The "ARF Generation" is a sort of sign of the times: instant gratification. It's good for the hobby in general, as it has brought in a ton of new fliers allowing smaller clubs (like mine) to grow. I'll admit that I am a member of this generation, having only been flying seriously for about 5 years. I have a shop full of ARF's. My building experience was limited at first to repairing damaged planes, then graduating to figuring out what needed rework (and how to do it) before the build, then to modifying the ARF to fit my desires. This winter the projects include finishing one ARF (H9 B-25), and then on to three kits: A shake the box Sig Somethin' Extra first, then a TNPC Shoestring 90, then a scratch (from plans) Senior Telemaster. Won't get the first two done this winter, but I've got time.

I doubt that I have built my last ARF, but will undoubtedly build more from kits from this point on. It's just more fun.

I think the generation that was raised on ARF's will come to kit's, more as a progression step than a first step. It's kind of hard for a new kit builder to figure out where to get all of the necessary accessories for that first plane. Guys that have been flying for 15 or so years didn't have a huge selection of Arfs to cut their teeth on. Today, it's just too easy to open a box and have a plane in the air the next weekend. Give ARFer's a bit to see what it's all about. Then you'll find them, like you've found me, looking for advice on this forum.