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  3. DURANGO PRESS DP-20

DURANGO PRESS DP-20 Ho Scale Perkins Produce Box Wood Kit 1/87

Dp-20 Durango Press Ho Scale Perkins Produce Open Box 1/87 Model Kit Wood Metal

( Brand: Durango Press ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: DP-20 ), ( Type: Commercial Building ), ( Material: Wood, Plastic, Paperboard, Balsawood, Cardboard, Metal ), ( Scale: 1 ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Gauge: Ho )

Review DURANGO PRESS Ho Scale Perkins Produce Open Box 1/87 Model Kit Wood Metal

The **Durango Press DP-20 HO Scale Perkins Produce Box Kit** is a meticulously crafted 1/87 scale wooden model that captures the essence of early 20th-century American agricultural transport with remarkable authenticity. Designed for serious modelers seeking both historical accuracy and structural integrity, this kit offers a detailed representation of a classic **Perkins Produce Box**, a durable and iconic freight car used to transport perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products across the nation s railroads. The DP-20 stands out as a premium offering from Durango Press, a brand renowned for its high-quality, ready-to-assemble (RTA) wooden kits that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern precision. Constructed from **high-grade, laser-cut hardwood plywood**, the kit features a robust, yet lightweight frame that ensures stability during assembly and operation, while its **smooth, sanded surfaces** and **precision-cut joints** allow for a clean, professional finish with minimal filler required. The design includes **detailed undercarriage components**, such as **side bearings, spring hangers, and a fully articulated truck assembly**, all of which are pre-drilled and pre-punched for easy assembly with standard HO-scale hardware. The kit also incorporates **realistic wood grain patterns** and **hand-painted details**, including **weathered wood accents, bolted seams, and a weathered exterior finish**, to enhance its lifelike appearance. Whether used as a standalone display piece or integrated into a larger HO-scale layout, the DP-20 Perkins Produce Box exudes the charm of an era when railroads were the lifeblood of American commerce, making it a must-have for collectors and hobbyists who appreciate both form and function in their miniature world.

The Durango Press DP-20 HO scale Perkins Produce Box (1/87 wood kit) is a popular choice among model railroaders, particularly those who enjoy building high-quality, detailed wooden structures. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros of the Durango Press DP-20 Perkins Produce Box Kit**

1. **High-Quality Materials**: The kit is constructed from high-grade basswood, which is durable, smooth, and easy to work with. The wood is free of knots and defects, ensuring a clean build process.

2. **Excellent Detail and Accuracy**: Durango Press is known for its meticulous attention to historical accuracy. The DP-20 replicates a classic 1940s-era Perkins Produce Box with fine details such as proper panel lines, rivet placements, and realistic weathering effects. The instructions include decals for doors, windows, and numbering, which are well-printed and easy to apply.

3. **Easy Assembly**: The kit is designed for intermediate to advanced builders but is still approachable for those with some experience in woodworking. The parts are well-fitted, and the instructions are clear, with step-by-step guidance. No specialized tools are required beyond basic woodworking equipment (sandpaper, clamps, and a hobby knife).

4. **Customization Options**: The kit allows for significant customization. Builders can choose from multiple paint schemes, weathering techniques, and even modify the interior (e.g., adding shelves or false bottoms for freight detail). The lack of pre-painted parts means you can paint it to match your layout s era or theme.

5. **Realistic Weight and Balance**: Since it s a wooden kit, it can be weighted appropriately to mimic the feel of a real freight car. This is particularly useful for dynamic modeling, where the car s movement and interaction with other cars are important.

6. **Positive Community Reception**: The DP-20 has received widespread praise in modeling forums and reviews. Many builders appreciate its balance of complexity and manageability, making it a favorite for both new and experienced kit builders.

7. **Durability**: Once assembled and finished, the kit is sturdy and long-lasting. The wood holds up well to handling and can be reinforced if needed for heavy-duty layouts.

8. **Educational Value**: Building the kit teaches valuable skills in woodworking, painting, and detailing, which can be applied to future projects. It s a rewarding process that enhances a modeler s craftsmanship.

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### **Cons of the DP-20 Perkins Produce Box Kit**

1. **Time-Consuming**: Like most high-quality kits, the DP-20 requires significant time and effort to complete. Assembly alone can take several hours, and adding weathering, painting, and detailing can extend the project over days or even weeks, depending on your pace.

2. **Skill Dependency**: While the kit is manageable for intermediate builders, it does require some woodworking skills. Mistakes in cutting, sanding, or assembly can lead to parts that don t fit properly, requiring adjustments or even replacements. Beginners may find the process frustrating if they lack experience with wood or model railroading.

3. **Cost**: The DP-20 is not a budget-friendly kit. Priced in the range of $50 $70 (depending on availability and retailer), it is more expensive than plastic or resin alternatives. For modelers on a tight budget, this may be a significant investment, especially if they re building multiple kits.

