Boom:

A huge #fistbump to you and an even bigger thank you for sharing your amazing builds with our ever-expanding global Boom community. To get the wheels rolling in low range, please tell us a little about yourself, where you live (and run your rigs), and the catalyst that got you into this fantastic hobby.

 

Paul Shevlin:

I am 57 years old, going on 12. I live in Worksop in the UK. There are loads of trails locally, but I love getting out and about in Derbyshire, and my favourite spot is Padley Gorge. I have always been into models in some shape or form. A few years ago, I got back into RC Cars, but then I discovered the Rock Crawling scene. It wasn't long before my love for scale models and RC came together.

 

Boom:

What initially attracted you to Boom Racing Kits for your scale builds?

 

Paul Shevlin:

I am always looking for scale accuracy. After trying a few other manufacturers, I thought I would give Boomracing a go. The chassis was perfect for what I wanted to build at the time. When I got my first chassis, the leaf kit (pre 109). I was really impressed by the quality.

 

Boom:

Can you share the specific features of Boom Racing RC cars that make them ideal for your projects?

 

Paul Shevlin:

The main things are the scale look and how adaptable the kits are. The availability of upgrades and spare parts means I can build whatever I want. Jason and his team are constantly developing new parts and ideas. That's another thing about Boom Racing: their customer service is second to none.

 

 

Boom:

How do Boom Racing RC cars compare to other brands you've used in the past?

 

Paul Shevlin:

The thing with Boom Racing is everything works together; you don't have to make loads of modifications just to get the basics right. I had a Range Rover Body when I built the Discovery body. All the mounts I needed were available, and there were no dramas swapping over. The mounting system for the Series II and III and Defender bodies is excellent; ultimately, the accuracy and quality are second to none with Boom Racing.

 

 

Boom:

Are there any particular models of real vehicles that you prefer for your builds?

 

Paul Shevlin:

Land Rovers, then there are Land Rovers and, of course, Land Rovers. The Fred Dibnah Land Rovers are definitely my favourite. I really like commercial vehicles where I can recreate the sign writing. I like my builds to tell a story of what it would have done in real life.

 

 

Boom:

Can you describe your creative process when planning a new build?

 

Paul Shevlin:

I guess it starts with a picture or, in some cases, a memory. That's how all the Fred Dibnah builds came about. I then started researching. This involves looking through as many photos as I can get my hands on. Then, it's working out how to achieve what I want. What painting and construction techniques will work. A few years ago, I taught myself how to use CAD. CAD, coupled with my 3D printer, really opened up endless possibilities. I also invested in a Circuit so I could make my own masks; I then used an airbrush for the painting and weathering.

 

 

Boom:

Do real-world vehicles you have owned ever influence your builds, and if so, how?

 

Paul Shevlin:

The Series 3 Safari build would be that one. As soon as I saw the Boom Racing leaf kit that was out before the 109, I knew I could build a replica of the one I had back in the day. (Wish I still had it) my build has a fully 3D-printed body on it. Hoping Boom do a 109 safari one day.

 

Boom:

How do you integrate personal experiences or interests into your builds?

 

Paul Shevlin:

I think the whole process of building itself is me. I have a compulsion to build and create things. My long-suffering partner Sue will tell you that, LOL. I love all types of modeling and the process of recreating something in miniature.

 

Boom:

Have you ever collaborated with other builders or artists for inspiration?

 

Paul Shevlin:

I try to help others as often as I can, and the Boom Racing Facebook group is a great community. I couldn't have pulled off the green Fred Dibnah build without the help of Dariusz Cybula, and Stefan Godfree is helping me with information on my current build. My Son is a web designer and 3d modeler, so he helps out with some stuff. Collaborating with Peter Gray and Dave (Scale Overlander) on the Boom Racing stand-at shows has been great fun.

 

 

Boom:

Do you have any upcoming projects or builds that you're particularly excited about?

 

Paul Shevlin:

I like a challenge and am looking forward to finishing The SAS Pink Panther. That's where Stefan Godfree has been a great help. He has access to the one at the Imperial War Museum and has been helping me with pictures and dimensions.

 

Boom:

Are there any new techniques or technologies you plan to incorporate into future builds?

 

Paul Shevlin:

I taught myself to use CAD for 3D printing a few years ago; this was a game changer for me. If I need something, I can now pretty much make anything I want. I am thinking about moving over to a resin printer at some point. I also think I need to get my head around 3D modeling with a blender. I currently rely on Sid my son for that sort of thing but I like to be able to do as much of the creative process as I can myself. I have also dabbled with some 3d scanning.

 

Boom:

Boom Racing is excited to announce its partnership with Scaletra Adventure, an app designed for RC crawling enthusiasts! Scaletra seamlessly combines real-world R/C crawling with an innovative digital experience. Users can record their trail runs, share their R/C adventures with friends, and participate in exciting challenges.

As a Scaletra beta tester, what are your initial impressions of the upcoming app?

 

Paul Shevlin:

Blown away, it's Strava for RC. I am so busy with work and my building that I don't often have the time to get out, but I have found the Scaletra app motivates me to get out. I am really looking forward to doing some of the challenges this year.

 

Boom:

How do you think the Scaletra App will change the way builders approach the hobby?

 

Paul Shevlin:

I think this will bring people together, help people find new places. it motivates people to get out and its definitely going to help peoples health and wellbeing.

 

 

Boom:

What features of the Scaletra App do you find most useful or innovative?

 

Paul Shevlin:

I like seeing the milage a truck clocks up and also it's a window on the whole world. when someone on anther continent post a run they have done it makes you feel part of a huge community.

 

A big thank you to Paul for joining our Builder of the Month Series! We appreciate your insights and contributions. For those who would like to stay connected and learn more about Paul's projects and updates, be sure to follow him on Facebook at @paulshevlin.