RE: In search of the best
I built the 40 size super sportster from the kit as my second plane, second kit. It's awesome. It went with me to the field just about every time I went. I've had it four years and I'm now recovering it with ultracote. It was my second kit so my skill level on the monokote wasn't that great, and the years of flying have taken their toll. By the way, this is my first ultracote covering job and I am firmly in the ultracote camp.
I'm now flying a great planes spacewalker. It's too big for your .46 engine, but it's a great flying airplane. I agree with the comment that it's not as agile as the sportster, but it's a lot of fun nevertheless. There is a 40-size spacewalker arf available now by seagull manufacturing, and I'm vaguely aware of one by kyosho. Don't know much about those planes.
As far as other good flying .46-size second planes, take a look at the world models super stunts. It's $99, 60-plus-inch wingspan, lightweight, agile/stable flyer, ultracote covering, a lot of fun. I just bought a second one in case something happens to my first.