Does Bachmann Make The Best Model Railway Wagons?

[@williamhurley2427]

Sam: "There is nothing to justify the extra price. Bachmann: "But our logo is on it" (awkward silence from views)

[@SamsTrains]

haha like I said - nothing to justify the extra price ;) Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@locomotiveAlex1996]

considering they are charging £85 for the new SECR Birdcage coaches this was expected by me, but that price for a standard coach model is disgraceful

[@mattapacka54]

@@locomotiveAlex1996 especially compared to hornby, who are selling railroad 4-4-0s like the schools or the D49 for that kind of money

[@locomotiveAlex1996]

@@mattapacka54 Locos do tend to be more expensive by default, but considering the age of the toolings the prices are a tad steep

[@MrKenichi22]

Sam'sTrains Agreed

[@brianartillery]

The best wagons I ever owned, were some old Hornby Dublo (heavy metal frames on those), and some Peco Private Owner wagons. Some Peco wagons had working suspension, and wheel bearings. And that was in the 1960's.

[@SamsTrains]

I'm hearing a lot of good things about those - supposed to be incredibly reliable! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@bentullett6068]

Some of the wrenn wagons have heavy metal frames as well. I brought a old Wrenn 6 wheeled milk tanker and this had a diecast chassis. My dad also has a load of hornby Dublo trains, carriages, wagons and track in the loft somewhere in a box.

[@CraftyFoxe]

1:54 There is no link in description lol

[@theretrocrowe]

To reply from your reply earlier, my journey on TSW went pretty well. Was mostly on time except for at San Bruno, where I was 1 minute late

[@thegreatwesterner9481]

TheRetroCrowe 2 I have tsw but I mainly have the English routes

[@theretrocrowe]

@@thegreatwesterner9481 I mostly prefer the English routes, but I have all of the routes on the game

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh not too bad - 1 minute late is fantastic by my standards! ;D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@thegreatwesterner9481]

Which route is your favourite

[@theretrocrowe]

@@thegreatwesterner9481 I love Hauptstrecke Rhein-Ruhr and Main Spessart Bahn, but my favourite has to be Northern Transpennine

[@SimplyTakuma]

Underframe Details: Bachmann: ............ Oxford: We have details..... Horby: *DETAIL EXPLOSION*

[@SamsTrains]

haha that's basically it!! ;D

[@barnabykirk7662]

As you started the Bachmann train, I couldn’t help but notice the last wagon before the break van had its front wheel off the tracks! What happened to it?

[@SamsTrains]

haha yes you're right - I'm not sure, it seemed to correct itself later in the video though - I can't remember noticing at the time! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@cliffleigh7450]

@@SamsTrains Yes - sack that train examiner who sent it out!

[@tomlikestrains4071]

Damn Sam! 77.000 Subscribers! I've known you since like 5000 subs? Gald to see you doing so well!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much Tom, really appreciate your long standing support! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@brucewoods9377]

That Stewarts & Lloyd’s grey wagon in the rear of the wagon rank had its front wheels off the rails in the beginning. After a lap when you came back to them it was “all wheels on track”

[@SamsTrains]

Yes you're right Bruce - I wonder if the couplings had clashed?! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@williambabcoke248]

So I was looking around on Hattons today and found a BLI 2-10-2. It needs a little work, but it could be a good way for you to get one of the high end American locomotives. Even better, it is one of the old Paragon 1 ones, which if my K4 is anything to go off of, are absolute beasts. (Full die-cast boiler and chassis, great runner, can pull 40 cars up a hill). I would not turn that one down if I where you. If I hadn't just bought a new 2-8-0, I probably would have bought it. Edit: I think that it is also worth noting that these engines sometimes, particularly NYC Hudsons, sell secondhand for very close if not more than they were new. I think my local train store had a few of these and they sold for pretty close to what the new Paragon 3 ones sell for brand new.

[@SamsTrains]

Many thanks for letting me know William - I'll look for that! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@deel399]

Great review Sam! It’s my birthday soon so maybe I’ll get some wagons!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot mate! Hope you have an amazing birthday! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@brucewoods9377]

The Express Engine , yeah but not the Bachman ones he, he, he!

[@CyanShock]

The final standings were about what I expected. I picked up a couple Oxford wagons after I saw you review them and after seeing the quality on video and in person I don't understand why everyone else is so much more expensive.

[@SamsTrains]

Yes, I can't say I was too surprised either! Oxford's offerings are amazing for the money! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@iancoop76]

I think that Bachmann's products are over rated as well as being over priced!

