Two Double Barrels Of Plastic: November Model Show Spotlight

Plastic Model Mojo

Ready to turn November into a nationwide model show tour? We line up four standout events—ModelZona in Phoenix, the Cleveland Model Show, Charlotte’s Region 12 contest, and Middle Tennessee’s ModelCon in Murfreesboro—and dig into the details that actually affect your day: judging style, registration windows, vendor-room depth, food, parking, and how fast awards wrap so you’re not stuck in your chair at dusk.
We start in Phoenix with ModelZona’s clean one-room layout near Sky Harbor, a clear first/second/third judging approach, and thoughtful specials like Best 1945 Subject and the Raleigh Williams Craftsmanship Award. Cleveland follows with a Sunday show that truly works: two gyms split contest and vendors, elevated tables for easier viewing and photos, and an eclectic slate of special awards—from Scandinavian subjects to pop-up headlight cars to a people’s choice Gundam/Mecha Pose. Charlotte adds a strong theme—From War to Peace—plus a non-sweeps policy, sold-out vendors, custom-designed Best Of awards, and a legendary Atomic Model Smasher for anyone needing a dramatic reset. Murfreesboro’s ModelCon caps it with smooth flow, full IPMS categories, sold-out vendors across every genre, and Smokin’ Butts BBQ parked out front; last year’s 542 models set the tone for an even bigger turnout.
Along the way we compare what each organizer gets right: editable PDF forms that speed check-in, early registration cutoffs that keep judging on track, separate halls that reduce crowding, and smart awards that celebrate more than just the top category winners. Most of all, we celebrate the real win—camaraderie. These shows are where online friends become real-world collaborators, techniques get traded, and inspiration sends you home itching to build.
Map your route, print your forms, charge your camera, and bring cash for that rare kit you didn’t know you needed. If you enjoy the show, tap follow, share this episode with your club, and leave a quick review to help more modelers find us. Where are you heading first?
Start here for all show information and details!

ModelZona 2025
Cleveland Model Show 28
IPMS Region 12 Regional Contest - Charlotte
IPMS Middle Tennessee

Model Paint Solutions
Your source for Harder & Steenbeck Airbrushes and David Union Power Tools
SQUADRON
Adding to the stash since 1968
Model Podcasts
Please check out the other pods in the modelsphere!
PMM Merchandise Store
Support the show with PMM Merchandise!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Give us your Feedback!
Rate the Show!
Support the Show!
Patreon
Buy Me a Beer
Paypal

Bump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed Baroth
Ad Reads Generously Provided by Bob "The Voice of Bob" Bair

Mike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.

פרקים

1. Kicking Off Show-Season Tour (00:00:00)

2. Spotlight: ModelZona Details And Venue (00:01:04)

3. Judging, Specials, And Attendance At ModelZona (00:05:15)

4. Registration, Pricing, And Make & Take Info (00:10:35)

5. Cleveland Model Show Overview (00:14:36)

6. Sunday Format, Venue Layout, And Vendors (00:18:35)

7. Judging Flow, Awards, And Special Categories (00:23:10)

8. Food, Access, And Community Vibe (00:28:52)

9. Charlotte Region 12 Contest Overview (00:33:02)

10. Fees, Non‑Sweeps, And Vendor Room (00:36:55)

11. Theme, Judging, And The Atomic Model Smasher (00:40:45)

12. Final Charlotte Logistics And Links (00:44:48)

13. Middle Tennessee ModelCon Preview (00:47:10)

14. Classes, Awards, Vendors, And Raffle (00:50:25)

15. Food Options And Venue Flow (00:54:10)

16. Records, Medallions, And Travel Plans (00:57:30)

17. Wrap-Up And November Call For Shows (01:03:20)