Bachmann Sir Handel thread

[Yard Master]

We don't have a date decided to restart development on Duncan, or if we'll be able to do so. If or when it happens, we'll make sure to let everyone know with an official announcement.

[Zorran202]

Thank you for the update! It sucks that Duncan couldn't be made initially due to his CGI model being very far off the mark, but I'm curious to see how he'd be made IF greenlit... ala Beau mixing both CGI and real-life elements intact, we shall see...

ANYWAYS before we end up derailing from the topic here: I could be living under a rock, but if Sir Handel is now released, where could I find him in person instead of online? Like is he distributed throughout the physical model hobby shops too?

[DustyMarie53!]

ANYWAYS before we end up derailing from the topic here: I could be living under a rock, but if Sir Handel is now released, where could I find him in person instead of online? Like is he distributed throughout the physical model hobby shops too?

I'm unsure about any shops directly but I know he was at the Greenberg train show, so any U.S. Local shop very well me be getting him in shortly. U.K should be getting him similarly within a week or two.

Hope this is helpful

[harrison05]

Evidence?

What is there no evidence, I was saying a theory I have...

[Cheeky_ULP]

I think that it's more of a logical deduction; if Douglas is still out of service and basically in pieces, then it isn't exactly in the ideal condition to be measured, scanned or photographed for any model train company that would have interest in making a model of Douglas. Not much to add to that discussion until it returns to service.

[harrison05]

Does anyone know when she is due to return?

[DustyMarie53!]

Does anyone know when she is due to return?

Current estimate is 2027/2028. So it's a while off yet

[Chaz]

Well, the model I've been eagerly anticipating for years has finally arrived, and here are my thoughts on Bachmann's Sir Handel.



Ten years ago today, Skarloey was released. I still remember the excitement when he was first announced in early 2015. It came out of nowhere and immediately felt like the start of a bright future for narrow gauge modeling. Now, a decade later, we welcome the fifth member of the lineup. Each release, excluding Rusty, has shown clear improvement as the range continues to grow. Skarloey felt like the beginning of something special, giving way for engines such as Rheneas and Peter Sam to follow. Sir Handel, however, doesn't just follow. He exceeds every expectation.



This is, without question, the best model to come from the range so far. It surpasses nearly everything Bachmann has produced across scales. I hardly know where to begin. We are at an all-time high here, and it is genuinely impressive how well Bachmann executed Sir Handel.



Right away, the proportions stand out beautifully. They capture his real-world basis more accurately than the CGI render, for reasons we found out earlier this year with Bachmann's Sir Haydn announcement! No matter how you look at it though, the Bachmann Sir Handel model represents the character incredibly well.



The detailing is superb, from the rivets to the separately fitted whistle and brake pipes at both ends. Even though those pipes were not present in the CGI version, their inclusion enhances the model in a very positive way. If any engine deserved that extra attention, it was Sir Handel.


The cab design is strong as well. It does not share the same amount of blockage as Peter Sam, nor does it have closed off windows like Skarloey/Talyllyn.  Yet Bachmann still managed to add traction to the trailing wheels (or "steamroller wheels"), allowing it to increase traction and improves overall running performance.


The livery is beautiful. The shade of blue is spot-on, and the painted details such as the handrails and nameplate elevate the model visually.


The face is excellent too, perfectly capturing his CGI appearance. For those who prefer the classic model-era expression, replacing the face should be a simple and accessible modification.


As for performance, Sir Handel is appropriately smooth. His "steamroller" wheels provide excellent traction through curves and steeper grades, and he handles any sort of consist with with ease.  This was something Bachmann did with their Peter Sam model, and I'm glad they continued this with Sir Handel.


He performs just as well in reverse and over switches, which speaks to the quality of the wheels and motor. This is an engine that will not derail easily, even if he would prefer to not work with trucks...


The word "perfect" is not one I use lightly, whether for models or anything outside of the hobby. The Bachmann Sir Handel though, in my very honest opinion is just that: perfect. That should emphasize just how exceptional this release truly is. There is not a single flaw I can point to. It may be the best model Bachmann has created, not only in narrow gauge but across every scale in the Thomas ranges. It is remarkable to realize that ten years have passed since Skarloey, and now we have a nearly full and well-rounded fleet to enjoy.


I hope Duncan returns in production someday. But even if he does not, I have complete confidence that future additions will continue to meet this standard of excellence. Thank you, Bachmann, for delivering something this special. Sir Handel was worth every moment of the wait, and I look forward to whatever comes next.

A review on the figure packs are coming soon, I promise!

[JacobSK]

Great review, Chaz! Sir Handel definitely sounds like he's a clear winner in the range. It's been essentially four years since he was announced, and from your review, it sounds like he was worth the long wait. What also is incredible was how he managed to arrive just in time for the holiday season!

On a different note: You've also got a great collection as well. My favorite picture is definitely the one with the three Mid Sodor fleet!

All in all, Sir Handel is definitely an engine that a lot of people are excited about, and it's easy to see why. It's a celebration; Sir Handel is finally out!