Don't really matter, I usually have them both going at the same time so I always have something to do.

>>I usually start with the rudder.<<

I think we all develop a habit for building. I usually cut the fuse sides first then build the stab. Like, Ty, I don't know why.

When I began building planes, my first few were profiles, and I kind of remember that the plans directed the builder to start by building the wing.  I've just been in the habit since then of building the wing first.  I guess, being the largest part of the plane, you get a sense of accmplishment when the structure of the biggest part is finished.  I never really thought about it before.  I just assumed everyone built the wing first.

I've built to so many different build orders over the years. Lately, I've gone to building the small parts first. I want to get them out of the way, and it gives me a sense of accomplishment, and feels like I'm making good progress.

It does another thing though. I often started to bog down when I built the wing and fuse first. I had all those small parts to build yet. By building them first while I'm fresh, it gets them out of the way. Now, when I next build the wing and fuse, I'm almost done. 

I wanted something small that will fit in my airplane challenged neon.  The biggest airplane I can fit in it is my Grandfathers stuntwagon and that is just barely as in if I put a spinner on it then it wont fit.  I have always liked the shark 45 but I know it wont fit (my dad has one). A shark 35 would probably fit but I'm not looking for something to compete with just yet.  The last time I competed my score was 10 (first attempt was a wingin and second attempt was a half wingover and the engine quit right over my head the judges gave me 10Pt's for not killing my airplane on the landing.  I think I was 9 at the time.)  I just want something that I can practice with that also looks nice.  Besides If I build a shark 35 then what will I put my os max la .15 on?