On a full size engine the cores required to create all the steam passages and ports within the cylinder block casting are incredibly complex. In the smaller model sizes it would be very expensive to replicate, and the scrap rate would be high due to the complexity. In addition how do you get the cured core sand out of the internal steam passages?
There are two versions of my model. The original design by Pete Filby and as modified by LSM. The LSM version has the passages cast in and uses thin liners, ~1/8", allowing precise positioning of the steam ports. In contrast the Filby design uses thick liners, 3/8", and has the steam passages machining into the outside of the liners along with some simple drilling of the cylinder block. This results in a simpler and cheaper cylinder block casting. Mind you I think the cylinder block for the Filby design is now over £500, I don't know what the current price for the LSM version is, but I'd sit down before looking.
Andrew