Thanks ptmac3 for the list.
is that there is a market for people with the interest, time, cash, lack of building skills, desire for membership in a community, and desire for a very unique plane to do this.
If one person, me, is any indication, there is such a market.
Interest = I built dozens and dozens of plastic scale models as a kid.
Time = married.
Cash = I'm 33 now with a decent job.
Lack of building skills = essentially none when I purchased a Venture 60 kit.
Community = my local club is great and it's always fun when a new plane shows up.
Unique plane = I love how my Venture looks compared to the ARFs [link=http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_5723966/mpage_3/key_Venture/tm.htm]see it here[/link].
The major problem for me is having a proper work area. Unless someone has access to a garage or a workshed, it is very difficult to build a plane. My house's garage was converted into another room. It was only a single car garage, but it's enough room to move around and roll out the plans. But I can't put any power tools in the room (belt sander, drill press, etc.) I have to go outside in 100 degree Texas heat to sand, because other wise it goes all over the place ( I share the room with a computer and washer/dryer). It's carpeted, so I can't easily sweep out the debri each evening. Etc. etc. etc. And I consider myself lucky. I can't imagine attempting a Venture 60 or any other kit in an apartment.
I love building and the more thought and craftmanship put into a kit, which results in less build time (AND LESS SANDING/CARVING), is worth every penny.
Completeness. At that price, I expect not to make a SINGLE trip to my LHS or favorite e-tailer until it's time to start covering, except for basic building tools like glue, blades, etc.
I'll second this. Except for tools and covering, I want everything!
I'd also like to add that I didn't have access (or didn't know about) CA when I was a kid. That alone has made kit building much more enjoyable.