The Best Model Trains of 2021

Hornby Merchant Navy: bit.ly/3IFLW9m (Affiliate)
Oxford J27: bit.ly/3lUEg9z (Affiliate)
Bachmann GG1: amzn.to/3DRa84U (Affiliate)
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0:00 Intro
1:19 5th Place
4:01 4th Place
6:42 3rd Place
9:49 2nd Place
14:00 1st Place
18:17 Conclusion

[@littleuikiku]

I hadn't even bought my first modeltrain when I realised, if you're in to steam locomotives, you really can't do without British oo scale... and you have the best videos on them!

[@SamsTrains]

haha absolutely! And thanks so much - glad you think that much of the vids! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@michaelcotgreave271]

@@SamsTrains Hello Sam, a bit late I suppose, definitely worth the wait. It would have been nice to have had a Princess Royal in the running, but hey it ticked all the boxes. An excellent video, thanks very much, regards Mike.

[@robbykoopman5559]

Good to see that my favorite train made the cut!

[@Xpninjadan]

Which one?

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fantastic - which was that? :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@robbykoopman5559]

@@SamsTrains The GG1 I actually made a video of when I bought one myself of the exact same type of yours

[@iceeblueburst03]

Amazing list of all of the best locomotives you reviewed this year! Now this is what I call top quality models when it comes to detail, performance, and possibly the mechanism too! I love the Midland 1P, the gigantic GG1, the E4, and the J27! My favorite locomotive in my opinion that’s on this list is the Merchant Navy Class! I always love the BR Blue locomotives and this one looks amazing! 😃👍

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you! Yes - these are the gold standard really! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@steffenrosmus9177]

If you call that top quality models, what would you call models from Rocco, Trix or Fleischmann after continental prototypes? Divine?

[@steffenrosmus9177]

@@SamsTrains and platinum standard is PBL, Max Heigl, PSC, Key.

[@lindaoffenbach]

@@steffenrosmus9177 Different expectations for sure in the British OO scene. Seems very much more price driven, highly motivated to get as much and as many as you can for the buck. Very different for European mainland. We tend to be much more willing to save up and pay the price because we know what to expect. Perhaps considering it much more as a present rather than a commodity, Failure rate of OO is very high though as a result; too much ‘not thinking further than one’s nose’. An interview with Hornby directors have revealed this to me. They’re always short on capital / lack of investment, because only one thing counts. They stated: “every investment must see a return, we are thinking very tight on that”. How much different is the owner of PIKO stating: “I want to see € 60 models in our collection and I will take the losses for that, so that everyone can be engaged”, and stating: “problems with sea freight are solved by air freight so the logistic chain keeps undisturbed”. Very different mentality.

[@steffenrosmus9177]

@@lindaoffenbach yep, the toy train industry on the UK is a microcosmos reflecting all the problems of british capitalism. But contientalcompanies are also always short of money, but they still built/design better products. Dapol f.e. uss the cheapest Chinese manufactirers snd it took them years to get the Chinese to deliver decent models. You still have to rework them a lot to get them running smooth and decoders are mediocre but here it is all the price. Today you can buy a Terrier in O scale for uner 80 € in Germany which is roughly 70 £. The next in price line is an Lenz T 3 for 995€. Much more sturdy an app 4 times better in detail and performance.

[@paulweston8755]

Thanks Sam, all on my list for 2022 thanks to your brilliant reviews 🙏🏻

[@Figulus]

I would have preferred to have seen a top ten video and a bottom ten, video instead of the top and bottom five models, (perhaps each split into two parts, equating to four videos all up); but, whenever your videos are concerned, I can never complain as they're always a pleasure to watch. I think that it is very impressive that you've managed to review a total of 51 models this year -- one per week up till this point without fail! You are to be commended for providing an invaluable service to the model rail community. Thank you for yet another wonderful year's-worth of content, and I hope that you and your family enjoy a lovely Christmas day this Saturday. Cheers, and all the best.

[@Uptownloki47]

That GG1 is amazing. I have an old Rivarossi GG1, which can still hold it's own but is way outdone by the Bachmann model.

