most likely by then more efficient methods of alternative fuels would have been invented(hopefully )
but i think what we should really be worried about is getting more young people intersted in this hobby. yes, we face tough compettion from computer and video games, but there is still good potential for this hobby to be introduced to youngsters.

actually, computer and video games got me into modelling, what I hope for is more war related stuff, It will atract the kids really quick

The biggest worry to modeling will be taxation. They keep trying.

I think the biggest threat to modelling is that young generations dont want to build models. I'm 14 and I know just two kids that are my age that build models.

Fellow Modelers,

I think the biggest reason for a future drop in what we do is that today's younger people were raised in a digital world and an everything-in-one-minute-world.
Its starting with model railroading stores. Ask the owners and look at the age of the customers. Also, it is only the older customers that can afford some of what we pay. Some kids like the cars as evidenced by the fact that cars are about all Michaels carries.
The sun may continue to rise in the east, but do a survey of ages and you won't find a bell-shaped curve, just mostly us old f----- that wore bell-bottomed trousers.

Sealhead

i would totally agree with thay, even they make models, they would be more towards famous modern tanks or aircrafts rather than those in the history

hehe, this question is like.....AWESOME......

I have only one thing to say "DOH" #:-)

I don't think it'll ever die, perhaps go into a remission someday but I doubt it'll disappear. I bet it'll just keep evolving as it has, particularly in the past 20 years. New technologies and stuff will probably continue to alter the face of the hobby to some degree or another (laser engraved panel lines for example). I don't see why the hobby would die off as long as there are people who continue to purchase kits whether they are builders or collectors. I'd say the future looks pretty bright

Not if you eat them quickly enough I am sorry, couldn't help myself.

I am personally trying, as a young person to get my friends to try modelling. I have not had much success. Also, I personally try to avoid modern vehicles, because they lack the pioneering of the earlier tanks, for lack of better terms. WWII tanks and vehicles just have this aura to them

Back to the oil issue ... I now have a legitimate excuse for that huge stash. I'll just tell my wife that they are becoming an extinct species. :-)

Hey if they run out of other thinks to make models from we can use the Soylent Green stored in the warehouses.

I'm curious - how many of us have ever tried to teach a younger entrant about model building? I've sat down with 4 of the neighborhood kids, and one (a girl aged 12!) seems to be quite interested in learning more technique.... that is rewarding!

The three boys all seem "somewhat interested" but haven't been "repeat builders" yet.