Volantex P51D Mustang Maiden Flight Review: 2S vs. 3S Test

By Mitch Cooper

Hey RC enthusiasts! Mitch Cooper here from Mitch Cooper RC, where we dive into all things remote-controlled planes. Today, I’m thrilled to share my hands-on review of the Volantex P51D Mustang – a 500mm wingspan warbird that’s been buzzing in the RC community. I put this little beauty through its paces with both 2S and 3S batteries, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer for pilots of all skill levels. Let’s get into it!

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First Impressions: Unboxing and Setup

Right out of the box, the P51D Mustang stole my heart. Its sleek design, retractable landing gear, and detailed scale features make it look like a true warbird. The build quality feels sturdy for its size, and the brushless motor setup promises smooth, quiet flights (spoiler: it delivers!).

Setting up was a breeze. The battery compartment is spacious enough to fit both 2S 400mAh and 3S 400mAh packs without fuss. Pro tip: Volantex recommends plugging in the plane before turning on the transmitter, which is a slight shift from traditional BNF setups but works seamlessly.

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Maiden Flight on 2S: Beginner-Friendly Perfection

I kicked off the maiden flight with the 2S battery and the landing gear attached. Here’s the breakdown:

• Takeoff: Ground takeoffs were smooth, even with a bit of wind. The plane lifted effortlessly, and the SAFE mode (beginner mode) kept things stable.

• Handling: The controls felt responsive but not overly twitchy. That said, the elevator throws are slightly limited in SAFE mode, which I actually loved for new pilots – it prevents overcorrections.

• Wind Performance: Despite gusts, the P51D held its line. It’s quiet (seriously, whisper-quiet!) and cruises comfortably at half throttle.

• Flight Time: I clocked 8-10 minutes on 2S, which is fantastic for a plane this size.

Beginner Takeaway: If you’re new to RC planes, the 2S setup in SAFE mode is a confidence booster. It forgives mistakes and keeps you airborne with minimal stress.

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Switching to 3S: Unleashing the Beast

Now for the fun part! I swapped in a 3S battery (yes, it’s compatible!) and ditched the landing gear for a hand launch. The difference? Night and day.

• Power Surge: The climb rate and speed skyrocketed. Full-throttle passes were exhilarating, and vertical loops? Effortless.

• Weight Balance: The 3S pack adds a bit of heft, but the plane stayed surprisingly nimble. I did notice a slight tail-heavy feel initially, but trimming sorted it out.

• Aerobatics: In intermediate/advanced modes, rolls and inverted flight were crisp. The aerobatic button (hold + stick movement) adds a fun trick feature for show-offs!

• Flight Time: Even on 3S, I squeezed out 6-7 minutes of spirited flying.

Advanced Takeaway: 3S turns this warbird into a pocket rocket. Intermediate pilots will love the extra punch, while experts can push its limits in advanced mode.

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Key Features That Stand Out

1. SAFE Modes: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced modes cater to all skill levels.

2. Retractable Landing Gear: A rare find in small-scale planes – adds realism and versatility.

3. Brushless Motor: Quiet, efficient, and durable. Perfect for park flying without disturbing the peace.

4. Portability: At 500mm, it’s easy to transport and store.

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Who Should Buy This Plane?

• New Pilots: SAFE mode and forgiving flight characteristics make it ideal for learning.

• Intermediate Flyers: The 3S upgrade path keeps things exciting as skills grow.

• Warbird Enthusiasts: The scale details and retractable gear are pure eye candy.

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Final Verdict

The Volantex P51D Mustang nails the balance between accessibility and performance. Whether you’re cruising on 2S or ripping skies on 3S, it’s a joy to fly. The only minor gripe? Limited elevator throw in SAFE mode – but that’s a plus for rookies!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Price: Budget-friendly for its features (check the link below for the best deals!).

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Ready to Fly?

If you’re in Australia (or elsewhere!), grab your Volantex P51D Mustang HERE and support the channel. Every purchase helps us keep creating RC content full-time!

Thanks for tuning in, and remember: Life’s too short not to fly what you love. See you in the skies!

– Mitch Cooper
RC Pilot, Content Creator, and Warbird Addict