
( Brand: Rix Products ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 699-6020 ), ( Type: Appliance Store ), ( Gauge: Ho ), ( Material: Plastic ), ( Box: Original Packaging ), ( Grading: C-8 Like New ), ( Measurements: 5-1/4 X 5 ), ( Paint: Molded In Color ), ( Paperwork: Assembly Instructions Included ), ( State Of Assembly: Unassembled Kit ), ( UPC: 400699060208 )
The **Rix 699-6020 HO 1/87 scale Small Town Kit Mart** is a meticulously crafted, ready-to-run model that captures the nostalgic charm of a classic American convenience store, perfect for hobbyists seeking to add authentic detail and character to their miniature landscapes. Designed with an eye for historical accuracy, this kit reflects the unassuming yet essential role these small-town businesses played in everyday life, offering a blend of functionality and visual appeal that brings a slice of Americana to life. The model features a compact yet detailed exterior, complete with a quaint, single-story facade that includes a prominent awning, neatly aligned windows with subtle grid patterns, and a sturdy metal roof with subtle weathering to suggest age and exposure to the elements. The front entrance is framed by a small overhang, complete with a vintage-style door that swings open just enough to hint at the bustling activity within, while the side panels are adorned with subtle signage perhaps a hand-painted "Open" or "Fresh Produce" to evoke the store s purpose.
Inside, the **Kit Mart** is a treasure trove of modular possibilities, allowing modelers to customize the layout to their liking. The interior is divided into distinct sections, including a checkout counter with a cash register and a cash drawer, neatly stocked shelves lined with an assortment of miniature products like canned goods, snacks, and household essentials, all arranged in a way that feels both practical and inviting. A small cooler or display case can be positioned near the entrance to showcase perishables, while a countertop with a coffee machine or soda fountain adds a touch of retro charm, catering to customers who might stop by for a quick bite or a cold drink. The back area can be configured as a storage or stockroom, complete with crates, pallets, and shelves, further enhancing the store s authenticity. Optional features like a small cash register bell, a price tag display, or even a miniature cashier figure can be added to bring the scene to life, making the **Kit Mart** not just a static model but a dynamic part of your layout s narrative.
The **Rix 699-6020** stands out not only for its attention to detail but also for its versatility in integration. Whether placed along a bustling main street, nestled between residential buildings in a suburban neighborhood, or as part of a larger commercial district, this model effortlessly blends into any HO 1/87 scale scene. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for smaller layouts or tight spaces, while its rich textures from the smooth finish of the exterior walls to the subtle grain of the wooden countertops ensure it holds its own against more elaborate structures. The model s design also encourages creativity; hobbyists can choose to paint it in classic colors like pastel green or red with white trim, or opt for a more weathered look with faded paint and rusted accents to reflect decades of service. For those who enjoy weathering techniques, the **Kit Mart** provides ample opportunities to add patina, dirt streaks, or even a few graffiti marks to give it a lived-in feel, making it feel like a true part of the community rather than an afterthought.
Beyond its aesthetic and functional appeal, the **Rix 699-6020 Small Town Kit Mart** serves as a wonderful educational tool for model railroaders and enthusiasts alike. It invites exploration of the social and economic history of small-town America, where such stores were often the heart of the community places where neighbors gathered, news spread, and local businesses thrived. By incorporating this model into a layout, builders can create a sense of place and history, transforming a simple scene into a story waiting to unfold. Whether used as a standalone piece or as part of a larger diorama, the **Kit Mart** is more than just a building; it s a character in the miniature world, embodying the spirit of small-town America with every detail.
**Pros and Cons of buying a RIX 699-6020 HO 1/87 Scale Smalltown Kit Mart**
The RIX 699-6020 HO 1/87 scale Smalltown Kit Mart is a detailed plastic kit designed for model railroad enthusiasts who enjoy building and detailing commercial buildings. Below is a detailed breakdown of its advantages and disadvantages.
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### **Pros**
1. **High Level of Detail**
The kit is meticulously designed with fine details that capture the essence of a small-town hardware store or general merchandise shop. Features like signage, windows, doors, and interior elements (such as shelves and fixtures) are well-executed, making it appealing for hobbyists who appreciate realism.
2. **Plastic Construction**
Plastic kits are generally more forgiving for beginners compared to resin or metal kits. The material is durable, easy to sand, and can be painted smoothly with standard acrylic paints. It also allows for easier corrections if mistakes occur during assembly.
3. **Scalability and Flexibility**
The HO 1/87 scale (a less common scale compared to HO 1/87 or N scale) offers a unique challenge and opportunity for modelers who want to create a distinct layout. It can be used to fill gaps in larger layouts or as a standalone piece in a smaller, themed display.
4. **Customization Potential**
The kit can be easily modified to reflect different eras or regional styles. For example, you can adjust the signage, add or remove features, or paint it to match a specific time period (e.g., 1950s or 1980s). This flexibility is ideal for hobbyists who enjoy personalizing their models.
