MRSI 2026 Dublin Show - October 24-26th 2026

[Patrick Davey]

4 hours ago, 85 Merlin said:

Hi everyone,

My guesses are more towards the steam side of the spectrum, although I do believe it will be a C Class diesel this year, going by some of the things I've seen on the forums over the past year.

But then again, as a wild card, we could see one of two possible steam locomotives announced instead of a diesel. I believe there are two very strong contenders.

My first contender would be No. 74, Dunluce Castle.

If you remember what IRM/Accurascale wrote in their original 800 Class announcement, they mentioned having to scan the real locomotive to help get the details just right.

Now, if I were in their position, I would certainly take the opportunity to scan a locomotive that I planned, or at least hoped, to bring to market in OO gauge someday.

To me, an NCC tender locomotive would make a lot of sense, especially considering its close relationship to the Midland Railway 2P in the UK. This could open up plenty of possibilities for both the Irish and British markets.

My second strong contender would be the GNR(I) S Class 4-4-0, No. 171 Slieve Gullion.

It's a very pretty locomotive and would look wonderful alongside the many British pre-grouping locomotives that have come to market in recent years.

I think No. 171 and her sisters would be a fantastic choice, in my opinion.

Furthermore, she would look right at home at the head of the wonderful IRM and Murphy Models Mk2 RPSI set. I would absolutely love to see that running around my layout!

But at the end of the day, we all know it has to be the one and only V Class Compound, No. 85 "Merlin"!

I mean, who could possibly say no to that!!!

Anyway, those are my guesses. It will be interesting to see what actually gets announced!

Thanks everyone,

85 Merlin

Interesting thought about No. 74, with a neat connection to the LMS 2P - the latter would undoubtedly be feasible, as all AS steam offerings have been mega popular, but I'm not sure the former would be a runner (boom boom) due to its very limited geographical reach.  Would love it though!!

S class - yip, I've been suggesting that for a while!  Could be a nice special edition fundraiser for the RPSI, as A3r was for the ITG.

No. 85 - also an option for sure.

But also leaning towards a C class here, that's if there actually WILL be a new announcement of course!