Hobby Boss 1/72 German Dampflokomotive BR86 Kit First Look
By Dave Manter
| Date of Review | July 2013 | Manufacturer | Hobby Boss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | German Dampflokomotive BR86 | Scale | 1/72 |
| Kit Number | 82914 | Primary Media | Styrene |
| Pros | New tooling, great details | Cons | None |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (USD) | $48.99 |
First Look
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The legendary steam locomotive BR86 was designed to a 1925 specification for a 15 ton axle loading for use on all branch lines, especially in hilly and mountainous countryside. These locomotives showed a remarkable uniformity in construction when compared to previous types, which had been manufactured to "regional" designs, leading to problems with maintenance and spare parts.
The first examples of the BR86 were produced by MGB Karlsruhe Locomotive Works in 1928 and the last machine was manufactured in 1943. The BR86 holds the record in Germany for the longest production run of any locomotive, with a total of 776 built. After World War II, the Czechoslovak State Railway operated these locomotives. They saw service until the 1960's.
The HobbyBoss kit of the German Dampflokomotive BR86 consists of over 221 parts molded in tan styrene including the cab and 8 parts molded in clear styrene. Markings are included for 2 locomotives.
All of the parts are very well molded and feature crisp details. There is no flash present. Some key features of the kit are:
- Engineer's cab well detailed
- Well detailed running gear and brake system
- Front coupling assembly can be detached
- Walkways have anti-skid surfaces
- Smoke box and furnace doors well detailed
- Connecting and side coupling rods well detailed
- Accurately molded chassis
- 100% new tooling
- Railroad track stand included for display
This is another great and highly detailed kit from HobbyBoss of a new subject!
My sincere thanks to Squadron Mail Order for this review sample!