Ideea: Gather every model from all the "Best model trains of 201X" and do a "Best of the best" video, and the same for the worst model trains of the year.
Great choice Sam. I didn't buy any new locomotive this year. Due to a house move and dismantling The 'AnneliesVille RR'. Moving closer to my daughter battling cancer. We sadly lost her last August. I keep watching your video's Sam. It helps in keeping connected with this fine hobby and one day I hope to build the AV II. Have a Merry and peaceful Xmas & happy model railroading. Cheers, Filip
As someone who's volunteered with industrial tank engines, I can't help but feel a sense of pride to see the Hawthorn take the crown! Well done indeed Dapol 👏 Great video Sam, all the best for the new year 👏
I’m an American and just purchased the Rapido J70 set. I don’t have a layout yet but for now it will be part of a static bookshelf diorama. I plan to have the backdrop be interchangeable to depict either a historical W&U setting, OR a fantasy scenario of shunting on the Jay Street Connecting Railroad, an American street-running freight network that once operated in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York, an environment where engines like these would have thrived.
Dapol have done a real cracking job this year Sam; no models in the worst 5 and 2 models (the only manufacturer with multiple models in the top 5 best list), including 1st place in the best 5. I cannot wait for their new 2025 releases, especially that gorgeous GWR 517. Also Sam, wishing you a Very Merry Christmas!
Watching your original review of the Hawthorne-Leslie (twice) plus a nice sales price at Rails convinced me I needed one. Now I just have to wait patiently for it to sail across to the US. Thank you Sam, I'm not sure my wife would agree, however...
Hi Sam, we have been spoilt for choice this year with so many eras and regions catered for. For me Dapol, Accurascale and Rapido have been the standout manufacturers. I have only bought one new loco this year and that was a Bachmann 4575 just re-released. I have spent a fair bit on Rapido & Accurascale rolling stock though. As an era 3 GWR modeller I have much to look forward to in 2025 with 3 preorders already. I hope everyone has something from 2024. Thanks for a great year of reviews an entertainment. Wishing you and Chloe a lovely Christmas. Blessings, Dave.
Merry Christmas Sam, i have 3 of the 5, both dapol and the J70 and they're brilliant. I think Dapol are quietly producing the better and more value locos at the moment and long may it continue.
Dapol stepping up when other big companies are failing. Love the details, mechanism and much more! Im a swedish railfan and drive roco, liliput, trix and jeco. Roco ill say is very beautiful but dapol is looking promising! I hope rhey make a Q1 equally good so i can get one XD
The Dapol HL is a very worthy top loco. I Got my hands on one at an excellent price and agree with everything you have said about it. Regards… Steve 👍👍
The Jones Goods for me and as a slight variation, a full rake of the new Hornby LNER Coronation coaches and observation coach. Expensive but brilliant non the less. Have a good Christmas and a Happy New Year!! More good work next year!!
Aftr your initial review if the HL I persuaded my wife to gift me "Henry" for Christmas and today I saw for myself how right you are, a super detailed loco that will grace my new layout. A "thank you" is therefore due to you
Happy Holidays Sam from Austria this time. Excellent choices, especially the Hawthorne-Leslie at 1st place. The blue livery very much adds to that stellar outcome for this little cute one. A merry Xmas to you, Cloe and your families 🎁🎄🎅
Hi Sam. Hope youve had a good Christmas. Im definitely in the market for a few Dapol locos. Just got to clear the Accurascale preorders lol! Their Mogul as well as s Hawthorn Leslie are on my list.
Hey Sam. All these best/worst models videos got me thinking. Would you ever have a yearly best/worst rolling stock video? There are some coaches and wagons you've reviewed that you say were absolutely fantastic and others were complete tat and not worth the money. Such videos may help modelers avoid making unwise purchases like the model videos. Have a happy new year!
A great selection of models. Easy to see why these are at the top. As much as I love my 2 Y7s (24 in Saxony Green and 898 in Experimental Blue), my Hawthorn Leslie (13 in green) is so much more model for the money. Of note though, the dovetail socket is a NEM standard (NEM 363), just it isn't the more usual rectangle socket (NEM 362). Although, the dovetail sockets by different manufacturers (rapido, hornby, bachmann, rapido) all vary. My top 3 locos of the year (in no particular order) would be: Hornby Turbomotive (bought in the Black Friday sales) Dapol Hawthorn Leslie (bought in mid-November at a show) Accurascale 37422 (2nd batch 37, preordered)
I saw the Hornby Hawthorn... This Dapol one looks so amazing.. Considering the price difference as well. £89 for the bad one from Hornby and £108 for the good Dapol version. £30 difference from one of the worst to one of the best. .
Great vid Sam, it's definitely been a year of good models this year! The Dapol Hawthorn is lovely, definitely a nice model and I wouldn't mind picking one up for the right price. That said, the Accurascale 66 looks great and I cannot wait for the one I have on order!
