/digression

Heh.

I would say all kidding aside, Jon is right. The only reason to build a scratch built plane when you're beginning is because you want to. Later on, in some cases it's the only way to get the plane you want at a reasonable price. If you find yourself getting picky, you may discover that the plane you want doesn't exist, and therefore you have to design it and build it yourself. There has been a swing of the scales back in that direction lately, and that's good for everybody.

As ARFs go, in my opinion there's no such thing as a good ARF. There are ok ARFs and crappy ARFs. I have seen some quality airframes marketed as ARFs that were impressive, but so were the price tags, and I'd be hesitant to call them an ARF. In the price range of the Arresti, Icepoint etc, they are ARFs just like any other ARF. They're not quite cutting edge, and they have ARF issues. Add to that they are here today and gone tomorrow, so there is no support. That doesn't mean it doesn't have it's place.

When you're first starting out, you need practice, not a cutting edge plane. If you ever feel your plane holding you back from scoring better, you'll know it. You won't suspect it, you'll know it for certain. Generally at that point you're in rare company and a few years past the beginner's stage. Longevity is much more of an issue than the plane itself.

Whatever gets you in the air and flying pattern, that's what you need. But there's nothing wrong with showing up at your first contest well practiced on a $4000 Pinnacle either!

-Mike