Piranha Lake
the Amazon Predator
 
Hobbies, Games and Toys

Air Shark - Remote Control Inflatable Flying Shark

Air Shark

The Air Shark is an uncommon toy. Children will have fun flying it. It can be used indoors. It is not to be used outdoors. It will also draw attention from adults as well, seeing a shark hovering about. The controls are very simple and easy to learn, so even young kids can operate it.

The Air Shark can move in 3 dimensional space. Forward and back, left and right and up and down. It's motion is smooth and fluid, just like a real shark in water. The air shark can perform a full 360 degree turn. One might not think the toy could accomplish that at first glance. The air shark has a movable tail that controlled by the operator. The nose is also controlled by the operator. There is also a built in wiggle feature that makes the shark appear more realistic.

The air shark requires triple A batteries. These are necessary for inflating the shark. In addition it requires helium to make it float. But after it is filled, it will retain the helium for weeks. This means you don't have to constantly refill it. Helium itself is quite cheap.

Air Swimmer Remote Control Inflatable Flying Shark

Things to be aware of

The air shark is a wonderful toy for both children and adults. However, you should be aware of a few items before you purchase it. Knowing these few items before you buy will make sure you are happy with your purchase.

1. If you live at high altitudes, you may not be able to use the toy. You'll need to overfill it and rupture the balloon. You may be able to purchase higher grades of helium that will allow it work at high altitudes.

2. You need helium to make it work. It costs about $10 to fill it up at a party balloon store. You will need to top it off every few weeks as well. You may consider purchasing your own helium and filling it at home. High grade helium may work best (from a welding supplier) especially at higher altitudes.

3. You cannot use it outdoors. Small air currents will deprive you of control. So any form of breeze or disturbance will make it impossible to direct the toy.

4. You need a large size room to operate it, as the air shark is pretty big. It won't be able move properly in a confined space. Be aware of knocking things over. Spinning ceiling fans are a hazard to avoid.

5. Over zealous kids and grab and pull of the fins (which can be reattached). In fact, attaching the fins with light glue instead of tape may allow them to break off without damage. However the mylar balloon cannot be repaired. If a kid punctures or damages the balloon your only recourse is buy a replacement balloon.

6. Do not leave a mylar balloon in the car as it may explode as the car heats up. The helium will expand beyond the tolerance of the mylar if left in a car during a sunny day.

7. The radio control requires a line of sight to operate. The limit of the range is 40 feet. You may find that the range is slightly less. However, unless you are in a gym or auditorium, 40 feet should be ample.

8. It requires assembly and may take 2 hours and patience to first put together.

Turn Your Home into a Aquarium

These toys move through the air like fish in water. The videos show the air swimmers at an aquarium and I think you would get the shock of your life looking at a shark tank and having the air shark fly up next to you.

You can control the direction with the tail. You flap the tail to propel the air shark forward. Flap more to one side or the other, and the shark turns. Up and down are managed by controlling the nose of the shark and pointing it where you want to go.

Adults are amazed by the the air shark as much as any child. The first reaction is plain surprise.