The ultimate guide for the E-flite Valiant 1.3m BNF Basic - Electro-RC Pilot

A model is particularly striking in the fascinating world of remote-controlled flight models: the E-flite Valiant 1.3m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL4950). This high-quality electric flight model has become a name for model flyers of different levels of experience. In this detailed article we illuminate all aspects of this popular RC aircraft - from technical specifications to customer experience to helpful tips for optimizations and improvements.

Specifications and specifications of Valiant 1.3m

The Valiant Electric Flyer impresses with its sophisticated design and modern technology. Here the most important technical data at a glance:

The "BNF Basic" concept (Bind-N-Fly) means that the model is already delivered preassembled and only a compatible transmitter, battery and charger are required to start the flight pleasure.

Customer Experiences and Reviews: What Pilots Report About Valiant

The E-flite Valiant with AS3X and SAFE technology enjoys an excellent reputation among model flying enthusiasts. Numerous customers report consistently positive experiences with this electric pilot.

Flight behaviour and stability

The balanced flight behaviour is particularly often praised. Thanks to AS3X technology (Artificial Stabilization - 3-Axis), the model remains surprisingly stable in the air even in windy conditions. A customer describes this as "as if you would fly on rails" - a property that especially appreciate beginners and newcomers.

The SAFE Select function (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) also allows you to select different stabilization levels:

• Extreme flight maneuvers are automatically prevented in entry mode
• The medium mode allows more freedom with simultaneous security
• The expert mode gives full control for art flight and challenging maneuver

Many users report that they made faster progress in learning the RC fly thanks to this system.

Material quality and robustness

The processing of the EPO foam material is generally described as high quality. A customer reports: "Trotz multiple hard landings and smaller crashes keeps the Valiant amazingly good - small damage can be repaired quickly with second glue."

The reinforced areas at particularly stressed areas such as suspension and support surface connection contribute to longevity. Several users report over 100 flights without significant damage.

Extensive test results and performance characteristics

In numerous tests the Valiant was able to convince 1.3m. Here are the most important findings:

Flight performance in detail

The gradient is described as impressive. With a fully charged 3S battery, the model quickly reaches flight altitude and offers enough power reserves for vertical climbing flights. With a 4S battery (used occasionally by advanced pilots), the performance is significantly increased.

Flight times vary depending on the battery used and flight style:

• With a 3S 1800mAh battery: approx. 8-10 minutes
• With a 3S 2200mAh battery: approx. 10-12 minutes
• With economical flight and optimal conditions, up to 15 minutes are possible

Starting and landing properties

The good-natured starting and landing properties of the model are particularly praised. The reinforced suspension makes it easy to start fixed slopes. The optional wings also improve the short-start and landing properties (STOL - Short Take-Off and Landing).

For hand-starts you need a little exercise due to moderate weight, but also beginners master this after a few attempts.

Transportability and practical aspects

The transport of the Valiant aircraft is surprisingly simple due to the removable support surface and the removable height guide. Although the model with 1.3m span has a considerable size, it fits easily into the trunk of a small car.

Several customers report that they use special transport bags for RC aircraft, which additionally increases protection. A pilot reports: "I regularly transport my Valiant in the disassembled state and, despite frequent assembly and disassembly, did not find any problems with the connecting points."

Spare parts supply and long-term support

An important aspect of RC aircraft is the availability of spare parts. Here the E-flite Valiant can score 1.3m: As part of the Horizon Hobby portfolio, spare parts are well available. Especially frequently asked parts such as:

• Propeller
• Chassis components
• Servos
• Surfaces
• Engine components

are available from numerous specialist dealers and online shops. The long-term supply seems secured as the model is one of the more popular mid-segment planes and is already on the market for several years.

Target group: Who is this RC flyer suitable for?

The Valiant with its 1.3 meter span addresses a wide audience:

Perfect for beginners

Thanks to SAFE technology, the model is ideal for pilots who have already collected first RC experiences and now want to switch to a "right" flight model. Stabilization functions provide safety, but can also be gradually reduced to improve the ability to fly.

Restarters will find a reliable companion

Model builders who return to the hobby after a break value the combination of modern auxiliary systems and classic flight behavior.

Versatile model for advanced pilots

Experienced pilots can also find a versatile flyer in Valiant for relaxed evening flights. The well-tuned aerodynamics also allows more demanding flight maneuvers.

Installation and installation: Quick start-clear

The assembly time of the preassembled model is less than one hour. The main steps include:

1. Attaching the supporting surfaces to the fuselage
2. Mounting of the height control unit
3. Installation of the battery
4. Binding with the transmitter
5. Adjustment of the focal point

The included instructions are described as understandable and well illustrated. The detailed information on the correct focus position and the rudder deflections for different flight phases are particularly helpful.

Community support and exchange of experience

An active community has formed around the electric flyer. In numerous forums and on video platforms you will find experience reports, tuning tips and help with problems. Especially for beginners, this community support is valuable as many typical first flight problems are already documented and solutions are shown.

