CONTEST RULES

1. This contest is open to all registrants. IPMS membership is encouraged, but not required.
2. Neither Niagara Frontier Chapter, the proprietors of the contest site, or the judges assume liability for loss or damage to entries.
3. Models which have been First Place winners at previous BuffCons may ONLY be entered in the Master Modeler category. Please do not abuse this rule. We like to see new models!
4. Models may be displayed on simple bases. Except for Diorama categories, bases will not be considered during judging.
   PLEASE MARK ON YOUR ENTRY FORM IF MODEL IS NOT ATTACHED TO BASE.
5. The Chief Judge may combine or split categories prior to judging. The Chief Judge is responsible for all judging issues. All decisions of the Chief Judge are final.
6. Models built to scales other than those listed shall be placed in the nearest appropriate scale category.
7. Out of Box entries (including "Hi-Tech" kits) are to be constructed from the contents of the kit per the kit instructions, with the following exceptions: you MAY fill seams; sand off rivets and panel lines; restore local lost surface detail; drill out guns, exhausts or other appropriate openings; thin edges; add rigging, antennae and simple tape or decal seat belts; and choose alternate color schemes and decals. Weathering is permitted. You MAY NOT make or replace any part; re-scribe overall; add details; or separate such parts as doors, canopies, surfaces or hatches, except as listed above.
   THE KIT INSTRUCTION SHEET MUST BE DISPLAYED WITH YOUR ENTRY.
8. Conversions must constitute a major change of version, model or mark, and must be accompanied by a description of the changes involved. Entries that use a commercially available conversion kit (or kits) will be placed in the appropriate non-conversion category.
9. A scratchbuilt model shall comprise 25% or less of commercially available or kit supplied parts, with the remainder fabricated by the modeler.
10. Bantam and/or Junior modelers may enter Adult categories.
11. All disputes will be referred to both the Category Coordinator and the Chief Judge for resolution. Their decisions are final.
12. All awards must be picked up at the contest.
13. Die-cast models - Out of the box die-cast models are not allowed in any category. Modified or customized die-cast models may only be entered in Category 68. Models in this category will be judged only on the extent of the modifications/customizations as described in detail on the entry form and on the related workmanship. ENTRIES IN THIS CATEGORY ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR BEST IN SHOW.

HANDLING OF MODELS

1. It may become necessary for IPMS Niagara Frontier members (under the direct supervision of the Chief Judge) to adjust placement of models on the display tables due to the varying amount of entries received in the contest categories.
2. During judging, some judges may find it necessary to pick up a model to inspect its underside. If an entrant does not want the entry to be handled by the judges, note this on the entry form.
3. Although not required, it is strongly recommended that models be firmly attached to a base.
4. Handling of models by contest personnel will be kept to an absolute minimum.