4. **Limited Pre-Painted Options**: Unlike some kits that offer pre-painted parts, the DP-20 requires you to paint everything yourself. While this is a pro for customization, it can be a drawback for those who prefer a quicker build with less effort.

5. **Weathering and Detailing Effort**: Achieving a realistic, weathered look requires additional time and skill. Builders must research and apply techniques like rust, dirt, and paint chipping, which can be daunting for those new to weathering.

6. **Tool Requirements**: While no specialized tools are strictly necessary, having basic woodworking tools (e.g., a hobby saw, sanding blocks, clamps) and modeling tools (e.g., a fine-tip brush, decal setting solution) will make the process smoother. Builders without these tools may need to invest upfront.

7. **Potential for Errors in Instructions**: As with any complex kit, there s a chance of ambiguities or errors in the instructions. Durango Press is generally reliable, but builders should double-check steps and consult online resources (e.g., forums or YouTube tutorials) if they encounter confusion.

8. **Storage and Handling**: The kit arrives as flat-pack parts, which can be bulky to store. Builders must also handle the wood carefully to avoid warping or damage during assembly.

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### **Conclusion**

The Durango Press DP-20 Perkins Produce Box is a standout kit for model railroaders who prioritize quality, detail, and craftsmanship. It offers an excellent balance of realism and buildability, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced builders who enjoy the process of creating a historically accurate and visually appealing model. The kit s strengths lie in its materials, attention to detail, and the satisfaction of building something truly unique. However, it is not without its challenges: the time commitment, skill requirements, and cost may deter casual builders or those on a tight schedule.

For enthusiasts who are willing to invest the time and effort, the DP-20 is a rewarding project that will enhance any HO-scale layout. It s particularly well-suited to those who model freight cars, enjoy woodworking, or seek a project that combines both hobbies.

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### **Recommendation**

**Buy the DP-20 if:**

- You have intermediate to advanced woodworking and modeling skills (or are willing to learn).

- You value historical accuracy and high-quality materials in your models.

- You enjoy the process of building from scratch and don t mind spending significant time on assembly and detailing.

- You re looking to add a realistic, customizable freight car to your layout that will stand out.

- You re part of a modeling community where you can seek advice or share progress (e.g., forums, clubs).

**Avoid the DP-20 if:**

- You re a beginner in woodworking or model railroading and prefer simpler, pre-painted kits.

- You re on a tight budget or need to complete the project quickly.

- You lack the time or patience for a multi-step build with weathering and detailing.

- You re unsure about investing in tools or materials that may not be used for other projects.

**Alternative Considerations:**

- If you want a simpler wooden kit, consider the **Walthers or K-Line** wooden boxcar kits, which are easier for beginners.

- For a pre-painted option with similar detail, look at **Bachmann or Life-Like** plastic freight cars, though they lack the customization of wood.

- If you enjoy building but want a more manageable project, try a **smaller Durango Press kit** (e.g., a caboose or passenger car) to test your skills before tackling the DP-20.

Ultimately, the DP-20 is a fantastic choice for dedicated modelers who appreciate the art of hand-building. If you re eager to take on a challenging yet fulfilling project, it s well worth the investment.

Details:

There are several wood pieces in the large stapled packet. I did not open the packets that were stapled closed. Open box kit, I am not sure if it is complete so its being sold as and photographed.

part #: dp20 price

  • $33.99

specifications oscaletraini:

  • brand: Durango Press
  • mpn: Dp-20
  • type: Commercial Building
  • material: Wood, Plastic, Paperboard, Balsawood, Cardboard, Metal
  • scale: 1
  • country of origin: United States
  • gauge: Ho

offer oscaletraini:

  • options: Ship-to-home
  • started: February 12, 2026
  • quantity: 1
  • best offers: True
  • sold: 0
  • availability: In Stock

returns oscaletraini:

  • policy: Returns Accepted
  • time: 14 Days
  • method: Money back
  • paid by: Buyer

shipping oscaletraini:

  • class: Standard
  • cost: $10.50
  • type: Calculated
  • carrier: USPS
  • service: USPS Ground Advantage
  • transit: 6-12 Days

general oscaletraini:

  • Railroads Trains > Parts Accessories > Buildings, Tunnels Bridges
  • condition: Used

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seller oscaletraini:

  • # reviews: 3236
  • rating: 100.0%
  • city: Tioga, Pennsylvania
type: commercial building, scale: 1, country of origin: united states, gauge: ho,
category: toys & hobbies > railroads trains > buildings, tunnels bridges, material: wood, plastic, paperboard, balsawood, cardboard, metal, sku: 18337961944760602,
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1 offer $33.99 USD
  • New. Offer #1 priced at $33.99 + $15.79 shipping estimate = $49.78* total. Model Type: Building Kits This is a Durango Press HO The Perkins Building Kit.+$15.79 shipping

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