The Best Model Trains of 2023 | Top 5

[@mattbarker581]

How times have changed from seeing Bachmann and Hornby at the top! I have a feeling that we'll see accurascale at the top for many years to come

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah very much so - neither of them even on the list this time! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@presidentxd]

Here in ireland they operate as irish railway models and their irish locos and rolling stock are outstanding and they are nice guys and actual model rail enthusiasts

[@TheRip72]

When were Hornby last anywhere near the top? Lost they way sadly.

[@DSuer-mf2vy]

Looks like Accurascale is the top manufacturer these days. Theey should consider spreading over Europe in H0!

[@aberfordwest4003]

Welcome to the Accurascale show!!

[@SamsTrains]

haha I know!!

[@ivoryjohnson4662]

Sam calls the as he sees them. When other manufacturers come up to AccuraScale then he can add them to the list. Let us know your channel and I will go check it out

[@ryandixon6482]

What's not to like though?

[@ChetNotJet]

it just shows how great acurascale is compared to the manafacturerers

[@Mac_Spector]

I swear Accurascale watches Sam's videos, taking notes from other manafacturers' mistakes and improving on them

[@SamsTrains]

haha not sure if they take notes from me, but they do watch! ;D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@saptaksarkar30468]

Accurascale single handedly holding up my faith in this market ! Love Accurascale ! Hopefully other manufacturers can start matching Accurascale at quality and pricing !

[@SamsTrains]

haha very much so - they really have done well haven't they?? Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@GelatoTaco]

The fact that Accurascale's 1st Steam loco hit this list gives me hope for the J67-J69 Buckjumpers coming in the next 6 months. Can't wait to get my hands on the GER blue version

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah absolutely - the Buckjumper looks wonderful doesn't it? :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@switchgeer6519]

accurascale and rapido have really been showing the other manufacturers what for recently. always glad to see an announcement from them simply due to the consistency of quality

[@SouRwy4501Productions]

You should probably do a Broadway Limited model sometime. Their USRA mikados and pacifics can be found for pretty fair prices. They’ll usually run about $200 to $350.

[@SamsTrains]

I would love to - I'm hoping to be able to cover one of their models next year! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@VestedUTuber]

I am absolutely in love with my BLI N-scale PRR T1. Looks beautiful, runs really well, good sound quality and it can actually pull worth a damn which is rare for N scale steam. Only thing to point out, though, is that BLI has a high rate of lemons. I've had zero issues with mine but a lot of the guys I run with at the N-Trak club have had constant issues with theirs.

[@gregorytalber2068]

Your 5 engines are great and the companies that you dealt with have outdone themselves with these 5 engines you have.

[@SamsTrains]

I agree - been a great year for quality models!! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@ianjeffery6744]

Accurascale and Rapido are certainly on a roll - my only complaint is that I might not live long enough to buy and enjoy some of their promised new models!

[@NWRJ_WStudios]

For me Sam it has to be the Rapido 16xx, I absolutely love it. Cheers Jasper & Willow

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh good choice - yeah that's a decent model for sure! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@speleokeir]

I have to say I'm happy with your No.1 choice Sam as I have two Accurascale class 37s on pre-order from their second batch, which will hopefully arrive in the not to distant future.😀

[@SamsTrains]

That's good to hear - they are wonderful, really hope you enjoy them! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@DangerAngelous]

Good kick up the backside for Hornby and Bachmann! Personal favourite being Rapido of course, can't get enough of them

[@williamsquires3070]

Hi Sam! Did you measure the gauging on the 5th place NS unit? Also, did you notice the cab (roof) comes off so you can add figures if you want? Yep, that’s right, it’s held on with little magnets on the underside! Quality feature! Now if only Athearn would make HO scale aircraft this detailed. This way, I could model a small airport if I wanted.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah I always measure gauging - you can find it in the review if you're interested! And no I didn't know that about the cab roof, will have to try that thanks! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@SteamRailPatreonR761VR]

what a year it's been glad some of the kingpins are being dethroned

[@cbrooks122000]

Great presentation and yes Accurascale class 37 is the best in my view. I have two of them both with sound fitted. They are just wonderful. On DCC the standard "stay alive" allows them to travel over bad sections of track, I use one of mine to rescue failed locos in my tunnel.

[@gordonh9258]

I have sound versions of all 3 acccurascale Loco's & they are great I even got £50 off the class 92 in a black friday deal direct from the accurascale website. So I am well pleased. Great video as always Sam.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh excellent - yeah I saw those 92 deals... great value indeed! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@dennisneo1608]

As always, it's been a great year of Sam's Trains. ❤

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much Dennis!

