Bachmann 38-803

Crane RS1097

BR Breakdown Red

RRP: £249.95

Paid: £224,95

Length: 33cm

Box: Card/Blister Plastic

Scale: 00

So I finally braved getting one of these and first reaction is WOW!!!

Getting it out of the box and just placing it on the bench was impressive. At over 30cm long and around 15cm with the jib up it does have a great sense of size to it. Moving in closer you realise the level of detail we have come to expect is in evidence in every corner of this immense model. Every rivet, piece of chequer plate and even the control leavers in the cab all look spot on compared to the real thing. The tops of the small runners are a joy with fine rod linkage to the turning handles and intricate see through construction. The same is true of the tool boxes on the runner wagon, Although looking like a box from a distance there are hinges, rivets and even the eyelets where locks would be fitted. But on a detail front the crane itself is the true main event as you would expect. Machine gunned with rivet detailing is just the start. The lattice of the Jib is a joy to behold as are the printed details on the data panels which are also supplied in etched brass form even up to the full red plate on one side, all clear and legible and not a hint of paint blur anywhere including on the wasp stripe sections. The cab internals are also beautifully done with levers, boiler detail and colour all spot on 

What really wins this model my stamp of possibly my favourite in the fleet now is the  functionality of the model. When you move the jib and hook using the very cleverly disguised workings every external part that should move does, right down to the angle indicator reading on the side of the superstructure, i can see why this model took time to hit the stores but it was well worth the wait for this as the real thing functionality. Pose-able outriggers, Cab roof, Cab step and chimney only add to the brilliance of the model and over time i will surely find time to photograph and pose it in every possible mix. The moving parts also feel sturdy and durable if properly cared for and the magnet system used to get into the working parts is a great idea.

Separate detail as well as the plates already mentioned include the cab ladder and the usual end details. 

The guide book is clear and has simple effective drawings to guide you (even these show the rivet detail)

All in all this model has absolutely blown me away and in my view yes its worth the price tag. My advice is if it fits your model and you have the money. Go for it. Someone at Bachmann deserves a promotion for the workings of this crane its one of the best pieces of mass produced model engineering Ive personally seen. Looks the part and works the part what more could you ask for.