These are the buffer guides (or "shoes") for wagon buffers of the LNWR. They should be used with turned buffer-rams and springs (Slaters' for 7mm scale, MJT or Gibson for S and 4mm scales, 2mm Association for 2mm scale).
The LNWR used many kinds of buffer guide. This kind, with 3 securing bolts and no strengthening ribs, were fitted during the 19th century, under Mr. Emmett's superintendency. When Mr. Earl took over in 1903, he had designed different buffers with 4 bolts and various patterns of ribs. However, photographs show the Emmett buffers fitted to wagons built during the Earl period; I presume that there was a large stock of castings to use up.The Emmett, 3-bolt buffer was made in different lengths to suit different situations.
- 7/8/9-ton wagons with 3-link couplings: 10-inch guides, 18 inches overall; elsewhere in this shop.
- 10-ton wagons with 3-link couplings: 12-inch guides, 18 inches overall; elsewhere in this shop.
- 7/8/9-ton wagons with screw couplings: 13-inch guides, 21 inches overall; this model.
- 10-ton load wagons with screw couplings: 15-inch guides, 21 inches overall; elsewhere in this shop.
Meat vans and guards vans in the Emmett period used different guides with 4 fixing bolts. These are not yet available in my range.