What is the Model Horse Hobby?
Models horse collecting and showing has been around for many years. In recent years collectors have extended this to include model shows. Basically this can consist of an event where like minded people will gather and 'show' there models, very much in line with live horse events. Alternatively members compete via a photo show. The greatest benefit to this is that regardless of your geographical position you can join in and have your model judged. Unlike their live counterparts, model horses come in a variety of shapes colours and textures. This gives the modelist opportunities to customise with simple head tucks or more involved leg repositioning and transformations. It a great way to meet friends, have a sociable day out and even win a Rosette or Trophy, before returning home.

Q: How long has the world of Model Horse Collecting been around?
A: Collecting of Model Horses has been around since the 1950s. Showing of the models in Live Shows began in the 1960s.

Q: Are model horse shows for adults or just for kids?
A: No! The good thing about this hobby is that it is for everyone, young and old. Most horse shows are open to everyone and anyone; some even offer a reduced fee for youth entries.

Q: What are the different scales of the Models?
A: There are five commonly used different sizes. Traditional Models are 1:9 scale (one inch of model= 9 inches of real horse). Classics and Ponies are 1:12 scale. Paddock Pals are around 1:20 scale. Stablemates are 1:32 scale.

Q: What is a Live Show?
A: Live Showing is one of the most enjoyable activities in the Model Horse Hobby. They are called live shows because you exhibit your models live and in person. A good live show is part competition, trade show, art exhibition and a chance to catch up on model news.Model Horse live shows usually offer halter and performance classes as well as Breed, colour and makes classes. Models entering the classes are judged on different criteria- each judge has different things they are looking for like- colouring, likeness to the breed, condition among a few things.

Q: What is a Photo Show?
A: Photo Show’s are a very popular way of showing Model horses. You simply send in photographs you have taken of your model horse to the show holder/judges and they are judged just like a real life horse show. Each picture is judged on its realism and how true to life it appears. Compared with postal showing, the judging is not a random process and so being placed can be an art!

For More Details about the hobby, MHM recommends the following sites:

- UH Model Horse Forum
- Model Horse Advice