I've flown an ARF or two and feel they have their place. Everybody needs an "everyday" airplane, one you warm up with for a day of flying, or one you get a bit crazy with when the urge strikes. However, there are also special models and these are built by the flyer. Really special models are designed and scratch-built by the modeler, very special models are scratch-built from plans. Kits are the easy way to go.
BUT kits are disappearing at an alarming rate. The only way we're going to have them available next year or next month or next week is to order one now. I've just ordered the Thomas-Morse Scout from Balsa USA. Please post a reply with your new order. Thanks!