RE: Building vs Assembling [kits vs arf]
Another point to consider is that R/C is but one facet of model aviation. I'm always humbled by the craftsmanship and finishing artistry of those C/L Stunt ships. That doesn't seem to be dying off. Free flight is also a bastion of scratchbuilding and designing. Although, as a member of the NFFS, I'm aware that there is a heated debate going on about the possibilty of dropping the BOM (builder of the model) rule lately.