Rube,

Yes, that helps a LOT!!
Thanks very much for your detailed reply.

A day or so after I posted my question, I went ahead and ordered a Long-EZ 46 from Alex. I asked around at my local flying field and got pretty much the same comments about AK-Models and Alex that you made about him. Everyone seems to be very pleased with his service, prices, and overall quality, so I took the plunge. Glad to hear you confirm what I'd been told personally since my posting.

So far, so good with AK-Models. I called the number to ask a question, got Alex himself after three rings. He answered my question and sounded like a pleasant, knowledgeable guy. I placed the order on his website a few minutes later, choosing the FedEx Home shipping option to save a few bucks. Got an immediate email confirmation, then a tracking email from FedEx the same afternoon indicating that it shipped the same day. It's scheduled for delivery on Wed. Great service so far...

Thanks also for your feedback on the differences in the two ARF vendor's offerings, coverings, etc. I didn't realize that Richmodels was in Portland, OR. I've in Beaverton, which is a suburb of Portland. I don't know if that would have made a difference in my choice, but maybe it'll help if I need parts, coverings, etc.

I've followed your threads on these planes with interest. You're probably the most experienced guy out there on these forums on building and flying these ARFs. It'll be interesting to compare notes. I'm planning on using an O.S. FS-52 four-stroke that I have on the shelf from previous projects. This has been a great engine for me and when propped right, it cranks out almost as much power as some .46 two-strokes.

Regards,
-- Rod