YouTuber Cuts DJI Avata 2 Prop Guards, Improves Drone’s Performance

Rimzler Modifies DJI Avata 2 by Removing Ducts

In a recent video, YouTuber Rimzler decided to try something crazy with his DJI Avata 2 drone. While he likes the drone for its versatility and camera quality, he felt it was lacking in the acrobatic department, especially in windy conditions.

To address this, Rimzler removed the ducts from the Avata 2, just like he did with the original Avata. “It’s not only ductless, but this one – I redesigned the whole bottom, made it carbon, and it’s a 4-inch now. This thing flies so much better than the ducted version, it’s crazy. It’s faster, it’s more efficient, it resists winds better,” he said.

Cutting the Ducts Proves Challenging

However, modifying the DJI Avata 2 wasn’t as straightforward as the original Avata. The Avata 2 has a unibody design with vertically mounted ESCs, making it a nightmare to disassemble.

So, Rimzler decided to take the easy route and cut the ducts where they meet the unibody frame. He had to be careful though, as there were antennas inside the ducts.

“It looks like the cleanest way to open it is just get a hot soldering iron, touch it once, and just dig into it like this. You don’t damage wires and stuff, and then it comes apart pretty easily,” he explained.

Improved Performance After Duct Removal

After successfully removing the ducts, Rimzler test flew the modified Avata 2. The results were impressive. The drone was 30g lighter, a bit faster, and flew more locked in.

“Wow, I mean, wow. It is so much better already with just sawing the ducts off. It’s… I’m not making it up. It feels so tight, so locked in,” Rimzler exclaimed.

The modified Avata 2 handled better in the wind due to less resistance. It also seemed to consume less battery. Rimzler was very satisfied with the results and plans to keep the drone in this configuration.

Not for Everyone

While the modification significantly improved the Avata 2‘s performance, Rimzler doesn’t recommend it for everyone.

“Do I recommend doing this crazy mod? Probably not for 90% of the people out there. If you have a regular Avata like this, keep it like it is. It’s already a very versatile drone,” he advised.

However, for those who have multiple Avatas or want a backup, having one modified for acro flying could be a nice option.

“And this is a nice setup to have, because having two of the same would be a missed opportunity. Like this, I have one that covers the cinewhoop flying and one that covers the acro flying,” Rimzler said.

DroneXL’s Take

Rimzler’s modification of the DJI Avata 2 is a perfect example of how creative thinking and tinkering can push the boundaries of what a drone can do. While not recommended for everyone, especially given the Avata 2’s tricky disassembly, the results speak for themselves.

A lighter, faster, more agile Avata 2 could open up new possibilities for FPV pilots looking to do more acrobatic flying. It’s innovations like these from the drone community that continue to drive the industry forward. However, it’s important to remember that modifications like these will void warranties and potentially impact the drone’s safety features, so proceed with caution.

And, of course, you could also just build your own FPV drone…