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1. Competition Overview
2. General Rules
  Competitor Eligibility
  Device Requirements
  Competition Conduct
3. Special Awards
  Grand Master Award
  Life Master Award
  Bill & Sue Hoyt Prize
  Orv Carlisle Rocketman Trophy
  John Steinberg Award
  Iowa Fireworks Award
  The Club Trophy
4. Safety
5. Competition Specifications
Aerial Shell Competition
  1-0 Level 0 (Small Scale)
  1-1 Level 1 (Beginner)
  1-2 Level 2 (Novice)
  1-3 Level 3 (Intermediate)
  1-4 Level 4 (Advanced)
  1-5 Level 5 (Exhibition)
  1-A Best Small Shell
  1-B Best Medium Shell
  1-C Best Medium Large Shell
  1-D Best Large Shell
  1-E Best Exhibition Shell
Rocket Competition
  2-1 Level 1 (Novice)
  2-2 Level 2 (Intermediate)
  2-3 Level 3 (Advanced)
  2-4 Level 4 (Unlimited)
  2-A Best Small Rocket
  2-B Best Large Rocket
  2-C Best Small Rocket Motor
  2-D Best Large Rocket Motor
Ground Competition
  3g-1 Ground Level 1 (Novice)
  3g-2 Ground Level 2 (Intermediate)
  3g-3 Ground Level 3 (Advanced)
  3g-4 Ground Level 4 Unlimited)
  3m-1 Mine Level 1 (Novice)
  3m-2 Mine Level 2 (Intermediate)
  3m-3 Mine Level 3 (Advanced)
  3-A-S Best Small Gerb
  3-A-L Best Large Gerb
  3-B-S Best Small Comet
  3-B-L Best Large Comet
  3-B-U Best Unlimited Comet
  3-C Best Wheel
  3-D Best Girandola
  3-E Best Roman Candle
  3-F Best Lance Piece
  3-G Best Movie Special Effect
Class C Competition
  4-1 Level 1 (Limited)
  4-2 Level 2 (Advanced)
  4-3 Level 3 (Unlimited)
6. Protests and Rule Violations
7. Judging
8. Roles
9. Terminology
10. Summary Table

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1. COMPETITION OVERVIEW

The competition section of each PGI Convention is intended to foster interest in the construction of pyrotechnic devices by the membership, and to give all members a chance to admire and study those devices.
The overall competition is divided into three divisions for member-built pyrotechnics and one division for commercially produced items.
The divisions are:

  1. Aerial Shell Competitions
  2. Rocket Competitions
  3. Ground Competitions
  4. Class C Competitions

Within each division, the are two types of competition, "level" and "best". The "level" competitions are intended to allow competitors to demonstrate steadily increasing knowledge of the craft from beginner to advanced. The "best" competition is one in which all competitors attempt to build the best examples possible of a particular device.

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2. GENERAL RULES

COMPETITOR ELIGIBILITY

  1. All competitors shall be members in good standing and attend the PGI convention.

  2. All competition participants must be at least 18 years old at the time of competition and have signed a release form.

  3. No active working professional in pyrotechnics manufacture may enter any Level 1 or Level 2 category. A working professional is defined as anyone who has worked for more than a year under the direct supervision of a production manager or owner of an ongoing pyrotechnic company or derives more than one third of their income from a commercial pyrotechnic enterprise. For divisions having three or fewer levels, the professional may enter only the top level. For divisions having more than three levels, the professional may enter only the top two.
    These restrictions do not apply to "best" competitions or Class C competitions (Division 4).

  4. All entries must be in a single name with the exceptions of Best Lance Piece, Ground Levels, Best Movie Special Effect, and Class C.

  5. For all "level" competitions, once a competitor has placed first in a level, they must move up at least one level in subsequent years. Exceptions are Division 4, any competitor who wins by default, the top level of Mines and Ground Displays, Aerial Level 0, and the top two levels of Aerial and Rocket divisions.

  6. A competitor may enter any number of divisions (i.e., Aerial, Rockets, etc.). A competitor may only enter one level within each set of "level" competitions.

  7. Each day of the competition there will be a meeting for all competitors.
    It is required that all competitors attend these meetings as several important decisions will be made at these meetings. Among these will be the random selection of the firing order, firing sites, and clarifications of questions regarding rules, as well as a safety briefing. A competitor's non-attendance at the meeting may result in disqualification from the contest.

DEVICE REQUIREMENTS

  1. Except as otherwise noted, all devices are to be made entirely by the entrant. Commercial products allowed in all classes are:
    bulletBlack powder
    bulletQuickmatch and Blackmatch
    bulletCardboard cylinders, tubes, and disks
    bulletTime fuse
    bulletElectric matches
    bulletRound shell casings

  2. "Best" competitions: Except where otherwise noted, "best" devices will be submitted in pairs. The definition of devices in the "best" competitions will be in accordance with the definition as listed in the "level" classes.
    An entrant may enter any number of "best" competitions. Unless otherwise noted, a competitor may enter any "best" competition twice provided that the judges agree that the effects are substantially different. For Best Large Ball Shell (1-D- B), Best Large Cylinder Shell (1-D-C) and Best Exhibition Shell (1- E), the competitor may enter 3 devices. Only the best effort of an entrant will count towards the Grandmaster award.

COMPETITION CONDUCT

  1. All devices entered in divisions except for Class C (Division 4), must have descriptions of intended effects supplied to the judges in writing on 8½ by 11 sheets or specially prepared forms for those descriptions.