Popular topics in the community are:

• Optimum battery recommendations
• Settings for different flight styles
• Possible upgrades and modifications
• Tips for flight maneuver

Alternative models compared

How does the E-flite Valiant position compared to similar models? Here is a look at the most important alternatives:

Hobbyzone Apprentice S 2 1.2m

The Apprentice S 2 is slightly smaller at 1.2m than the Valiant and is even more focused on absolute beginners. It also has SAFE technology, but is less suitable for art flight. It is priced in a similar area, but offers a little less "growth potential" for progressive pilots.

E-flite Turbo Timber Evolution 1.5m

The Turbo Timber is designed with 1.5m span larger than the Valiant and as a STOL aircraft (Short Take-Off and Landing). It offers more performance and versatility, but is also a bit more challenging to fly and is higher priced. Especially interesting: The Timber can optionally be equipped with floats.

Comparison table of alternatives

Value for money and investment

The E-flite Valiant with AS3X and SAFE Select is positioned in the middle price segment of the electric-RC aircraft. Important to note: A compatible transmitter, battery and charger are additionally required as the BNF basic variant, which should be taken into account in the overall calculation.

Total investment consists of:

• Basic model (BNF Basic)
• Transmitter (if not present)
• 2-3 flight batteries for longer flight sessions
• Charger
• Possibly transport bag and accessories

Compared to cheaper entry-level models, Valiant offers significantly more quality, longevity and "growth potential" for the development of its own flight skills. Most customers therefore describe the investment as rewarding and sustainable.

Tips, tricks and optimizations for the Valiant electric pilot

After numerous flight experiences, some valuable tips have emerged for owners of the Valiant 1.3m:

Battery optimization

Choosing the right battery has a great influence on flight performance:

• A 3S 1800mAh LiPo is available for quiet flights
• For more performance, experienced pilots recommend a 3S 2200mAh
• Advanced experiment with 4S batteries for maximum power (respect for engine load)

The correct center of gravity is important, which can be fine-tuned by the battery positioning.

Customize row settings

The factory settings of the rudder rudder rudders are deliberately conservative. With increasing experience you can:

• Programming larger outputs for more agility
• Use exponential settings on the transmitter for more sensitive control
• Set up various flight phases with different rudder rudders

Start Improvements

Expert pilots recommend:

• At handstarts: Bring flyers slightly inclined downwards into the starting position
• At roll-starts: give some high-level rudder to raise the nose easily
• Gently give gas and do not go abruptly to full gas

Land improvement

For gentle landings helps:

• Choose a long, flat approach
• Use the landing flaps to reduce the sinking speed
• Let the model slide out with slightly increased engine power
• Take away gas shortly before putting on and gently catch

Frequent questions and problems - with solutions

New owners of the E-flite Valiant 1.3m often ask similar questions or report on comparable challenges. Here the most important with practical solutions:

"My Valiant tends to oversteer. What can I do?"

This problem often occurs with too aggressive control. Solutions:

• Reducing Dual Rats
• Increase exponential values (typically 30-40%)
• Activate SAFE Mode for More Stability
• Checking and correcting priorities

"After the binding, the model does not react as expected"

Typical causes and solutions:

• Check servo-reverse settings
• Program Failsafe
• Repeat binding process and follow instructions carefully
• Control battery voltage

"The flight time seems too short"

For longer flight times it is recommended:

• Larger batteries within recommended specifications
• Efficient flight style (less full gas, more sliding)
• Check for unnecessary resistances or misalignments
• Preheat batteries in cold weather

"The model moves to one side"

This frequent challenge can have several causes:

• Adjust Trimming at the transmitter
• Check mechanical centering of the rudder
• Testing servos for correct function
• Investigating propellers for damage
• calibrating AS3X system

"How can I optimize the model for art flight?"

For more demanding maneuvers, experienced pilots recommend:

• Turn off SAFE and trust in AS3X only
• Increase rudder beats for more agility
• Easy to move backwards (with caution!)
• Upgrade to a more powerful battery

Maintenance and care for long service life

To enjoy the Valiant plane for a long time, some maintenance routines should be observed:

1. Check the model for damage after every day of flight
2. Never store batteries in the model
3. Regularly control the screw connections and optionally provided with screw lock
4. Check servos for wear phenomena
5. Check engine and regulators for overheating tracks
6. Choose an acid-free protective environment when stored
7. Inspect and replace propellers after damage

With this consistent care, many pilots report on multiannual life without major problems.

Conclusion: A versatile RC electric trailer for different requirements

The E-flite Valiant 1.3m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFL4950) proves to be a well-thought and balanced model that closes the gap between beginners and advanced players. The combination of good-natured flight characteristics and growth potential for more demanding maneuvers makes it a versatile companion for various pilots.

High-quality processing, good spare parts supply and active community support complete the positive overall picture. While absolute RC newcomers might start with an even simpler model and art flight enthusiasts will look for even more agile planes, the Valiant will meet the right midway between stability and agility for a broad audience, between entry-level and performance.

If you are looking for a reliable, versatile and long-lasting electric pilot who is still enjoying for a long time, you will find a worthy candidate in Valiant, who justifies his price through quality and performance.