Hornby: Flying Scotsman Steam Locomotive Unboxing

Hornby Flying Scotsman Locomotive

Are you looking for a great activity to do with your kids? Or perhaps you're looking for a hobby or pastime, or you're exploring ways to spend your retirement. We have just the thing for you! In this blog, we will be talking about the Flying Scotsman Train Set by Hornby at OO Scale.

Summary

The History of The Flying Scotsman Steam Locomotive
Hornby: Flying Scotsman Steam Locomotive Train Set
LNER Class A3 4472 Flying Scotsman Model Train Set Unboxing & Review
Watch The Unboxing Video

The History of the Flying Scotsman

In 1923, the Chief Mechanical and Electrical Engineer at the time, Sir Nigel Gresley, constructed the first express passenger locomotive for the London and Northeastern Railway—The Flying Scotsman. To this day, it is still regarded as the most well-known steam locomotive in the entire world and is one of Britain’s most heavily advertised trains. It was given the name "Flying Scotsman" in honor of the London to Edinburgh train service.

This world-record-breaking locomotive holds the record for the longest non-stop run in history, several years after introducing a special type of corridor that allowed new crew members to take over the train without it stopping. It is also the first steam locomotive to ever truly achieve a speed of 100 miles per hour. The Flying Scotsman underwent a number of changes. During the Second World War, the train's recognizable apple green livery was changed to a wartime black paint scheme, similar to other railroads of the time. After the war, the iconic green paint livery was restored, and the train was rebuilt as an A3 Pacific. It was taken out of service by the British Railways in 1963 after 40 years of service, after which the trains were subsequently sold for preservation.

Hornby: Flying Scotsman Steam Locomotive Train Set

Hornby's Flying Scotsman Locomotive model at OO scale is a great example of the company's signature model railways. The iconic steam locomotive line is a fan favorite among British train enthusiasts across the globe, and the LNER Class A3 4472 Flying Scotsman is one such model. It is a fantastic starter model that is suitable for beginners, casual modelers, families, and children. It is also an excellent starting point for a more expansive, larger scale model railroad, where you can add other Hornby products like their signals and signal box.

Unboxing and Reviewing The LNER Class A3 4472 Flying Scotsman Model Train Set

The Hornby's Flying Scotsman Train Set features the Class A3 Flying Scotsman model from Era-3 at OO scale. The running number 4472 is painted on the side of the model, which has the recognizable Apple Green exterior of the London Northeastern Railway. The model is a Pacific Steam engine with a 4-6-2 wheel configuration. It has a standard finish and is powered by a DCC-Ready motor.

Because it is a starting set, it offers a basic oval track, a functional working point, a buffer stop, and a simple 12-volt transformer. With this, you basically have everything you need to get started. Three additional coaches are also included in the kit, each with inside seats, compartments, and underside details. It is designed as a combination of a first and third-class coach, allowing you to finish a reasonable length of track. The model features a powerful engine with a brass flywheel, allowing you to expand or run a larger train up to a ten-car express passenger train, just as the real Flying Scotsman would have been like in its day.

The Review

Given that the LNER Class A3 Flying Scotsman is the most famous steam locomotive in the world, it is without a doubt a remarkable model. After opening the box, you will be greeted by a magnificent model with beautifully detailed motion gear. The model track does not take up a lot of space, and you’ll get a nice, simple track to work with. It even includes bonus features for those with operational interests, like the working stop and buffer stop, even though the real thing never stops for shunting.

The kit has everything you need to get started and start having some fun. On top of that, it even has special additions for younger enthusiasts, like the map track included in the kit. The track can also be easily expanded with the other items in the Hornby range. This can serve as the beginning of something much larger; if you want to make it a family project or a retirement project, it's a great introduction that offers amazing value, letting you start off with a simple and straightforward model.

About Hornby

Hornby is a British model railroad manufacturer that offers a wide range of selection in hobby and toy products, with their main products being model railways and slot cars. They provide a large assortment of accessories, including track, buildings, coaches, wagons, and locomotives. The company established their standard models with incredible detailing that makes them recognizable, turning the brand into a household name. Numerous iconic locomotives have been created by Hornby throughout the years, and it still continues to be one of the most well-known manufacturers of model trains worldwide.

Check out our collection of Hornby Products here

Final Thoughts

The LNER Class A3 4472 Flying Scotsman model is a wonderful beginner kit that people of all ages—young, old, and even the young-at-heart—are sure to enjoy. It's an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with yourself or your family while making both models and memories that will last a lifetime.