RE: Less well known kit makers
you already mentioned BTE (Bruce Tharpe Enginering) but i will second it. i just finished my flying king and it was the best quality i have ever seen in a kit.......even better than laser cut kits.
mimhoff let me know if you have and building questions when you get the kit. get the BTE tailwheel and build it with flaps......you will love it.
EVOL