I need some advice on IPMS rules for "out of the box" . the best way to ask the question would be describe the situation.i am building a Dragon kit with some photo etch parts included. I would like to replace a stowage hatch on a panther but would like to use the plastic hatch But add the PE clamps and cover. My confusion is that the hatch is also modeled in PE so can I scrape off the cover and clamps on the plastic part and replace those with the PE parts without having to use the PE hatch. i hope this Si clear. Form my understanding of the rules your are allowed to use anything in the box but can't modify what is in the box. Please help.

IIRC.... If the PE came with the Kit it's considered OOB

That is correct. However, I believe things are going to change in the not too distant future based on the high amount of PE and other goodies that are making their way into the base kits, ie. Dragon's tigers, Shermans etc. I'm curious to see how this develops. "Q"

A strict interpretation of the rules would suggest that you may NOT do what you want and remain OOB - the instructins call for a plastic hatch or a PE hatch, not some combo of the two. If that is what you want to do, then do it, and check with the head judge at the contest -- if he won't allow OOB, then enter it as a regular kit and don't worry about it. If you've done a good job on the basics you'll do fine.

John