[@SamsTrains]

It really is! Ahh interesting about the Rivarossi one! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@leightonmoreland]

@@SamsTrains You need to get your hands on some of the Broadway Limited stuff, in the US Bachmann is generally viewed as bottom of the barrel. The old tooling on their GG1's was superb so I would feel comfortable saying that their new version with the new tooling should blow the Bachmann out of the water. Broadway's Brass Hybrid stuff is excellent as well, honestly as good detailwise as high end brass in the 80's and 90's

[@kevwebb2637]

@@leightonmoreland There is a review with a Broadway Limited C44-9W vs Kato C44-9W. Though the Broadway model is more detailed, it requires extremely clean solid connection of the lines, Kato's model is more rugged with not as detailed as the Broadway version, but, Kato is better in performance without chances of damaging any detailed parts which Broadway models needs more attention to not break it. Kato even have the Motors in the trucks of the models (HO).

[@brannon9889]

Personally my favourite is the elegant Hornby Merchant Navy Class. I recieved one for Christmas and it is a fantastic performing and detailed loco. It doesn't judder or stop on point work and has a great crawl. Keep up the good work Sam another great video. Happy New Year everyone! 😁

[@SueBobChicVid]

A great year with you, Sam. Best wishes for the next.

[@SimRacin14]

Personal favorite model this year is Kato's N scale ES44AC. They've run 40 different models by now (nearly all the Class 1s with a variety of running numbers). Things run like a Swiss watch right out of the case. Never worry about "will this work?" with Kato's new items. I've picked up a few used items this year with a local connection that I was happy to find as well. Entertaining the idea of building a OO layout with the 4x8 I have left in my train building. Just gotta decide where I want to start in terms of era/rolling stock and whatnot.

[@crimson_wolf94]

I asked for the Merchant Navy for my birthday this year and I don't regret a second of it. It is hands down the best Locomotive I have, and potentially will have, I absolutely love it, and I wouldn't have come across it if it wasn't for Sam, so thank you my friend and a Merry Christmas

[@davidhardy7356]

Sam ... my replacement Hornby W1 Hush Hush has only just made it to the # 1 spot of my Best loco purchases of 2021 . After the problems i had with the first one i could not believe how good this one performed straight out of the box with no broken bits or motor problems . Only 20% on the juice of my Gaugemaster TS power control unit and it crawls like a dream with no cogging . All that before even running in . See Hornby can do it properly when they like . At this moment in time Hornby have been vindicated . The curse has been banished and my faith restored . MERRY CHRISTMAS !

[@Station_Master_13]

Love the funky beats in the title, really fits the mood

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you!! :D

[@drg-desperado4636]

I highly recommend doing a review of a Broadway Limited Imports locomotive in some form or fashion. I’ve owned a handful of American Bachmann spectrum, and even a Hornby Merchant Navy and I was blown away by the quality of a BLI locomotive. The price reflects naturally and can be worth a pretty penny but if you can even nab a used one I’d highly recommend doing so. I love the content sir and I’m very excited for yet another year of fantastic reviews. Keep up the good work Sam and the views and likes will follow suit. Happy Holidays.

[@ruane1995]

Great vid Sam, hope you have a great Christmas!

[@greatbritishrailwayvideos4529]

I have been waiting for this all year

[@djdaz72]

Nice video Sam The 1P is great I love the SDJR liveried one

[@clivewilkinson6076]

I agree with your choice for number one, as I also bought the (DCC-ready) Johnson 1P. I recently got it sound fitted as I only switched to DCC mid-2021. What you did not mention is that the DCC-ready version has pre-fitted speakers, so another plus for Bachmann and this loco.

[@donsharpe5786]

I agree with the Johnson 1P as being the best locomotive. I manage to have 3, one with a belpaire fire box in BR, one in black with round top firebox, yet to be re-numbered, and one in S & D blue livery. I do like the midland red version and I know my father would have liked one, whose father and brother worked for the Midland railway.

[@ryanapparicio9925]

Great video sam and Merry Christmas

[@skalemodelkorner289]

Merry Christmas Sam!

