31 replies to this topic

[jwasko]

Introducing the 2017 Nerfhaven Modification/Homemade Contest!
 
This thread will serve as discussion for the contest. If you have any questions or comments, post them here.
Official submission thread is there.
 
Voting is now open. Polls will be closed at 11:59pm eastern time Friday October 6. Results will probably be posted by the following Sunday  October 8.
 
Please go to each of the following threads and, review the writeup, and rate each blaster on the 4 listed criteria (Originality, Functionality/Aesthetics, Complexity, and Writeup Quality)
 
Homemades:
IPAC
.5-.625 ACBR
 
Modifications
Mag-Fed XBZ Longstrike
Rapid Red
Hammershot
Pump-Action Sentinel (VGS)

 

(Voting threads are only visible to Nerfhaven members, since only Nerfhaven members may vote)
 
 
Contest rules:

Spoiler

Eligibility

Any member of Nerfhaven may enter this contest by posting a writeup into either the modifications or homemade forum of Nerfhaven.com, and then posting a link to the writeup in the official submission thread.

The writeup must be for a build that was completed by the user him/herself. No, you cannot submit a writeup explaining how someone else built a blaster that you saw online! On the other hand, you may build a blaster similar to someone else and then post a writeup crediting the original creator (just don't expect to score high in orginality...more on that later)

The writeup must be posted to Nerfhaven.com no later than 11:59PM eastern time on August 31, 2017 September 14, 2017.

Note that any build or writeup posted to nerfhaven.com in 2017 prior to the start of this contest is eligible. Technically, the contest is running from January 1, 2017-August 31, 2017.

All entries will be divided into two categories: Modifications and Homemades.
 
Judging
 
Each entry will be judged on the following criteria:

1. Originality:
Is it similar to other modifications and/or homemades, or is it something completely new? (Maximum 10 points).

2. Functionality/Aesthetics
How well did the build achieve its goal? Does it shoot far, fast, and/or look great? Also, basically, "How much do you like it?" (Maximum 10 points)

3. Complexity
The more complex the entry, the higher score. (Maximum 5 points)

4. Quality of the Writeup
How easy is it to grasp what was done? Can you replicate or improve upon the build assuming you have all the necessary tools? (Maximum 5 points)

The judges of this contest will be the members of nerfhaven.com. Members will have the chance to "grade" each entry in each of the four criteria from 1 to 10 (or 1 to 5, depending on the criteria). Results in each criteria will be averaged, and the winners will be determined by whichever entry has the most total points.
 
Example, with entry 3 being the winner at 23 total points:
            Avg Originality   Avg Functionality    Avg Complexity      Avg Writeup       Total
Entry 1       2                          8                       1                       5                  16
Entry 2       7                          5                       3                       4                  19
Entry 3       8                          9                       5                       1                  23
Prizes

The blaster with the highest overall point total will win the grand prize of $50 (awarded by paypal or Visa gift card).

The blaster with the highest point total in the other category will win the second prize of $25 (awarded by paypal or Visa gift card). For example: if a homemade wins the grand prize, the modification with the highest point total will win the second prize.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I submit multiple builds?

Yes

Is my project a modification or a homemade?

For the purposes of this contest, a homemade is a blaster which does not utilize any parts from a mass produced (Nerf, Buzz bee, Boomco, etc) blaster or one which only uses parts of a mass-produced blaster to aid in comfort or form factor. For example, the FAL-3 is a homemade even though it has most of a Nerf Firefly bolted onto it and uses the trigger. It works nothing like a Firefly; it is a homemade.

Any other build will be in the modification category. They will involve alterations to mass-produced blasters, but may include homemade replacement components. For instance, putting a homemade plunger and/or plunger tube into a spring-powered blaster made by nerf is a modification.

I realize that this is a blurred line these days. If you think that your build belongs in the homemade forum, post the writeup there. If a moderator feels that this needs to be changed, we will let you know prior to the start of voting.

What constitutes a writeup?

A writeup is primarily composed of written instructions and pictures to help illustrate various portions of the build. A writeup in this basic format is necessary in order to be eligible to win a prize; you can't just post a picture and a short description of the finished blaster.
 
