If it weren't for SPADs I wouldn't be flying RC at all. If they're not your cup of tea then by all means find out what is and pursue it. I've only flown combat once. It was SSC combat with a HOR. I got 4 cuts and had 4 mid-airs. My plane was flying when the day was done. I suggest you weight the advantages/dissadvantes of all options and go with whatever you feel suits you best. I personally suggest SPADs. The main reason is the low financial and emotional investment in the plane itself. I had 4 mid-airs in about 4, or so, hours of flying combat (I got cuts on 3 out of 4 mid-airs. If you hit 'em their streamer is closer ) and was VERY happy that my plane didn't take much time or money to build. I was alot more worried about that other chaps Battle Floyd (another good ship) that I mid-aired twice. Take a look around and pic your poison. It will be destroyed eventually, especially if you fly against me so make sure you're willing to lose the investment eventually. It's worth the price of admission no matter which airframe you go for.

PS. Bambam. That is one UGLY plane. Good work