[@ysmustyattic8352]

Nice! Good vid Sam!

[@harrygrieves6812]

Happy Christmas mate. Have a safe happy new year x

[@OddBallThe4th8382]

Really wish I could get back into the hobby, there are some real good ones out there. Excellent video by the way!

[@trackxolotlrailfan]

Such beautiful engines! My favorite has gotta be the GG1. It felt like an honor as a fellow Pennsylvanian 😂 what if you did the most unique engines in your collection? In terms of features and stuff that is rarely seen on model train. Happy holidays to you and everyone who is reading this!

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you! And great call on the GG1... I love the unique engines idea too - nice one! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@MrKenichi22]

Excellent List Sam

[@lukeslocomotives]

Seeing that Metchant Navy makes me happy, getting one on Saturday

[@jenk1612]

Hi Sam, was watching Hornby A Model World yesterday and guess who appeared? Great section of the programme! Thank you for your very enjoyable and informative videos! A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year when it comes to you and those you hold dear.

[@johnwinter6061]

I also bought the GG1 from Trainworld. Excellent value. Something worth noting is that in DC mode it has as some features not usually found in DC mode. 1. Auto take off sounds. 2 horn blasts and then bell sounds before moving off. 2. Auto acceleration. A second after the starting sounds, it takes off and auto accelerates to whatever max speed you have set on your DC controller. 3. Once it is moving, the bell with stop automatically. 4. Every so often(3 to 5 mins?) the horn will sound. ALL in DC mode! Of course directional lights and usual electric engine sound according to speed. Note: Slowly bring up your DC controller until you get used to how that affects the auto extras. I also have some remote controlled DCC which work on DC and DCC. They come with the remote for DC operation. Eg Lionel North Pole Express in HO. Wonderful fun with the kids at Xmas time!

[@MrKenichi22]

excellent list Sam

[@robertlucido3686]

I've done my train theme this Christmas an all freight train Christmas, I can't wait to see you Christmas video this Saturday since this Saturday is Christmas

[@davidstrains4910]

Great video Sam some very good models there, one of my best ones of 2021 would be my bachmann class 70, it was bought from a small shop and was in great condition and was less than £100

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot David - and great pick there, that sounds like a bargain! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@medwaymodelrailway7129]

Sam very nice video you put together there. Thanks for sharing.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much - it's a pleasure! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@medwaymodelrailway7129]

@@SamsTrains Thanks very much for replying to my comment. Hope you like my video's and see you in the new year.Take Care & Stay Safe.

[@FootyJJ09]

Although it is not in 2021 i absolutely love the class 37 diesel

[@andrewpalm2103]

A very good list, Sam! I recently saw a picture of an actual GG1 in the lead doubleheading (under wire, of course) with the Royal Scotsman which visited Canada and the US between 1969 and 1972. Now that's something to try yourself, eh? Cheers from Wisconsin.

[@1987TimeLord]

Good list Sam. Absolutely love my blue Spamcan, althought I've renumbered it to 35005 Canadian Pacific to save on confusion in the house as my father owns one as well! Merry Christmas dude :)

[@jeschreindl]

Great video Sam. That GG1 seems like a steal!

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you! It sure was! :D

[@marcod1600]

Nice list Sam!

[@thegreatwesterner9481]

Great video sam the number one pick is probably my favourite loco you have reviewed this year and I would like to wish you merry Christmas

[@SamsTrains]

Very good choice - astonishing engines those! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@surprisedchar2458]

I haven’t built a model railroad in like 15 years but I still watched this whole thing.

[@David_Mattox]

Here we go again...😁 5th: Hornby Merchant Navy 4th: Oxford J27 3rd: Bachmann E4 2nd: Bachmann GG1 1st: Bachmann Johnson 1P Awesome video Sam. I'm interested in what next year looks like for the hobby. 🖒

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks David! :D

[@ChrisJNeale]

I have a Hornby Merchant Navy and a Bachmann E4 and agree they are both really good. The Oxford J27 and Bachmann 1P are top of my list for next year so I'm pleased they got you vote too!

