Introducing the First Class Drones Shop: Built in the Field, Tested on Real Jobs
At First Class Drones, we spend a lot of time in the field flying professional drone operations. And over the years, we've learned that sometimes the exact piece of equipment you need simply doesn't exist.
So we build it.
We're excited to introduce the First Class Drones Shop, where we're making some of the custom tools, accessories and 3D-print designs we've developed for our own operations available to other drone pilots and crews.
The idea behind the shop is simple: we build things because we actually need them.
Many of these products started with a problem we encountered on a professional job. We design a solution, build it, test it, make changes and then put it through real-world use. If it works well and we think other drone operators could benefit from it, we'll make it available in our shop.
Here are the first five products.
Inspire 3 Controller Screen Mount – 3D Print Files
We regularly use the DJI Inspire 3 for professional productions and wanted a better way to add a second monitor to the RC Plus controller.
Our solution is a custom 3D-printable mount that attaches to both the top and back mounting points of the RC Plus and positions a second monitor directly above the built-in controller display.
We designed our setup around the OSEE T5+ 5.5-inch monitor, but the mount can accommodate other monitors, screens and accessories. It creates a compact dual-screen setup that makes it easy to monitor the camera feed and FPV pilot view simultaneously.
We also designed it to work with the SMALLRIG Drop-in HawkLock Mini Quick Release system, so the additional monitor can be attached or removed quickly when setting up or packing down.
The shop includes the 3D print files for both the controller mount and monitor mounting arm.
Remote Triggered Quick Release Hook
This is one of the more unique products we've developed.
Our Remote Triggered Quick Release Hook was designed for drone operations where we needed the ability to carry a payload underneath the aircraft and remotely release it from the ground.
The system uses a servo, CRSF-PWM converter and TBS Crossfire Nano RX to remotely activate the release mechanism.
Before putting the design into use, we conducted controlled testing with a 50 lb load over 50 drop cycles.
For operators who want a complete system rather than building one themselves, we offer a fully assembled version with the 3D-printed hook, servo, electronics enclosure, voltage regulator, CRSF-PWM converter and Crossfire receiver.
Quick Release Hook – 3D Print Files
For pilots and builders who would rather make and customize their own version, we're also offering the 3D print files for our Quick Release Hook.
The package includes the STL files for the hook components as well as the battery and electronics enclosure.
We've also provided recommended print settings, required hardware and electronics, an assembly video and information on how we built our own system.
This gives experienced builders a starting point based on the same design we've developed and tested ourselves, while allowing them to print and configure the system for their own operations.
Safe Battery Hot Swap Box for FPV
When you're working on a professional FPV production, every second on the ground matters.
Normally, changing an FPV battery means disconnecting power, installing a fresh pack and waiting for the entire system to reboot. That includes the drone's electronics, camera and video transmission system.
Our Safe Battery Hot Swap Box was developed to make that process much faster.
The system allows a fresh battery to be connected before the depleted battery is removed. For a brief period, both batteries provide power, allowing the drone's electronics to remain powered throughout the battery change.
That means no rebooting between battery swaps and less downtime between flights.
We built this specifically around the demands of professional FPV operations where getting back into the air quickly can make a huge difference.
FPV Battery Quick Release System – 3D Print Files
Our FPV Battery Quick Release System came directly from working on large-scale drone productions.
We needed a way to land an FPV drone, remove the depleted battery, install a fresh one and get back into the air as quickly as possible.
Instead of repeatedly dealing with traditional battery mounting methods, we modified and developed a quick-release mounting system that lets batteries be swapped in seconds.
The design is lightweight, secure and built to handle vibration while providing flexible mounting options for different FPV setups.
The download includes four files, including horizontal and vertical mounting options as well as a STEP file that gives builders more flexibility to adapt the design to their own aircraft.
It's a relatively simple piece of equipment, but when you're flying all day on a professional production, saving time on every battery change adds up quickly.
This Is Just the Beginning
The First Class Drones Shop isn't intended to be a static catalogue of products.
We're professional drone operators first, and that's where we expect most of our future products to come from.
We're constantly flying, testing equipment and trying different ways of doing things. When we encounter a problem on a job, we're always looking at whether we can design, 3D print, fabricate or modify something to solve it.
Some ideas don't work. Some go through multiple versions. Others end up becoming pieces of equipment that we bring to almost every job.
Those are the products we want to share.
As we develop new equipment and successfully test it in real-world environments, we'll continue adding new products and designs to the First Class Drones Shop.
We'll also be sharing videos on Instagram showing new products, prototypes, testing and how we're actually using these tools in the field.
If you're a drone pilot, FPV operator, builder or just someone who likes seeing what we're working on, follow First Class Drones on Instagram to stay updated on new releases.
More ideas are already in the works. Be the first to know about our emergency rope cutter. 👀
Built for our jobs. Tested in the field. Now available to other pilots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these products actually used by First Class Drones?
Yes! Our products are designed to solve challenges we encounter during professional drone operations. We build, test and use them in real-world environments before making them available in our shop.
Do you sell physical products or 3D print files?
Both. Some products are available as downloadable 3D print files so you can print and assemble them yourself, while others are available as fully assembled products. Check each product listing to see exactly what's included.
Will you be adding more products?
Absolutely. We're constantly designing, testing and improving equipment for our own operations. When we create something that works well in the field and could be useful to other pilots, we'll add it to the shop.
How can I find out when you release something new?
Follow First Class Drones on Instagram. We'll be posting videos of new products, prototypes, testing and new shop releases as they become available.
Can I request a custom product or modification?
Have an idea or need a custom solution for your drone setup? Reach out to us! We're always interested in hearing about unique problems and exploring new ideas.
This blog was written by:
Misha Herschorn
Owner and Head Pilot at First Class Drones
Bio:
Since 2016, Misha has been operating drones professionally, delivering drone services for large television productions, residential and commercial developments, energy and utilities and many more! His work combines technical precision with a strong creative eye, always prioritizing safety, legality, and quality.
Misha has extensive experience in aerial cinematography, drone mapping and custom drone design helping First Class Drones delivers professional results tailored to each project.
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