[@pannierprairie7884]

Hi Sam, excellent work as always. I have a number of Bachmann wagons with plastic flimsy parts not glued in place properly. I think you should give Dapol a chance, I also have some of their open wagons, they are quite dated models, but they are all quite cheap to buy (£8 - £13 usually). Take care Sam

[@SamsTrains]

Many thanks! Sorry to hear about that! I have thought about doing some more Dapol ones, but I got my fingers burned last time ;) Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@gilbertfamily4273]

i detailed up my tunnel on my layout as well as my station. this weekend. Travis. you should do a fourth installment "dapol egg vans"

[@SamsTrains]

Ooh well done Travis - a good job well done! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@gilbertfamily4273]

Thank you both it looks lovely

[@williambabcoke248]

You should continue the series with a set of American cars. A good selection would be a 40 ft box, a tank car, and some kind of car with a load. It would be cool too see how they stack up against British rolling stock!

[@SamsTrains]

That would be awesome William - I'd love to try some American stock! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@danielhayton8657]

Have you considered doing reviews for other manufacturers such as Dapol, Hornby Railroad or Peco? I just ask because I have enjoyed this series and would like to see more from it.

[@oscarknight3588]

after the egg vans, I don't think dapol would be a good idea, hornby railroad models are also extremely cheap with bad detail, they'd obviously score pretty low and peco only produce kit wagons, so the detail will vary from modeller to modeller

[@SamsTrains]

I may well do Daniel, but I think it's time for a change now, don't want this to get samey! Maybe one day! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@bentullett6068]

I have a few Bachmann wagons including a Highley Mining company wagon that can be seen in real life in the Severn Valley Railway Engine shed museum at Highley station. I am tempted on getting the weathered version of this wagon as well as it looks pretty good.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh interesting - yes they do look lovely weathered, I've seen some one! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@leilacentral1883]

I love my wagons and I’m very fond of the Oxford rail ones, especially the quality and the low price. Bachmann I want more of their models but the prices are a bit too high in my opinion. I don’t doubt their quality tho. Love freight trains so really enjoyed seeing the trains run at the end. Clint

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much Clint - yes I'm really happy with all my Oxford ones too! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@JoshuaDD-nc3oz]

What type of tool do you use to take off the side rods of a Hornby locomotive?

[@SamsTrains]

I use a 2.5mm nutspinner! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@mosincat5075]

You should review a Bachmann USA 2-6-0 alco, they look stunning, and i got mine for only 48 pounds

[@SamsTrains]

I'd love that - sounds like great fun!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@TRAMJUNCTION7147HG]

All new wagons are getting a bit expensive, so I tend to look for older Mainline wagons, which can be picked up for between £4.99 & £7.99 on ebay, depending on the condition. Nice review as usual Sam Cheers geoff

[@SamsTrains]

You're right Geoff - second hand is often the best way to go these days! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@mickmac8300]

Hi Sam love your work, hopefully you will get to see this. For all of you steam lovers just putting up a couple of video's. From Australia. Fair to say not many outside of Australia would of heard of what was pretty much the only private railway in Australia. Based in New South Wales Hunter valley region. South Maitland Railways. Carted mainly coal from about 23 mines to the Newcastle port. The little coal cars will look familiar and the brake van you have seen before. The first film is in 2 parts, the 3rd film is of 125 of SMR PTY LTD. "Richmond vale railway-1987-part1/2" "South Maitland railways 125 years 2018"

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much for the comment Mick - appreciate this, I'll take a look! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@mickmac8300]

"Destiny of steam-1995" is of the same place but has footage and interviews with the drivers etc.

[@lukehughes6094]

An amazing videos Sam thank you for telling every one the flaws wirh the Bachmann wagons. Much appreciated. Can not wait to see more videos like this. Take care of yourself.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Luke - it's a pleasure! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@strategicgamingwithaacorns2874]

Here in the US, the best rolling stock we have comes from Walthers. Walthers makes the best HO-scale passenger cars, and sells sets for various Name Trains. Broadway Limited Imports, MTH, and Athearn also come close. Bachmann sells just mid-grade rolling stock in America, as does Atlas and Con-Cor.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks John! I've heard great things about those - no doubt they're excellent! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@bulwellforestgardenrailway5301]

They look lovely. Though with that heavy weight my Oxford Rail Deans Goods (Slippy McWheelface) would really struggle. One of the few locos that I wish came with traction tyres and wouldn't derail at the first sight of anything that isn't a perfect straight.

[@SamsTrains]

haha that's true - they're not dreadfully powerful are they? :( Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@nascarfinisher6082]

That truck looks good for my collection

[@SamsTrains]

They certainly are! :D

[@nascarfinisher6082]

Wow really I am too

[@Tombola1993]

So many colourful and awesome wagons, so little time. Though, to be fair, Hornby do produce branchline coaches that are more stylised, rather than realistic.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Tomas - yes I like Hornby's coaches too! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@chrisclark6192]

Hi Sam. Good review as always. If the retailer sold them to you at around £7 less than the way over the top bachmann price, the retailer is still making a good profit or they would not be in business. The question then is what price do bachmann let the retailers have their stock for, after all bachmann will still be making a good profit or they would not be able to keep going. Keep well and safe. Chris.