    These written descriptions must be given to the Competition Chairman no later than the competitors meeting on the day of the competition and may be required earlier at the discretion of the Competition Chairman. Also at the discretion of the judges or the Competition Chairman, items may be deleted or their order of firing changed, but new items may not be added after being delivered to the competition Chairman.
  2. Competitors are requested to make arrangements with the Competition Site Coordinator regarding equipment requirements for their entry.
  3. Each competitor may have assistants to help with their entry.
    These assistants will facilitate efficient set-up, firing, and/or provide assistance with announcing the described effects.
  4. The Judges and Competition Chairman may at their discretion require that pairs of devices in some "best" competitions be shot simultaneously.
  5. As an aid to impartiality the name of each competitor will not be announced until the judges have indicated to the Competition Chairman that the scoring sheets have been completed.
  6. Each competitor is responsible for the clean up and removal of their entry.

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3. SPECIAL AWARDS

GRAND MASTER AWARD

The Grand Master award is intended by the PGI to recognize the competitor who has best demonstrated an overall excellence with pyrotechnic device invention and implementation for the current year.

All competitors by virtue of entering any competition are automatically entered into competition for the Grand Master award. Points will be accumulated from the five events in which the competitor has scored the highest. Each event has a Grand Master Point Code assigned. The entrant with the most points from the table shown below will receive the overall award. In case of a tie, the Judging Panel will select the winner.

PLACE
CODES12345
A5040302010
B403224168
C302418126
D20161284
E104321

LIFE MASTER

Once a competitor has won Grand Master three times, that person becomes Life Master. A Life Master is no longer eligible for Grand Master, but may still compete as previously.

BILL & SUE HOYT PRIZE

At each years convention the guild officers have the option of awarding the Bill & Sue Hoyt Prize if a truly marvelous shell is fired in any of the regular competitive categories. The criteria for this award are:

"Monumental shells, shells outstanding for their type, shells which perform perfectly, shells which are not dependant on being part of the show, shells which shot all by themselves would make Bill and Sue happy."

This prize is in cash from the Bill & Sue Hoyt Trust fund. The decision to award the Bill & Sue Hoyt Prize is made by the officers of the PGI.

ORV CARLISLE ROCKETMAN TROPHY

The Orv Carlisle Rocketman Trophy was originally established in 1989 as the Orv Carlisle Rocket Award, a cash prize which would not necessarily be awarded in any given year, but only when truly outstanding and/or innovative rockets were demonstrated in competition. In 1995, a small group of rocketmen commissioned the current trophy, a spectacular sculpture of a rocketman, and committed to having a new one cast each time the trophy was awarded. The first Rocketman Trophy was appropriately won in 1996 by one of those who commissioned it, Bill Kimbrough, in recognition of his marvelous Girandola.

JOHN STEINBERG AWARD

Awarded to the "best achievement of an effect" put forward by a first time competitor in a class B competition. This would not necessarily be the shell winner of any other competition, although it could be.

IOWA FIREWORKS AWARD

Awarded to the "best overall use of class C in a display" put forward by a first time competitor in a class C competition. Judgment will be made on the best use overall of Class C devices - just using every Class C device known to man will not guarantee a win.

THE CLUB TROPHY

Each competitor who designates his or her entry in competition as a member of a given club is eligible for participation in the competition for club trophy. Each of these competitors who place 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in any "level" or "best" will earn 3, 2, or 1 points, respectively. Only the one best result; whether 3, 2, or 1; may go toward the club trophy from each competitor.

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4. SAFETY

  1. Each competitor must not endanger spectators, other competitors, or other competitors entries.

  2. The Safety Committee and/or Competition Committee may inspect items to be fired in any of the competitions. The committee may disallow certain devices and may even terminate an entire entry. The decision of the Safety Committee to reduce the number of devices or remove any allowable entry in any category as a result of shooting site safety considerations will be overriding.

  3. There will be no on-site construction of live effects. Only assembly of previously manufactured items, such as wheels and set-pieces will be permitted.

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5. COMPETITION SPECIFICATIONS

DIVISION 1: AERIAL SHELL COMPETITION

Definitions:

An Aerial Shell is a device propelled into the air to produce a visual and/or audible effect. It receives its primary motive force from the use of a lifting charge in a mortar tube or similar device.

Equipment Specifications:

Mortars: 3", 4", 5", 6", and 8" inch diameter will be provided. Competitors requiring mortars of other sizes should contact either the Convention Chairman or Competition Site Coordinator to arrange for those sizes.
The provided mortars will be no smaller than the stated diameter, but they may be 1/32" oversize for every inch of diameter. In no case should the diameter be more than 1/4" over. Additional specifications for mortars may be set by the Safety Committee.

Device Specifications:

Ground and rocket effects are not allowed in any level.

  • In all levels unless otherwise specified the shells must be made entirely by the competitor, including components and inserts such as whistles, serpents, tourbillions and any other elements of the shell which produce a visual or audible effect. Commercial fuse, black powder, tubes, discs, and round shell casings are allowed in construction at all levels.

  • No commercial Class C devices may be used in any level.

  • Garnishments up to one-third of the shell diameter are permitted in Levels 2, 3, 4, and 5. Garnishment would include whistles or stars; NOT salutes.

  • Report and Salute maximum sizes will not exceed the diameter of the shell in length.

  • Except when the Competition Chairman approves for artistic reasons, shells which have a single salute as their basic effect are not permitted in any competition level. Acceptable exception: colored salute.

  • Single-break color or multiple-component shells in levels 2 and 3 or "best" competitions may not exceed twice the shell diameter in length. Component shells are allowed in any level.

  • In Level 2, 3, and "best" competitions, multiple-break shell lengths are limited to: 1.5 x diameter x no. of breaks. For example, a 4", 2- break shell length is limited to 1.5 x 4 x 2 =12". There are no length restrictions for levels 4, or 5.

