Bachmann Branchline 38-404A OO Gauge SR 25 Ton Pill Box Brake Van BR Departmental Weathered Finish
Sometimes known as Pill Box vans these guards brake vans were designed for the Southern Railway in the 1930s, showing the steady development from the short wheelbase brake vans of earlier years towards the familiar BR standard design of the 1950s. The longer wheelbase (distance between the axles) provided a better ride for the guard, also allowing an increase in the weight and therefore effectiveness of the hand brake. Side lookout duckets allowed the guard to keep an eye on the running of the train and to watch for signals which may need him to apply the brake to help bring the train to a halt.
This model is painted in the British Railways engineering department olive green livery.