[@richardsinger01]

Christopher Clark not necessarily. Discounting stock is common in retail - it’s a way to get market share, customer loyalty etc. Sometimes it’s just a loss leader to get people into the store. It doesn’t mean they are necessarily making excessive profits at rrp.

[@SamsTrains]

This is true I think - I can't believe that any retailer could consistently sell at a loss in a small market such as this. Besides, the discounts can be seen across many retailers most of the time! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@mrabsorbency8460]

Yay! Congratulations Sam! You now have 77k Subs 🎉

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much! That's unbelievable!! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@edwardmyboo4458]

nice video sam your full of energy in every video you make!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much - I do my best! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@peterjennings6072]

This channel got me into model railways and i buy all my trains only after checking if uve reviewed it for quality

[@SamsTrains]

That's lovely to hear Peter, many thanks for the kind words! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@KieranMcGovern7530]

An excellent series of videos Sam! So, we’ve seen rolling stock, we’ve already seen many locomotives so now it’s time for the next comparison. Who makes the coaches?!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much Kieran - that's a very good question! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@iancoop76]

Can you do a review of Dapol's wagons please as I think that they are going to be a force to be reckoned with soon. If you are feeling rich or adventerous how about reviewing the Lionheart L&B locomotives and coaches 1/43 scale 16.5 gauge.

[@benmasters1322]

Would you ever considered doing a q and a video during lockdown?

[@SamsTrains]

Maybe! I just tend to do them during live streams though! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@iceeblueburst03]

12:14 It's nice to see your Bachmann Webb Coal Tank back on your layout again! We haven't seen this locomotive run on your layout for a very long time, and now he's back! :P

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you! Yes I hadn't run that in quite some time! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@alexanderstuff5100]

hi sam! i am trying to fix my dads old princess victoria. but when i put it on the tack it cuts out the controler. how much do you think it would cost to service her?

[@SamsTrains]

Hi mate, unfortunately I'm no longer able to offer servicing, but I can do my best to advise - have you checked the pickup wire and its connections? If at any point it contacts the loco/motor chassis, it'll cause that shorting! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@skuula]

Yeah disconnect the motor as close to it as possible.. if that gets rid of the short circuit, you likely need a new motor. If not, it might be a simple problem not requiring parts.

[@GregPalmer1000]

I definately thiink that Bachmann cant consider & brag anymore that they are the Rolls Royce of UK models, the 3 you reviewed are not new tooling, so for the RRSP way to expensive considering they would have recuperated any development & research, tooling etc costs years ago, I never had a problem with Bachmann wheel sets or nothing that a spot of lubrucating oil wont fix.

[@SamsTrains]

No I don't think they can - most other manufacturers offer better deals these days in my opinion! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@joefaracevideos]

thank you Sam for doing this series. Very informative.

[@SamsTrains]

My pleasure Joe, glad you enjoyed it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@vaberdyn2764]

sam i think oxford makes the best wagons!! i have an oxford wagon that you have! its the john facer wagon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it looks very nice!!!!

[@SamsTrains]

Can't disagree with you there mate - Oxford's stuff is amazing!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@barleyarrish]

I'm still working my way through your back vid's, they really are the biz on every level (including your taste in music). It is a real shame that at present the one plank wagon is a one horse race, perhaps a straw poll of how many would be purchases would go for an oxford rail example? I'm sure they watch?

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much mate, you're very kind! haha you're right there! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@joshualoynes7408]

Chance and Hunt are a world famous company for making curved glass used mostly in lighthouses, by the outbreak of ww1 Chance and Hunt were required to produce chemical weapons and acids for the use by the Military. They had several sites located near oldbury including one in wednesbury my home town. The old remains of the Oldbury factory still sits there alongside the old sidings and canal sadly left to time.

[@SamsTrains]

Very interesting, many thanks for the info on the company - cheers! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@SpartanA054Moose]

AWWWW YEAH NEW SAMS VIDEO! Sam and Bullman happy Monday!

[@SamsTrains]

haha thank you! Happy monday to you too! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@raymondo162]

today's 'really really' count hit an all-time high with 16 really reallys recorded. this TOTALLY smashes the previous record by FIVE. so, really really massive congrats

[@SamsTrains]

haha, thanks for taking the time to count Raymond, I really really appreciate it! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@TheSergioTurbo]

It was not one of the reviewed wagons, but the last one before the brake van was doing a wheelie! Very noticeable at 14:17

[@SamsTrains]

Ooh yeah!! How did that happen?!? :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@redversb2347]

Another great review Sam...thanks. I would agree with the manufacturer ratings. Love the value for money and detail on the Oxford wagons but have found the odd bits coming loose - so very close to Hornby for me. I enjoyed your recent coach review too and would like to see you review some detailed coaches at some point.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much mate - yes I've had that in the past with Oxford, though the wagons I looked at recently remained perfect! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@raymondhatton6877]

it`s astonishing how things fluctuate,all my bachmann rolling stock run perfectly with the MOST freely spinning wheels vs. at least 3-4 of my hornby wagons that love to derail and majority of the hornby stock range from "not quite as good as" to "oh,that`s bad"

[@SamsTrains]

Yes that's true - there's a great deal of inconsistency in this hobby unfortunately :( Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@leroyholm9075]

Great series of reviews on wagons, lets face it everyone has to buy these at some point.

