Dapol OO 4F-013-022W BR Gunpowder Van B887002 Bauxite Weathered
Model with weathered finish.
A good model of these steel bodied vans which were specially built and fitted with secure doors for the transport of explosives. Originally this was principally gunpowder and frequently used to transport explosives for mines and quarries, this name was retained for use on these vans long after other explosives were developed.
During peacetime the cargoes included all kinds of explosives and potentially explosive material, plus ammunition deliveries for forces reserve and cadet units across Britain.
Gunpowder vans were being operated before 1900, but the first world war caused an increased demand for such vehicles. Steadily reducing numbers of these vans were still in service with British Rail into the 1960's. The adoption of air brakes for goods trains required the replacement of these vans with newer vehicles and the military today makes widespread use of shipping containers.