Decent video here Sam, hard for me to think what my best models are but one I know for sure is the best diesel model for me Is the pair of Cavalex 56s, really those should have been model of the year over Accurascales 66, that’s actually been said by some other people, they are simply amazing models packed with a great variety of features and when sound fitted they are even better.
@@Pugragger best diesel model of 2024 and like others have said it really should have gotten the Model of the year award over Accurascales Class 66, really happy with the pair I have which also got sound fitted.
A very fair choice I think. You've done some great reviews this year. I've not bought many new locos this year; a discounted C class 0-6-0 was very nice, but I have to hand my own personal top prize to my recently delivered Big Goods, Highland 4-6-0.
Hi Sam. I'm so pleased that OO gauge models didn't collect all the plaudits in your top five models. The Hawthorne Leslie is undoubtedly a very good model, but I particularly liked the Accurascale Class 66. It has great features, including my favourite Class 66 livery. Have a great 2025.
I knew the Leslie was going to make it into the top five. That thing was absolutely incredible as a performer and with all that detail. You sir know good quality when you see it. Happy holidays, Sam!
We had some VERY good models this year! My favourites you reviewed this year are the J70, Double Farlie, Quarry Hunslet, Jones Goods, Y7, Locomotion No. 1, Bagully Drewry, Hawthorn Leslie, and the E Class. I know not all of those were objectively the best but they were still outstanding in nearly every area!
@ yes we were very spoiled! Speaking of new releases you didn’t get to will you be reviewing the new Bachmann Class 31 and Class 25? They look amazing and the prices seem reasonable!
Hey Sam!! Great video as always!! I have a model suggestion for you! It’s the Ho scale Atlas RS-1. It’s very detailed and has a dicast metal running board and chassie, directional lighting on analog, crew figures pre installed, and has a great finish. I got mine on Train World for 130$ USD and I’m really happy with it!
I really got into the British stuff this year. I finally have an Alderney Hall, Scotsman, Pannier, and O gauge pannier! I can’t wait to get more. I just wish we had more retailers that carried the British stuff here in the USA.
Hey Sam, great top 5 list for 2024!, I really wanted to get the Dapol, Hawthorn Lessie tank engine after seeing your first review on the tank engine, I like the Newcastle electric No13 livery & the blue 56 you have, hope you have a merry Christmas & happy new year and keep up with more videos & reviews in the new year
My personal top picks for 2024 are as follows (keep in mind that I am railroading on a relatively low budget and you can find stuff a lot better but it’ll cost more) Lionel Lionchief 4-4-0 “W&ARR GENERAL” (purchased brand new for $245) pulls very well and has a decent speed (custom crew talk on LC app is fun to mess with) Lionel postwar 2026 2-6-2 & 6466w whistle tender (purchased 2nd hand for $140) runs great with low current draw, smokes the best of any lever action smoke unit in the collection and whistle is reliable MTH Railking protosound 1 4-6-0 (purchased 2nd hand for $200) sound quality is good (4 chuffs per revolution at low speed) another great puller, op fan driven smoke unit, great whistle and plenty of unique programmable features on conventional control (did temporarily fall to the 3 clanks of death (user error) has been fixed and running just fine on a different transformer) *honorable mentions* Lionel conventional 0-6-0 “docksider” (purchased 2nd hand for $120) pulls just fine for it’s size but whistle isn’t the best K-line o27 4-6-2 (purchased 2nd hand for $80) tender modified by previous owner, faulty air whistle relay, but pulling power is good and is overall a decent model/toy MTH QSI sound 4-6-2 (purchased 2nd hand as part of a set for $300) no bell or chuff cycle but good whistle, is a BRICK OUTHOUSE! This thing will not care what you put behind it! Top pick for rolling stock Lionel “weather” balloon defense pack (purchased brand new for $200) [features IRBM flatcar with launchable missile and balloon target car with 5 balloons] balloon target car works well at most voltages and IRBM car fires a good distance, graphics and overall concept behind the pack is humorous (if you don’t get it, look up the Chinese “weather” balloon incident from February 2023)
That Hawthorn Leslie saddle tank is outstanding all around and a wise choice as the best model of the year. Normally with such small models they cut corners in many areas but not in this case. very outstanding.
Great vid as usual. Must agree about the HL . Got a couple of these and both are absolute gems. The Accurascale 66 is also fab. Incredibly solid performer and whilst I still love my Hattons version, you got to give it to Accurascale in fully realising the Hattons concept.
I guessed the Dapol Hawthorn Leslie would be the winner! Well-deserved, too, though I'm pleased to see the Rapido W & U train up there in the top 5 - more little gems.
I just knew you would put the Dapol Hawthorn in 1st place. Rightfully so. Such an amazing model for its size. I've never owned anything like it. A perfect model.
