I think that you are taking the ARF thing too far. To me, and ARF is a mostly pre-built model, where the owner only has to assemble these pre-built sub assemblies. The fuselage is framed, and covered, the wings are built and covered, the tail group is built and covered, requiring only the assembly of these parts. Composite models, on the other hand, only have the surface detail moulded in. There normally is no assembly performed on the fuselage (the formers are not installed, nor is there any engine mounting sub assemblies installed. There is a vast difference between a glass fuselage and an ARF. The models that I used for illustration from Top Gun 2007 are as far removed from an ARF as you can imagine, and you can't rationalize the statement that these should be considered ARF's.

I previously stated that these composite models do suffer a points deduction at Top Gun. This is a factual statement. They must overcome these deductions by superb flying in order to win. What is so difficult to understand about that statement? These planes are the absolute best models that you will ever find. Comparing them to what you see at some Podunk meet is like comparing the Mona Lisa to the offerings from an Elementary School art class. This is a different level of modelling. They are the best in the world, and as such they are in a world of their own.

You guys should really try your best to attend at least one Top Gun event. You will come away with your head spinning, A word of warning is appropriate here. Caution, Top Gun is addictive. You will want to return.

Here are a few more pics.

Bill, AMA 4720
WACO Brotherhood #1