  • Definitions of multiple-break shells, stacked or piled shells, and component shells:

    bulletMultiple-break shells are those which have the appearance of a single shell, but are comprised of 2 or more adjacent cylinders of ostensibly equal diameter. Each break that succeeds the initial break takes its fire from the preceding break.
    bulletPiled shells are those consisting of separate devices, usually spherical, all of which take fire from the lift charge. A stack of 2 is considered a single device for "level" competition and a 2-break device for "best" competition. Piled shells are not allowed in levels 1 & 2. Stacks of more than 2 shells must be approved by the Safety Chairman.
    bulletComponent shells are those in which devices within a break take fire from the burst charge of the break. The components are limited to an o.d. less than 1/2 the i.d. of the shell.

    For clarification, a 4" shell with any component having an o.d. greater than 1 1/4" or a shell body longer than 8" is considered to be a multibreak shell.

  • Some levels require effects as defined in the following list:
    bulletComets, includes crossettes
    bulletSmall salutes such as saettines, lambettis, fusilading or cannonade
    bulletTimed items, such as draw-out or timed reports
    bulletFlying or spinning items such as serpents or tourbillions
    bulletPatterns such as puppadels or double-petalled peony
    bulletAudible effects such as hummers or whistle
    bulletFancy or unusual color
    bulletMultiple-break as defined in device specifications
    bulletUnique effects not covered in preceding categories

  • Minimum/Maximum shell numbers and required effects in aerial competition are:

    Level

    Minimum

    Maximum

    Effects

    0

    4

    5

    3

    1

    6

    6

    N/A

    2

    7

    9

    3

    3

    7

    9

    4

    4

    8

    9

    5

    5

    5

    7

    N/A

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    Aerial Shell Competitions

    Division 1-0: Level 0 (Small Scale)
    Shells must be no larger than 1 1/2" o.d. and are limited to 3 breaks.
    No "bottom shots" are permitted. Each competitor must supply a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 5 shells. Mortars of HDPE or other materials must be supplied by the competitor and approved by the safety committee. Due to the small size of the shells, competition in this class will be held in the infield at the discretion of the safety committee. Grand Master Point Code is "D".


    Division 1-1: Level 1 (Beginner)
    This level is intended for beginning shell makers to gain information and comment from the expert judges regarding the construction and technique of their shells. Shells must be single-break 3" diameter, or smaller, with a maximum length of 5". Component shells are permitted, but salutes may not be used in components. Judges are to score the shell performance rather than the components, therefore components may be purchased rather than made by the competitor. Exactly 6 shells must be entered at this level. Grand Master Point Code "E"


    Division 1-2: Level 2 (Novice)
    Shell maximums are 3" two-break and 4" one-break. Salutes may not exceed 2½" x 2" i.d. Shells with salutes must be shot from non-metal mortars. Each competitor must supply a minimum of 7 shells and may supply up to a maximum of 9 shells. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 1-3: Level 3 (Intermediate)
    Shell maximums are 3" four-break, 4" three-break, 5" two-break, and 6" one-break. Salutes must not exceed 3" x 3" i.d. Each competitor must supply a minimum of 7 shells and may supply up to a maximum of 9 shells. Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 1-4: Level 4 (Advanced)
    Maximum aerial shell size will be 8" diameter, any number of breaks.
    The competitor must supply a minimum of 8 shells and may supply up to a maximum of 9 shells. Grand Master Point Code "B" Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 1-5: Level 5 (Exhibition)
    This level of competition is provided for those who excel in production of aerial shells. If the intended effects do not appear to meet the judges expectations of superior expertise, a competitor may be excluded from this level. There are no limits on the shell sizes. The competitor must supply a minimum of 5 shells and may supply up to a maximum of 7


    Division 1 "Best" competitions
    Any of Divisions 1-A through 1-E may be subdivided into cylinder and ball subcategories. Unless otherwise specified in the Bulletin, "Best Large Shell" will be split into "Best Large Cylinder Shell" and "Best Large Ball Shell".


    Division 1-A: Best Small Shell
    All shells in this division must be 4" single-break or multi-breaks 3"


    Division 1-B: Best Medium Shell
    All 5" single-break and 4" multi-break shells are in this division.
    Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 1-C: Best Medium Large Shell
    All 6" single-break and 5" multi-break shells are in this division.
    Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 1-D: Best Large Shell
    All 7" or 8" single-break and 6" multi-break shells are in this division. Pairs are not required in this competition. Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 1-E: Best Exhibition Shell
    All single-break shells larger than 8" and all multi-break shells larger than 6" are in this division. Pairs are not required in this competition.
    Grand Master Point Code "C"

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    DIVISION 2: ROCKET COMPETITION

    Definition:
    A rocket is a reaction motor which rises into the air with a controlled trajectory stabilized by fins, balance stick, or spinning.


    Equipment Specifications:
    At the request of entrants in this division, the Competition Site Coordinator will arrange for racks and associated equipment; however, the entrant is encouraged to provide his own equipment suitable for firing the devices. All racks supplied by the entrant must be sturdily constructed to prevent tipping. Racks and equipment will be inspected by the Safety Committee, and additional specifications for such equipment may be set by the Safety Committee.


    Device Specifications:
    1. Ground effects designed to ignite before the rocket leaves the launching rack are not allowed.
    2. Mortar firing or assists for purposes of aiding the rocket to leave a launching device are not allowed.
    3. Excluding black powder, fuse, cases and tubes, the rocket motor and stabilizing device must be made entirely by the competitor.
    4. Salutes will have a maximum external diameter (o.d.) equal to the diameter of the rocket bore - none larger.
    5. When permitted, batteries are considered to be a single effect.
    6. Rockets can have only one engine burning at a time.
    7. All rocket levels have required effects as defined in the following list:

      Tail:
      bulletCharcoal
      bulletGlitter
      bulletUnusual, such as whistle or strobe

      Heading:
      bulletMultiple-breaks
      bulletTimed items
      bulletFlying or spinning effects
      bulletComets, includes crossettes
      bulletAudible effects such as salutes
      bulletAudible, non-salute items such as whistles
      bulletFancy or unusual color

