RC Model Airplane Kits: Kits vs ARFs, Makers and Choosing One
RC model airplane kits range from traditional balsa kits you build from plans, through laser-cut kits that go together quickly, to ARFs (almost ready to fly) that are built and covered at the factory, and foam PNP planes that just need a receiver and battery. Big plane kits for gas engines or high-voltage electric power are a category of their own. Choosing one depends on whether you enjoy building, how much time you have, and what you want to fly.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Types of kits
| Type | Build time | What you add |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional balsa kit | Weeks | Covering, power, radio, hardware |
| Laser-cut kit | Days to weeks | Covering, power, radio |
| ARF | Evenings | Power, radio, sometimes hardware |
| Foam PNP/BNF | Hours | Receiver/battery (PNP) or radio (BNF) |
| Big plane kits/ARFs | Weeks | Gas engine or large electric system |
Makers
Kit and ARF makers range from traditional balsa specialists to large ARF producers in Asia and premium composite makers in Europe. Examples covered on this site include World Models for ARFs and classic kit lines discussed in vintage balsa wood model airplane kits. Many classic kits are discontinued but available as plans.
Choosing a first kit
- Pick a simple high-wing trainer or sport plane with a good manual.
- Laser-cut parts make building faster and more accurate.
- Choose a size you can transport (1.2–1.6 m is common).
- Decide on electric or glow before buying hardware.
- Check club members’ experience with the kit.
Building tips
- Read the plans and manual fully before cutting anything.
- Build on a flat board; pin parts over the plan.
- Use the right glue: thin CA for laser-cut joints, epoxy for high-stress areas.
- Check wing alignment and avoid twists.
- Sand smooth before covering.
- Balance and set throws exactly as the plan says.
Big plane kits
Large kits for 30–120 cc gas engines or big electric systems produce impressive planes but need space, tools and careful structural work. Engine mounts, landing gear mounts and wing joiners must be strong. Many builders do their first big plane with help from a club.
Engines and fuel
Glow engines run on methanol-based glow fuel and gas engines on petrol mixed with two-stroke oil; you can’t run a glow engine on regular unleaded petrol. Many builders now choose electric power for its simplicity and quiet operation.
Why build a kit
Building teaches you how a plane works and how to repair it, and a well-built balsa plane flies with a precise, solid feel. For many modellers, the evenings in the workshop are as rewarding as the flying.
Tools for kit building
A flat building board, T-pins, sharp hobby knives with plenty of spare blades, a steel ruler, sanding blocks, thin and medium CA, epoxy, a covering iron and heat gun cover most kit builds. A razor saw, small drill and Dremel-type tool help with hardware installation. Good lighting and patience matter most. Build time drops a lot when the bench is organised and parts are sorted before starting.
Costs
Besides the kit, budget for covering, glue, hardware (if not included), power system, servos, receiver and batteries or fuel. A kit isn’t always cheaper than an ARF, but it gives a unique plane and skills that pay off in repairs.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a kit and an ARF?
A kit is built from parts; an ARF arrives built and covered.
Is a kit good for a first plane?
Many pilots learn on foam first, then build a kit.
Can glow engines run on petrol?
No, they need glow fuel.
How long does a kit take?
From days for laser-cut kits to weeks for traditional builds.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