[@SamsTrains]

Many thanks Leroy, that's certainly true! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@williambabcoke248]

I feel like to make this series complete you need to do Dapol as well. I know you had some problems with the egg vans, but I feel like you should get 3 open wagons, just like the other manufactures, and compare them and hope they don't derail with the egg vans. Dapol seems like an odd exclusion, because based on whats in stock at hattons they make a lot more wagons than the other manufacturers.

[@SamsTrains]

I'm just sticking with the major manufacturers mate - Dapol don't have any modern open wagons like these, and coupled with the issues with their wheels and couplings, I don't think they'd do well! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@roryanderson7808]

I have got some wagons like those, except different models

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh very nice - yes Bachmann make all kinds of different versions! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@TATICMOOR]

Interesting result from your test of the wagons Sam. The Oxford stock are very nice and the manufacturing is probably more modern with newer tooling. While others are still relying on older moulds and upgrading them when they can. The prices of the wagons are very varied and to have a wagon with less material like the one plank Lowfit being higher than a seven plank coal carrier is ridiculous. Although they all go threw the same processes you would expect that with less plastic and paint used you would think the cost would be lower. Bachmann, do tend to rip the arse out of it when it comes to prices. Currently the best high end detailed wagons are coming from newer markets by companies like Accuracale which are very impressive models going by the video reviews. The issue with the free wheeling of stock will always be problematic. We'd all like our locos, coaches and wagons run from out of the box, but it isn't always the case. Therefore it is always best to have a back to back gauge handy to check the wheels if you have any stiff or sloppy movement. It also helps to lubricate with a small spot of oil on the bearings axle points which mum or dad can do for the younger modellers. If you wish to increase the weight of any wagons this can be done with Fluid or now called Liquid Lead. It is tiny little micro beads that you glue to the underside or in a wagon under the load with PVA or Superglue. Around 5gms is enough to do the job, or if you can't get a container of it then bits of cut sheet metal or lead wheel balancing weights of the same grammage with do. Maybe you will do a video on this Sam for the younger generation to see how it is done.

[@SamsTrains]

Many thanks for the comment John! And you're right, gauging is often an issue - I've started measuring them lately, and they're very inconsistent! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@athopi]

Too bad about the Bachmanns... Over the weekend I ordered a Bachmann 5 plank, a Mainline 10 ton brake van and a Hornby 4 plank... think I'll test them and see if I get similar results, once they arrive. In choosing those, I came up with several questions like, how the heck are the various wagons loaded/unloaded? How do their doors work? Did certain lines use only certain ones, pre/post grouping? Being here in The States, there's no opportunity to see real ones to compare and see how they work. Different wagons may be an interesting topic for a video. Thanks.

[@SamsTrains]

They're certainly not bad by any means - just too expensive I thought! The doors don't work on these sadly :( Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Drumm3rB0y]

Please try get a hand on Murphy model locomotives and Irish railway model wagons Sam. I recommended them a while back, they’re worth the time

[@SamsTrains]

I would very much like that - great idea!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@donsharpe5786]

The one plank wagon was used for carrying cars and agricultural implements. The chains would not have been painted and would have quickly rusted. When I have bought spare wheels, I have found that the Bachmann were inferior to the Hornby ones, so when I am re-wheeling older wagons I use the Hornby wheels. The single plank wagons are an old moulding and based on that you would expect them to be less expensive. Hornby's older wagons are not so good, but as they are bringing out new wagons the quality is excellent. Bachmann do produce a wider range of wagons than either of the other two. It has now got to the stage that I won't buy any more Bachmann wagons unless there is a specific one, which I want, and that hasn't been for a couple of years. The quality of both Hornby and Oxford Rail being produced new are excellent and are worth looking at. You only have to look at the excellent quality of the new Hornby coaches to realise that they have upped the game. The only reason why I don't have the new Brake vans is that they have run out of stock but I fully intend to get them when Hornby re-issue them. I would suggest that you include the time when the model was first produced in the same way as you do for the locomotives. Thanks for the review.

[@SamsTrains]

Duly noted Don, might have to get a car for that one! Duly noted on all the info! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@donsharpe5786]

@@SamsTrains Someone makes a plastic cast in the shape of a car covered with a tarpaulin.