    8. Minimum/maximum numbers of rockets and required tail/heading effect:
      LevelMinimumMaximumTail EffectsHeading Effects

      1

      6

      8

      2

      2

      2

      6

      8

      2

      3

      3

      6

      8

      2

      3

      4

      6

      8

      2

      3

    Rocket Competitions

    Division 2-1: Level 1 (Novice)
    Maximum rocket motor i.d. is 3/4". No batteries are permitted in this level. Rockets must be stabilized by balance sticks only. Each competitor must supply a minimum of 6 rockets and may supply up to a maximum of 8 rockets. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 2-2: Level 2 (Intermediate)
    Maximum rocket motor i.d. is 7/8". Each competitor must supply a minimum of 6 rockets and may supply up to a maximum of 8 rockets. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 2-3: Level 3 (Advanced)
    Maximum rocket motor i.d. is 1-1/4". A maximum of three batteries are allowed in this level with each battery not to exceed 15 rockets, however they must be fired in close sequence. Each competitor must supply a minimum of 6 rockets and may supply up to a maximum of 8 rockets fired individually. Grand Master Point Code "B"


    Division 2-4: Level 4 (Unlimited)
    Maximum rocket motor i.d. is 1½". All else is the same as level 3. Grand Master Point Code "A"


    Division 2-A: Best Small Rocket
    Maximum rocket motor i.d. is 3/4". Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 2-B: Best Large Rocket
    Rocket motor bore must be larger than 3/4" and no larger than 1 1/2". Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 2-C: Best Small Rocket Motor
    Maximum rocket motor i.d. is ¾". Entrant must make all compositions used in the rocket. The only heading allowed is a salute to track the rockets apogee. Salute is limited to 21 grams. Grand Master Point Code "D".


    Division 2-D: Best Large Rocket Motor
    Minimum rocket motor i.d. is 7/8", maximum is 1 ¼". Entrant must make all compositions used in the rocket. The only heading allowed is a salute to track the rockets apogee. Salute is limited to 60 grams. Grand Master Point Code "D".

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    DIVISION 3: GROUND COMPETITION

    Definitions:
    A ground display produces its primary effects on the ground or beginning on the ground. Devices suitable to a ground display include: torches, fountains, gerbs, wheels, tourbillions, candles, waterfalls, mines, comets, set pieces, whistles, towers, castles, line rockets, and possibly girandolas. Display is the operative word and the spirited competitor is encouraged to entertain the audience with an artistically coordinated array of devices.

    A mine consists of stars, crackers, salutes, whistles, hummers, serpents, bees or any other single or combination of effects ignited and ejected upward into the air from a single mortar. The individual effects are ignited and loose upon ejection.

    A gerb or fountain is a stationery single case which may be choked and is charged with a composition, which when ignited, shoots fire and/or sparks into the air.

    A comet is a single projectile which is fired into the air and is designed to produce a visible effect during flight. It receives its sole motive force from the use of a lifting charge in a mortar tube or similar device.

    A wheel is a spinning device held fixed at the axis of rotation. Propulsion of the wheel must be by a pyrotechnic device. Multiple wheels will be allowed and count as one wheel if attached to a common main frame.

    A girandola is a flying horizontal wheel. While spinning, it lifts into the air as the result of the collective thrust of a number of drivers aimed mostly downwards. It is frequently augmented with other display devices mounted on the girandola.

    A roman candle is a single device which repeatedly fires projectiles into the air from a single tube.

    A lance piece is a pictorial pyrotechnic depiction primarily by use of lance.

    A movie special effect is a device that creates smoke, fire, or noise, or any combination of smoke, fire and noise. Such a device may be placed on a building, vehicle, or in the air. The intention of such a device is to simulate the use of munitions, explosives, or the explosion of fuel or a fire and explosion with little or no affect to the target while giving the illusion of great destruction or damage.


    Equipment Specifications (Ground Displays):
    Competitors are requested to make arrangements in advance with the Site Chairman regarding requirements for their entry. All supports, guy- wires, and equipment will be sturdily constructed to prevent devices from falling or becoming loose. Equipment may be inspected by the Safety Committee prior to the entrant's exhibition.


    Equipment Specifications (Mines):
    All mines will be fired from non-metal mortars. All mortars will be buried or securely supported in a manner approved by the Safety Chairman. Mortars glued to platforms are not permitted.


    Device Specifications (Ground Displays):
    1. Small aerial shells not to exceed 2-1/2" o.d. are allowed but can only be used to augment the ground effects.
    2. Salutes are limited to 2-1/2" x 2-1/2" o.d.
    3. Line rockets are permitted.
    4. There is no upper limit on the number of devices, however the competitor should observe a time limit of 15 minutes.
    5. All mines will be fired from non-metal mortars only. This rule will be strictly enforced by the Safety Committee. Any competitor found in violation of this rule will be disqualified.
    6. Commercial lance, tubes, match, and time fuse are permitted in all competition levels.

    Device Specifications (Mines):
    1. Excluding match, black powder, fuse, cases and tubes, the device must be made entirely by the entrant.
    2. All individual effects comprising a mine shall be housed in a mine bag. Mine bag height shall not exceed twice the diameter of the mine bag.

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    Ground Competitions

    Division 3g-1: Ground Display Level 1 (Novice)
    The display must consist of at least 10 total devices, representing at least 5 distinct device types. See the chart below for restrictions on individual device sizes. Grand Master Point Code "D".


    Division 3g-2: Ground Display Level 2 (Intermediate)
    The display must consist of at least 15 total devices, representing at least 6 distinct device types. At least 1 device must be a Wheel, Girandola, Lance Piece, Set Piece, or Falls. See the chart below for restrictions on individual device sizes. Grand Master Point Code "C".