[@ChrisJNeale]

Your vote too.... (no edit facility.....!)

[@modelrailwaynoob]

I have to agree on the 1P Sam. I have the sound equipped version of the same model and I love it. It runs really well, looks good and sounds good.

[@tonyslight826]

Good review Sam i enjoyed that

[@mcfafl9737]

Great video. My personal favorite is the 1P, even though I can't find it anywhere now in the MR or S&DJR liveries.

[@kleedhamhobby]

Like many others (obviously) I really appreciate your detailed and consistent reviews. I also really appreciate your detailed videos on servicing, and would love to see more of those, where appropriate. I bought your number 1, the Johnson 1P, but haven't run it yet. The rest of the items on this list are not things I would buy, based on my own focus and limitations, but nevertheless it's always interesting to see what you have to say about them. Keep up the good work. Happy new year. And I hope your health has sorted itself out.

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you so much - always so lovely to read comments like yours! Good luck with the 1P... really hope you enjoy yours! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@bennickss]

Stunning locos! The GG1 looks great, I got an electric bargain this year myself, a DB Schenker class 92 with DCC fitted for £50, and it RUNS AMAZINGLY!

[@Madonsteamrailways]

My favourite locomotives are as follows: 1) EFE Adams Radial 2) EFE Beattie Well Tank. Although I can understand where you’re coming from when you sleight the Exclusive First Edition models for their lack of weight and tractive effort, I’m running a micro layout that needs Southern locomotives.

[@chrisvarner6727]

I love them all keep up the good work partner

[@TANGARASandOSCARS]

My personal favourite is the Oxford N7 still. I can get it round 1st radius, so it's a good super tank. Love the die-cast, it makes it stands out.

[@agentM1991]

My favorite locomotive you reviewed this year was the Pennsylvania Railroad GG1. In fact the GG1 is my favorite locomotive of all time. It's a shame there are no longer operational. But I have seen one up close before. Looking forward to some awesome locomotives in 2022. And of course the occasional stinker every now and then.

[@AQuietNight]

Those GG1's could sneak up on you as they were quiet. Great pullers and very reliable. The Pennsylvania Railroad would let them run high speed and they could move a string of freight cars with little effort. The Brunswick green version looked more attractive. I did read of one failure they did have, the Northeast had a blizzard where the snow flakes were so fine they got into the motors and blew them out. A couple of units got sidelined that day.

[@trainst]

@@AQuietNight one GG1 broke down out side paradise Pennsylvania in the early 70’s the unit was sent to strasburg over night and was brought back to Penn central the next day

[@kyle.sterritt]

I would think a preservation railroad should have one running by now

[@jpsholland]

In the Netherlands i also seen a lot of good locomotives disappear. Among them the very American looking class 1200 electric locomotive build by Werkspoor. The problem is metal fatigue. After 40 years of daily use most of them get small, hardly visible, cracks in the frame which can, and after 10 more years, will lead to accidents. This make replacing them cheaper then updating them.

[@AQuietNight]

@@kyle.sterritt The GG1's required a high voltage system not typical of other electrified railroads (11kv/25 Hz).

[@ChapelEndJunctionUK]

Very impressive line up Sam , enjoyed your videos as always this year . Merry Christmas and best wishes for the New Year ........Peter

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much for your support Peter - always nice to see you in the comments, all the same to you too! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@TC_5670]

Hi Sam, thanks for your reviews over the year. I trust yours rather than a certain modelling mag that I read where they appear to either miss or gloss over faults that you find. It would be nice to see the full list of the 51 reviews somewhere. Anyway, have a Happy Christmas.

[@SamsTrains]

It's a pleasure Trevor - thanks so much for the kind words! The full list is on the way soon! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@Proj2008]

Finally I've been waiting for this video for a while, now.A video suggestion I have is, I would like to see every Sam's trains loco's running in 1 video. LOL!

[@MrPusey1]

Great choices! I am the proud owner of number 5 and number 1 and totally agree with the review. I have just acquired the new Bachmann Class 47 which I am very impressed with too!

