[flyXwire]

Originally Posted by David Hingtgen

There'll be a LOT more tanks and soldier figures than airplanes, but the odds are good they'll unveil a few new models.

True, but like you said Draggin will preview a few new molds. I've been to two of their venues so it will be worth it!

[KG_Jag]

Originally Posted by stwhite

I have been debating whether to attend since I'm only a few hours away. I know Expo 06,Dragon had two special diecast airplanes made for the Expo, but I have yet to hear anything about this years.

So for those that have attended in the past, what were the lectures about? and the field trips? Just curious if a military history geek like myself will have fun

Each year they have "show only" specials. Usually one is included with your registration--last year it was a (1/6 scale ?) action figure. Other items (armor, air and more) are said to be only available to those attending the Expo or those who have attended a sufficient number in the past. In fact a limited number of these items make it to the vendors. For example the Monkey Depot, who was on site last year, has a number of these special items included in their current sale. Keep an eye on this and related web pages for updates. Most of those updates will occur in the last 6 weeks or so leading up to the Expo, if the past is a reliable indicator.

http://www.dxpo.com/dx/08/news.asp

The field trips were generally to air/armor museums, bases and private collections. Most of the lectures were about modeling techniques. Some were about military history. Some were a combo--basically what did the real thing look like (perhaps over time). For example last year there was a detailed presentation by a retired Marine NCO about what Marine Abrams looked like (and reasons for upgrades and changes) from the point at which the Marines first got the tank through the (then) present day.

I would also check the IPMS web site for more details.

[smartd]

Originally Posted by leeG

Just noticed on the Dragon USA website that the Dragon Expo 2008 will be held in Virginia Beach this August 6 - 9. Never been to one. Is it worthwhile? Something I should go to and bring lots of money?

VA Beach in August, mmmmm, I feel the need of a week's holiday coming on. Oceana NAS has moved its airshow back the the 3rd weekend so that's do-able also.

[stwhite]

Originally Posted by KG_Jag

Each year they have "show only" specials. Usually one is included with your registration--last year it was a (1/6 scale ?) action figure. Other items (armor, air and more) are said to be only available to those attending the Expo or those who have attended a sufficient number in the past. In fact a limited number of these items make it to the vendors. For example the Monkey Depot, who was on site last year, has a number of these special items included in their current sale. Keep an eye on this and related web pages for updates. Most of those updates will occur in the last 6 weeks or so leading up to the Expo, if the past is a reliable indicator.

http://www.dxpo.com/dx/08/news.asp

The field trips were generally to air/armor museums, bases and private collections. Most of the lectures were about modeling techniques. Some were about military history. Some were a combo--basically what did the real thing look like (perhaps over time). For example last year there was a detailed presentation by a retired Marine NCO about what Marine Abrams looked like (and reasons for upgrades and changes) from the point at which the Marines first got the tank through the (then) present day.

I would also check the IPMS web site for more details.

Thanks for the information KG! Very much appreciated.

[Nockers]

Some info on the 2008Ipms National Convention

http://www.ipmsusa2008.org/

[mikeb1958]

I have never been to a Dragon Expo. Who has been to one? Can anyone go? What's the admission cost and what are usually the cost for items like a 1/72 scale Expo tank or plane?

[KG_Jag]

Originally Posted by mikeb1958

I have never been to a Dragon Expo. Who has been to one? Can anyone go? What's the admission cost and what are usually the cost for items like a 1/72 scale Expo tank or plane?

Start here:

http://www.dxpo.com/dx/07/exclusives.asp

Then check this out:

http://www.dxpo.com/dx/

[mikeb1958]

Thank you for the info. Sounds very interesting. Would be cool to get a few of us together for a road trip.... LOUIE...GERRY!!!