☔️ NEW Custom Weathered Sonic 'Large Prairies' In Stock

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large prairie
large prairie
large prairie
large prairie
large prairie
large prairie
large prairie
large prairie
large prairie

The all-new range of GWR Class 5101 & 61xx 'Large Prairie' 2-6-2T steam locomotives in N Gauge from Sonic Models have now arrived in stock!


Eight different models are now available catering for these handsome Western region tank locomotives in a selection of GWR and British Railways liveries.


Each model features an impressive specification with beautiful detailing, a robust chassis & mechanism and intricate livery application.


What's more, we now have a selection of incredibly detailed custom weathered models available - each model in the range can be available in a suitably dirty finish!

Rails limited logo

Rails of Sheffield is the EXCLUSIVE Retailer for Sonic Models products, so you will only find these locomotives here at Rails.

In Stock Now

Custom Weathered Models

We have a selection of new additions to our range of exclusive Custom Weathered models, with new variations now available for the Sonic Models N Gauge Large Prairie range.

custom weathered Prairie
custom weathered Prairie
custom weathered Prairie
custom weathered Prairie
custom weathered Prairie
custom weathered Prairie
custom weathered Prairie
custom weathered Prairie

£149.95 each

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Product Features

Highly detailed model with many separate parts including handrails, safety valve, whistle, pipework, footsteps and more

Accurate tooling variations for Class 5101 and Class 61xx locomotives 

Heavy diecast chassis block

Digital capability - 6-pin socket for 90° right angled decoders

Coreless 12V motor with 6-wheel drive and all-wheel pickups

Phosphor Bronze driving wheel bearings

See-through spoked wheels

Finescale coupling and connecting rods

NEM Standard N Gauge Couplings

Many bufferbeam detailing parts

Prototype Information

Large Prairie
Image by P41647

The GWR 5101 Class, affectionately known as the 'Large Prairie,' was introduced by the Great Western Railway in 1929. Designed by the legendary Charles Collett, these locomotives were a development of the earlier 3100/ 5100 Class. They were powerful, versatile, and primarily used for suburban passenger services.


As the name ‘Large Prairie’ suggests, these locomotives featured a 2-6-2T wheel arrangement, which provided excellent stability and traction. They were equipped with two outside cylinders, a Belpaire firebox, and a spacious cab, making them a favourite among drivers and firemen. With a total of 140 units built, these locomotives became a staple of the GWR fleet, serving diligently until the end of steam in the 1960s.


Moving over to the 61xx Class, introduced in 1931, these locomotives were an evolution of the 5101 Class, designed to handle heavier suburban traffic. The 61xx Class boasted an increased boiler pressure of 225 psi, giving them greater power and efficiency. With a total of 70 units produced, these engines were also instrumental in the daily operations of the Great Western Railway. Although intended for passenger traffic, both classes were also used heavily for goods workings, especially later in their lives.

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