I should pre-text this message by saying; I am not a professional builder though I did build on commission and for competition many years ago. I am not an expert, I am nothing more than a simple hobby builder.
Regarding accuracy, sometimes I like to research the real item and try to add or fix some of the things on a kit specific vehicle or variant. Doing that research to me is fun as I learn more about the kit I'm building. Sometimes I personally consider it part of the modeling experience. When I try to apply it to the kit I strive to make a "recognizable scale facimile" of the upgrade with as much accuracy as my old hands, eyes, and budget can accomplish. Sometimes, to me that is part of the fun in building scale replicas.
There are other times when I need a simple stress reliever and build something straight out of the box (OOB), quick and simple, regardless of its accuracy. Yes, times I like what is called a "comfort build". Honestly, during those simple builds, I really do not care if the rivet counters like it or not, it is my build, it is a hobby.
Another important item to add is that constructive input or assistance when asked is another great benefit of the forum. Like many things said in life (work, marriage, etc.) it is often not what you say, but rather how you say it. A message written in text can be meant one way and be receive in another (and it can never be taken back). I always strive to keep my remarks positive. I would normally never add any critisims for accuracy unless sombody asked for that input. I'm OK with all of this, as it is not a competition. It is a hobby to enjoy with others who share similar interests.
Speaking boldly, for those competitors or want to be judges bent on crushing sombodys build because of a accuracy, I think your in the wrong forum. My friends and I here build for the passion and enjoyment of building, sometimes accurate and sometimes not. Competition has its place and I do not think it is not here, at least not for me. Remember everyone, this is a hobby.
With all that said, I want to tell everyone that the most important thing for me is to have fun with the kit, learn something, practice an old or new skill, or even gain a new modeling friend. The bottom line when I build is for MY enjoyment and satisfaction, not always for upmost accuracy. Nobody will make a fortune doing this, if so it is not a hobby, it is a JOB... WORK. The best or most accurate / perfect kit ever built will never save a life, end world hunger, or establish world peace.
When it is all said and done, build for your personal satisfaction... accurate or not. And remember, it is a hobby to be enjoyed, regardless if an item is percieved as perfect or accurate. Enjoy your kit you build and share it with others, that is a hobby.
v/r,
Ben