If you are using 3d printing as a construction methods, please provide stl files. Provide cutting templates and/or detailed measurements if you are machining parts from sheets of plastic,etc.

Post-build guides showing closeups of the completed internals alongside detailed instructions are fine, but may not score as high as something that shows step-by-step instructions.

Computer-generated diagrams like this are great, but you should also include at least a few photos to show that you actually built the blaster.

A video can at times be helpful in getting your point across, but it should not be relied upon; most of the information should given in written form. Note: If you like making modification videos, you can always take screenshots from your video and use those for the writeup.
 
I already posted a picture/video of a blaster here or elsewhere. Can I make a writeup for it and enter it into the contest?
 
Yes.
 
Can I make an HPA-powered blaster?
 
Yes.
 
Can I use 3d-printed parts in my modification and/or 3d-print a homemade?
 
Yes, any construction method is allowed. But please include stl files or anything else you are willing/able to share to aid others in reproducing your blaster or continuing development on it.

Edited by jwasko, 25 September 2017 - 08:48 PM.

[The2ndBluesBro]

This looks good. One question though. Why is difficulty scored higher if it is higher? That category should maybe be called "complexity" instead, as difficulty implies how easy it would be for someone to replicate it, in which case a higher score should be awarded the simpler it is. 

[jwasko]

This looks good. One question though. Why is difficulty scored higher if it is higher? That category should maybe be called "complexity" instead, as difficulty implies how easy it would be for someone to replicate it, in which case a higher score should be awarded the simpler it is. 

 

I don't think it really matters what it's called. The point is that if someone attempted a difficult/complex mod but it turned out a little rough, they get some bonus points over someone who did a dead simple mod very cleanly.

 

"Complexity" is a better word, though. Updated.

[Penna]

Is a cosmetic writeup allowed?

[Silly]

Can we upload as many entries in each category as we want, or is there a limit?

[Eightdotno]

I have the perfect idea for this contest.

Edited by Eightdotno, 24 May 2017 - 11:28 AM.

[jwasko]

Is a cosmetic writeup allowed?

Yes, I was trying to lean the scoring so that it didn't discriminate against cosmetic mods. That's why Functionality/Aesthetics is a single criteria.

 

Can we upload as many entries in each category as we want, or is there a limit?

I'm assuming the odds of anyone even submitting 5 will be low. Maybe 10 if they really go crazy. Are you planning to submit more than that?

 

If someone actually submits more than 10 quality writeups they may get a little prize whether they win or not (no promises), but I might have to ask them to pick their top 5 or something just so voters aren't overwhelmed with entries.

Edited by jwasko, 24 May 2017 - 08:52 PM.

[Silly]

I plan to post at least 3, maybe up to 7 entries of high quality.

[Speedr117]

If I'm using the plunger tube of a blaster for a 3d printed blaster. Is that a mod or homemade.
Also do I have to show how I modeled or just provide the files.

Edited by Speedr117, 25 May 2017 - 09:46 AM.

[Bubba Longshot]

Would an "ultimate" blaster mod writeup work? Even though it would score poorly in the originality section, would it still be eligible if you were the one who wrote it up?

Edited by Bubba Longshot, 25 May 2017 - 05:56 PM.

[jwasko]

If I'm using the plunger tube of a blaster for a 3d printed blaster. Is that a mod or homemade.
Also do I have to show how I modeled or just provide the files.

 

I'm gonna go with homemade, since it seems like it'll be almost entirely an original blaster.

 

Oh, I forgot to mention 3d printing rules...No, you don't have to show the modeling process (although any tips you share might win you extra points with voters!), but please include stl files or whatever is needed to allow others to make your blaster (or a blaster of a similar design).

 

Would an "ultimate" blaster mod writeup work? Even though it would score poorly in the originality section, would it still be eligible if you were the one who wrote it up?

 I'm confused. What's an "Ultimate" blaster mod writeup? 

 

In general, though, if you build a blaster and you take the pictures and you write the instructions (i.e. don't copy and paste), you're eligible. Ideally, if your mod is based on someone else's work, you at least have something a little extra to make it "yours." Even if that's mostly an aesthetic addition.