    Division 3g-3: Ground Display Level 3 (Unlimited):
    The display must consist of at least 30 total devices, representing at least 7 distinct device types. At least 2 device types must be from the list of Wheel, Girandola, Lance Piece, Set Piece, or Falls. See the chart below for restrictions on individual device sizes. Grand Master Point Code "B".


    TypesDevicesWheelGirandolaLance PieceSet PieceFallsCometsCandlesGerbsMinesDrivers
    (2)(3)(1)(o.d.)(drivers)(lances)(items)(tubes)(o.d.)(i.d.)(i.d.)(o.d.)(i.d.)
    Level 1 Min51012"42066
    Max16"122"1"2"3"3/4"
    Level 2 Min61524"84086
    Max2"1"2"3"3/4"
    Level 3 Min73036"1260106
    Maxunlimunlimunlimunlimunlim
    (1) The total number of devices, including multiples of the same device (Lance and Set Pieces count as single devices)
    (2) Level 2 requires at least 1 Wheel, Girandola, Lance Piece, Set Piece, or Falls.
    (3) Level 3 requires at least 2 device types of Wheel, Girandola, Lance Piece, Set Piece, or Falls.


    Division 3m-1: Mine Level 1 (Novice)
    Mines may be up to 4" diameter utilizing only color stars, animated effects and comet type devices. No salutes of any size are allowed. A minimum of 6 and a maximum of 8 devices may be entered in this level. Grand Master Point Code "E"


    Division 3m-2: Mine Level 2 (Intermediate)
    (Level 2 is currently undefined.)


    Division 3m-3: Mine Level 3 (Advanced)
    Mines may be up to 6" in diameter. Upon approval of safety committee, up to 12 salutes not to exceed ¾" i.d. by 1½" length may be used in each device. A minimum of 6 and a maximum of 8 devices may be entered in this level. Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 3-A-S: Best Small Gerb
    Maximum i.d. of the devices must not exceed 1½". Excluding fuse, black powder, and cases, the gerb or fountain must be made entirely be the entrant. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 3-A-L: Best Large Gerb
    Maximum i.d. of the devices must not exceed 3". Excluding fuse, black powder, and cases, the gerb or fountain must be made entirely be the entrant. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 3-B-S: Best Small Comet
    Comet o.d. must be less than 1½". Complex comets, such as those changing color, terminating with a report, or other auxiliary effects are allowed. The maximum weight of the auxiliary portions of complex comets may not exceed 50% of the total. Excluding fuse, black powder and cases, the comets must be made entirely by the entrant. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 3-B-L: Best Large Comet
    Comet o.d. must be 3" or smaller. Other than crossette-type "split comets", no other auxiliary effects are allowed. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 3-B-U: Best Unlimited Comet
    Comet o.d. must be larger than 3". Other than crossette-type "split comets", no other auxiliary effects are allowed. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 3-C: Best Wheel
    Only a single wheel is required per entry. Maximum driver i.d. is 1¼". Wheels may contain any number of smaller wheels, and other auxiliary effects. Salutes will be limited to 3" o.d. Excluding fuse, black powder, cases and the necessary supporting hardware, the wheel device must be entirely made by the entrant. Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 3-D: Best Girandola
    Multiple engines (1½" bore maximum) firing together are allowed.
    Ground effects designed to ignite before the girandola leaves the ground are allowed, but mortar firing or assists that propel the girandola from the launch area are not. Excluding blackpowder, fuse, cases and tubes, the rocket motor and stabilizing device must be made entirely by the competitor. Salutes will have a maximum internal diameter equal to the diameter of the rocket bore. Flights of up to 6 girandolas may be fired as a single entry, however, they must be fired in close sequence. A multi stage girandola is considered as one device as long as all stages leave the launch pad attached and at the same time. Grand Master Point Code "C"


    Division 3-E: Best Roman Candle
    The maximum i.d. of a candle is 2". Each candle must have a minimum of three projectiles, there is no maximum number. A candle is a single tube device. Multiple tube devices are not permitted. Excluding fuse, black powder and tubes, the device must be made by the entrant.
    No self- propelled projectiles or salutes exceeding 3 grams are allowed. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 3-F: Best Lance Piece
    At least 1 gross of lance must be used, while there is a maximum of 4 gross. Lance must be primary portion of depiction, however some ancillary effects may be used. Examples: small pinwheels as a wheel on a car, or candles as cannons for battling tanks. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 3-G: Best Movie Special Effect
    Equipment Specifications: No effect involving a person will be allowed.
    All frames, hardware or false fronts will be sturdily constructed and staked in a manner that will prevent their tipping. Mortars, flash pots, or compressed air mortars will in no circumstances be attached to any frame, false front or similar construction at a height greater than 5' above the ground. The Safety Committee will inspect all devices prior to exhibition. Metal pots with sound or flash bags are prohibited unless approved by Safety Committee.

    Device Specifications:

    1. No salutes larger than 2½" x 2½" o.d. will be used on any set or prop, and under no circumstances will salutes be allowed on the ground.
    2. No more than five fluid ounces of flammable liquid will be used on any device except with approval of Safety Chairman.
    3. Under no circumstances will any device which causes shrapnel, i.e. electric or fuse type blasting caps, be used at any time--NO EXCEPTIONS. This does not preclude the use of electric squibs. Sound or flash loads must be in paper pots only unless approved by Safety Chairman.
    4. Duration of the devices will be limited to 10 minutes. No minimum time limit.
    5. At the discretion of the Safety Committee, an unlimited number of devices may be used.