Great channel Sam been watching it for years, as I'm now retired I've decided to start with tt 120 . OK with wiring 1 loop just plug in controller, but how to wire up other loops and points no idea, how about doing something about wiring for us with no idea's with wiring. All the best for Christmas and the new year, keep em coming mate
I just can’t believe how much Dapol have improved since I started watching these videos. They went from having good, decent value locos, to innovative, high quality great value locos! They have come so far in a relatively short time, and stamped themselves on the map big time in 00
Love my Baguley diesel, its awesome. My Hathorne Leslie is on its way. Wow, I own 2 of the reviews Sam, pretty good for being across the pond. Merry Christmas!
when it comes out in 2025, you need to build a Brassmasters de-streamlined Coronation kit (along with their other kits, which all are designed to be decently easy to put together) Sam. It'll make you think differently about detail and loco kits in general! I send you an email with some links about the fabulous things! Just make sure you use a High Level Kits or Portescap gearbox/motor and High Level hornblocks (especially if you fit csb suspension) and you'll have a new best runner in your collection! Thanks as always.
For me: Best build quality and detail = Rapido Jones Goods (I have the yellow 103). Best novelty = Hornby Locomotion 1, although fragile. Best inavation? Maybe Hornby's new smokless steam generator?
Hi Sam. Absolutely brilliant choice Sam. Although I like all of them. My favourite ones would have to be your 1 and 2, always love the 66s but the Dapol saddle tank was amazing for it's size. Although I have about 40 locos my most reliable one that goes anywhere is my Bachmann class 20, love it. Thanks Sam brilliant vlog buddy. Have a great Christmas and new year 🎄🎄🍾🍾 Thumbs up thumped 👍 .... Pete....
Bachmann goes all the way up with the Baguley Drewry, you make me want to buy one. They take an Heljan model and decided to do the absolute opposite as far as they can. And they nailed it ! Dapol Mogul, the original first issue was very good, this one is excellent. Mmmmm... One in BR 4 available ? (Mine is the GWR one). Rapido in the top five, good ! i have the original J70 in LNER guise, I've bought the two coaches to go with her, it's a must-have I confirm. Accurascale nail it with their class 66. Their 37 was excellent but this one is one notch above. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnd Dapol did it again ! Well deserved, their Hawthorn Leslie is a jewel. And a great puller too, I confirm. So, get it Hornby ? (And Heljan of course, even if its a lost cause...)
Also thanks for your videos I tend to limit myself to only a hand full of new locos per year and your reviews though sometimes a little on the harsh side Help me so much I am autistic and can be very easily miss led But thanks to you I get a very good idea of what is good and bad I can't whait for next year I think you'll agree I've picked some goodies Accurascale 66,50 br large logo dcc sound Cavalex 56 br blue large logo sound The port of pars also sound fitted And will be going to raills at some point so who knows what I'll come out hopefully at the very least a hawthorn
Ringo Starr: "Actually, Thomas told me he'd never speak to me again if I didn't protest his likeness having me and my pal's faces slapped all over it."
I like all your selections but I'm more of a HO type guy being from the states. My best of the year is the Rivarossi Allegheny 2-6-6-6 steam locomotive and like all Americans and American things it is large and in charge, lol. It weighs one pound twelve ounces, can craw at .7 scale miles an hour, and pulls at 6 ounces or about 80 cars plus I have never had such detail on a locomotive. Anyway, great video and Happy Holidays, Jersey Bill
Personally, the Y7 that I bought is a nice little model despite it mostly plastic construction and I loved it. But I equally do really like the Hawthorn Leslie 0-4-0 saddle tanks at the same time and again a stunning model to see in action.
Doing a comparison and ranking of your year top models for the past 5 or even 10 years would be fun. Would they be ranked in same order they were manufactured, i.e 2024 model at number 1, 2023 2nd, etc.?
Cant wait to see my scale make this list, especially since you started dabbling in it, n scale! Technically it did with number 5 but i cant wait for a true n scale loco to blow you away
Very surprised that Kernow Models Steam Railcar didn't score higher on your review. In terms of quality, detail, features and uniqueness it really stands out, and my version demonstrates DCC features when running just on DC, eg a number of sound effects and an initial delay in starting followed a slow acceleration to simulate opening the regulator- a first for DC operation. A fantastic model, which I think you scored a little harshly on certain points.
I already have two Rapido J70s but if I didn't I would have absolutely bought one of the new packs in the new livelry and those gorgeous coaches. One manufacturer I'm glad is doing well is Dapol, especially since I have a preorder open for one of their upcoming GWR 14XX.
I knew from the moment I reviewed my J70 on my channel that it would be in your top 5. I covered a sound fitted version which is just even more incredible. How they fit not just a motor, but also a flywheel, decoder and speaker in such a tiny space I'll never know.
It's hard for me to believe I have two of the BEST 5 (both Dapols) instead of the usual three of the five worst for the year. (Still happy I avoided the Fell, thanks to your review.)
