i definitely think that some of these arfs are leaving a bad taste in some peoples mouths bad wood in crucial area's that are pre covered so you just don't bother opening it up bc its so pretty.. i got into this hobby with a used hobbico superstar then built a spad then bought another arf and i just finished with a 1/2a kit build.. i can't build kits right now due to a very small work space but as soon as i graduate college and get my house built (all next spring (spring 09 that is)) i plan to fly kits exclusively.. i can definitely see a need for trainer arfs as trainers will come and go sometimes quickly but as for advanced models i almost hate that companies even offer arfs of these advanced models bc they do become cookie cutter.. but for now i am sticking with these cookie cutter arfs as i have no time trying to work my way through college and the tiny workspace all i can do is build a 1/2a kit from time to time but they sure are the cutest things i cant wait to get my kit built 20" ws piper cherokee in the air next week!