or as an adjunct to other military modeling. There is also some crossover with wargaming, diorama building, and re-enacting. Displays Models may be displayed on their own, on a base or as part of a diorama. Many models are displayed with no base or other setting. Their wheels or track rest upon the shelf or table on which they are displayed. This display method is the easiest and cheapest, but has the disadvantage that the fragile model may be damaged when handled. A simple wooden base adds an element of protection to the model because the model itself does not need to be handled, it can be moved by handling the base. Bases may also hold a plate with some information about the model, such as its title or designation, or some historical background. This kind of bases typically consist of a frame of wood or other material. Finishes on bases range from painted plastic to stained wood to simple landscaping. The disadvantage is that the base adds expense and time to the project. A diorama is a more elaborate base with landscaping to provide a setting for the model, and often includes a story with figures. Dioramas have the same advantages and disadvantages of plain bases, but to a greater degree. Models are often displayed in competition such as the AMPS annual show, or in club displays at hobby shops and other events. Organizations and publications Several organizations and publications exist to support and promote the hobby of modeling military vehicles. The Armor Modeling and Preservation Society or AMPS is an 800-plus member organization devoted to the hobby. The International Plastic Modellers' Society (or IPMS) supports modelers of all types including military vehicle modelers. The Miniature Armoured Fighting Vehicle Association (MAFVA, http://www.mafva.net/) is a UK-based association. Commercial publications devoted to or including military vehicle modeling include AFVModeller, Military Miniatures in Review (MMiR), Armour Modelling, and Military Modelling. External links AMPS AFV modeling society Armorama.com Armor/AFV scale modeling Diecast 72 Information on 1/72 prebuilt & prepainted AFV's Missing-Lynx AFV model making, all scales ModelArmour Modeler Site Armor/AFV, cars, aircraft scale modeling Model Kits Review Focusing on builds, kit reviews, and op-ed type material related to modelling On The Way AFV model making focused on 1/72 scale planetArmor planetArmor forum ScaleModel.NET Searchable web directory of military scale model related websites around the world Scale Plastic & Rail Reviews, builds and news