HO = 1:87 first and the true scale. Made first. OO = 1:76. based off HO it was used Mainly on British models like many decades ago the change. It was to rescale British models bigger cause of British manufacturers couldn't make a good motor for HO scale then. They're compatability to run on HO scale track though. Nowadays tech means British models can house at HO scale use good motors no problem.
@@SamsTrainsA few models available in both HO and OO scale are the Fleischman class 42 Warship to compare to the Mainline and Bachmann Warship. Fleischman also made HO scale Bullied coaches to run with it, while Bachmann have made these coaches in OO scale. The early Lima class 33 was made in HO so could be compared to the Lima OO scale later version. The Lima attempt at making an HO scale 4F shows how difficult and overwidth HO steam can be to fit coupling rods in , even without the extra width needed for outside cylinders and valve gear. The difficulty of cylinders and valve gear in HO for the British limit of 9ft width, had Fleischman abandon their proposed Blackmoor Vale model. The recent Marklin Flying Scotsman also had the problem and looks odd with valve gear extending beyond the footplate width but still was very expensive. The best HO British model is the early nineties Precision Scale Models Flying Scotsman. These were made in South Korean brass in small numbers for an Australian company for those Australians wanting to recreate the 1988/89 visit of the Flying Scotsman to Australia. However these sell for several thousand dollars second hand, if you can find one.
I was under the impression that it was the DJM Austerity that had the DCC decoder in the firebox behind a magnetically sealed door. I seem to remember you were critical of the innovation.
Ideea: Gather every model from all the "Best model trains of 201X" and do a "Best of the best" video, and the same for the worst model trains of the year.
best of month? best of season? then at the end of the year a best of the best. same for worst.
A best of the decade in 2030 would be interesting in my opinion.
Now that is something I’d love to see!
Great choice Sam. I didn't buy any new locomotive this year. Due to a house move and dismantling The 'AnneliesVille RR'. Moving closer to my daughter battling cancer. We sadly lost her last August. I keep watching your video's Sam. It helps in keeping connected with this fine hobby and one day I hope to build the AV II. Have a Merry and peaceful Xmas & happy model railroading. Cheers, Filip
As someone who's volunteered with industrial tank engines, I can't help but feel a sense of pride to see the Hawthorn take the crown!
Well done indeed Dapol 👏
Great video Sam, all the best for the new year 👏
Ahh fantastic - truly deserved I think, amazing model! All the very best to you too,
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I know that feeling
I’m an American and just purchased the Rapido J70 set. I don’t have a layout yet but for now it will be part of a static bookshelf diorama. I plan to have the backdrop be interchangeable to depict either a historical W&U setting, OR a fantasy scenario of shunting on the Jay Street Connecting Railroad, an American street-running freight network that once operated in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York, an environment where engines like these would have thrived.
Bought two of the Hawthorn Leslie’s after your review, not disappointed, fantastic models ideal for shunting., best slow running models I have.
I bought the accurascale class 66 after watching your review on it, now it’s the star of my freight fleet running around the layout with my TEA rake!
Totally agree about the Hawthorne Leslie, it’s an absolutely magnificent model.
Dapol have done a real cracking job this year Sam; no models in the worst 5 and 2 models (the only manufacturer with multiple models in the top 5 best list), including 1st place in the best 5. I cannot wait for their new 2025 releases, especially that gorgeous GWR 517.
Also Sam, wishing you a Very Merry Christmas!
I think so too - Dapol are really the ones to watch... they just quietly get on with it but they bring the results!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Watching your original review of the Hawthorne-Leslie (twice) plus a nice sales price at Rails convinced me I needed one. Now I just have to wait patiently for it to sail across to the US. Thank you Sam, I'm not sure my wife would agree, however...
Hi Sam, we have been spoilt for choice this year with so many eras and regions catered for. For me Dapol, Accurascale and Rapido have been the standout manufacturers. I have only bought one new loco this year and that was a Bachmann 4575 just re-released. I have spent a fair bit on Rapido & Accurascale rolling stock though. As an era 3 GWR modeller I have much to look forward to in 2025 with 3 preorders already. I hope everyone has something from 2024. Thanks for a great year of reviews an entertainment. Wishing you and Chloe a lovely Christmas. Blessings, Dave.
I 100% agree with your number one. I even went out and bought 3 different types of that engine.
Merry Christmas Sam, i have 3 of the 5, both dapol and the J70 and they're brilliant. I think Dapol are quietly producing the better and more value locos at the moment and long may it continue.
Dear Sam thanks for all the great posts over this year. look forward to next. have a great break, peter
Great video Sam, although I’m really surprised that the Cavalex 56 wasn’t up there!
Excellent as ever! I have escaped the noise downstairs to watch your 2024 reviews. :) Merry Christmas!
Out of your top 5 is my number one the J70 in that GER livery and the coaches look magnificent. Martin. (Thailand) Merry Christmas to you and Cloe.