[@AleksandarKraljic]

This is great! Details are perfect ! They look good but only one thing- I don't like wagons like this... I like most cargo wagons but bigger!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much mate - that's fair enough, haha! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@mrail3]

Imo Bachmann RRPs should basically be disregarded. It seems rare for any reasonable retailer to sell their products at anywhere near RRP. Considering retailers can continue to do that without running themselves out of business I don't think the RRP reflects the wholesale price from Bachmann either. I think they're basically just playing games with those RRPs, trying to make their models look more profitable to retailers, or trying to make retailers look good by being able to discount them. It's even more extreme in the US, where it's pretty common for market value of Bachmann trains is often less than half of RRP. I don't think they actually intended for anyone to actually pay RRP for their stuff.

[@SamsTrains]

Yes that's true to an extent, but there's good evidence to suggest that retailers are not at liberty to price Bachmann stock as they please, otherwise they risk having Bachmann refuse to supply them! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@TheSharkKing45]

Some older Bachmann US rolling stock can be found at a good price, since two of the ones I have were sold for ~$5USD individually at Kay-Bee Toys. Those being a 41ft High Cube boxcar (CBQ 19820) and a 41ft steel box car (Rock Island 57025) (I'll tag you on Twitter for what I'm talking about

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh glad to hear that - I did pick up some once, and they were pretty good! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Joe-o7n9j]

Look at Accurascale, RevolutioN or Realtrack. Blows anything by B/H/O out of the water. Remember that a lot of Bachmann wagons go back to they days of Airfix and Mainline, and Hornby go back to their own wagons of the 60's, along with Airfix wagons of the 70's

[@SamsTrains]

I will do Joe - they do look awesome!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@WarbonnetProductions]

Even though my layout will be an American layout, I’m dying to get some British trains for it! You’ve got me very interested in British trains!

[@SamsTrains]

That's awesome to hear - hope you can get some!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@rydermike33]

In this case, thank goodness for retailer discounts! Well done to Oxford Rail. Many thanks Sam, very interesting.

[@SamsTrains]

Absolutely Mike! Glad to see Oxford Rail do well! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@ILikeTransport]

You should add some other manufacturers such as accurascale, Cavalex and Dapol to this too and add a modern image section where you get the same but modern image (maybe less wagons per manufacturer though due to increased price due to higher more complex designs etc). For the modern image section of you do one the only clear possible winner is Dapol, sorry to say it Sam but Dapol aren't as bad as you say when it comes to wagons designed to have a NEM socket fitted, the trouble with the egg vans was they were designed originally by airfix and due to modern expectations they added NEM sockets causeing problems.

[@SamsTrains]

Yes I'm definitely thinking about adding some others - though most of those wouldn't make a perfect comparison, since they don't do wagons quite like this (Dapol does, but they're much older!) Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@russellbenton2987]

Bachmann, or more precisely their parent Kader , must be expecting the same returns as they get for making European models , I think that’s why the price is so high . As you’ve discovered there is no real difference between the actual models from manufacturers , just the price! Of course it gets worse as you look at coaches, locos and even Scenecraft buildings. Unfortunately , they get away with it because folk still buy them! I think your survey overall is about right . Just wish Oxford would make more wagons and some more modern ones .

[@SamsTrains]

Yes I bet you're right there Russell - though I would say that the models from the other manufacturers were actually slightly better! Yes I do too - Oxford are continuing to produce more wagons as time goes on though! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@neillscollick6835]

Thanks for some very good and constructive reviews, which I'd largely agree with you. I'd probably go with Hornby more than Oxford, as the couplings/coupling mountings on the Oxford wagons are not so good and of lesser quality than the Hornby ones. However, that aside and especially as I intend to replace the standard tension lock couplings with Kadee, Hunt or semi permanent couplings, then I'd be happy to buy further Oxford or Hornby wagons and only buy Bachmann if they match up to or exceed the quality and detail of the Hornby ones - and the price would have to be competitive and good value for money. In short, the good name and reputation of the Bachmann brand is at risk from overpricing, less detail and what appears to be excessive cost cutting.

[@SamsTrains]

Many thanks Neill - yes I think either Hornby or Oxford are a great choice! A change in couplings would make a huge difference too! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@davidstrains4910]

Great video Sam some nice wagons there Bachman do make some great wagons in my opinion

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks David - yes these were (mostly!) lovely! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@PayasYouListen]

I'd say Bachmann were a no-brainer for best wagons 10-15 years ago. Hornby has caught up but a lot of their range is still old toolings. Their new stuff, which is getting more common, is superb. I have a few Oxford wagons. If anything they're too free running and don't seem to like staying in the sidings I put them in. They'll find the slightest gradient.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for sharing - yes it seems they have rested on their laurels in recent years! And that's true - the Oxfords are incredibly free running! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@terrysigler9043]

Bachmann is very expensive. I tried to buy a Chattanooga train set. But it costs $200. So I can't blame you that the wagons are expensive. I go to a flea market to get rolling stock and engines for a great price. For example I got a 2-8-0 locomotive for $48.