    The Competitor should have a good working knowledge of special effects before entering this level. A professional background, although not required, is strongly suggested. Other than requirements under Device and Equipment Specifications, there will be no limit on the number or type of devices used. The Safety Committee may inspect all devices prior to the entrant's exhibition. Grand Master Point Code "C"

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    DIVISION 4: CLASS C COMPETITION

    Definition
    Class C fireworks are those defined in the Code of Federal Regulations Title 49 (CFR 49), Chapter One, DOT Section 173.100, Paragraph R.
    Equipment Specifications

    1. All devices whether made by the competitor or commercially manufactured must be in conformance with CFR 49.

    2. In any level, reloading of any type of mortar is prohibited.

    3. Commercially manufactured match, fuse and electric matches are allowed in all levels.

    4. There is no limit to the number of devices fired; however, there is a maximum time limit of 5 minutes.

    5. Descriptions of effects are not required.

    Class C Competitions

    Division 4-1: Level 1 (Limited)
    Any commercial Class C device or combinations of devices may be used in this level. Modifications of commercial Class C devices may be made by the competitor as long as the device remains legal Class C.
    The competitor's entry must fit completely on two 4x8 sheets of plywood. Plywood will be supplied by the competitor. Grand Master Point Code "E"


    Division 4-2: Level 2 (Advanced)
    Any commercial Class C device or combinations of devices may be used in this level. Modifications of commercial Class C devices may be made by the competitor as long as the device remains legal Class C.
    The competitor's entry must fit completely in an area 20 feet by 30 feet. Grand Master Point Code "D"


    Division 4-3: Level 3 (Unlimited)
    Any commercial Class C device or combinations of devices may be used in this level. Modifications of commercial Class C devices may be made by the competitor as long as the device remains legal Class C. There is no dollar limit. Grand Master Point Code "C"

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    6. RULE VIOLATIONS, PROTESTS, AND DISQUALIFICATIONS

    Rule Violations

    It is primarily the responsibility of the competitor to assure that their devices meet the specifications for the competition that they are entering. Because of time constraints, it is impractical for the Competition Chairman or the Judges to be expected to identify any but the most flagrant rule violations. It is assumed that PGI members are honorable, and will do their best to compete within the rules.


    Protests

    Any entrant in a given competition may lodge a protest against another entrant in the same competition. The general PGI membership may not lodge protests.

    Protests must be lodged in writing before noon , Thursday. The details of the dispute will be forwarded to the Competition Chairman.

    Upon receipt of the written protest, the Competition Chairman will assemble a Protest Committee of three persons. The Protest Committee will decide by a majority vote the proper penalty, if any.

    Disqualifications

    During competition there are situations which can cause "real time" dilemmas for judges and the safety chairman. For this reason, there are some mandatory conditions for termination of a competitor's entry.

    bulletWhenever any mine, aerial shell, or rocket detonates.
    bulletIf 2 aerial shells "Flower Pot"
    bulletWhen 2 rockets, rocket headings, or aerial shells reach the ground before, or without, ignition of contents.
    bulletWhen salutes from 2 devices of any type explode on the ground.

    The Safety Chairman has discretionary powers to disqualify any entry. The above should remove most subjective judgments. Other reasons for disqualification could be when a competitor's devices have dangerous amounts of their contents reaching the ground while lit.

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    7. JUDGING

    JUDGING PROCEDURE:

    With some possible exceptions such as "Best Movie Effect", competition will not begin until after sunset. The Competition Chairman must have copies of device descriptions at the competitors meeting the day of competition. The competition committee will be available to help explain intended effects or Degree of Difficulty (DOD), when appropriate (DOD guidelines provided later). DOD and effect expectations will be collectively determined prior to competition.

    There are 3 types of competition entries:

    1. Categories such as "Class C" which have only an overall score.

    2. Categories having described devices without DOD.

    3. Categories having described devices with DOD.

    Type 1, having only an overall score, will be judged totally subjectively and requires no preparation prior to competition.

    The other 2 types are very similar. DOD is optional at the discretion of the Chief Judge based upon time constraints, a workable DOD guideline and other considerations. Whether DOD is used, or not, the judges will meet each evening of competition no later than 7:30 to ensure that there is a common understanding of the described devices among the judges. When used, determination of DOD by all judges will be done each night prior to competition in order to provide more objective scoring.

    It should be assumed that each device will be scored as a "5".
    A flower-pot or bouncer should get a "0". If stars or components fail to light or function as described, substantial reductions must be made. Reductions should not be made when effects absent from descriptions are less than expected.

    Examples are:

    bulletA color described as "Purple" which appears maroon
    bulletLack of Symmetry
    bulletColors not vivid.

    Reductions that should be made include:

    bulletDescribed effects less than anticipated
    bulletObvious timing faults
    bullet"Over -Described" effects; particularly if DOD used
    bulletLit effects which come to the ground
    bullet"Best" competition devices which are dissimilar when pairs are required
    bullet"level" competition where there is excessive similarity; up to 10% of each device score

    Additions to device scores should be made for:

    bulletEffects better than anticipated. Examples:
    bulletColors more vivid
    bulletExcellent patterns
    bulletSuperior timing
    bulletNovelty, if described
    bullet

    Difficult-to-achieve effects, if DOD not used

    Additions should not be made for effects absent from description.
    It should be assumed that a score of "5" is a decent score. At least for the average competition, scores in the "5" to "7" range should be considered as "good". Scoring should be fairly conservative so that a "10" would be hypothetically unachievable. An "8" should be regarded as "excellent"; a "9" would be "outstanding".

    bulletAdditions to device scores should be made for:
    bulletEffects better than anticipated. Examples:
    bulletColors more vivid
    bulletExcellent patterns
    bulletSuperior timing
    bulletNovelty, if described
    bullet

    Difficult-to-achieve effects, if DOD not used

    Additions should not be made for effects absent from description.
    It should be assumed that a score of "5" is a decent score. At least for the average competition, scores in the "5" to "7" range should be considered as "good". Scoring should be fairly conservative so that a "10" would be hypothetically unachievable. An "8" should be regarded as "excellent"; a "9" would be "outstanding".

