Recall: Horizon Hobby Recalls Remote Controlled Model Helicopters Due to Injury Hazard

Description: The recall involves Blade 500 X BNF and Blade 500 3D BNF and RTF Remote Controlled Model Helicopters with model numbers BLH 1800, BLH 1800M1, BLH 1850, and BLH 4080. The helicopters are about 33.5 inches long and 11.8 inches tall and weigh about 4 lbs. The canopy of the 500 X has the "500 X" logo on each side. The canopy of the 500 3D has the "500 3D" logo on each side. The tail rotor grip for each model is a black plastic holder that holds the tail rotor blades of the helicopter in place. The grips are approximately 1 ¼ inches tall and ½ inch wide.

Name of product: Blade 500 X BNF and Blade 500 3D RTF and BNF Remote Controlled Model Helicopters

Units: About 1980 in the U.S. and 200 in Canada

Manufacturer: Shenzen Shen's Tongchuang Aeronautic Model Co., Ltd. of China

Hazard: The tail rotor grip used for securing the tail rotor blade to the tail rotor hub can separate and release from the helicopter, posing a risk of a crash and injury hazard.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled radio-controlled helicopters and contact Horizon Hobby for a replacement tail grip and instructions for installation.

Recall date: January 28, 2014

Incidents/Injuries: None

Sold At: Hobby stores nationwide and at www.horizonhobby.com. Models BLH 1800, BLH 1800M1 and BLH 1850 were sold from December 2012 through September 2013; and Models BLH 1850 and BLH 4080 were sold from May 2013 through September 2013. Prices range from $600 to $900.

Importers: Horizon Hobby Inc., of Champaign, Ill.

Manufactured in: China

Consumer contact: Horizon Hobby toll-free at (877) 504-0233 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. CT Sunday, or online at www.horizonhobby.com, and click on Product Recalls listed under "Legal" at the bottom of the page for more information.

Recall number: 14-091