[@pettra1]

Great to see the Merchant Navy loco in the top 5, but very surprised to see Bachmann taking top spot. Maybe they are doing something right! Happy Christmas to you Sam. Pete.

[@alanthorne3921]

Great vid Sam.I actually like your worst and best reviews.Really love the quality of Oxford stuff as I own a few wagons but not a loco.The pantograph Pennsylvania loco is definitely a bargain.Merry Xmas

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much Alan - glad you like them! Yeah the GG1 is amazing - so happy with that one! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@terrycharleslewis7565]

Hi Sam how are you? My personal favourite is no. 5 the Merchant Navy. I bought one after seeing your review. It's my only BR blue loco and a good reason to buy a "Spam can". Thanks for all of your reviews and a very happy Christmas to you and yours, regards Terry.

[@kevwebb2637]

Try Kato next, they are putting the can motors in the Locomotive/power car's trucks(HO only). Kato don't have separate detailed which makes it more rugged which you have reduced worry of damaging detailed parts. Kato is also a good performer, I remember someone actually ran a Kato Dash-9 over poorly cleaned rail lines.

[@mrseagull_1]

Great models in the video Sam 👍 Might consider buying a few

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Kai - I can recommend it! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@mrseagull_1]

@@SamsTrains Merry Christmas to you too

[@mrseagull_1]

I've just orded a merchant navy in BR Blue

[@redversb2347]

Woo hoo...I've got two of those (J27 and E4) and the 1P is on my wish list. Great video Sam and have a very Merry Christmas!

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fantastic - the J27 and E4 are awesome! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@OlivierGabin]

I can vouch for the 1P, it's a beautifull little jewel, and a nice puller if you don't run an express with 12 coaches with her. It's a must-have for me if you are in the branch line business like me.

[@davidmolin8944]

Always do that GG1 was great. Be an American myself I've always had a soft spot for the American locomotives and I'm glad to see this one performed very well great year on model trains

[@christoph7395]

Oh and the Highland Railways wagons, that's to be my first kit build. Brilliant. That's for the new year.

[@jamesdunloptrains]

Awesome video today Sam beautiful modles in your top 5

[@Sparky129]

This was a coo show at what kind of models you have reviewed throughout this year. The Johnson 1P I was very surprised stayed in 1st the entire time, so that must be a good model. Thanks for all your effort throughout the year and hope next year turns just as well for you.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Sparky - I'm surprised nothing beat the 1P, but then again it is a stunning model! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@Sparky129]

@@SamsTrains Very cool. And a very Merry Christmas to you too

[@rossnation8092]

Hi Sam Nice line up, I do like the GG1s, the best American loco bar the big boy in my British opinion. I think if the bachmann improved precedents arrive sooner in the year they’d of blown the Johnson 1P out the water. Despite having the traction tyres fitted and the plain wheels are the option. Nice video, have a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Regards, Ross.

[@bigmonkey999888]

Merry Christmas and a new year to you all from Steve, Beeston, Leeds Beeston, Leeds

[@SamsTrains]

Many thanks Steve - all the same to you too my friend! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@willnorrismodels]

Love Seeing These Videos. So Positive. 👍👍👍

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much - yes I prefer the positive ones! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@freebrickproductions]

Honestly, with Bachmann rounding-out the top 3 of this year, it's safe to say that they definitely have quite the potential. Shame said potential ain't always realized.

[@SamsTrains]

Oh yeah - they make some of the best looking locos on the market... and their latest releases have been mechanically sound too... they just need to fix their existing range now! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@axelthebrit992]

great video sam, my favorite is the merchant navy btw.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh good choice - I love those too! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@axelthebrit992]

@@SamsTrains wow thank you for replying to my comment. iv'e been watching you since 2017. you mad my dream come true, thanks. :)

[@BarrowHomeMedia]

Hi Sam. I have got 4 new modelling kits and they where really good. Thank u for inspiring me. Thanks for reading , foxy

[@SamsTrains]

That sounds awesome - really hope you enjoy doing them! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@PeterSimpson666]

Will we see reviews of N Gauge model trains in 2022? I do enjoy your channel from a generic point of view, but as I only have N Gauge layouts and rolling stock it would be great to see reviews directly related to this gauge. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

