I see a lot of people mentioning YMMV. As a rooklie hobbiest, and by rookie I mean I have yet to "take the plunge" so to speak, what can I do to make sure I get the best mileage? 
  
Any advice would be great but I would really appreciate some tips from SP's. What can hobbyists do to inspire that extra mile from an SP? 
  
Thanks in advance, 
  
The Sly Saint