2026 Contest Rules

Please review the following rules before registering your entries for the 2026 Duneland Model Club Contest.

  1. There is no limit of entries per person in any one category, however sweeps are not allowed. One award per person per category will be allowed.
  2. Contest categories may be expanded (split) or combined based upon the number of entries in a given category. The contest committee will select judging teams of three or more.
  3. The judges committee reserves the right to move entries to a proper category. However, in a case where a model may fit into more than one category, it is the entrant’s decision as to which category it will be placed in.
  4. Following a change to the I.P.M.S./U.S.A. National convention rules, the composition of at least 75% plastic does not apply to entries in this contest. The use of plastic is encouraged but is not a required medium for construction. However, the same finishing rules apply.
  5. Models will be judged by the following criteria: basic construction, overall finish, additional detailing, overall accuracy and degree of difficulty.
  6. Bases will be allowed in all categories and will not be considered in judging except in the case of a diorama. The model may include primary crew figures only. Any additional figures or equipment constitutes a diorama.
  7. “Out of the Box” categories are intended for the less experienced contestants, or those new to the hobby. NO HI-TECH KITS (KITS WITH PHOTO-ETCHED PARTS), ADDITIONAL PHOTO-ETCHED PARTS, KIT SWAPPING OR AFTERMARKET PARTS ALLOWED. However, you may use aftermarket decals and finishes, along with simple seat belts. NO SURGERY (i.e. NO cutting open hatches or canopies, NO cutting and repositioning of parts, NO extra detailing of any parts. You may drill out guns and exhausts and add simple rigging or antennas.) The instructions must accompany the model.
  8. Junior division categories are limited to contestants 15 years and younger. Junior modelers may choose to advance to the senior level of categories; however, all of the contestant’s entries must be within the same division.
  9. Any model that has won a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd award at an IPMS National or Regional contest is not eligible for this contest.
  10. If there are any questions, the head judge’s decision will be final.
  11. The Contest Director may decline to accept an entry with subject matter that may be considered lewd, offensive or in poor taste by the public.
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