N-Scale Concrete Lock Blocks

[BCR751]

Is anyone 3D printing the large concrete lock blocks used for retaining walls?  I need some in N-Scale.  I remember a few years ago someone was doing this but I can't find any reference to it.

Doug

[wazzou]

Like these things?  They aren’t difficult to make from Styrene to be honest.

[160pennsy]

@BCR751...are these the large concrete blocks you're looking for?



https://www.shapeways.com/product/5EDJXC5NN/n-scale-concrete-blocks-30pc "PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Set of 30 stackable concrete blocks known under many different names like Lock Blocks, Legio Blocks, Ultra Blocks etc in N scale (1:160). These blocks are used for quickly and cheaply making heavy walls for storage areas etc. You find these in industrial sites, building sites, farms etc

The smaller blocks are 5x5x5mm, the larger blocks are 5x10x5mm."

[BCR751]

wazzou said:
Like these things?  They aren’t difficult to make from Styrene to be honest.

Yup, those are the ones.  I know, but I'm basically lazy:)

[/quote]

@BCR751...are these the large concrete blocks you're looking for?

https://www.shapeways.com/product/5EDJXC5NN/n-scale-concrete-blocks-30pc "PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Set of 30 stackable concrete blocks known under many different names like Lock Blocks, Legio Blocks, Ultra Blocks etc in N scale (1:160). These blocks are used for quickly and cheaply making heavy walls for storage areas etc. You find these in industrial sites, building sites, farms etc

The smaller blocks are 5x5x5mm, the larger blocks are 5x10x5mm."

@160pennsy - Thanks for that link.  I'll check that out.

Doug

[PRB]

Have you thought about actually using Lego's or some other copy cat brand?  I would expect that you can paint them and they come in a wide range of sizes.

[garethashenden]

Have you thought about actually using Lego's or some other copy cat brand?  I would expect that you can paint them and they come in a wide range of sizes.

Lego might be too perfect. They fit really well together. The concrete blocks don't and I think that the difference would be quite noticeable in N scale. I think it would look like painted Lego, rather than concrete blocks.

[peteski]

I agree about them being too smooth and fit together too perfectly.  Plus (the standard size Legos) seem to big for N scale.  They are larger than N scale passenger cars.  Most concrete blocks aren't *THAT* large.  I suppose some short half-height pieces would be more realistic, but  then there is the price. Legos are also rather pricey compared to some other methods of making those blocks (like casting them from Hydrocal or even urethane resin.

[PaulP]

Fine N-scale Eco blocks

[BCR751]

Fine N-scale Eco blocks

Those look like the ones but, at least on my screen, the photo isn't very clear and they appear to be pretty rough.  Lots of 'chaff'.

Doug

[PaulP]

His picture doesn’t do them justice. They are really very nice. Some have ends that need the resin pour sanded away.