I bought ARFs in the begining when I was learning to fly. Now, I take pride in building and building the way I know will benefit me in the way I fly. Yes the ARFs are quick and easy but for me, there is not a better feeling when all the guys are staring at my plane with all the ooos and aaaahs and compliment me on my building skills. And I am new in the hobby by a year and a half and have built three kits and scratch built one from my own design.
I guess it is what you enjoy most in hobby. Some guys don't want the tedious job of sanding gluing......and covering and the ARF is the best for them. I enjoy the building and for me, it was a must so I would feel complete as a R/C pilot. I would not rest until I mastered it.
Oh.....by the way......I just picked up my Lanier Stinger 60 ARF!!!!
It was a birthday pesent fom my loving wife!
Dave