[@jamesdarby5462]

ps; Cant even begin to tell you, how much I have learned from your videos! I have bought a ("Coastal Freight" set; Southern region) This is because I am not so much into the model railway scene; I just wanted a small layout, for fun, more than anything else and being a Model Maker, was more interested in modelling my layout for a Battle of Britain scene, complete with a Hurricane, chasing a (smoking!) Me109, over a "kent" scene, with a few features, such as cheering civilians on the ground and the likes of a small village church, Duck pond and so on! It will amuse me, watching the "Little Engine that could", chugging below and around my Battle of Britain layout! ;-) Happy days. Take care.

[@SaltyVan]

You should do a running session with the best looking locos in Midland railway or LMS crimson lake (E.G: the 1P, the Compound, the Hues Crab, etc.)

[@C.A.A93]

this makes getting through the holiday season worth it

[@SamsTrains]

Awesome Chris, that's lovely to hear! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@gagatube]

Seasons greetings to you, Sam. 🎄🎅🍪🎁🍗🍷🍰 🎉

[@SamsTrains]

Seasons Greetings! :D

[@MrBnsftrain]

TrainWorld still has quite a few Bachmann locomotives with DCC sound for about $100 each (GP30, PCC trolley, FB2), so that's something to look at in 2022. didn't you rank a Hornby DCC sound king class as a perfect 10 a few years ago? I would like you to look at that again under your new ranking system

[@SamsTrains]

Yes you're right - I'll definitely be interested in doing more of those! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Given Hornbys shite qc

[@aveedub7403]

Hi Sam, I thought it might be good to know the date you buy each Loco, really to judge if it's possible to achieve the prices you do, or, to expect an increase. Keep up the great videos as well and have a good festive period and new year

[@OlivierGabin]

So... 5 - I want the same in the West Counties/Battle of Britain class ! Worth her price, splendid looking and great operational possibilities 4 - Got one. Nothing to add, except it is a nice engine to run ahead of a local freight, especially a stoping one. Can also do easily some basic shunting in stations. I had not the problem with the crankpin (and I had checked this first before running her !) 3 - Got one too in Southern green. I'm waiting for the Hattons Southern 4 and 6 wheel axle carrigages to go with her ! I also have EFE birdcage southern coaches that goes well with her. Just needs a 5 poles motor, lacks a little bit of smoothness in shunting. 2 - Agreed. No further comments, I'm in N scale diesels for the USA... For your class 71, try a Sommerfeld pantograph, you can get some as aftermarket parts if you look to german retailers. 1 - Got one ! Not so pricey if you look to the quality. A small passenger engine ideal for local trains with 1 or 2 coaches in tow. The lack of flywheel is a minus if you run start and stop trains, but you have no problems to run as intended for the prototype. Only thing missing : the Hattons 4 and 6 wheels coaches in LMS (for me) guise. Well, I have already suggested this, but why not a top five of the most average locomotives of the year ? You take the highest score, add the lowest, divide by 2 and see the locomotives you have around this mark, then pick your choice. That would be greatly interesting to see why they are not both at the top or the bottom.

[@lewisgabbitas2849]

Sorry I was late to the video Edit: was expecting hornby on this list and merry Christmas sam

[@SamsTrains]

That's okay! And certainly, Hornby were on the list! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@lewisgabbitas2849]

@@SamsTrains I am shocked that bachman was first

[@alanpollock3363]

Hi Sam I like this video one thing I’d definitely agree on is that I would love to see the E4 be brought back but with Dcc sound and in BR black I’d also would love a 1P in BR black to go along with my collectors club one

[@odenviking]

I like the pensy gg1 and the livery is so beautiful. 1. The pensy gg1 It is so hard to compare the gg1 loco whithe the other one because they in my list the second place witch is shared between Bachmann and oxford. A nice and a comprensive list as always witch is perfect. Keep up the good work . 👍👍👍👍🇸🇪✨✨✨✨

[@OgaugeTrainsplusslotCars]

VERY Nicely done ✔

[@pierslindley]

I plumpt for the J27 in LNER/BR interim livery so she has linning on the boiler but still carrys the LNER lettering. A real pearl.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh yes - lovely loco that one, good choice! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@beacon_models]

That Oxford J27 looks like outstanding value for money. You can really see the care that's been put into the engineering.

