Working at home gave me the opportunity for a quick lunchtime run of the finished Rapier on the line. I guess this is R&R loco No. 1. Despite the growling, it’s a very smooth runner - possibly too smooth. Rather like the “electric mice” problem with indoor model railways, battery-driven locos lack the subtle variations in running that a steamer would demonstrate, where each small gradient and curve is reflected in the performance from the engine. But I’m not complaining at this stage; the mere fact that it’s running without problem is a testament to both model and line. I heartily congratulate the builder of both. Hem, hem.

I’m contemplating adding a skirt to hide the wheels, which aren’t very interesting, and if I come across any simple detailing fitments such as steps or an exhaust pipe, I may add them, but this kit is finished for my purposes.

What I’ve learnt from my experiences building this one:

• Superglue was definitely the way to go, even if it doesn’t offer the strongest bonding and is risky around careless fingers. I simply haven’t got the spare time or patience to chip away at a task like this one joint at a time, waiting hours for each one to set. You just need to remember to soak the area and test the joint carefully afterwards, or apply extra bracing where possible. An epoxy glue like Araldite may be better - it remains workable for longer and sets harder - but the constant mixing and limited working time (approx. four mins) put me off for this build.
• Painting is a little tedious given long drying times per coat, but you can quickly apply each coat inbetween other chores. Remembering basic wood painting practice, like sanding and using primer, helps.
• Almost nothing on this model is entirely square, or flush, or centred; it is pretty much thrown together. That’s OK, it was a first attempt and I wanted to see something that ran in a hurry, rather than something that took months and would win prizes. I feel I could still build it better on a second and third attempt, which is the more important part. Not in any rush to tackle another one (how many does a small line need?), but I would definitely consider it without any concern.
• Kit-building isn’t the fastest route to running stock, which can be galling if this is your first and only loco, but it strikes the best balance between cost, simplicity and speed.