Why would I want to enter a model contest? What chance would I have of winning anything? Good questions and I have some answers. You do have a good chance of winning as there are usually very few entries in the contests, and more often than not, the issue is, are there at least two entries in the same category to create a contest? If there is only one entry in a category, there is no contest.
More importantly entering model contests helps you to build better models. By entering a contest you have a better opportunity to learn from other serious modelers. You will have more opportunities to learn techniques to better model building. We all get many great ideas from the magazines we subscribe to, but nothing really helps like seeing what someone has been able to do with those ideas and then see the real thing, not a glossy color photo in a magazine. By entering a contest you will have the opportunity to have the judges give you feedback from their modeling experience, or by talking with the other contestants on, 'How did you do that?" questions. You will probably find your self thinking, "That's an idea I want to work into my next locomotive project," or you may find someone really marveling at your fine detail work. Sometimes seeing how someone has added some special details to a model might give you the inspiration to try doing the same on your models. I have personally enjoyed the satisfaction of learning how to use prototype photos and information to make my equipment more authentic and realistic. I have also come to enjoy using paint and decals to create unique equipment not available over the counter.
Some information about judging might help you to think about what you would want to enter into a contest. Points are awarded in several different areas. A total of 125 points are possible and they come from the following areas.
Construction: - 40 points
How well did you build the model? How difficult was the model
to begin with? Did you kitbash or modify the kit to improve detail?
Detail: - 20 points *
How many parts were added to the kit to make it look more
realistic? Make a list of the parts.
Conformity: - 25 points *
Is this a model of a real life object? Photos really help.
Finish and Lettering: - 25 points
Did the modeler paint and decal the model? Is it weathered
to make it look more realistic?
Scratchbuilding: - 15 points *
Were any parts fabricated from styrene or brass?
* Points revised in Summer 1997
When you enter a model in a contest you will be asked to complete a form to explain what you did in these areas. You can write the information out ahead of time if you wish.
Thomas H. Cain
[Rusty Spike - Vol. 26 No. 4, Sept-Oct 1996]
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