Snipe steam-powered model speedboat (Hobbies-Bowman)

Exhibit
Snipe steam-powered model speedboat (Hobbies-Bowman) ~1931: Snipe Steam Speedboat, Bowman Book of Steam Models (i)
location:
Arch Two , Area 3 Toyshop Steam (display) 1931

1931: Advert for Bowman's "Snipe" steam speedboat [image info]

1931: "A mile at racing speed!", advert, June 1931 [image info]

1932: Gamages catalogue entry, Bowman Snipe speedboat [image info]

A steam-powered model speedboat, "The Snipe", made by Hobbies/Bowman Models, Dereham, Norfolk.

A 23-inch-long cream-coloured propeller-driven boat, blue below the waterline, with metal superstructure covering the steam engine.

This particular example is missing its original decking, and has been tried out on Hove Lagoon.

Bowman Snipe steam speedboat, prow detail

Sales information

The boat's leaflet says

A fast and thoroughly sound racing boat of graceful proportions and first-class finish. Runs for a mile on filling, or roughly 30 minutes, and is practically unaffected by a moderate breeze

The boat could be supplied ready-built or in kit form, both for the same price of 22/6 (plus postage).

HOBBIES-BOWMAN STEAM SPEEDBOAT (Catalogue information)

The SNIPE MODEL

A fast and thoroughly sound racing boat of graceful proportions and first-class finish. Runs for a mile on a filling, or roughly 30 minutes, and is practically unaffected by a moderate breeze. Specially recommended for model boat enthusiasts who require a really practical, speedy boat at a moderate price. it compares favourably in appearance and performance with continental models at much higher prices. Fully guaranteed.

Specification

HULL of special patent applied for design - extra light. Length 23" overall. Beam 4 1/2", beautifully finished in 3 colours. Streamlined spray hood and aluminium wind shield protecting boiler and lamp. ENGINE - Bowman "double power" single cylinder model 3/4" stroke × 3/8" bore. Automatic oil lubricator. BOILER - polished brass 4 3/4" × 1 3/4" with safety valve. LAMP - safety type burning methylated spirit. Direct drive to propellor shaft. Exhaust pipe at stern. For Model Engineers who prefer to construct their own models, this model is supplied in loose parts at same price but without guarantee.

Complete with filler and instructions, in strong wood box.

External links

• Hobbies-Bowman Snipe Speedboat (Mooseman)
• Bowman Snipe restoration

video

• Bowman-Luton Snipe running in (YouTube)

modern snipe-inspired designs

• "Hobbies Arrow" – Plans to build an updated (2004) boat based on the classic Hobbies-Bowman Snipe design. NB: Serious woodworking required! (alwayshobbies.com)
• esaley4527: Building a Bowman Snipe look-a-like (rcgroups.com)