I really dont see anything wrong with seperate parts. As Jay pointed out too it depends on what the model is being used for I think. I dont care about tri's or ngons as I hide them where I can and my models will never be used in any industry...but if you want to work in movies etc you will need the quad rule.

I sometimes cheat where two components join and 'flare' the ends so they 'appear' welded. Or in some cases I will model in sperate parts then join at least some of them...UV time will be the killer especially if you have wired textures that need to be seamless...all those parts would be fun...NOT.

Bah...send me to texturing...........I need the experience! UV mapping is getting easier but the damn seams with different objects and textures is a pain!

Bloody nice model too mate by the way!

cheers bullet