Model Rail

Fittingly, I’m writing this introduction to our summer issue following one of the hottest days on record for the UK, which was not a particularly enjoyable experience. Being ill-equipped for hot, sunny weather, my practical modelling output usually increases over the summer months. No such luck this year alas, as things have been rather busy at Model Rail. Indeed, we’re delighted to be able to share some tangible progress on one of our forthcoming exclusive models, the BR Class 11. These LMS-designed shunters occupy an important place in the history of diesel-electric traction, and our high-specification ‘OO’ gauge model will be a fitting tribute to these unsung workhorses. Turn to page 6 for the full story. Things may have seemed a little quiet on the exclusive model front, with ongoing delays and…

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The latest happenings from the world of model railways In early July a package arrived at Model Rail HQ. It contained the first pair of painted production samples of our exclusive Class 11 0-6-0DE locomotives. First mooted in August 2019, personnel changes and a pesky global pandemic and all its associated knock-on effects have interrupted progress. The two painted samples portray LMS 7120 in pre-war black, depicting the first of the LMS fleet of ‘standard’ 350hp diesel-electric shunters, along with BR blue D12062, representing the final livery carried by the class under British Rail ownership. The models have been examined carefully, with a few areas flagged up for improvement but, overall, things are looking promising. Once the full suite of liveries has been approved, we’ll be much closer to seeing production get under…

Rails of Sheffield has teamed up with Accurascale to develop a 4mm scale model of the distinctive BR/Brush Class 89 Co-Co electric. Built at Crewe in 1986, the one-off locomotive was planned as a prototype for a fleet of next-generation express passenger traction for both the West Coast and East Coast main lines. Although series production never followed, 89001 did work extensively on both routes until side-lined in 1992. Initially entering preservation, 89001 surprisingly enjoyed a new lease of life with the privatised operator, GNER. After four years of working King’s Cross to Leeds trains, it was preserved for a second time. However, a third main line stint may be on the cards, with an ongoing refurbishment programme nearing completion. Nicknamed the ‘Badger’, the Class 89 has garnered a large enthusiast following…

SHABBY SHACK This laser-cut wood kit presents an evocative, dilapidated wooden shed, complete with props to support the badly listing end wall. The walls are built from a base framework, with separate sheets of vertical cladding, producing a highly lifelike appearance. The wooden components even have extra laser-etched grain texture to give the planks an aged look. The paper roof covering is made up of several overlapping layers, with rough edges and gaps and the whole thing can be built over a couple of evenings. In its bare wood state, the assembled shed looked a little pale, so I applied a few coats of enamel weathering washes (light brown, neutral grey and dark grey shades) to create a more convincing finish. Although designed for 1:87 scale/‘HO’, it looks perfectly at home on…

Micro side cutters At just 90mm (3.5in) long, this diminutive pair of side cutters fit neatly within the palm of the hand and the gently sprung action reduces fatigue when undertaking repetitive tasks. The polished steel jaws are offset at a slight, convenient angle and machined to a decent standard. Owing to their size, it’s only possible to exert a small amount of leverage on the handles, so the tool is best suited to light-duty work. Under test, I found them ideal for creating handrails and other small details with brass, copper and nickel wire. They also worked well on thin brass and plastic strip. An ideal tool for those who enjoy detailing rolling stock and buildings. Product: Expo Tools Micro Side Cutters Price: £6.95 Availability: Expo stockists or www.scalemodelshop.co.uk Pick and place tool There are…