Speaking of kit manufacturers, I need to mention my recent history with Mountain Models since I've recommended their kits so many times in the past. As many of you probably know, the owner of Mountain Models has been trying to sell his company. He's got other work, health issues, etc., but the website is still up and he's still taking orders. About 4 months ago I ordered one of his kits, which shows online as in-stock. My past experience with MM is that stuff doesn't ship quickly and sometimes an email is required to get action. No big deal, I didn't NEED the kit, so I waited. About a month later I emailed and asked for an update, but got no response. Another month goes by, another email is sent, again with no response. Then another email is sent, this time I said to either ship the kit or refund my money. After months of waiting (reasonably patiently) I got PayPal involved and filed a claim for non-delivery. My hope was that with the threat of losing the order he'd finally just send the kit. Nope, but I got my money back thanks to PayPal.
I wish Flite Test or a similar company would buy MM's designs and start producing them...