I either heard or read this expression as it relates to Modeling; some place in one of the forums. Could someone please explain what this term means? [ January 05, 2006, 07:09 PM: Message edited by: okane ]
Most modelers look at a model from a three foot distance. As for the most part most modelers aren't rivot counters. Rivot counters look at a model with a microscope and judge a model from that distance (microscopically). I don't use a microscope in N scale. Stay cool and run steam....
I believe this is meant to say, if it looks good from three feet away, then it is good enough. Mainly used by N-scalers such as myself.
Or it could be used to describe my modeling efforts: "boy that guy has gone beyond all thumbs, he's got 3 feet."
I used to have a button that said "Rivets Count" but somebody stole it. Most of my modeling is a "Close Approximation" of the real thing. The further away from it, the better it looks.
The Three-Foot Rule works in HO also! Many times it has been my best friend and saved me from doing something that I would later regret.
Most model railroaders watch a passing model train from several feet away. If it looks good from that distance, as it passes,...... Boxcab E50
Think of the prototypical equivalent - couple-three hundred feet in HO, and over 450 feet in N. What kind of detail do you see on the prototype at that distance? If the model looks decent from a yard away, it is usually fine. You may want to invest a bit more time and effort in your foreground models, but that is up to you... Andrew
Three Foot Rule: Distance the average person can reach comfortably into their layout to perform needed tasks[taken right out of a Lynn Wescott article!]. Most modelers prefer a low average height-to-rails; this allows a reasonably easy 3 foot reach. Others[yours truly included]prefer higher average height-to-rail[bad back]and that's where narrow shelf type layout is more practical, as reaching's reduced to[in my case]18" max; usually less..... [ January 10, 2006, 08:01 PM: Message edited by: Old Tom ]
Three feet represents the number of times you are allowed to kick the rivet counter in the seat of the pants. Actually, I think it means if you can hold the model at arms length and it looks good you're ok. Frankly I think the whole prototype thing is a sack of %&*$! I like alot of layouts I see pictures of that are almost completely toylike. I figure just do your own thing and follow that happy feeling.
"Three Foot Rule"? It's my layout. I make the rules. If it is within 3 feet than I can see it and it rules! Edit: Previous typos were in not intened. [ January 10, 2006, 06:15 PM: Message edited by: Grey One ]
yup, the 3 foot rule is exactly the same as the scale modoel aircraft judging criteria. In RC Aircraft terms its called "Stand off scale" and judges arent allowed within 6 feet of the model when judging it. True scale means they can pry parts off it to see the detail. the 3' rule works for me!
If you ever have a fender bender, ask the body shop if they have heard of the 50/50 rule. If they have, run. If it looks good from 50 feet away or when it goes by at 50 mph call the customer and tell them their car is ready.
This was my first thought about the 3 foot rule too... keep any reach onto the layout under 3 feet to avoid damaging layout details.
