I pulled the trigger on a drone for the redoubt. Based on a excusive research and some advise from
FeedingFreedom, I purchased a
DJI Mini Pro 4.
With the mini 4, I also purchased the upgrade package which included two more high capacity batteries, which last ~45-minutes vs. ~30-minutes on the standard batteries, a controller with a screen so I do not have to use a smartphone to operate, extra blades, a segmented carry bag, and a few other bennies. I also purchased a micro mini memory card to save the images of my flight (Video or still pics) and an insurance policy.
The insurance policy was $128- but basically it covers 4-crashes over a 2-year period that might disable the drone.
Using the following video as a tutorial, I flew my new toy last Friday with an audience of about 10 chickens, my neighbors German Shepherd, and two cats who sat there patiently following my antics. I am glad that I am the local entertainment for the critters.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J_vW-u7idYEverything went well but I did find out quickly that wind at higher elevation can be a challenge with this drone...Maybe all drones. The higher capacity batteries seemed to drain a bit faster than advertised.
With only once playing with the drone (The Weather has not been cohesive to flying a drone of late) it is pretty awesome. Bottom-line, flying the DJI mini 4 pro is foolproof. You have to really try to do something stupid.
Once the weather clears up, I will have an addendum to this review.
Now, why drop $1,300- for a drone? The pure and simple reason is security. Think of it as a quick patrol sent out to investigate a noise or, walk your property.
More to come.
