I have posted a similar question before. I am getting close to starting my PPL. I talked to the CFI recently and he recommended the Jepp kit. I understand that the Jepp kit really helps. But is it really necessary? Another option is to do the Kershner book. I figure if I did the Kershner along with Gleim's test prep, I should be ok (since I also have a copy of Rod Machado's book). I was thinking of buying the Jepp book, instead of the whole kit.

 

I've found Jepp stuff to be very overpriced. If you're considering a private pilot text book look at ASA. Theirs also includes commercial knowledge content and I think it is much more detailed and more in-depth for the same price.

You can't go wrong with Machado's stuff. He's very good at explaining things in laymen's terms with some humor thrown in.

 

I agree whole-heartedly Machado is the best I have seen for the PPL level. Jepp is good once you progress further but Machado is a good place to start. Tha FAA publications are good also and not too expensive. You can even print them out online if you want.

 

The Jepp textbooks are very high quality in terms of the book itself and the content, and they serve as a nice reference after you are done with the ticket. So that I highly recommend. But that $150 ppl flight kit is mostly a waste of money. The bag itself will not last through your private training without showing wear and tear. It's not made of cordura or anything very tough. The kit has a lot of additional stuff in there like maneuver guides and progress reports that your instructor may or may not want to use. If he or she does not specify the kit I wouldn't get it.

I know this is a little odd, but I have for years used a small motorcycle tank bag for all my flying. It's compact and efficient and extremely tough (cordura). I think it is made by RKA. You can't get extra radios and maps in there and it probably won't be large enough when doing CFI flying, or serious ifr flying, but I got 4 ratings with it and I never felt like I needed a bigger bag. The best thing about a small bag is you can keep it within reach. I am always thinking about what happens if I have one of those huge bags in the back seat and I am not able to get into it while airborne. I keep this thing either on the seat next to me or on the floor because it is small enough and easily managed.

 

I would personally go with the Jepp products. They are VERY detailed and informative. Also, there are tuns of full-colored pictures, FAA inserts, etc. If for nothing else, I recommend the Pvt. Text Book.

I found that the ASA text book is more or less like "Airplanes for Dummies."

Do what you will, but I have tought from both, and prefer the Jepp book.

Lax

 

For what it's worth, Sportys ppl videos are useful. They are carefully made and thoughtfully designed. They cost more than ASA/King, but for ppl I would consider it because of significantly higher quality.

 

The Jepp kit is standard issue at my FBO... and I agree with these guys - great stuff. I'd recommend it for sure.