I had the privilege of judging this year, both appearance and flight. As a panel we really worked hard on the groupings for scores, even came to a couple points if mild contention over a couple models, but in the end, we agreed unanimously on our decisions are hard as it got. When you get to 18, 19 and 20 point models it really comes down the finest details where then might be some minor, and I mean nearly invisible, flaws in the paint of prep or fits. It pretty incredibly how it comes down to that.
I enjoyed flight judging, but then I always do. I won't say anymore about that but it was a very good experience. Everyone should judge, I guarantee it would make you a better pilot.