The Skookum SK720 (commonly referred to as SKLK720) is a game changer for anyone serious about RC helicopters. This digital flybarless system takes the place of your traditional mechanical flybar and tail gyro, giving you better control and smoother flights. If you're wondering whether this upgrade is worth your time and money, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What Is the SKLK720?
The SK720 is a three-axis flybarless system designed for radio-controlled helicopters. Think of it as the brain of your helicopter's stabilization system. Instead of relying on old-school mechanical parts that add weight and complexity, this compact unit uses advanced sensors and digital processing to keep your helicopter stable in the air.
The system weighs just 18 grams and measures 39x30x14mm. It replaces three separate components: your flybar mechanism, your tail gyro, and your receiver. That's a lot of functionality packed into one small package.
Why Choose the SKLK720?
There are several good reasons pilots switch to this system. First, you save weight. Every gram matters when you're trying to maximize flight time and performance. Second, you reduce mechanical complexity. Fewer moving parts means fewer things that can break or go wrong mid-flight.
The SK720 also gives you better control precision compared to mechanical systems. Digital stabilization responds faster and more accurately to wind gusts and sudden movements. For pilots who do 3D aerobatics or precision flying, this makes a noticeable difference.
How the System Works
The SK720 uses gyroscopic sensors to detect movement across three axes: pitch, roll, and yaw. When the helicopter tilts or rotates, the system instantly sends correction signals to your servos. This happens hundreds of times per second, much faster than any mechanical system could manage.
You control the system through your regular RC transmitter. The unit connects to your servos and receives commands from your satellite receivers or standard receiver. Setup happens through USB connection to your computer using the included Windows software.
The system operates in two modes. Flight mode provides active stabilization during flying. Setup mode lets you configure everything and trim your servos without the stabilization kicking in. A green LED tells you when you're in flight mode, while a red LED indicates initialization or setup mode.
Who Should Use This System?
The SK720 works for pilots at all skill levels, from beginners to expert 3D flyers. Beginners benefit from the self-leveling bailout feature, which can save your helicopter from a crash when things go wrong. Just flip a switch and the system automatically levels the helicopter and brings it to a stable hover.
Advanced pilots appreciate the precise control and the ability to fine-tune gain settings for aggressive flying. The system includes two gain banks, so you can have different settings for smooth flying and for hard 3D maneuvers.
Key Features You Should Know
The SK720 comes with flight data logging. Every flight gets recorded, and you can play it back later in a 3D viewer on your computer. This helps you analyze what happened during a crash or figure out what adjustments to make.
The self-leveling feature is optional but incredibly useful. When enabled, it can detect when you're in trouble and automatically correct the helicopter's attitude. You can trigger this manually with a switch or set it to activate automatically if the helicopter exceeds certain angles.
The system supports both digital and analog servos. You can mix and match servo types for different controls if needed. It also works with satellite receivers from Spektrum, JR, and XtremeLink.
One handy feature is the auto-tuning capability. After initial setup, the system can fine-tune its own gain settings based on how your specific helicopter flies. Just fly normally for a few flights with auto-tune enabled, and the system learns the optimal settings.
Setup and Installation Tips
Mounting the gyro correctly matters. The unit needs to sit flat and level, with minimal vibration. Use good quality double-sided foam tape. The arrows on the unit show the correct orientation relative to your helicopter.
Before connecting servos, configure the system through the USB software. The wrong settings can damage your servos, so take time with this step. The software includes setup wizards that walk you through the process.
Pay attention to servo center positions and travel limits. The SK720 needs to know the exact range of motion for each servo. The software helps you measure and set these values accurately.
Check your swashplate movement carefully after setup. The system needs to know your swashplate type and configuration. Wrong phasing settings will make your helicopter behave strangely.
Performance and Real-World Use
Most pilots report smoother flights and better wind handling after switching to the SK720. The tail holds position much more solidly than with traditional gyros. Quick stops and direction changes feel more precise.
Battery life can improve because the system uses power more efficiently than mechanical flybar systems. The power draw is relatively low at around 1 watt during normal operation.
The flight recorder feature proves useful for troubleshooting. If something goes wrong, you can review the exact sensor data from that flight. This beats trying to remember what happened or making guesses.
Pros and Cons
The advantages are clear. You get better stability, reduced weight, more precise control, and useful features like data logging. The self-leveling option provides good insurance for expensive helicopters.
Setup takes more time than installing a traditional system. You need a computer and some patience to configure everything properly. The learning curve exists, especially if you're new to flybarless systems.
The unit costs more upfront than basic gyros. However, you're replacing multiple components, so the actual cost difference is less than it first appears.
Some older helicopters with poor frame rigidity or high vibration levels don't work as well with flybarless systems. The SK720 needs relatively smooth conditions to perform at its best.
Common Risks and How to Avoid Them
The biggest risk is incorrect setup. Wrong servo settings can lead to crashes or damaged servos. Always follow the setup wizard and double-check everything before your first flight.
Vibration issues cause problems if your helicopter isn't well maintained. Keep your rotor head tight, balance your blades properly, and use good damping foam under the gyro.
Firmware updates occasionally cause compatibility issues. Always read the update notes before installing new firmware. Back up your settings first.
Platform and Support Details
Skookum Robotics developed the SK720 and provides ongoing support through firmware updates. The company has a good reputation in the RC helicopter community for responsive customer service.
The system comes with a 90-day warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Technical support is available through their website and user forums.
The Windows setup software works on modern versions of Windows. You need the .NET runtime library installed, but the installer handles this for you.
Scam Alerts and Buying Advice
Buy from authorized dealers or directly from Skookum Robotics. The used market has older blue editions that some users report had temperature drift issues. The newer units don't have this problem.
Check the serial number and firmware version when buying used units. Very old firmware versions lack features that later updates added.
Prices vary significantly based on whether you get the basic unit or packages with GPS and field terminals. Know exactly what you're getting before buying.
Final Thoughts
The SKLK720 represents solid technology that delivers real benefits for RC helicopter pilots. The system isn't perfect and does require proper setup, but it works well when installed correctly. Whether you're protecting an expensive helicopter with self-leveling or chasing better 3D performance, the SK720 handles both scenarios effectively.
For pilots willing to invest time in proper setup and tuning, this flybarless system offers noticeable improvements over mechanical alternatives. Just make sure your helicopter's basic setup is good before adding this system. A flybarless controller can't fix problems with poorly maintained helicopters or badly set up rotor heads.