Dapol stepping up when other big companies are failing. Love the details, mechanism and much more! Im a swedish railfan and drive roco, liliput, trix and jeco. Roco ill say is very beautiful but dapol is looking promising! I hope rhey make a Q1 equally good so i can get one XD
The Dapol HL is a very worthy top loco. I Got my hands on one at an excellent price and agree with everything you have said about it.
Regards… Steve 👍👍
The Jones Goods for me and as a slight variation, a full rake of the new Hornby LNER Coronation coaches and observation coach. Expensive but brilliant non the less. Have a good Christmas and a Happy New Year!! More good work next year!!
Aftr your initial review if the HL I persuaded my wife to gift me "Henry" for Christmas and today I saw for myself how right you are, a super detailed loco that will grace my new layout. A "thank you" is therefore due to you
Happy Holidays Sam from Austria this time. Excellent choices, especially the Hawthorne-Leslie at 1st place. The blue livery very much adds to that stellar outcome for this little cute one. A merry Xmas to you, Cloe and your families 🎁🎄🎅
WELL DONE SAM I LOVED YOUR CHOICES
Hi Sam. Hope youve had a good Christmas. Im definitely in the market for a few Dapol locos. Just got to clear the Accurascale preorders lol! Their Mogul as well as s Hawthorn Leslie are on my list.
Hey Sam. All these best/worst models videos got me thinking. Would you ever have a yearly best/worst rolling stock video? There are some coaches and wagons you've reviewed that you say were absolutely fantastic and others were complete tat and not worth the money. Such videos may help modelers avoid making unwise purchases like the model videos.
Have a happy new year!
A great selection of models. Easy to see why these are at the top.
As much as I love my 2 Y7s (24 in Saxony Green and 898 in Experimental Blue), my Hawthorn Leslie (13 in green) is so much more model for the money. Of note though, the dovetail socket is a NEM standard (NEM 363), just it isn't the more usual rectangle socket (NEM 362). Although, the dovetail sockets by different manufacturers (rapido, hornby, bachmann, rapido) all vary.
My top 3 locos of the year (in no particular order) would be:
Hornby Turbomotive (bought in the Black Friday sales)
Dapol Hawthorn Leslie (bought in mid-November at a show)
Accurascale 37422 (2nd batch 37, preordered)
I saw the Hornby Hawthorn... This Dapol one looks so amazing..
Considering the price difference as well. £89 for the bad one from Hornby and £108 for the good Dapol version. £30 difference from one of the worst to one of the best. .
Great vid Sam, it's definitely been a year of good models this year! The Dapol Hawthorn is lovely, definitely a nice model and I wouldn't mind picking one up for the right price. That said, the Accurascale 66 looks great and I cannot wait for the one I have on order!
Thanks mate it sure has - really love that Hawthorn!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Great video sam 👍 wishing you all the very best for the festive season 😀
The list is very good.
Decent video here Sam, hard for me to think what my best models are but one I know for sure is the best diesel model for me Is the pair of Cavalex 56s, really those should have been model of the year over Accurascales 66, that’s actually been said by some other people, they are simply amazing models packed with a great variety of features and when sound fitted they are even better.
Thanks David - I've heard those were great, might see if I can try one next year!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I agree with you mostly but you really need to review the cavalex 56
That's an amazing model and he's totally ignored it, he hardly does any diesel /electric models
@@Pugragger best diesel model of 2024 and like others have said it really should have gotten the Model of the year award over Accurascales Class 66, really happy with the pair I have which also got sound fitted.
Yes I've heard that was great - I'll see if I can do something Cavalex in 2025!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I’m currently weathering up my Hawthorne Leslie. Proper tidy models that take weathering well
1:34 some might even say it’s “digest size”
haha maybe!!
@@SamsTrains NOOOOO! It's not digest price! :'(
Owning three Dapol Hawthorn Leslies myself, I can say its a loco definitely deserving of being on the list.
Ooh fantastic - bet they look great working alongside eachother!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
A very fair choice I think. You've done some great reviews this year. I've not bought many new locos this year; a discounted C class 0-6-0 was very nice, but I have to hand my own personal top prize to my recently delivered Big Goods, Highland 4-6-0.
Hi Sam. I'm so pleased that OO gauge models didn't collect all the plaudits in your top five models. The Hawthorne Leslie is undoubtedly a very good model, but I particularly liked the Accurascale Class 66. It has great features, including my favourite Class 66 livery. Have a great 2025.
I knew the Leslie was going to make it into the top five. That thing was absolutely incredible as a performer and with all that detail. You sir know good quality when you see it.
Happy holidays, Sam!
Oh definitely - I knew it would when I reviewed it too! Just marvelous!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
We had some VERY good models this year! My favourites you reviewed this year are the J70, Double Farlie, Quarry Hunslet, Jones Goods, Y7, Locomotion No. 1, Bagully Drewry, Hawthorn Leslie, and the E Class. I know not all of those were objectively the best but they were still outstanding in nearly every area!