 

Also, be sure to credit whoever your work is based on.

[Bubba Longshot]

 I'm confused. What's an "Ultimate" blaster mod writeup? 
 
In general, though, if you build a blaster and you take the pictures and you write the instructions (i.e. don't copy and paste), you're eligible. Ideally, if your mod is based on someone else's work, you at least have something a little extra to make it "yours." Even if that's mostly an aesthetic addition.
 
Also, be sure to credit whoever your work is based on.

Heh heh, sorry for not explaining that part... What I meant was, all the basic, easy modifications in one big write up (ARs, better seal, spring upgrade, no deadspace, lock removal, reinforcements, and a paint job).
Hope that clears it up... Sorry for the confusion.

Edited by Bubba Longshot, 25 May 2017 - 09:17 PM.

[Pineapplepies]

 

 

 

 I'm confused. What's an "Ultimate" blaster mod writeup? 

 

In general, though, if you build a blaster and you take the pictures and you write the instructions (i.e. don't copy and paste), you're eligible. Ideally, if your mod is based on someone else's work, you at least have something a little extra to make it "yours." Even if that's mostly an aesthetic addition.

 

Also, be sure to credit whoever your work is based on.

He is refering to lorddraconials way of calling his "everything basic" type mods, for example: a non-cut, non-painted firestrike with increased seal, padding, spring, ar and lock removal, and nothing besides that. It's a maxed out blaster without any shell painting, reinforcing, or crazy additions, and excludes anything related to replacing or improving parts. It's a extreme sleeper if you know what that is, no modding can be detected unless you look very closely or note the slightly different spring.(In fact this is honestly sort of overpowered in some cases because you can bring it to a stock only war and have it pass for a regular blaster, and the preformence isn't enough different to get you kicked out, but enough to provide more range).

 

 

Heh heh, sorry for not explaining that part... What I meant was, all the basic, easy modifications in one big write up (ARs, better seal, spring upgrade, no deadspace, lock removal, reinforcements, and a paint job).
Hope that clears it up... Sorry for the confusion.

Bubba, i would caution you on making a ultimate blaster, because Jwasko said you have to change at least something something to not plaugerize, and as you know drac has MANY videos out there. However, my suggestion would to be is do what you asked about, and then put something crazy, or add some special features and or cosmetics to make it earn more points, because every point counts!

 

 

Jwasko, so let me get this straight, are modded water blasters allowed? And like do you have to have an amazing paintjob or colors to get a lot of points in the aesthetics category?

[Bubba Longshot]

He is refering to lorddraconials way of calling his "everything basic" type mods, for example: a non-cut, non-painted firestrike with increased seal, padding, spring, ar and lock removal, and nothing besides that. It's a maxed out blaster without any shell painting, reinforcing, or crazy additions, and excludes anything related to replacing or improving parts. It's a extreme sleeper if you know what that is, no modding can be detected unless you look very closely or note the slightly different spring.(In fact this is honestly sort of overpowered in some cases because you can bring it to a stock only war and have it pass for a regular blaster, and the preformence isn't enough different to get you kicked out, but enough to provide more range).

 

 

Bubba, i would caution you on making a ultimate blaster, because Jwasko said you have to change at least something something to not plaugerize, and as you know drac has MANY videos out there. However, my suggestion would to be is do what you asked about, and then put something crazy, or add some special features and or cosmetics to make it earn more points, because every point counts!

 

Thanks for the info, I am planning to add my own twist to it in order not to plagiarize; like a paint job, integration, or something unique. 

Thank you!

[jwasko]

Bubba, i would caution you on making a ultimate blaster, because Jwasko said you have to change at least something something to not plaugerize, and as you know drac has MANY videos out there. However, my suggestion would to be is do what you asked about, and then put something crazy, or add some special features and or cosmetics to make it earn more points, because every point counts!

 

 

Jwasko, so let me get this straight, are modded water blasters allowed? And like do you have to have an amazing paintjob or colors to get a lot of points in the aesthetics category?

