2691, DJH kit of Fairburn 2-6-4T
This kit is typical of many DJH kits, in that it is partly etched brass (e.g. tank sides) and partly whitemetal castings (e.g. boiler). By using the appropriate material for the appropriate part the end result can capture the correct 'look'. This particular model was powered by a Portescap motor, but such large tank locos can accommodate most large motor/gearbox combinations.
3402, abs Models kit of 'Bantam Hen', LNER V4 2-6-2
As far as I am aware, abs Models are no longer in production, and this particular kit was quite old when I started construction. It was an entirely whitemetal kit, of the 'old school', but with more than the usual amount of effort put into fettling the castings, the end result ran well and looked the part in its LNER livery.
5970, DJH kit of LNWR 'Claughton'
A graceful prototype translated into a graceful model by DJH. I was pleased the client wanted a plan black livery, not the fully lined one!
6149, 'The Middlesex Regiment', from the Comet Models Royal Scot kit
Shown in the rarely seen plain black wartime livery, and before having smoke deflectors fitted, '6149' is just one of the several Comet Models Royal Scot kits that I have assembled. The kits go together extremely well, and like DJH, the kits use both etched brass and cast whitemetal to better catch the 'look' of the prototype.
6414, LMS 2MT 2-6-0, from the Comet Models kit
Whilst looking at Comet Models kits, here's an example of what many consider to be their best kit, namely the LMS 2MT 2-6-0. This was the base for the BR Standard 2MT, and the family likeness is very clear in this shot, which show the model in plain black LMS livery.
This loco, I think, just reeks of Edwardian splendour. Redolent of a bygone age.
6982, Millholme Models kit of LMWR Bowen-Cooke 4-6-2T
Sadly, Millholme Models are another defunct manufacturer, but the odd example of this kit pops up on eBay from time to time.
44739, A Comet Models kit of a Caprotti LMS Black 5
Back to Comet Models now for another of their mixed material kits. The Caprotti Black 5 goes together as well as the others in their range, and the end result is certainly a distinctive addition to any loco stud.
46131, 'The Royal Warwickshire Regiment', a Comet Models kit of an LMS Royal Scot
Unlike the plain black Scot shown earlier on the page, this one is depicted later in life, with smoke deflectors and lined out in BR green.
I am often asked to build just a chassis for a customer, and they will then supply the body, either from a kit or, as in this case, from a plastic rtr body. This is the Hornby body, and it is sitting on a Comet Models chassis that I have built. This chassis has not been painted (except behind the driving wheels), as that keeps the cost down for the customer. I am happy to be flexible in this way.
Here's another example of a loco where the customer is happy to do some of the work themselves. The loco will be supplied primed, but before sending it off, it was caught in the nude!
4003, 'Lode Star', a SEFinecast kit of a GWR Star class.
And, finally, a photo for those who think that only locomotives that came out of Swindon have got the 'look' just right. This is a whitemetal kit on a Comet Models Castle chassis. Some modification of the chassis is required aft of the rear drivers, but the result was very smooth running, eye-catching locomotive.