Kits can be conveniently grouped by the type of material used in their manufacture, because this largely determines the method of construction. Modellers should be aware, however, that many kits are predominantly of one material but other materials that are more suitable for certain features, particularly delicate parts such as brake gear. If in doubt, consult the kit manufacturer.

There are excellent plastic rolling stock kits available, from basic four wheeled wagons to complex bogie coaches, with the bulk of the parts moulded in plastic, sometimes supplemented by white metal, brass or nickel silver castings and etched parts. Assembly is normally by glueing. This type of kit is often recommended as the first step in modelling, particularly basic four-wheeled wagons. The plastic mouldings are generally to a very good accurate standard, and some of the manufacturers supply the kits complete with wheels and transfers. in some cases, they need additional weight for good roadholding.

These kits are similar to plastic kits except that the bulk of parts are cast in white metal (a lead-tin alloy). They have been available for many years but are becoming less popular with the advent of other media. Castings in white metal can be of excellent quality, but some, particularly those cast in old moulds, may require a fair amount of fettling (ie filing and sanding to remove mould parting lines and other blemishes) to make the best of them. The parts can be assembled by glueing or soldering. White metal is a very heavy material, so completed kits are usually quite heavy, and white metal is soft and brittle so it needs to be handled with care.

These kits are also similar to plastic kits, but the bulk of parts are cast in resin. The resin is quite soft and light, and the parts are glued together. Excellent detail can be cast into the parts but, as with the white metal castings, some cleaning up could be necessary. The completed kits are generally quite light so weight may need to be added.

This type of kit is available covering all types of rolling stock, from small wagons up to large bogie coaches. They usually require some metalwork or metal forming and are intended to be soldered together. Some are quite simple but others can be very complex, but they may be tackled once you have confidence in metal forming and soldering. Normally, the finished models are a reasonable weight so may not require additional weight.

• Wagon building - notes on the design and construction of wagons, with a focus on the running gear (wheels, axles and suspension), buffing and coupling. They are relevant to kit construction as well as scratch building
• Minimum weights - a guide to recommended minimum weights for rolling stock to ensure good running
• 3-link couplings
• Autocouplers

BR Wagons:

GWR Wagons:

LMS Wagons:

LNER Wagons:

SR Wagons:

Private owner or MOD Wagons:

See also the MIOG review of the Signature Kits 44.5ton hopper wagon

Other Wagons:

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