Hiller vs Bell

[maccor]

Hello, I'm new to this forum and to helicopters. I'm located in central Kentucky in the United States and am interested in pursuing my private helicopter license in one to two years. My question is this, which would be better to purchase for training, a Hiller 12c or Bell 47 G (one with the wooden rotors)? I know the Robinson R22 is frequently used now but I not really interested in it. Thanks for any words of advice. Tom

[adam32]

I'll sell ya a 12c...

[maccor]

Thank you for your offer. I'm not quite ready to buy yet, but tell me about your helicopter. How does flying a Hiller compare to others you have flown? Thanks, Tom

[adam32]

I've only flown R22's and a 300 for a little bit. But the Hiller is much more stable and autos like a dream compared to a Robbie. The throttle takes a little gettin used to if you usually fly a Robbie, but after a few hours its not that big of deal... Mine can be seen at www.asahelicopter.com

[maccor]

I visited your web site. Nice looking Hiller. It looks as though I'm going to need to train in a R22 and get my license prior to considering purchase (according to insurance agent). Perhaps after that I can transition to a Hiller. Tom

[adam32]

Ummm...nope no reason to have to start in an R22...Why did your insurance say that??

[maccor]

I probably wrote that poorly. The insurance agent discouraged me from trying to insurance my own helicopter (if I bought one) as a 0 hour student. There are not any instructors around here that teach in a Hiller or Bell 47, only a R22. So my plan is to get my license in the Robinson, build some hours, and then buy a Hiller or Bell. I hope that makes more sense than my last posting. Tom

[maccor]

Whoops, meant to write insure my own helicopter, not "insurance" it. Tom

[adam32]

Thats kinda true, most likely even as a 50hr Robbie pilot, your insurance will still want 25hrs of instruction in the Hiller...thats what mine said anyway. So you could find a CFI and have him put 5-10hrs in your Hiller then start flying and by the time you are ready to solo you can since you have the required 25hrs...

[maccor]

Good idea. I'll keep looking for a CFI around here for a Hiller. But in the meantime will probably start some studies in the Robinson will my wife is accepting of the idea.Tom

[maccor]

ok, meant to say while my wife is accepting of idea. Tom

[adam32]

Sounds good, let me know when you wanna buy mine

[maccor]

Thank you Adam. If you get a chance, please send some pictures, details, and price of your Hiller to my email at mcco6835@bellsouth.net. Thank you, Tom