RE: ARF prices going up?
Being predominantly a warbird flyer now, I have been eyeing the Top flite Gold Giant Corsair kit. It is only $299, which I feel is a bargain for a kit of that size. The new Arf's are coming out in the $700 range. (Giant FW 190, Spitfire etc.) Warbirds are more expensive to manufacture though.
It is interesting in that it could be a type of regression. Back in the day building was the only option. Now, most have ARf's, at least in my club. I wonder if have to build would be the tipping point for some. Crating a situation where they will give up the hobby?
As of now, my club is showing a healthy drop in membership. A trend that is showing a fairly steady decline. We are trying to put our finger on it. Park flyers, bad economy, or just lack of interest. Then beyond that, what to do to reverse the trend.