I'd like to get into pattern but don't have the resources to put together a serveral $K ship. Heck, I have a 41" eFlight Leader as my best plane since my 48" Edge bought the farm in a mid-air two week ago.

But I don't think claiming will work. It's because it's not just the cost of the plane, it's all the effort to set it up. Would a plane that cost $1000 in components be fair to claim at $1000 when the person who set it up spent six months of hard and detailed work dialing it in?

I really think there is needs to be something where someone who want to spend $500-1000 can compete but claiming isn't it.

Maybe documenting retail value of all components other than batteries/fuel would do. Set a $1000 limit for Sportsman.

Airframe 400
servos 150
Motor 125
ESC 100
Rx 75
Prop 25
Misc 25
Total 900