Danny Downs, Topeka, Kansas
Danny scratchbuilds models in brass and copper in 1/48 scale, such as this 1942 Hobart Weldmobile, which carries a Chrysler straight-eight inline industrial engine attached to a 600-amp Hobart welder. “I look for things that are unique,” he says. “I start by getting dimensions and making a drawing. Then all the body parts are formed over bucks. Attached parts are formed by hand.” Danny says it takes him between a year and a half and three years to complete a model.