RE: American made ARF's and RTF's
Check out planes like the Composite-ARF planes.
Most are made in molds in the U.S.
Their workmanship is impeccable. No covering. The paint scheme is molded in.
However you are normally dealing with larger ( and much better ) planes that START in the GAS engine range and go up from there.
There is an higher associated cost, but you can get started with these planes for around 500.00 for the ARF's.