Speaking of personal tastes, among most builders I know personally, there seems to be a shared respect for good workmanship based upon traditional, regional architectural norms and styles. The ultra-contemporary and bizarre are appreciated for what they are, but it is the piece that emulates the soul of the past, as given by the grand masters, that draws intense focus, study and appreciation around here. It is nothing unusual for one of our finer builders to take an hour off, sit down, and just study a fine piece of art. Over and over the same details, with one's hands as well as one's eyes. We likely all share this trait and find it downright inspirational.
As for the judges, they do a decent job, considering that they are human and put into a malestrom of decision making that, by its nature, has to be somewhat subjective. They all have an archetype in their minds as to what the classics should look like. How else could it be? As for fine craft work, it is good to have someone point out details for improvement, and that is what they are going to do.
Point is, just like anything else, there is a system of judging. Want to play "beat the system?" Then build a gun "for the judges." and take your chances. Want to have fun? Study the architecture first, then build a gun "for enjoyment and use." Someday, just for fun, really critique your own work first, and when you finish off the rifle superb, then enter it in the contest, if so inclined, and see if the judges concur. That's all part of the fun and, yes, you may learn something useful for a better build next time.
