ORIGINAL: JNorton
Dick,
I've only 30 rolls of monokote, etc. I'm not questioning their expenses or their need to make a profit to stay in business. I realize the dollar is getting pretty worthless. All I'm saying is it has finally reached a point where I feel enough is enough. I'll make my own.
John
I agree as well. Plus we take more pride in our planes when we take a lumber yard and turn it into a nice plane. I notice most people admire the kit plane way more than the ARF that shows up at events. ( Unless someone shows up with a custom ARF that was turned into a "One of a kind.") I've owned quite a few ARF aircraft and one I like very much.
BUT I'm restoring, modifying my Great Planes Fokker DR1 and I'm having a ball. It challenges my building skills enough to when ARF prices become too expensive, I'll have no fear in building my own. I guess I'm one of those gradual learners.
Also it feels good showing up at a AMA meeting with a plane you built from the ground up. The Ol'timers and the more experienced look at your building and covering techniques- then tell you, "Great Job!"
Believe me that's a great feeling.
I'm not bashing ARF aircraft, I like them. I'm just bashing the ARF prices and where most of them come from.
Pete