Sir Crashallot,

I am one of those who fly to build. I am 70 years old and have been in the model airplane building mode since I was about 7 years old. Some build to fly but that is not me. The carving, shanding, shaping and fitting of the wood together is in fact a challange and keeps me busy since I am retired. The real builders find time to get the job done.
I am not as quick as I once was but the enjoyment is still there for me. I have folks ask me how an airplane can last for up to and past 10 years and still look good. My answer is good engineering and workmanship along with good maintenance.
Folks in our club have problems with their planes and some absolutely do not believe in balancing propellars or spinners as an example. They just want to fly their ARF's but that is not my cup of tea.
Jim