I have a few hundred hours in a Hughes 269A, predecessor to the 300. It was the first helicopter I flew and, I have instructed commercial and instrument it. I am told they are very close in handling and, with that as my qualification I will tell you that it is a great A/C to fly. Stable, as little helicopters go, reliable, and in autorotation you will land on the spot you hold 3 inches above the toes of your boots in the descent, every time. I have not flown another helicopter you can maneuver to a precise landing point in autorotation as easily. The landing gear design lends itself to both absorbing minor abuse and ground resonance. But, ground resonance is pretty easily avoidable by maintaining and preflighting the struts and blade dampers. Can't tell you what care and feeding will cost you.
[This message has been edited by FlyAny (edited 03 November 2000).]