Stars are used to rate items reviewed on Miniatures.About.Com. The ranking goes from 1 to 5 and each item I review is rated on the following system. I try to review items depending on the category of collector or model maker they are intended for. Items designed for a beginner may frustrate more advanced miniaturists with their simplicity. Beginning books may not be particularly helpful to advanced users. When reading the reviews, please consider what level of interest and abilities you have, and understand that the review is based on the manufacturer's suggested user range. Whenever possible I will add descriptions into reviews if I feel the material or book is more suited to a particular type or level of user.
1 Star: I won't read, use or look at this ever again and I'll try to explain why. Usually these items have particular problems which cannot be easily remedied.
2 Stars: Has some merits but is not the best example. May be difficult to follow, incomplete, overpriced or have some design flaws, which can be overcome, but should have been adressed by the manufacturer or publisher.
3 Stars: Good information, material or product, may be valuable for the price range, doesn't stand out from the pack, some limitations which are noted. Average performance.
3.5 Stars: Better than average, but may not be the best value or the most complete. May have some design flaws in certain applications.
4 Stars: Well written or designed, good value and useful for several purposes or over a long time frame. Has more value than average.
4.5 Stars: Stands out from other similar items. A good complete and reliable resource or an item that is well designed and made of quality materials with high finishing standards. Highly recommended.
5 Stars: Outstanding either as reference or a material. Delight to read or use with unique coverage and a good price range for the product. Destined to become a classic.
