Was looking through the new issue and thought back to when Novembers featured the “Jumbo” issue that always made up for the 2 months we didn’t get FSM. I got to wondering-- what happened to the Jumbo issues? Looking through the current issue-- and realizing the issue was no larger- and even that issue was taken up for the most part by the “Modelers Handbook” feature. I completely understand the concept behind this-- and agree it is much needed to help out new modelers. BUT…
I can’t help but wonder why this couldn’t have been set up as a supplement or as a completely separate special issue- much like the Paint and Weather issue. As a subscriber-- again, I understand the need to focus every now and then on the new modeler…but to take that much space up in a regular issue when so many of us aren’t necessarily new-- seems sort of redundant…
I was thinking a bit more on this. I think Matt’s efforts to help educate beginners and long-lost reunited modelers to the common everyday modeling terminology, as well as the latest and greatest in tools and materials is noble. The problem is I guess that once this issue is off the shelf, so too will be all the work. Granted-- it is something that can be recovered through back issue orders…but not everyone may think to do that.
Something to consider as you guys plan to expand this through reader input and advice is to create a section of the website for folks to refer to so all this hard work isn’t lost as subsequent issues takes this one’s place. If not that-- then maybe consider releasing a Kalmbach book full of this stuff. Just a thought-- in the end, I get what you are trying to do…I would just like to see it become more longer lasting…which would make it more effective.
I know some people are looking… posting your thoughts is welcome. I am a big boy and can take it if you think my ideas horrible
From what I gather–complaints like this are perennial–FSM’s business model is very newbie-centric. I stopped buying FSM a long while back specifically because they weren’t offering me much anymore. Seven bucks is a bit much to pay for tips I already know about and pretty pictures of models, comparable versions of which can be seen on the internet for free.
The better you get at your hobby the more likely you are to find FSM unappealing. Its not your fault.
Getting 10 issues is fine as long as they are high quality which they usually are… I decided a while ago that the $40 was a bit steep and went without for a couple years, buying an occasional issue at the bookstore. But then I realized asking for the subscription for Christmas (instead of a pair of pants or gift certificate) made sense-- and still can learn some great things from the article.
I am not looking to bash the magazine-- just trying to help it along in its mission. While I am by no means a master builder, I know enough to be at least adequate…and still am open to learning more. I have looked into other magazines, but spending $100+ is just not my cup of tea…