Yeah water blasters are fine. And, because I'm sure someone will ask: it would probably be a modification. This is a contest to make something that shoots nerf darts (or HIRs or ballistic balls or vortex discs, etc). Doesn't matter what the starting materials are.

 

There is no separate aesthetics category. There is a combined functionality/aesthetics category. That way if someone makes a blaster but doesn't want to paint it, they won't automatically lose. Likewise if someone does an aesthetic mod with little to no performance increases they still have a chance, too.

 

What it takes to "get a lot of points" in a category isn't really up to me. It's up to the voters. You yourself will be a voter, so just ask yourself: how would you rate your blaster?

 

Heh heh, sorry for not explaining that part... What I meant was, all the basic, easy modifications in one big write up (ARs, better seal, spring upgrade, no deadspace, lock removal, reinforcements, and a paint job).
Hope that clears it up... Sorrttery for the confusion.

Well yeah I mean in theory the more you modify the blaster, the better. And making a comprehensive right up of the basics isn't exactly original but then again it is handy to be able to show new folks one complete writeup instead of having to give them a list of mods to read through. Likewise, some of those basics may not be well documented (or may have lost their pictures).

 

But yeah adding a twist or maybe an optional "for advanced modders" step would help increase your chance of winning.

[jwasko]

So there was a lot of interest, but we only have 2 entries with a couple weeks to go.

 

Are people working on projects? Do we need to extend the deadline?

[blitz]

An extension would be nice I would think. 

[Spud Spudoni]

So there was a lot of interest, but we only have 2 entries with a couple weeks to go.

 

Are people working on projects? Do we need to extend the deadline?

I definitely am, although I had no idea this contest was going. Extending it at least another month, or to the end of December would be great. 

Edited by Spud Spudoni, 17 August 2017 - 01:41 AM.

[Bubba Longshot]

So there was a lot of interest, but we only have 2 entries with a couple weeks to go.
 
Are people working on projects? Do we need to extend the deadline?

An extension would be very nice. I hope to have my write up before Saturday, so look out for it ... It's really bad though!

Edited by Bubba Longshot, 17 August 2017 - 10:56 AM.

[Eightdotno]

So there was a lot of interest, but we only have 2 entries with a couple weeks to go.
 
Are people working on projects? Do we need to extend the deadline?

I think $50 may not be enough, even when I did my stupid project, I spent more than $40 on the titan, the wood for the stock, and the small bike pump I originally wanted to use, like the 2015 mod contest I think you should have like some blaster or something along with the $50 as a prize may attract more people to enter the contest?
I also had one of my freinds from an hvz event look at it and he said the same thing.

Edited by Eightdotno, 17 August 2017 - 12:17 PM.

[Silly]

I'm still working on my secret project I plan to enter.

[Meaker VI]

I think $50 may not be enough, even when I did my stupid project, I spent more than $40 on the titan, the wood for the stock, and the small bike pump I originally wanted to use, like the 2015 mod contest I think you should have like some blaster or something along with the $50 as a prize may attract more people to enter the contest?
I also had one of my freinds from an hvz event look at it and he said the same thing.

 

The idea is that you'd probably have done the project anyway, and the contest is just incentive to document & share your results.

[Arrowstorm360]

So there was a lot of interest, but we only have 2 entries with a couple weeks to go.

 

Are people working on projects? Do we need to extend the deadline?

 

 

I may be (very very) late, but I'm going to be making an entry and, as such, would like a deadline extension. 

 

As Spud has suggested, a month extra would be nice. School and all gets in the way of production more often than not.

[Snoop Doggy doge]

NO DEADLINE EXTENSION!!! lmao
I just posted 2 links, one isn't on nerfhaven because photos are being finicky for me to upload. 

If 3+ people need a deadline extension I'd push it back to be due in another 2 weeks IMO otherwise this could drag on. 
 

[An unnamed cell]

I could use an extension, but then it would never be finished...

 

Idk it might be better to have a half working blaster than none at all.

 

UPDATE: Turns out I damaged a certain piece of my entry beyond repair... Oops.

Sorry for wasting your time.

Edited by An unnamed cell, 14 September 2017 - 07:12 PM.