Yeah we really did - too many to count really - very spoiled in 2024!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
@ yes we were very spoiled! Speaking of new releases you didn’t get to will you be reviewing the new Bachmann Class 31 and Class 25? They look amazing and the prices seem reasonable!
Hey Sam!! Great video as always!! I have a model suggestion for you! It’s the Ho scale Atlas RS-1. It’s very detailed and has a dicast metal running board and chassie, directional lighting on analog, crew figures pre installed, and has a great finish. I got mine on Train World for 130$ USD and I’m really happy with it!
It's a bit late but merry Christmas and happy new year my friend 😊😊😊.
Great video! It's nice to see one of my locomotives in first place. Merry Christmas!
So amazing, merry christmas sam!
Thanks Justin! :D
I have the GER Brown and blue W&U tram pack and I agree that its a real stunner!
I really got into the British stuff this year. I finally have an Alderney Hall, Scotsman, Pannier, and O gauge pannier! I can’t wait to get more. I just wish we had more retailers that carried the British stuff here in the USA.
You mean scotsman right?
@ autocorrect got me
@@V-max97 hahahahah
Ahh fantastic - some real classics there - glad you're enjoying British trains!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
@ any chance we can see some MTH or Lionel 3 rail reviews?
Hey Sam, great top 5 list for 2024!, I really wanted to get the Dapol, Hawthorn Lessie tank engine after seeing your first review on the tank engine, I like the Newcastle electric No13 livery & the blue 56 you have, hope you have a merry Christmas & happy new year and keep up with more videos & reviews in the new year
My personal top picks for 2024 are as follows (keep in mind that I am railroading on a relatively low budget and you can find stuff a lot better but it’ll cost more)
Lionel Lionchief 4-4-0 “W&ARR GENERAL” (purchased brand new for $245) pulls very well and has a decent speed (custom crew talk on LC app is fun to mess with)
Lionel postwar 2026 2-6-2 & 6466w whistle tender (purchased 2nd hand for $140) runs great with low current draw, smokes the best of any lever action smoke unit in the collection and whistle is reliable
MTH Railking protosound 1 4-6-0 (purchased 2nd hand for $200) sound quality is good (4 chuffs per revolution at low speed) another great puller, op fan driven smoke unit, great whistle and plenty of unique programmable features on conventional control (did temporarily fall to the 3 clanks of death (user error) has been fixed and running just fine on a different transformer)
*honorable mentions*
Lionel conventional 0-6-0 “docksider” (purchased 2nd hand for $120) pulls just fine for it’s size but whistle isn’t the best
K-line o27 4-6-2 (purchased 2nd hand for $80) tender modified by previous owner, faulty air whistle relay, but pulling power is good and is overall a decent model/toy
MTH QSI sound 4-6-2 (purchased 2nd hand as part of a set for $300) no bell or chuff cycle but good whistle, is a BRICK OUTHOUSE! This thing will not care what you put behind it!
Top pick for rolling stock
Lionel “weather” balloon defense pack (purchased brand new for $200) [features IRBM flatcar with launchable missile and balloon target car with 5 balloons] balloon target car works well at most voltages and IRBM car fires a good distance, graphics and overall concept behind the pack is humorous (if you don’t get it, look up the Chinese “weather” balloon incident from February 2023)
That Hawthorn Leslie saddle tank is outstanding all around and a wise choice as the best model of the year. Normally with such small models they cut corners in many areas but not in this case. very outstanding.
Great vid as usual. Must agree about the HL . Got a couple of these and both are absolute gems. The Accurascale 66 is also fab. Incredibly solid performer and whilst I still love my Hattons version, you got to give it to Accurascale in fully realising the Hattons concept.
I guessed the Dapol Hawthorn Leslie would be the winner! Well-deserved, too, though I'm pleased to see the Rapido W & U train up there in the top 5 - more little gems.
Some Great models Sam look forward to next year models Merry Christmas from Australia would love you do review an Auccision Models
I've got the horthon Leslie on your recommendation and the fact theres a real one at barrow hill roundhouse where i volunteer
Thanks for including that 009 loco, I’m really fascinated by the narrow gauge and i think I might just give it a go!
No problem Owen - I can totally recommend it!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Waiting for this episode Sam.
My birthday coming up so this will be useful.
Merry Christmas to you Sam. Thanks for all your hard work.
Tim
Thanks Tim - and have a very happy birthday when that comes around!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I just knew you would put the Dapol Hawthorn in 1st place. Rightfully so. Such an amazing model for its size. I've never owned anything like it. A perfect model.
haha yeah had to be that one - they did such a good job!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Great channel Sam been watching it for years, as I'm now retired I've decided to start with tt 120 .
OK with wiring 1 loop just plug in controller, but how to wire up other loops and points no idea, how about doing something about wiring for us with no idea's with wiring.
All the best for Christmas and the new year, keep em coming mate
I bought the mogul because of your reviews and some gwr collett coaches thanks 👍
Horthorn Leslie would be my top pick too. Spot on.
