Thanks for the kind comments, folks, and I'm glad you found the review interesting. I'm afraid the joke about the names Maureen and Bill for the PF figures passed me by entirely but then I lead a sheltered life.
In response to Tim's expressed interest in the old pneumatic drill (is he planning a page on his website on the Playmobil genus pneumaticus drillus as well as the animals?), I'm posting the detail pics of the old drill, too.
First, a view with our scale guide showing the front view. Note the two sets of "grips" for storing tools etc.
Then, a view showing the rear of the unit and the top open.
A closer view of the interior with the drill and hose stored inside.
Lastly, the drill itself. I can remember, just, these one handled drills being used in street repair. I think originally equipment like this was used in mines and so only a single handle was need as it was being used in a horizontal or semi-horizontal position and when they started being used above ground the same drill was used at first. I suppose once it was discovered that in this use the drill was usually used vertically (or nearly so) the second handle was added for more efficient operation.