
E-flin Timber X | 1.2 m | No | Yes | Yes | Without LED lighting |
The Night Timber X Evolution is characterized by the complete LED equipment, modern telemetry and the comprehensive safety package.
Due to its high-quality equipment, the versatile applications and the comprehensive range of functions, the price-performance ratio is considered very good. Models of this class move in the middle to upper price range, but offer a very wide range of applications – from safe entry flight to exciting night-art flight.
Battery choice:
If you want particularly powerful climbing flights or longer flight times, you should test different battery sizes. A 3200 mAh 4S provides longer flight time, a 2200 mAh 4S ensures the best performance weight.
Settings for 3D art flight:
Use the maximum flaps and, if desired, activate Expo and Dual Rate at the transmitter to better control the model in extreme positions.
Optimize LED system:
Check the plug-in connections of the LED system before each flight, as they can be released with frequent surface degradation.
landing flap fine tuning:
The large landing flaps offer short landing distances. Calibration the endpoints cleanly and control the mobility before each flight.
Propeller choice:
Try different air screws (e.g. larger pitch in art flight)! Depending on the flight style, this can change the performance of the model.
Maintenance:
After hard ground contact, the rapid control of suspension, flaps and rowing is recommended. Smaller damage to the EPO can be quickly eliminated with special foam adhesive.
Improvements:
Advanced craftsmen often reinforce the rudder horns or adjust the hinges for even more precise control commands. A reprogrammed ESC (enable brake) can extend the flying experience during sailing.
Which telemetry data are supported?
Thanks to spectrum Avian Smart ESC, the pilot receives data such as battery status, engine speed and power consumption directly on compatible remote controls during the flight.
Can the model be operated on water?
With optional swimmers, the aircraft is also water-startable – ideal for flights by the lake.
How loud is the model?
The aircraft is pleasantly quiet for an electric RC model, which also allows flights in a noise-sensitive environment.
Which spare parts are recommended to order directly?
Practical are replacement propellers, a set of suspension wheels, possibly a further LED module, and small parts for surface fastening.
1. LEDs do not work properly or flicker.
Two. The flaps are jammed after assembly.
3. Model pulls easily to one side in flight.
4. Binding with your own transmitter doesn't work right now.
Five. Flight times shorter than expected.
6. Engine gets hot.
7. Spare parts are not in stock.
The Night Timber X 1.2m with BNF equipment, AS3X technology and fully integrated LED system combines innovation and reliability. Whether day or night, quiet round flight or spectacular 3D deployment – this model offers pilots of all levels of experience a maximum of joy. The sturdy materials, the rapid construction, a very good spare part position and strong community support make this aircraft one of the most versatile and recommended models of its class.
Anyone who places value on quality, versatility and state-of-the-art technology will find an all-round convincing RC model that will inspire for years.
Bind-N-Fly Basic | |
3S,4S | |
Yes | |
Elektrisch | |
41.5 in (1055mm) | |
47.5 in (1200mm) |