[@SamsTrains]

Yes I've found the same to be true with their British models - yes the second hand prices are much better usually! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@JPoulAndersson]

The Lowfit wagon is an old Mainline product to which metal wheels have been added, probably 35 years old now. I have one with an LNER container on it and quite nice it is too. But asking £20 RTR for this item is absurd.. Rgds, Joachim

[@SamsTrains]

Is it really?! Blimey, I didn't know this! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@corinheathcote9868]

Bachmann do a great range, era detail is spot on. But you are quite right about the price. What about Dapol?

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Corin! I couldn't find any newly tooled/modern mineral wagons from Dapol - their range seems to be much older. Coupled with the fact that I've had terrible derailment issues with their rolling stock, I decided not to do an episode for Dapol! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jameskoch9956]

Next review: Hornby Railroad series BR Maunsell X-Southern coaches. For two reasons. 1. Yes, they are from the classic thomas and friends series. 2. They roll really smooth.

[@SamsTrains]

Ooh awesome - I'll have to look out for those! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jimmyduncan7650]

Your videos are a pleasant relief from the cheerful 19 pestilence. Much appreciated.

[@SamsTrains]

Many thanks Jimmy, you're very kind! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@joelightrailway2362]

Excellent review of these wagons Sam 👍👍 I like that small one plank, it does look like the one with the Ruston diesel locomotive from Hornby. I’ve got 17 Bachmann wagons in my collection and they do run well, but I do agreed what you say. Can you do a review of which is the best OO track from Hornby, Bachmann & Peco in the near future?

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much Joe! Yeah I liked that too, it really would look good with the Ruston! Glad you agreed mate! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@OlivierGabin]

In short : correct quality overall but shot down by a turbocharged price. If Bachmann halves their RRP, their products might be considered as a good deal. Sorry to say that, but even Dapol is better on this point based on RRP. And they do not have wagon types you cannot find somewhere else, at least for epoch 2 to 5, Oxford Rail have announced tank wagons for instance, why buy the ones from Bachmann instead ? And for planks, Oxford Rail beats everybody, no discussion possible here. Anyway, just a personnal question : I am expecting A N-15 from Rails of Sheffield, and nothing seems to move since the 27th of April, date of my order. I know there is lots of difficulties due to the present crisis, and I don't want to bother Rails Of Sheffield with that, but do you have serious delays issues with your mail orders in Britain ? I'm ordering from France, and I can admit that I have to wait a little bit longer, but I just want to know if those issues are to be expected due to the present crisis, if you have such problems now, and what is the extra waiting time to be expected. Thanks for your experiences on this.

[@SamsTrains]

Yes I think that's fair to say Oliver - I feel that many of their prices are asking too much these days, particularly compared with other brands! There haven't been too many delays that I've been aware of, is it a new release though? I know there have been delays getting things from China! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@OlivierGabin]

@@SamsTrains My N-15 was an article already in stock, and Rails of Sheffield had just sent my parcel today, that's one less to wait. Anyway, they had also anounced the LSWR B4 you had tested would be back in their shop soon. It has been announced for April initially, but I'm not expecting it before june. There is also a slight increase of delays in postal operations by now, by Royal Mail, Parcelforce, DPD and, in France, by La Poste and Chronopost to name the carriers my retailers use when shipping me my orders, but there is nothing critical here. I think that the main bottleneck is at the shops, they are constrained by the lack of people they can put to handle the orders. Let's hope things would go better soon...

[@YTBCONE]

Sam you could make a joke dapol wagon review and use three egg vans ; )

[@SamsTrains]

haha, I don't think Dapol would like that! ;D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@marcod1600]

I like this serie maybe the next time a serie who make the best class 31 for example or who make the best pannier tank for example?

[@SamsTrains]

Great suggestion Marco - I'd love that idea! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@AutoMotive_Vision]

Hi Sam, awesome video as always. In my opinion I think oxford rail are the best. Totally random question but do you think an oxford rail dean goods would work on my very basic hornby controller which unfortunately has PWM:(. Thx, cal :)

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much! Yes I'd agree, I think they win it too! Yes they do work, but I'd strongly recommend upgrading to a better controller, such as a gauge-master, they're much nicer for motors! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@AutoMotive_Vision]

Sam'sTrains thx for the advice, really appreciate it thx-cal:)

[@warrenlehmkuhleii8472]

I think the cost of wagons is the best example as to why people are not getting into the hobby. With the exception if the wheels, it is all plastic. And machines require pennies of electricity, not minimum wage, the cost of these things is ridiculous. If they want lower middle class people like me to spend money then they need to make the prices realistic, if they could make these say 5 pounds then I could by a nice rake of eight for forty quid. It is not that my generation is not interested in hobbies, it is just they are so darn expensive. For 18 pounds I could buy some old rolling stock, and Bachmann is going to see none of that money. If someone could make a start up and and would charge say 5 pound (because not including the paint job these would certainly cost less than a Pound to make in China, and less than two Pound in the UK) They would make a killing and we would all be better off. I love this hobby but I fear there is no future if prices stay like this, because it means the working class Joe who used to be the core of the hobby can no longer afford it.