[@SamsTrains]

It really is outstanding for the money - just very well done!! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@ianturvey3894]

My favourite was the Hornby Merchant Navy. I ended up buying one on the back of your review Sam!

[@tooleyheadbang4239]

I think Hornby got the colour right, too.

[@jamesdarby5462]

Hi again Sam. another great video! I agree with your reviews; with that said; I am torn between the GG1 and the J1P! Both fantastic, but the GG1 is very sexy! Keep up the good work, regards, James.

[@TheButters5000]

Great channel, being watching for over a year now, I always watch if you've reviewed a loco before buying. I love your creative ideas and I'd love to see more, maybe scenery or train experiments. Keep going and I'll be hhere in 2031.

[@roryanderson7808]

My favorite is the Merchant Navy Class locomotive

[@Simon-Davis]

I whole heartedly agree with the 1P topping the list, and if you really are going to miss it being in the list then you know what to do! There is a pretty lined black BR one, with a different firebox and condensing equipment fitted, so technically its a different model and needs its own review. 😉

[@lewishughes8541]

Hi sam I hope you're ok Merry Christmas to you The merchant navy is my all time favourite model i have

[@christoph7395]

I'd choose the LBSC E4, I like its burnt umber colour. It's very attractive.

[@SamsTrains]

Great choice - yes it's a lovely livery! :D Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@CentralJerseyRailfan]

Interesting choice to have a Bachmann model towards the top. There are many other higher end American options that I think are worth looking at such as offerings from Athearn, Atlas, Bowser, Intermountain, Scaletrains, etc.

[@SamsTrains]

That's probably true - but this is just the top 5 from what I reviewed this year! Merry Christmas - Sam :)

[@ironphilly2366]

can't wait for you to bebuild one of thoes bad 2020 locomotive

[@PebProductions46]

I am happy to say that I own 3 of these 5 models (J27, E4, and 1P). Of the 3, I would say that the 1P is the only one that is in my top locos for the year. The other two are great, but something about the 1P just really shines. As for other favorites for this year, I would have to say the Bachmann Peppercorn A1, the Oxford N7, and Hornby's Princess and Patriot. Regarding the Patriot in particular, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality. I had a feeling that it would be similar to the Black 5 which I also bought this year, but it ended up being better in almost every way. I highly recommend it, especially for the 99 pound pricetag that Kernow has it for.

[@PebProductions46]

Also I love that the 1P was put on this year's list as a professional courtesy and then ended up keeping 1st prize for the entire year. Kinda sad too, given how many new and exciting models we got this year.

[@europacifictradersltd3717]

hi sam. wow never expected the result. top 2 models are bachmann. with a third runners up. goes to prove if bachmann concentrate they produce good models.. a great way to and the year.merry xmas sam

[@threepea1151]

Lovely video! I have the GG1, great model to have, although the PRR maroon is making jealous…

[@drewpringnitz933]

I love the gg1

[@TheAtlantaRailfan]

You should review a bachmann DCC sound trainset, they come with a DCC system, A Santa Fe F7a diesel or a southern railway (U S) 2-6-0 as well as cars and a loop of E-Z track, they cost around 200$ (149 pounds) and are great value for money

[@liamrichardson6328]

Hey I'm just getting into the hobby and getting my first set . I'm thinking of the flying scotsman set and a separate loco , peckett model "Daphne" any advice or tips you could give to a beginner and your thoughts on Daphne ?

[@NWRJ_WStudios]

Hey Sam 3 questions. 1. How often you you clean your rolling stocks wheels 2. how often you you clean your locomotives 3. And how often do you clean your locomotives wheels ? Merry Christmas- Jasper & Willow

[@SamsTrains]

Ideally you want to do it every year, or every 12 or so hours of running! Merry Christmas - Sam :)