Can't wait for Dapol's promised 14xx and hope it's as good.
I just can’t believe how much Dapol have improved since I started watching these videos. They went from having good, decent value locos, to innovative, high quality great value locos! They have come so far in a relatively short time, and stamped themselves on the map big time in 00
Yeah that's right - no end of problems with Dapol's earlier models... they're SO much better now!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
A-up,have a good Christmas.Thanks.
Love my Baguley diesel, its awesome. My Hathorne Leslie is on its way. Wow, I own 2 of the reviews Sam, pretty good for being across the pond. Merry Christmas!
Ooh excellent - hope you really enjoy them - they're amazing models!!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
when it comes out in 2025, you need to build a Brassmasters de-streamlined Coronation kit (along with their other kits, which all are designed to be decently easy to put together) Sam. It'll make you think differently about detail and loco kits in general! I send you an email with some links about the fabulous things! Just make sure you use a High Level Kits or Portescap gearbox/motor and High Level hornblocks (especially if you fit csb suspension) and you'll have a new best runner in your collection! Thanks as always.
Ooh sounds very cool - that'll be something a bit different actually, should be fun to try!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Hi I have a Dapol Hawthorn Tank engine and agree I would have put the PI Victory in the top 5 as well
Merry Christmas to everyone 🎄
Merry Christmas!!
I’ve just had Sam’s trains Santa sleigh wagon round my Christmas tree this year, just put it away!
Awesome video Sam
Thanks a lot Brian!
@SamsTrains you're welcome Sam 😊
For me:
Best build quality and detail = Rapido Jones Goods (I have the yellow 103).
Best novelty = Hornby Locomotion 1, although fragile.
Best inavation? Maybe Hornby's new smokless steam generator?
Hi Sam.
Absolutely brilliant choice Sam.
Although I like all of them. My favourite ones would have to be your 1 and 2, always love the 66s but the Dapol saddle tank was amazing for it's size.
Although I have about 40 locos my most reliable one that goes anywhere is my Bachmann class 20, love it.
Thanks Sam brilliant vlog buddy.
Have a great Christmas and new year 🎄🎄🍾🍾
Thumbs up thumped 👍
.... Pete....
Hi Sam I just wanted to say that you should review the Dapol JNA network rail wagon. Have a merry Christmas Sam. And a happy new year
Very good to see - I like the 1st Place Model!!! 😉🙂🚂🚂🚂
Merry Christmas Sam. 🎄
Merry Christmas! :D
Bachmann goes all the way up with the Baguley Drewry, you make me want to buy one. They take an Heljan model and decided to do the absolute opposite as far as they can. And they nailed it !
Dapol Mogul, the original first issue was very good, this one is excellent. Mmmmm... One in BR 4 available ? (Mine is the GWR one).
Rapido in the top five, good ! i have the original J70 in LNER guise, I've bought the two coaches to go with her, it's a must-have I confirm.
Accurascale nail it with their class 66. Their 37 was excellent but this one is one notch above.
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnd Dapol did it again ! Well deserved, their Hawthorn Leslie is a jewel. And a great puller too, I confirm.
So, get it Hornby ? (And Heljan of course, even if its a lost cause...)
Also thanks for your videos I tend to limit myself to only a hand full of new locos per year and your reviews though sometimes a little on the harsh side
Help me so much I am autistic and can be very easily miss led
But thanks to you I get a very good idea of what is good and bad
I can't whait for next year I think you'll agree I've picked some goodies
Accurascale 66,50 br large logo dcc sound
Cavalex 56 br blue large logo sound
The port of pars also sound fitted
And will be going to raills at some point so who knows what I'll come out hopefully at the very least a hawthorn
I only own 2 out of your top 5 locos
Which ones
@@Modeltrainand3dprintinggeek the Hawthorn and the J70
@@Taggart00 nice I'm not rich enough for them buuuut I do still have some reliable models
Ahh excellent - well those are two of the greats anyway!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I only own 0 of your top 5 locomotives
*"Nothing can beat the beatles train"*
Ringo Starr: "Actually, Thomas told me he'd never speak to me again if I didn't protest his likeness having me and my pal's faces slapped all over it."
@Charmaster04 wait what
Yea man it's groovy baby 😂.
MERRY CHRISTMAS SAM
WOOOOOHOOOOOO
haha thank you Merry Christmas to you too!!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I have one of those Hawthorne Lesiles and have to agree it’s impeccable,
Glad to hear that Luke - amazing aren't they?!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Sorry going back to watch the Umpa lumpa song............ Happy Christmas to all model railway enthusiasts.
You know how you punish the bad trains, I'd love to see in this video, the locos given a reward or celebration of some kind as a bit of fun 😊
I love Spider - my Dapol Hawthorne. She negotiates my sidings and insulfrogs with grace and purpose.