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    JUDGES' DECORUM DURING COMPETITION

    Judges may:

    bulletDiscuss opinions concerning device performance
    bulletMake objective remarks, positive or negative

    Judges may not:

    bulletMake disparaging statements concerning any device
    bulletIn any way identify a competitor
    bulletOvertly attempt to influence other judges

    DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY

    Importance of Device Description

    The judging procedure and assigning of Degree Of Difficulty (DOD) points are dependent on clear and accurate device descriptions. This section attempts to describe the DOD procedure and provide some guidelines for describing shell effects. The following brief descriptions of the pre-competition judging procedure will illustrate the important role of clear device descriptions.

    Each evening, prior to competition, the judges meet and collectively agree on Degree of Difficulty and effect expectations of all applicable devices. Scoring is on a scale of 0 through 10. All devices begin with a base score of "5." On the basis of the description of the effect. DOD points may be added to form a new base score. The purpose of DOD is to provide a more objective form of judging. By determining DOD prior to competition, it is easier for a judge to score objectively during competition.

    Just before the effect is fired, the device description is read aloud again.
    If the device performs as expected, it is scored at least the base score, which can include DOD points. If anything about the device fails to live up to its description, the judges will score it less than its base score.
    Thus, the vital role that a clear description plays in devices being scored fairly and accurately can be seen. In writing descriptions, use of the standard terminology defined in Section 9 is recommended.

    Degree of Difficulty:

    bulletis based on Judges' collective knowledge, not a formula or table.
    bulletis based on difficulty in achieving a described effect, not the number of effects in a device.
    bulletpoints are assigned very conservatively, usually in half-point increments. Two DOD points are generally the maximum.
    bulletis not dependent on shell size. A challenging 4-inch shell may have a higher DOD than a straightforward 8-inch shell.

    Following is a partial list of effects that are currently awarded DOD points:

    bulletPrecision timing
    bulletDistinct multiple petals
    bulletComplex patterns
    bulletExceptionally complex shells or high number of breaks
    bulletComplex effects in small diameter shell, e.g. 4-inch Double Petal Chrysanthemum
    bulletChallenging chemistry, e.g. blue strobe

    Effects are removed from this list as the pyro community masters their construction and new effects are added as they are developed.
    For example, white strobe was once awarded DOD points, but due to the large amount of literature available on its formulation and the success rate of those first attempting production, white strobe no longer rates DOD points. However, at this writing those attempting blue strobe are awarded DOD points.

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    8. ROLES

    The Competitor

    Follows all rules and guidelines in the spirit of competition as described in the rule book.

    bulletKeeps individual devices efficient and with specifications as outlined (e.g. proper leader lengths and shell diameters).
    bulletMakes special requests for odd size mortars or firing set up well in advance and makes sure they are in place for the night in question.
    bulletIs in the right place at the right time, and prepared to shoot their entry.
    bulletHas sole responsibility for lodging a protest.

    Chief Judge

    Prior to Convention
    bulletSelecting 4 or more judges and 2 or more alternate judges.
    bulletBecoming familiar with competition rules and judging procedures.
    bulletEnsuring the judges and alternates are also informed of rules and judging procedures.
    bulletDuring Convention
    bulletAssemble judges at appointed time.
    bulletAdvise judges on rules and procedures.
    bulletConfer with competition committee for help with device descriptions and Degree of Difficulty, when appropriate.

    Judges

    Learn Rules and Procedures.
    bulletUnderstand device descriptions: help determine Degree of Difficulty, as defined by Chief Judge.
    bulletAssign a judgment value to devices during competition on 0 to 10 basis (half-points may be used).

    OR

    Assign an overall value on some categories such as "Class C" or Best Movie Effect.

    bulletJudges may not:
    bulletInspect devices
    bulletLodge Protests
    bulletBe required to judge other special entries or contests
    bulletThere is no maximum number of judges, however, at least 3 judges are required. It is not necessary for each judge to participate every evening, however, if a given competition category spans evenings, the same panel must participate in completion of that category.
    bulletIt will be the Chief Judges discretion as to whether he will also be a competition judge.
    bulletIn order to maintain a high standard of excellence and accomplishment, it will be at the judges discretion to recommend that a trophy not be awarded and master points not be distributed for a given competition category. Examples which might warrant such a recommendation include: flagrant rule violation, an overall score of less than 4.0 etc. In other words a win by "default" must still be of average merit.


    Competition Chairman
     
    bullet

    Is responsible for determining order of competition and competitors.

    bullet

    Assures, to the extent that it is feasible, that devices meet the requirements for a given competition.

    bullet

    Chairs competitor meetings and assist with handling special requests.

    bullet

    Receives and deals with protests as outlined in rule book.

    bullet

    Arranges for clerical assistance - a computer is recommended.

    bullet

    Ensure that results of each evening's competition are completed by clerical assistants.

    bullet

    Maintain cumulative "Master Points".


    Competition Site Coordinator
     
    bullet

    Is responsible for the execution and organization of a smooth and effective competition site.

    bullet

    Determines in conjunction with safety, competition chairman, competitors, judges, general site chairman, convention host etc. - the spatial and temporal layout requirements for each night's competition events.

    bullet

    Shall attend competitor's meetings, become familiar with competitors and help organize them on the line.

    bullet

    Has the responsibility for recommending last minute changes in firing order for purposes of avoiding delays or complications and negotiating these changes with the Competition Chairman and Safety.

    Safety

    bulletAssure that all devices are fired in such a way as to best display their virtues without damage to people or property.
    bulletHave full and sole responsibility for disqualifying an entry on the basis of safety.
    bulletWork closely with competition site chairmen and competitors to assure smooth and timely firing of devices.