[@SamsTrains]

You're right Warren - it's just silly isn't it? A crying shame! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@SammyBFilms]

Seams to me that Bachmann are getting left behind. And also that wagon at 14:16 is trying to fly!! :-D

[@SamsTrains]

They certainly are - high prices are fine, but the product has to match. Simple as that!

[@mikewoods4177]

I saw the flying wagon too but obviously so did Sam cos next time I saw it the eagle had landed if you forgive the film reference

[@simonjh465]

I know this sounds odd, but with my railway modelling it actually matters if the stock represents the era and region I am modelling - BR LM region era 4-5. In this respect Bachmann are way ahead of any other UK rtr company, and though their models are expensive (though I have just bought 10 new ones from a UK retailer at an average of £8.50 each), I simply couldn't do this at all with Hornby, and though Oxford Rail models are inexpensive, a few have whopping design mistakes (GW 6 wheel Toad for example), and the range is limited. So my recently completed van train consists of 17 Bachmann vans, 4 Ratio vans, and 3 Parkside vans, all comfortably hauled by either Hornby or Bachmann locos. For me, 'best' has to include prototypical too, and the other company who have for years tried to do this - Dapol, are not in he same quality bracket.

[@SamsTrains]

Yes that's true actually Simon - doesn't affect me, but I know it matters to many - a very good point! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@therailwaysgoblin]

Quite a shame that the price dragged it down. I agree that if they were budget trucks they would've been excellent. I also agree on that they do they're job well detail-wise. Hope you're doing well! -Jack

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah you're right Jack, the price was the biggest letdown :( Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@wellsworthjunction]

This wagons are nice. I'm trying to find more plank wagons and box vans like that

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fantastic - hope you can get some good ones! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Damien.D]

Very impressive rolling stock that even feature real and working brakes! That braking performance on the hill is impressive. Totally baffled out by this rolling stock that doesn't roll. You should have tried to test how much load these can take before the integrated safety brake fails on the slope!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Damien - I know, the working brakes are certainly an interesting feature, lol! ;D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@RobA500]

So pretty much as I guessed then. I too have found Bachmann wheels to be a little stiffer compared to others as I bought some spares to replace old plastic and silver seal rubbish. Although they look nice I don't think the pin point is as long as Hornby's or Oxfords so binds a bit in the axle box. Its a shame really as the spare wheels are the one thing Bachmann sell cheaper than Hornby.

[@SamsTrains]

Yes indeed mate - these were definitely much stiffer than others! Agreed there! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jimrobinson6362]

Having just spent two hours on a running session with my 50 yes 50 years old layout I can assure you that a 17 wagon rake of Hornby Dublo wagons are the only ones that can be relied on the be Pushed along 16' length of track across 5 changes of direction (points) without derailing and yes I do have rakes from various manufacturers over the last 40 odd years and I use Kadee couplings (normally in rakes of 4/5). Would all manufactures please abandon those awful springy coupling boxes

[@SamsTrains]

haha you're not wrong actually Jim - you can't beat the reliability of the old wagons! Wow a 50 year old layout - that might be some kind of record! Is all the track original?! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@daneoconnor6457]

Hi Sam, big fan of your channel! A question popped into my head while watching your 0-4-0 eBay live stream when someone asked about your opinion on Graham Farish N guage models. Would you ever consider changing some of your track to 00/009 dual guage and having a small branch line/industrial zone. You'd be ahead of other KZbinrs with 009 and N guage engines and rolling stock will run on 009 track opening up the possibilities of reviews for N guage without increasing the footprint of your layout drastically

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot for the comment! Yes I'd love to try that one day - it would be awesome!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@theretrocrowe]

Once had a Bachmann wagon arrived with a badly damaged coupling. To be fair, I fixed it easily and it could have been the retailer's fault but poor quality coupling hooks are quite bad in a £40 wagon pack

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh that's not very good at all - I hope you managed to get that replaced! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@9501599]

Hi Sam great review I am pleased you did this most of my wagons are Hornby & Lima. I have thought about buying Bachmann but only their TEA tank wagons. I think they are the best compared to Hornby and Lima TEAs. Anyway cheers for that I thought that Oxford would come out on top. Can you do the same for mark 1 coaches? Take care

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much Guy - glad you enjoyed it! Yes a coach version would be great fun! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@cadenthecadburyengine8198]

Nice review as always Sam!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks again mate! :D

[@lukeslocomotives]

Does the ici wagon use the mainline tooling?

