luketrot,
Built a Telemaster 40 MANY (25+) years ago and built an LT 40 about 4 years ago. For a first plane/build the LT 40 gets my vote. Much easier to build and, as a beginner, it seemed to be easier to fly. However my memories of the Telemaster are clouded by time!

My son-in-law flew that same Telemaster a couple years ago and it still seemed to be more difficult than the LT 40. Could have been my building skills also, but the plane was straight.

I would do the LT 40 for no other reason than the amount off work required to build it. Trainers seem to lead a difficult life and the more time one has in a plane the more difficult seems to be any loss thereof. I remember being pleased with the quality of the LT 40 kit also. It was a relief to have everything fit so well and not have to rework many parts at all. I think it was partially die-cut (cleanly) and partially laser-cut.

Very nice kit and nice plane. Mine flew very well with a Saito .50, but would probably us a .56 or.62 today.