ronk1, if you are looking at building your first big plane I would go with the CA. Not that a carden would be hard to build, but the CA is all lazer cut, and the fuse can be framed in a couple of nights. The wings are also already sheeted for you. The tail oooks long on the CA because the aft turtle deck is rather small, and then you have a huge rudder, and fin sticking out the top. I have lots of construction photos of the build if you would like to see some I can post them here. Also I said the foam was messy because when you go to cutting the sufraces loose, and sanding them square it leaves those little foam balls everywhere. Foam is prolly easier to build with especially when it comes pre sheeted. It is just different from balsa rib construction. I am ready to tackle a new giant project however so bring on the foam!

I too looked at the carden, and several other extra's beofre buying the CA. When I compared price, and ease of construction it made it a clear choice. I still want a Carden someday just so I can say it's a Carden!