[@SamsTrains]

I'm not sure about that - it could well do! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@lukeslocomotives]

@@SamsTrains Bachmann, if you do use mainline tooling, don't expect me to buy one.

[@idonotlikeboats9328]

Maybe if you want to do more of this kind of Vs videos you could do the gwr shunters trucks?

[@SamsTrains]

The Bachmann ones?? Great idea! :D

[@SussexHistory]

Profiteering stuff. Those 'SOO LINE' wagons you reviewed were a fairer price!

[@SamsTrains]

haha I agree! :D

[@thefutureofyesterday8136]

It’s very interesting how the European and American trains differ so much. The term “wagon” is never used as a rolling stock car in America. The wagons seem so small and would take so many of them to move cargo compared to the American style larger cars. Very interesting indeed. 🤔

[@SamsTrains]

Yes you're right - the differences are amazing!! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@coloursmoke]

why is the one plank the most expensive? Madness!!! Sam. It would be nice to see the various competetors wagons of similar style end to end to compare details and all. A mixed firm train. I should probably watch the whole video before commenting.

[@SamsTrains]

I didn't understand that either - haha!! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@theretrocrowe]

Sorry I'm late! I Was playing Train Sim World. Had to finish a service to San Jose

[@SamsTrains]

That's okay!! How did it go? :D

[@theretrocrowe]

@@SamsTrains Pretty well. Was mostly on time, but was one minute late at San Bruno

[@David_Twomey]

hello sam I think Bachmann make the most expensive wagons because where I normally get my models a 12T pipe wagon is the same price as a 30T bogie bolster wagon witch is almost 30 euro and will you do one of these series for coaches and love the video from david

[@SamsTrains]

Yes they certainly were the most expensive of my selection! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@nathanantwhistle3869]

I guess that's the case, Sam. In some areas it's Avengers Endgame, while in others it's Ryan Renolds Green Lanter.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh very interesting Nathan!! :D

[@badlyfilmedproductionspres8022]

When you start off the Stewart and Lloyd wagon isnt even on the track, It is lifting

[@slaughterround643]

glad I wasn't the only one who noticed!

[@SamsTrains]

Yes well spotted! I don't think I noticed at the time! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@casperas2]

14:18 haha the stewarts wagon is flying

[@SamsTrains]

haha well spotted!! xD

[@agriben7591]

Hi Sam I don’t really have many Bachman’s wagons I manly have hornby but hornby are good Thx Ben :)

[@SamsTrains]

I found the Hornby wagons to be better for the money anyway - so you made the right call! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@agriben7591]

Sam'sTrains :)

[@Heroduothecomedian]

that is a bit pricy for rolling stock, if it was coaches I could understand the price a bit more your 20 pounds in USD is 24.67 and that 6 to 7 dollars more then most rolling stock I see sold in my local hobby shop here in the USA but they do look nice but not for that price but as for free-rolling problems is a QC problem and sure at that price there shouldn't be any but no one is perfect but I heard it's easy to fix at least but yeah these should be no more then 15 USD unless they had to them as you suggest like the diecast parts, etc. great video as always and can't wait to see the next video

[@SamsTrains]

Yes you're right - I thought they were very pricey too :( Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@CarminesRCTipsandTricks]

That was a bit disappointing... But to us in the U.S., less than $20 each USD, is reason to CELEBRATE!!! The *average* price of Bachmann U.S. spec rolling stock is *$50.00 RRP USD!!!* 😲😲😲 And the detail is CRAP!! Except in their Spectrum Line. So you guys are doing better than you might think. 😉😁 And most of us find your Steam Era Wagons amongst the most charming on the Planet! Carmine ✈🚂🚙

[@SamsTrains]

Cheers Carmine, yes you're right - you guys definitely get ripped off way worse than we do! :O Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@barryosullivan5255]

Hoping to see maybe Dapol or other wagons in the future

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Barry - I did cover some Dapol, but didn't get on well with them - I'd love to try some more of their modern stock though! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@thehorrocksbranch9888]

Hey Sam, the reason there wheels are firm is so that when uncoupled they don’t roll away, this can happen on exhibition layouts and can be very infuriating

[@whiteroseBR]

Thats exactly what i was thinking, quite a happy mistake for people who don't want their wagons rolling into next week

[@SamsTrains]

I'm not sure that's the intention - as some were much freer than others. If this was part of the design, surely it'd be consistent? No, wagons should be free rolling in my opinion - you want the least friction possible, particularly with long trains! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@lewishughes8541]

I agree oxford make fantastic models i bought .y self a working hornby tank engine for 5 pounds on ebay

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Lewis - yes I absolutely loved the Oxford wagons! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)