These 2005 models were originally produced by MDC/Roundhouse, a firm that was eventually acquired by Horizon Hobbies. In 2009 they were re-released under the Athearn banner (another Horizon Hobby acquisition).
Early runs came with truck-mounted Rapido couplers (with MDC knuckle couplers also included in the box). Athearn runs come equipped with McHenry automatic knuckle couplers. The wheels are plastic. The caboose design is based on a DRGW prototype.
An outfit called "Bluford Shops" offers these models in paint schemes not available directly from MDC/Roundhouse/Athearn.