Bachmann Europe has announced the release of a Quarry Hunslet narrow-gauge locomotive as the first models in its range of 7 mm NG7 scale model locomotives.

The Hunslet Engine Company of Leeds built the Quarry Hunslet locomotives.

The term Quarry Hunslet denotes a generic type rather than a single design, with different locomotive types being built specifically for their intended use.

The first Quarry Hunslets were built for shunting duties at Port Penrhyn, the port for Penrhyn Quarry and at the time the largest slate quarry in the world.

The new models were released to coincide with last weekend’s Statfold Model Railway Exhibition.

They are produced to a scale of 1:43.5, the same as O Scale Standard Gauge and O-16.5 Narrow Gauge, with both open- and enclosed-cab variants. Detail differences depict locomotives built for the Dinorwic, Penrhyn and Pen-Yr-Orsedd Quarries.

Each model has a diecast metal chassis block, gearbox, motor cradle, and a precision-moulded body. A separate cab, water tank, and smokebox feature further individual detail components that result in a strong and robust yet intricately detailed model. Inside the cab is a hinged firebox door, and firebox lighting is fitted.

A Next18 DCC decoder socket and a pre-fitted speaker make it easy to convert the models to DCC running, although a SOUND FITTED model will provide the added dimension of sound on both analogue control and DCC straight out of the box.

These NG7 models follow the recent announcement of new models in the Bachmann Branchline and Graham Farish ranges.

Details of prices and availability will be included in next month’s Summer 2024 British Railway Announcements.