Promotional News Article
ARMORCON 2026 Set to Unite Armor Modelers from Across America in Connecticut This October
Armor modelers, military history enthusiasts, and scale modeling fans across the United States should start planning now for one of the most anticipated modeling events of 2026. ARMORCON 2026 returns October 2-3, 2026, at the Wyndham Southbury in Southbury, Connecticut, bringing together builders, collectors, vendors, researchers, and hobbyists for two exciting days dedicated to the art of armor modeling.
Hosted by the Northeast Military Modelers Association, a Connecticut-based chapter of the Armor Modeling and Preservation Society (AMPS), ARMORCON continues the proud tradition previously known as AMPS East. While the name has evolved, organizers promise the same outstanding experience that modelers have come to expect, only bigger and better than ever.
At AFV Hobby Hub, we are proud to support events that strengthen the scale modeling community, encourage historical research, promote craftsmanship, and provide opportunities for enthusiasts of all skill levels to learn and grow. ARMORCON embodies everything that makes this hobby great: education, creativity, competition, friendship, and a shared passion for military vehicles and scale modeling.
The Northeast's Premier Armor Modeling Event
Recognized as the largest armor modeling show in the northeastern United States, ARMORCON has become a must-attend destination for serious builders and newcomers alike. The event features a massive armor modeling competition, the respected AMPS Open Judging System, more than 100 vendor tables, educational seminars, live demonstrations, workshops, special awards, and one of the hobby's most famous raffles.
In addition to traditional military subjects, ARMORCON welcomes science fiction and Gundam modelers through dedicated competition categories, helping the event appeal to a broader range of builders and modeling genres.
ARMORCON 2026 Theme: "Gun Trucks"
The official theme for ARMORCON 2026 is "Gun Trucks," a fascinating category that highlights armed transport and convoy protection vehicles used throughout military history.
The theme is expected to inspire a diverse array of contest entries, including Vietnam War gun trucks, modern convoy escort vehicles, armored logistics transports, technicals, improvised combat vehicles, and field-modified military equipment. Builders will have the opportunity to showcase unique research, scratchbuilding skills, and creative presentations around this historically significant subject.
A Tradition of Excellence Continues
Although many hobbyists may remember the event as AMPS East, ARMORCON represents a natural evolution rather than a departure from its roots.
The Northeast Military Modelers Association has expanded the event's vision while maintaining the high standards that have made it a favorite among armor enthusiasts. The organization's motto sums it up perfectly: "Same great show, same great guys, cool new name."
The refreshed identity reflects growth, expanded participation, and an even stronger commitment to serving the modeling community.
The AMPS Open Judging Difference
One of ARMORCON's biggest attractions is the AMPS Open Judging System, which differs significantly from traditional head-to-head judging formats.
Rather than competing directly against fellow entrants, builders are evaluated against established modeling standards. Models are scored on assembly, finish, weathering, presentation, historical accuracy, and supporting research documentation.
Entries can earn Gold, Silver, or Bronze awards based on merit, and every model has the potential to receive recognition. Each entry is reviewed by a four-person judging team, providing valuable written feedback that helps modelers improve future projects.
This educational approach creates a supportive and encouraging environment that many builders consider one of the greatest strengths of AMPS events.
Competition Highlights
ARMORCON 2026 will feature:
- 18 competition categories
- 20 special awards
- AMPS-style open judging
- Dedicated Sci-Fi category
- Gundam model participation
- Research-focused entries
- Display opportunities for builders of all experience levels
A notable benefit for AMPS members is that award-winning models from other AMPS events remain eligible for entry at ARMORCON, allowing modelers to continue showcasing their finest work throughout the year.
Vendors, Workshops, and the Legendary Raffle
For many attendees, ARMORCON is also one of the region's premier hobby shopping destinations.
The vendor area will feature more than 100 tables offering military vehicle kits, figures, diorama accessories, tools, books, paints, decals, aftermarket detail sets, resin conversions, and rare out-of-production collectibles.
Educational seminars and workshops provide attendees with opportunities to learn advanced techniques from experienced builders and researchers. Topics often include weathering, armor construction, painting methods, reference research, historical presentations, and finishing techniques.
Another major attraction is the famous ARMORCON Monster Raffle, known throughout the modeling community for its incredible selection of prizes. Participants can expect opportunities to win kits, aftermarket products, hobby tools, modeling supplies, collectible items, and more.
Welcoming the Next Generation of Builders
ARMORCON continues to expand beyond traditional armor subjects by welcoming Gundam and science fiction modelers into the competition. This inclusive approach helps introduce new hobbyists to armor modeling while encouraging interaction between different modeling communities.
Whether participants build tanks, armored fighting vehicles, artillery, military soft-skin vehicles, Gundam kits, science fiction subjects, figures, or elaborate dioramas, ARMORCON offers a place for everyone.
Event Information
ARMORCON 2026
October 2-3, 2026
Location:
Wyndham Southbury
1284 Strongtown Road
Southbury, CT 06488
Event Hours
Friday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Hotel Information
Wyndham Southbury is offering a special ARMORCON room rate of $129 per night.
Reservations: 203-598-7600
Request the "ARMORCON Room Block"
Reservation deadline: September 1, 2026
Vendor Reservations
Matt Toms
68 Morris Street
Naugatuck, CT 06770
Email: Ssgtoms@sbcglobal.net
Supporting the Armor Modeling Community
AFV Hobby Hub proudly supports AMPS chapters, IPMS clubs, armor modeling competitions, military vehicle preservation groups, historical researchers, and hobby organizations nationwide. Events like ARMORCON play an essential role in preserving military history while inspiring craftsmanship, creativity, and collaboration among hobbyists.
For armor modelers looking for a premier contest experience, outstanding educational opportunities, unbeatable shopping, and the chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts, ARMORCON 2026 promises to be one of the year's most exciting scale modeling events.
For updates and registration information, visit:
www.northeastmilitarymodelers.com
www.facebook.com/Armorcon
For armor kits, aftermarket accessories, tools, paints, figures, and modeling resources, visit:
Build armor. Share knowledge. Support the hobby.
Leave your comment