If you’re deep into the world of radio-controlled (RC) aircraft, especially large-scale warbirds, you’ve probably heard the term “ARF” – Almost Ready to Fly. And if you’ve been hunting for classic ESM warbirds or high-end composite models, you may have come across ARF Pros LLC (arfpros / arfpros.com).
But in 2026, many hobbyists are asking:
Is ARF Pros still active?
Is arfpros.com legitimate?
Can US customers safely order from them?
This complete guide breaks down everything you need to know about ARF Pros LLC, including products, reputation, shipping, legitimacy, and safer alternatives for American RC pilots.
1. What Is ARF Pros LLC? (Company Background & Focus)
ARF Pros LLC is a small, specialized Florida-based hobby retailer and distributor focused on large-scale radio-controlled (RC) aircraft, particularly scale warbirds.
The company has been operating since around 2010 and originally served as the exclusive U.S. distributor for ESM (Ever Soaring Models) — a respected brand known for detailed WWII and WWI scale aircraft.
Unlike major hobby retailers such as Horizon Hobby or Tower Hobbies, ARF Pros is:
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A tiny operation (1–2 employees)
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Run directly by owner Robin Shapiro
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Focused on serious scale enthusiasts
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Not a mass-market eCommerce platform
Estimated revenue figures online (~$3 million annually) are likely inflated. In reality, ARF Pros functions as a niche specialist supplier, not a large warehouse retailer.
If you’re a beginner looking for foam park flyers, this isn’t your store. But if you’re building a 100-inch wingspan P-51 Mustang, this is exactly the type of shop you’d want to know about.
2. Location & Contact Information (Florida, USA)
ARF Pros LLC is based in:
12074 Granite Woods Loop
Venice, FL 34292
This location appears to be a residential/light-commercial area in Southwest Florida.
Official Contact Details (2026)
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Phone: (941) 468-2675
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Email: arfprosales@gmail.com
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Facebook: facebook.com/ARFPROSLLC
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X (Twitter): @arfprosales (low activity)
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LinkedIn: ARF Pros LLC
Website Status (Important Update)
The original website, arfpros.com, is currently:
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Down
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Redirected
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Or pointing to unrelated content
As of February 2026, the business appears to operate primarily via:
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Phone
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Email
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Facebook
For new buyers, the inactive website may reduce confidence — but it does not automatically indicate fraud.
3. Products Offered by ARF Pros (Scale RC Warbirds & Engines)
ARF Pros specializes in large-scale ARF kits, particularly:
1. ESM Warbirds (Classic Scale Models)
Historically popular models include:
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P-51 Mustang
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P-47 Thunderbolt
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Spitfire
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FW-190
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Aichi Val
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Other WWII-era aircraft
These planes typically range from 80 to 120+ inches wingspan, designed for:
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Gas engines
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Large electric setups
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Advanced scale detailing
2. Top RC Models (Full Composite Warbirds)
ARF Pros also deals in:
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Full composite scale aircraft
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Fiberglass and carbon-reinforced models
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Premium-level builds for experienced pilots
These are not beginner aircraft. They are built for:
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Scale competition
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Giant-scale club flying
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Serious warbird collectors
3. RCGF Gas Engines
The store distributes RCGF gas engines, commonly paired with:
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50cc–100cc scale aircraft
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Large warbird builds
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Custom setups
4. Parts & Accessories
ARF Pros is often known for hard-to-find ESM replacement parts, including:
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Retracts
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Wheel pants
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Canopies
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Spinners
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Hardware kits
For older or discontinued ESM models, ARF Pros has historically been one of the few US sources.
Typical Price Range
Expect pricing in the range of:
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$800–$3,000+ for ARF kits
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Additional costs for engines, servos, electronics
Occasionally, Facebook posts have advertised:
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$40–$100 off kits
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Free shipping promotions
4. Shipping & Delivery for US Customers
Because ARF Pros is Florida-based, shipping is generally reasonable within the continental United States.
However, there is:
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No published shipping policy online
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No active shopping cart system
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No automated checkout
Large RC planes (especially 100+ inch wingspans) typically ship via:
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Freight carriers (FedEx Freight or similar)
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Oversized ground shipping
Estimated delivery timeline for in-stock items:
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1–2 weeks
Buyers in hobby forums historically reported:
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Reliable shipping
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Secure packaging
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Direct communication with the owner
Still, always confirm:
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Stock availability
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Shipping cost
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Transit method
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Insurance coverage
5. Customer Service, Reputation & Legitimacy (2026)
Here’s where things get interesting.
Reputation in RC Communities
Between 2010–2024, ARF Pros received positive mentions in:
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RCGroups
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RCUniverse
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FlyingGiants
Customers frequently cited:
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Good communication
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Reliable parts support
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Helpful direct contact with owner
As of 2026:
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Facebook shows 5 reviews with 100% recommendation
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Only 138 followers
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Minimal activity since late 2024
There are:
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No scam reports
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No non-delivery complaints found
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No widespread negative reviews
That’s a strong indicator of legitimacy.
Website Being Offline – Should You Worry?
For new buyers, an inactive website is concerning. However, small hobby businesses often operate in an “old-school” way:
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Direct orders via phone
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Email invoices
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Personal communication
Still, before sending payment:
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Confirm inventory
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Verify pricing
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Ask for updated photos
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Request tracking info once shipped
6. Pros, Cons & 2026 Buying Recommendation
Pros
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Legitimate Florida LLC
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Over 15 years in operation
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Specialist in hard-to-find ESM warbirds
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Direct access to owner
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Positive historical forum reputation
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US-based shipping
Cons
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Website currently offline
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Extremely low online visibility
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Limited product availability
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No online checkout
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Not ideal for beginners
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Larger retailers offer faster service
Bottom Line – Is ARF Pros Safe for US Buyers in 2026?
Yes, ARF Pros LLC appears to be a legitimate niche RC warbird retailer.
However, it is:
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Small
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Low-profile
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Not a modern eCommerce operation
It is best suited for:
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Hobbyists seeking specific ESM or Top RC Models aircraft
If you’re looking for a specific model like:
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ESM P-47 100”
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Top RC composite FW-190
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RCGF 70cc engine
Contact them directly at (941) 468-2675 or via email before sending payment.
Mainstream Alternatives (More Modern Buying Experience)
If you prefer online checkout, live inventory, and buyer protection, consider:
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HorizonHobby.com
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LegendHobby.com
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MotionRC.com
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TowerHobbies.com
These retailers offer:
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Active websites
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Secure payment systems
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Larger inventory
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Faster order processing
Conclusion
ARF Pros LLC is a niche, old-school RC warbird dealer based in Venice, Florida. It remains a viable option for specialized ESM and Top RC Models aircraft, particularly if you cannot find them elsewhere.
While its website is currently offline, the company has a long history in the RC community and no visible scam reports. For serious scale pilots who know exactly what they want, ARF Pros may still be a valuable resource.
Just verify stock and communicate directly before committing to a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is ARF Pros LLC a scam?
No evidence suggests it is a scam. It appears to be a legitimate small Florida hobby business.
2. Why is arfpros.com down?
As of February 2026, the website appears inactive. The business operates mainly through phone and Facebook.
3. What does ARF mean in RC planes?
ARF stands for Almost Ready to Fly, meaning the aircraft is pre-built but requires final assembly and electronics installation.
4. Does ARF Pros ship nationwide?
Yes, within the continental US. Large aircraft may ship via freight.
5. Is ARF Pros good for beginners?
No. It caters primarily to experienced scale warbird enthusiasts.
