Hello Fellow Modellers, I'm thinking about becoming involved with the NMRA AP Program working towards my Master Model Railroader designation. Please any and all help would be appreciated, from what to build to entering the contests etc. I feel that this is a good program but I don't know where to start. FYI: I am an NMRA member, just wanted to hear from the grass roots people. Thanks, Ron
I just started working on my AP points this year myself. I have some points for being a volunteer during a National Convention 4 years ago, but this spring I started working on points for models. There are several catagories you need to work on, and you need several scoring models to get your Master certificate. An example would be Master Car Builder. You must build 8 pieces of rolling stock, and each must score 87.5 points or higher. You have to build a caboose, a passenger car, a MOW car, and a few other pieces. Once you get them all done, you get your Master certificate, and you just finish up the other catagories. Some guys bring in several models in several catagories each meet, and then others, like myself, move slower. I'm only in my mid 40's so I feel I have time, however some guys are making MMR in a few short years due to their commitment and determination.
Go for it! Go steadily, but take your time. You will always gain by any additional "schooling" you can get in life. This will be a learning experience in more than just how to build a model. The effort will strengthen your character, teach you patience, and if you learn to stick to it without giving up easily, your skills learned will increase your satisfaction in your hobby as well as in your enjoyment of life. The one thing to keep in mind is, even if for some reason you might not make the final goal as a "Master", you will have greatly increased your knowledge and appreciation of what all it does take to get there. Just don't let it lessen your self confidence, should you be prevented from being allowed to obtain the "piece of paper". If you do achieve that "piece of paper", you can feel proud of your self, but try to be thankful you were able to achieve the station, don't let it go to your head. Be worthy of the office, because no body likes a snob. Stay with it, and good luck!
Hi Everyone Thanks for your insight, and info. Could anyone give me advice on building car/loco, etc. Can a person use a kit, bash it, super detail it, weather it, and enter an AP judged contest. Or does the item need to be completely build from scatch? Thanks Ron More questions to come......
You can use all of those methods, but scratchbuilt will give you the most points. The funny thing is, that your scratchbuilt details can look ugly compared to a commercial one but it will end up giving you more points. another thing is to make note of every detail in your writeup.