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    9. TERMINOLOGY

    Shell Types (Italian Style)

    Color and Report
    A single burst of stars followed by a heavy report

    Spiderweb Shell
    A shell with an especially hard break that is usually filled with stars producing a golden charcoal streamer effect, but also occasionally appearing today in silver/white and other color effects.

    Sfera Shell
    Same description as a Spiderweb Shell, however this shell contains Comets (large cylindrical stars) stacked around the shell wall.

    Shell of Shells

    This shell contains smaller shells (insert shells). These small shells are usually thrown out into a wide circular pattern producing a ring of small bursts of color or other effect. A traditional styled shell is characterized by:

    bulletA large burst radius
    bulletSmall splashes of color from the insert shells
    bulletAll inserts of each timing breaking at precisely the same time.
    A break may release several timings of inserts.

    Sun and Planets
    A variation of the Shell of Shells. The first break is a dark opening of insert shells, the second break of color. A refinement is to have the sun (color break) appear before the planets (insert shells) and then have all of the stars burn out at the same time.

    Draw-Out Shell
    A color break followed by 4 timed shots, followed by another color break (sometimes a ring of pupatelle) and ending in a final report.

    Hammer Shell
    A color break followed quickly by a report, another color break and report, this sequence traditionally repeated four times and often followed by a bottom shot (e.g. 9-Hammer).

    Salute Shell
    A single device primarily intended to produce an audible effect.

    Shell Inserts - Noise (Italian Style)

    Shot
    A device that is intended to make noise, and which is always a component of a larger device.

    Report
    A device intended to make noise that is always a component of a larger device and is usually the last part to perform. Can be thought of as reporting back that something has occurred.

    Cannonade
    A group of shots that travel for a few instants after the shell breaks and then perform more or less together, usually with significant impact.
    Can be preceded by a color break. The shots are fewer and larger than Fusilading Shots.

    Fusilading Shots
    A group of shots that travel for a few instants after the shell breaks and then perform in a random fashion over a short period of time. The shots are more numerous and smaller than a Cannonade.

    (Break Of) Saettine
    A ring of shots thrown out forcefully and uniformly thus forming a ring in the sky. The shots all perform at the same time.

    Saettine
    Shot originally made with dark flash , thus producing a report with low light output. Has come to refer more to a method of construction using black match and sawdust to create a delay, but also appears with conventional time fusing.

    Whistle
    A small tube filled with a fierce-burning composition causing a whistling effect as it burns.

    Shell Inserts - Color (Italian Style)

    Pupatelle / Pupadelle
    Small insert shells that are meant to produce a splash of color. Pupadelles are under 1 1/8". Larger inserts are simply referred to as small breaks of color.

    Bombette
    French and English term used interchangeably with Pupadelle or Color Insert.

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    Timed Effects (Italian Style)

    The Rondel
    A ring of shots thrown out forcefully and uniformly. The shots are timed to perform consecutively with precise timing, thus tracing the outline of a ring in the sky.

    Timed Reports
    A series of shots with equal timing intervals between. A further refinement is a slightly longer interval between the last shot and the heavy report.

    Motion Effects (Italian Style)

    Serpent
    A small tube device with an opening at one end, producing a visual effect (tail) tracing an often erratic course in its display.

    Tourbillion
    Tube of composition with a hole or holes causing a spiral-like effect as the tube is propelled through the air.

    Stars (Italian Style)

    Comet
    A large cylindrical pumped star that leaves a spark trail.

    Crossette
    Also known as a Splitting Comet . A large pumped star that burns for a period of time then explodes from an internal shot. Smaller burning fragments fly outward from the star's trajectory. Traditionally, all stars in one timing break simultaneously. A further refinement is to have the fragments display symmetrically.

    Glitter
    Composition producing sparks that are ejected from the burning star and then proceed to split into finer sparks.

    Flitter
    A bright spark trail effect that does not split into sparks.

    Shell Types (Oriental Style)

    Chrysanthemum
    A multi-axially symmetrical break pattern wherein tailed stars are thrown out from the center, apparently straight and hard, creating a burst of spokes and an expanding globe of color.

    Peony
    A multi-axially symmetrical break pattern wherein stars without pronounced fire trails are thrown out from the center, apparently straight and hard, creating a hollow expanding globe of color.

    Willow
    A break of stars - usually with pronounced fire trails - of duration sufficient to create a drooping or weeping effect. The initial effect may or may not be symmetrical.

    Kamuro Chrysanthemum
    A single-petaled chrysanthemum break with tailed stars of significant duration to create a pronounced and uniform willow effect. In conventional Oriental School practice a number of compositions are used to create this effect: nishiki (cloth of gold or brocade), glittering, etc., some changing to flash or color at the end.

    Crown or Diadem Chrysanthemum
    Similar to the Kamuro Chrysanthemum, with the addition of a conventional inner pistil or petals of color stars and outer duration stars often with a bright, short duration color core, frequently green or white.

    Dahlia
    A Peony type shell made with very bright stars.

    Petal
    A globular formation of stars which displays concentrically in the interior of the Chrysanthemum or Peony. A petal smaller than approximately one-third the diameter of the display is best described as a pistil.

    Pistil
    In the Oriental School a globular formation of stars displaying concentrically in the interior of a Chrysanthemum or Peony. A pistil need not be as symmetrical as petals. Such a formation larger than approximately one-third the diameter of the display would be best described as a petal. (The term pistil, along with heart, core, center, etc., is also loosely-used in other schools to describe some kind of central color formation in a break.)

    Modern Effects

    Go-Getters
    Self-propelled stars.

    Strobe
    Very bright stars which flash on and off. The on and off should be well-defined. The colors should be rich and clearly discernible.

    Firefly
    Also known as Transformation. A gold or silver flashing effect occurring in the tail of a star, dimmer and less defined than a strobe or a flitter, which continues for a very long period of time. The effect should appear to hang in the sky.

     
     
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