F.A.Q

Why should I join a club?

you do not have to join a club of course but there are numerous advantages if you do. Firstly, you are meeting with people of a common interest. In this, it provides a forum for discussion and exchange of ideas. Secondly, it provides a wealth of experience on which to draw in order to enjoy the hobby to the full. If you have a problem there is always someone to ask and help sort it out. Thirdly, it provides a source for building local, national and international friendships. Whether you like exhibiting, racing or sailing for relaxation, the club provides opportunities for all. Fourthly, it provides a safe, structured environment in which to enjoy the hobby. You are insured against third party risks whilst sailing (though to date there have been no claims!). Finally, (there are more advantages but it gets boring reading), its fun .

What sort of boats do you build?

Anything. We have submarines, DUKW's, lifeboats, tugs by the score, barges, fast boats, slow boats, big boats,

small boats - ad infinitum.

Does everyone build boats in your club?

No. You do not have to be an experienced modeller to be a member. Some members buy ready to sail (RTS) boats or almost ready to sail (ARS) in which there are some minor works to complete, generally sticking flash bits on (decals and things). Kits are now quite popular where everything is provided to build the model. There are, of course, also the 'scratch build' modellers who try and make everything themselves. So a definite mixture of modellers and abilities .

How do you control the boats?

Normally, most model boats are radio controlled. This means there is a transmitter (TX) that the modeller uses to pass commands to the boat. The boat has a receiver (Rx) that decodes the commands for the various functions required, e.g.. forward/reverse, left/right. Each function is generally known as a 'channel', hence the forward/reverse and left/right would operate on a two channel system. An important aspect of radio control is the set of matching crystals that the TX and Rx require to operate. These are colour coded and identify the wavelength the model is operating on. The club use only the nationally recognised wavelengths for model boats of 27MHz, 40MHz.or 2.4 ghz. We operates a 'pegboard system' during sailing in which only one person will be using any one of the designated frequencies. This prevents interference, with possible dire consequences, if two models are running on the same wavelength.

Do I need to know a lot about electrics and radio and things?

Obviously it would be useful if you are aware of the workings of radio control and various power sources of boats but it is not essential. There is always someone in the club who will help (it's that advantage of being in a club thing again).

I bet the boats and things cost a lot of money!

As with most hobbies, you can spend as little or as much as you want. With an initial outlay of £100 you would probably get a lively little boat to try on the pond. Often there are second hand boats (Ebay or Model shops) that can be acquired and for the scratch builder, costs can be spread over the period of build (buy as you build). So there is something for everyone's pocket.

How do I join a model Boat club?

Well, you are well on the way now so just click here for application form.