Two model shows, two very different philosophies, one shared goal: make the scale modeling hobby feel bigger than your workbench. We’re in the thick of show season, and we’re shining a light on events that are actively evolving what a great model show can be for builders, vendors, and first-timers who just want to learn and meet people.

First up is SilverCon in Sacramento, California, hosted by IPMS SilverWings. We get the full run-down on the essentials modelers actually need, including doors-open and judging times, the “Heavy Metal” theme for best natural metal finish, and how their first-year online registration works. We also talk through the vendor hall, raffle timing, parking and nearby food, and why you should plan ahead: payment is cash only and there’s no ATM on site. SilverCon is also pushing for broader participation by welcoming genres that don’t always show up at IPMS contests, plus new options like resin-only, 3D printed, all-metal, and vacform categories.

Then we head to Utah for Rocky Mountain Expo near Salt Lake City, a model exposition built on open system judging. Instead of stacking models into categories, builders display their work together under their own name so conversation becomes the point, not an afterthought. We dig into their inclusion-first approach, their upgraded venue, vendor growth, food options, and a seminar lineup that ranges from technique demos to research skills. We also get into their judging values: no touching models, no default flaw hunts, and useful feedback, capped off with a fast awards ceremony that respects everyone’s time.

If you’re into model contests, IPMS events, open system judging, scale modeling seminars, or just want a better model show experience, you’ll walk away with ideas and a couple of destinations to put on your calendar. Subscribe, share this with a modeling friend, and leave us a review with the kind of show format you want more of.

SilverCon - IPMS Sacramento

Rocky Mountain Expo

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