Katsumi Brass - Questions, etc....

If you are talking about the old brass locomotive builder Katsumi (KTM), they are out of business according to http://www.ballsofbrass.com/information/i_FAQ's_adv.htm#builders

QUOTE: Originally posted by cwhitla If you are talking about the old brass locomotive builder Katsumi (KTM), they are out of business according to http://www.ballsofbrass.com/information/i_FAQ's_adv.htm#builders

KTM brass built in Japan were good models, but Korean brass was less expensive which eliminated Japan brass,except for limited production. KTM made most of the Balboa and Westside models for years, but stopped making models about the time Westside stopped importing brass.

I have many KTM engines and they are great, but not detailed like today's brass.

Thanks for the info -- will pass whatever we find out onto customer... --Ed

Actually, Katsumi is still in business. However, they now produce exclusively models of Japanese prototype nowadays (with one exception of a Chinese steamer and passenger set that just came out couple of months ago. Their current Japanese stuff is up to par with contemporary brass stuff by other manufacturers these days.

Website is (japanese only):
http://www.ktm-models.co.jp/

QUOTE: KTM brass built in Japan were good models, but Korean brass was less expensive which eliminated Japan brass,except for limited production. KTM made most of the Balboa and Westside models for years, but stopped making models about the time Westside stopped importing brass. I have many KTM engines and they are great, but not detailed like today's brass.

Kumata (KMT) was a prolific buIlder (Alco, Hallmark, and may others), but Katsumi (KTM) made the better product (Max Gray,Balboa, Westside).and they ran better,too. Kumata was famous for that god awful square motor that pulled 1 amp each. Kasumi made Max Gray engine's with open frame motors still run well.