Personal experience and one on one contact is the way to go if someone you know already has the model you are considering. There is always the chance that nobody you know has had the one you want....that is where reviews should come in handy. What I am trying to get publications and on-line reviewers to do is use a strong objective approach when it comes to writing reviews....you must consider your audience. When criticizing give a complete explanation of why (where are you coming from?). If you didn't like some aspect of the model (i.e. shelf paper covering) tell why and give a good example of how to fix (or a way for the manufacturer to fix....even better), i.e. use ultracoat or monokote instead. I just wish there was a universal standard writers should go by.....a code of ethics if you will.

Most of all don't be afraid of criticizing!!!! Afterall what do you have to lose from the review....nothing. The reviews should also be for the manufacturers to use as a "heads-up" to correct problems.