I like all your selections but I'm more of a HO type guy being from the states. My best of the year is the Rivarossi Allegheny 2-6-6-6 steam locomotive and like all Americans and American things it is large and in charge, lol. It weighs one pound twelve ounces, can craw at .7 scale miles an hour, and pulls at 6 ounces or about 80 cars plus I have never had such detail on a locomotive. Anyway, great video and Happy Holidays, Jersey Bill
Happy Holiday Surprise Day, Sam!
Wow that sounds impressive - I'll have to look that one up! Thanks for sharing
Sam :)
Bravo Dapol. 👏
Personally, the Y7 that I bought is a nice little model despite it mostly plastic construction and I loved it. But I equally do really like the Hawthorn Leslie 0-4-0 saddle tanks at the same time and again a stunning model to see in action.
Yeah the Y7 was lovely for sure - but the Hawthorn was definitely better for me!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Doing a comparison and ranking of your year top models for the past 5 or even 10 years would be fun. Would they be ranked in same order they were manufactured, i.e 2024 model at number 1, 2023 2nd, etc.?
Dapol are amazing, and just to make things even better they are UK-based. Merry Christmas Sam!
Yeah absolutely - though the locos in this video were made in China!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Cant wait to see my scale make this list, especially since you started dabbling in it, n scale! Technically it did with number 5 but i cant wait for a true n scale loco to blow you away
6:51 My favorite Tram(Toby) and his wife coach(Henrietta)
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas!
For me Sam It has to be Dapol's GWR 2-6-0, they're just such wonderful runners both of mine are.
Cheers Jasper & Willow
Ahh great choice - yes those are wonderful aren't they!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Very surprised that Kernow Models Steam Railcar didn't score higher on your review. In terms of quality, detail, features and uniqueness it really stands out, and my version demonstrates DCC features when running just on DC, eg a number of sound effects and an initial delay in starting followed a slow acceleration to simulate opening the regulator- a first for DC operation. A fantastic model, which I think you scored a little harshly on certain points.
I love that beautiful class 66 model Sam
Me too - such an impressive model!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I already have two Rapido J70s but if I didn't I would have absolutely bought one of the new packs in the new livelry and those gorgeous coaches.
One manufacturer I'm glad is doing well is Dapol, especially since I have a preorder open for one of their upcoming GWR 14XX.
haha that's the thing about the new liveries... impossible to refuse!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I knew from the moment I reviewed my J70 on my channel that it would be in your top 5. I covered a sound fitted version which is just even more incredible. How they fit not just a motor, but also a flywheel, decoder and speaker in such a tiny space I'll never know.
haha absolutely - just a brilliant little pack that one!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
merry christmas sam & chloe 🌲
It's hard for me to believe I have two of the BEST 5 (both Dapols) instead of the usual three of the five worst for the year. (Still happy I avoided the Fell, thanks to your review.)
See Hornby as they have changed their couplings making them ( trucks and carriages closer together).
A fantastic line-up for 2024 Sam. 👍😀
Can't wait to see what 2025 gives us 😁
Thanks so much - I can't wait either! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
Yo cool to see toby became a top 5 :D
Positive review. Hope you have a great festive time and can we expect any announcements of a hitch up with Chloe for 2025 ?
Can you please compare H0 scale with 00 scale in a future video? I‘d really like to see the size difference between them
HO = 1:87 first and the true scale. Made first.
OO = 1:76. based off HO it was used Mainly on British models like many decades ago the change. It was to rescale British models bigger cause of British manufacturers couldn't make a good motor for HO scale then. They're compatability to run on HO scale track though. Nowadays tech means British models can house at HO scale use good motors no problem.
That could be interesting actually - thanks for the idea!
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I'd also enjoy the attempts to bring British outline into scale, whether British HO, or EM/P4 which widened the track.
@@SamsTrainsA few models available in both HO and OO scale are the Fleischman class 42 Warship to compare to the Mainline and Bachmann Warship.
Fleischman also made HO scale Bullied coaches to run with it, while Bachmann have made these coaches in OO scale.
The early Lima class 33 was made in HO so could be compared to the Lima OO scale later version.
The Lima attempt at making an HO scale 4F shows how difficult and overwidth HO steam can be to fit coupling rods in , even without the extra width needed for outside cylinders and valve gear.
The difficulty of cylinders and valve gear in HO for the British limit of 9ft width, had Fleischman abandon their proposed Blackmoor Vale model.
The recent Marklin Flying Scotsman also had the problem and looks odd with valve gear extending beyond the footplate width but still was very expensive.
The best HO British model is the early nineties Precision Scale Models Flying Scotsman. These were made in South Korean brass in small numbers for an Australian company for those Australians wanting to recreate the 1988/89 visit of the Flying Scotsman to Australia. However these sell for several thousand dollars second hand, if you can find one.
I was under the impression that it was the DJM Austerity that had the DCC decoder in the firebox behind a magnetically sealed door. I seem to remember you were critical of the innovation.