Don
I've done coro migs and mustangs. They last as long as a spad in combat. Not long.
Last year Lou and I buillt some High load foam Fulmars and they are they are very strong. Alot of work but worth with it. I've built 6 and totaled out 1 fuselage and 2 wings. 30 rounds of combat.
(dixie,checker six, Nats, Waverly)
Take a look at Lou's web site. The work and the expense add up quick. Glass rods, poly rods, foam, hot wire techinques etc. Then you have to cover in ripstop with WBP and paint.
I like scale and plan to make 3 to 4 more of these but it an investment in money and time.
I am also going to try a couple of warbird fuses. From what I've seen of A.J plane they are very tough. And you save quiet a bit of time in the fuselage.
ON the short horizon I am excited about trying scale with the nerfy rules in mind. I think the same rules in scale will slow down the planes enough that they last a whole season.

I think we all are looking for a quick build competitive model but there seems to be no short cut. If you want to butt heads with Mike , A.J and Daniel you have to go all out. Mousse cans, twin aileron servos and all the goodies.
Good luck
Ron