Model Rail magazine is the UK's biggest-selling magazine dedicated to railway modelling. Every issue is packed with the country’s finest home and club layouts, stunning photography, unbiased and in-depth product reviews, expert tips, layout plans and step-by-step articles that really show you how. In our unique ‘Workbench’ section, we tackle a wide range of modeling skills and projects. Our expert writers and model-makers will help you to get the most from your hobby and build the layout of your dreams. Model Rail is published 13 times a year, every four weeks.
Welcome
MODEL RAIL
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Meet the team behind the UK’s best modelling magazine
Model Rail essential information
Opening the box • The latest happenings from the world of model railways
On the Workbench • George Dent looks at the new products to land on his workbench this month
EXHIBITION DIARY - AUGUST 2021
…and finally • Unusual scenes captured by the lens of Chris Nevard…
Staff Show & Tell • George Dent has been finalising the trackplan for his new layout, but can he rise to the challenge of elevating the rails satisfactorily?
Show & Tell • The place to share your projects with the Model Rail community.
Modelling Lives • Tales from the model-making community.
According to Chris…
Al in the detail • When Bruce Hunt decided to recreate the West Devon station of Bere Alston for his layout, detailing was key. Chris Trevedra found out more.
Workbench • 19 pages of projects, advice and top tips that show you how
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR WAGONS WITH SIMPLE WEATHERING TECHNIQUES • George Dent shares his secrets for enhancing timber and steel-bodied wagons, using a basic array of tools and materials.
HOW TO CREATE A CLASS 69 IN 4mm AND 7mm SCALE • Dave Lowery recreates GBRf’s newly rebuilt Class 56, with the help of some bespoke 3D-printed components and custom decals.
HOW TO BALLAST YOUR TRACK – BETTER! • George Dent has been testing a new ballast glue from Geoscenics – and he’s impressed!
HOW TO BUILD A SIGNAL BOX KIT • Osborn’s Models has developed an exciting new range of laser-cut signal box kits for various scales. George Dent trials an ‘O’ gauge version, depicting a typical small GWR cabin.
HOW TO TURN WEEDS INTO TREES • Dave Spencer reveals how he created realistic trees using a blend of natural and man-made materials.
Highlands and lowlands Timeless scenes • After holidaying in Scotland as a child, Mike Le Marie decided to recreate a Highland scene for his Kinlochlaggen layout. Chris Trevedra ventures north of the border to take a look.
Know your stuff • This is where our team of experienced modellers answer YOUR questions. Email your queries about railways – real or model – to modelrail@bauermedia.co.uk
INSTANT MICRO MOCK-UP • Aided by Gaugemaster’s range of ‘OO’ building kits, Paul A. Lunn mocks up a micro layout plan based on Dunster, on the West Somerset Railway.
Reviews • In-depth and unbiased reviews of the latest products
Locomotion Models/ Dapol/Rails of Sheffield SECR Wainwright D class 4-4-0
Bachmann Class 24
Dapol/Lionheart BR Mk 1 coach
TMC/Bachmann BR 24.5t Mineral Wagon
Accurascale KUA nuclear flask wagon
Kernow LSWR road vans
Trains4U/Cavalex PFB/KFA ‘Warflat’
Revolution Trains PCV cement hoppers
Sun, sea, and Sandy Bay • Ahead of The International ‘N’ Gauge Show, we visit Kevin Smith as he prepares to exhibit his layout ‘Sandy Bay’.
Present your case • If there’s a locomotive that you think needs to be offered ready-to-run, here’s the place to voice your opinion…
Model Rail
Behind the Backscene •...