I have both ARFs and kit built aircraft in my fleet. When flying an ARF and asked if I built it, I always reply " it's an ARF, but yes I but it together". I will then go on to point out any up grades or modifications from stock that have been done to the airplane. When flying a kit built aircraft and asked I refer to it as being "stick built" and as a matter accuracy state if I or someone else built it. The insult comes when flying a stick built kit that I built and I am asked "is that an ARF ?". Actually for me it's a compliment that my building and covering is good enough to look like today's ARFs. Both have thier place in the hobby today. My current project is a top flight Elder 40, almost done as I am covering it now. Guess that makes my Elder an "almost ARF"!