Just throwing in my 2p regarding the rails...
I agree that it looks as though something has been applied to the rails rather than them having been painted. Maybe to cover up damage, as the box has been smashed to bits at some point post filming. Perhaps the original rails were completely replaced?
When it comes to building a replica though, do you go for the prop *as it is now*, or *as it was on set*? I guess that's down to personal preference.
I'm of the view that the rails were still brass during filming, and they certainly were for the ISYHCANL scene in my opinion.
They're distinctly more of a yellow hue in the cave scene than they are today. Shinier too.
Just my 2p anyway.
View attachment 1377628View attachment 1377629View attachment 1377630View attachment 1377631View attachment 1377632
I am inclined to agree with you DaveP. Incidentally, it so happens the beryllium copper we used for our run has a similar hue and reddening over time, although we used it for strength reasons given the structure of the canoe. But yes, I'm not sure they didn't replace the rails or cover damage with like foil tape. The ISYHCANL has always had this brass vs copper debate. With film lighting it is always difficult and we can't necessarily trust the prop "as it is now" because things happen over time. Just also me thinking out loud.