but having a bunch of "fuddy duddy" rules to follow to play with my airplanes, that I paid for, and I built, seems to be a bit over the top.
Well, couldn't you say the same thing about the CAR you bought? I paid for it, I should be able to drive to work without a license. Or, I can afford to buy a real full scale plane, why should I have to get a license to fly it. After all, these "license" are only a statement that you have learned how to operate the vehicle and understand the safety rules.
We have few regulations in RC, but if enough people don't follow common safety practices, that may very well change. [:@]
I know you weren't arguing the point, I'm just reinforcing your statements.
Dennis-