5. **Affordability**
Compared to some high-end commercial buildings or kits from major manufacturers, the RIX kit is relatively budget-friendly. This makes it accessible for hobbyists who want to build a detailed structure without a significant financial investment.
6. **Good for Learning**
If you're new to plastic kit building, this kit provides a manageable project that teaches foundational skills like assembly, sanding, priming, and painting. The complexity is balanced enough to be rewarding without being overwhelming.
7. **Compatibility with Other Scales**
While HO 1/87 is niche, the kit s design can sometimes be adapted or paired with other scales if you re experimenting with mixed-scale layouts. This can add variety to your modeling projects.
8. **Pre-Built Options**
Some RIX kits come with optional pre-built elements (e.g., pre-painted parts or pre-assembled components), which can save time for those who want to focus more on detailing than assembly.
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### **Cons**
1. **Limited Availability**
HO 1/87 scale is not as widely supported as more common scales like HO 1/87 or N scale. This means finding replacement parts, accessories, or additional details for the Kit Mart may be difficult. You might need to source parts from other scales or create them yourself.
2. **Scale-Specific Challenges**
The 1/87 scale is less familiar to most modelers, which can lead to difficulties in sourcing compatible track, scenery, or other structures. You may need to do extra research or adapt elements from other scales, which can be time-consuming.
3. **Potential for Complexity**
While the kit is manageable, some details (e.g., tiny signage or intricate interior elements) may require a steady hand and patience, especially for beginners. Rush jobs could result in misaligned parts or uneven finishes.
4. **Painting and Weathering Challenges**
The small scale means that painting and weathering techniques must be precise. Over-brushing or uneven application can be more noticeable in 1/87 scale than in larger scales. This requires careful technique or the use of fine brushes and detailing tools.
5. **Limited Community Support**
There is less of an active community or forum dedicated to HO 1/87 scale modeling compared to more popular scales. This can make it harder to find tips, troubleshooting advice, or inspiration from others working in the same scale.
6. **Durability Concerns**
Plastic kits can sometimes be brittle, especially if not handled carefully during assembly. Dropping or mishandling parts could lead to breakage, which is frustrating given the time and effort invested in building.
7. **Time-Consuming Detailing**
To achieve a realistic look, you may need to spend significant time on detailing such as adding decals, weathering, or creating custom elements (e.g., mannequins, store displays). This can extend the project timeline beyond what some hobbyists expect.
8. **Limited Commercial Availability**
RIX kits may not be as widely distributed as those from major brands like Bachmann, Life-Like, or Kato. You might need to purchase directly from the manufacturer, specialty retailers, or online marketplaces, which could affect availability and shipping times.
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### **Conclusion**
The RIX 699-6020 HO 1/87 scale Smalltown Kit Mart is a well-crafted and detailed kit that offers significant rewards for hobbyists who enjoy building and customizing commercial structures. Its plastic construction makes it accessible and forgiving, while its level of detail appeals to those who appreciate realism. The kit s niche scale (HO 1/87) presents unique challenges, particularly in terms of sourcing compatible parts and finding community support, but it also offers a distinctive opportunity to create something different from mainstream layouts.
For hobbyists who are comfortable with smaller scales, enjoy customization, and don t mind investing time in detailing, this kit is an excellent choice. It s particularly suitable for those looking to expand their modeling skills or add a unique touch to a themed layout. However, if you prioritize ease of access, widespread compatibility, or a larger community for support, you might find more mainstream scales (like HO 1/87) more convenient.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the RIX 699-6020 Kit Mart if:**- You are interested in HO 1/87 scale modeling and want to explore a less common scale.
- You enjoy building and detailing plastic kits and are willing to invest time in customization.
- You have access to or are prepared to source compatible parts and accessories.
- You appreciate the challenge of working with a smaller scale and don t mind potential limitations in community support.
- You re looking for an affordable yet detailed project to expand your modeling skills.
**Avoid the Kit Mart if:**- You prioritize ease of use and widespread compatibility with other models or scales.
- You re new to modeling and prefer a more forgiving or larger scale to start.
- You lack patience for detailed work or are unable to source replacement parts easily.
- You re primarily focused on quick assembly and don t enjoy the customization process.
For most hobbyists, this kit is a **strong recommendation** if you re drawn to its unique scale and detail-oriented nature. Pair it with patience, the right tools, and a willingness to adapt, and you ll likely end up with a highly satisfying and visually appealing model.
State of Assembly: Unassembled Kit. Paperwork: Assembly Instructions Included. Material: Plastic. Cosmetic condition: C-8 Like New.
Finished Measurements: 5-1/4 x 5. Packaging: Original Packaging. Growing up, my grandfather and I worked together building our model railroad layout. Interior Detail: None.
Interior Lighting: None. Doug - model Train Market. 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE. Paint: Molded in Color.