[@kevinhale9400]

As a fan of the GWR, I was gratified to see the class 16xx in the top five of your picks. The tank engines are still my favourites and will forever be so. I have four or five of them now, both Hornby and Bachmann and enjoy watching these little workhorses trundling around the track going about their business.

[@craigforsberg1972]

I got my first accurascale models earlier this year at the great model train show in Christchurch new Zealand, I found that a stand was selling them and they are the only authorised retailers of accurascale in new Zealand. I got the 3 pack pfa 2 axle container flats with Dr's nuclear full size containers for 90$nzd. That is an absolute bargain compared to hornby, bachmann and even Oxford rail here at other shops, a 3 pack of hornby mha ballast wagons costs 215$nzd and Oxford which is really cheap for a 3 pack of 7 plank wagons is still 150$ nzd. They are also the most detailed wagons I own and considering they cost 30$ each with load they are my cheapest wagons too. Accurascale are some absolute gcs for making extremely detailed, extremely well built yet extremely cheap models

[@TheSharkKing45]

From what i know, Athearn models are pretty good. Im actually planning on upgrading my only Athearn model, a Fairbanks Morse H24-66 to DCC once i get around to buying new parts for it as it was made in the late 70s long before dcc was a thing

[@zacsteamlocomotive1800]

you should give awards to this engines in the future

[@Zebrails]

Takes a lot of time to edit your videos (of the past year) and physical testing the models likewise... and Wow, Accurascale taking three places and topping the list, that's impressive. Merry Christmas, to you and yours... a Sam-enchanted evening to all. John

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you so much - yeah it's very much a full time job doing this but I love it to bits! Merry Christmas to you and yours too, Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@ballbag]

The accurascale 37 was my first purchase of a model loco ever. And it was very pleasing to see it come up as your #1 this year.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fantastic - what a fantastic way to start off! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@michaelallen2063]

Re the feedback you received on the Accurascale Manor's improved performance on DCC, I would implore you to incorporate a structured DCC test into all your reviews for 2024. For those running a DCC layout, a cutaway to show the ease/difficulty of fitting a chip during the 'Mechanism' section would be of great value. But more than that, as manufacturers move towards incorporating more and more DCC controlled features, I personally don't feel that your reviews can remain truly comprehensive without an in-depth review of these features as well. The prefitted speaker in the Accurascale 16xx is a good example of a feature included in the high retail price that was left untested in your review. Reviewing the quality as well as range of DCC features would be of tremendous value to many, especially as manufacturers move further and further towards top-end models, as the market demands more and more of these features. If we are to pay £149 for a tank, I personally would like a comprehensive review of all of the features included in that price. Otherwise, I don't truly have an informed reason (beyond it being a bit heavier - all hail the diecast) to justify buying it.

[@star86703]

Fantastic video thanks for videos through out 2023 looking forward to what you've got for 2024

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much Sam, appreciate it my friend! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@JP_TaVeryMuch]

I don't know how you do it sir, but you continue to raise your game with practically each and every single video you treat we loyal viewers. Many, many thanks and I think that it's now time for you to allow yourself to upgrade your slippers to those poncy monogrammed jobbies that we all secretly hanker after. Bravo!

[@ItsTrainFun]

3 locos and all in the top 5?! I can't wait for the 57xx from accurascale!! 😍

[@SamsTrains]

For sure! You just know that'll be good! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@Enzo_The_Magnificent]

Thank you for the excellent review, Sam. I have the Accurascale Manor and Class 37. I agree with everything you say about them.

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you so much - and that's good to hear - they're wonderful aren't they? Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@jonathanlake6053]

I agree with you Rapido & Accurascale have produced some of the finest this year if not all of them.The models that I purchased run superbly.Happy Christmas to you Sam.

[@europacifictradersltd3717]

hi sam.great to see accurascale score 3 out of 5 with 2 of them placing at the top 2 . cant wait till their class 50s. class 30/31s and the class 66 are ready for shipping. . rapido had a few let downs but that model truly deserved its placing. wishing you and the family a very happy xmas.

[@SamsTrains]

Very much so - and well deserved too! I think Rapido just need to work out the kinks... fundamentally their stuff is great too, particularly locos! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@DC4260Productions]

I've got one of those Accurascale 37s too, but mine is 37027 'Loch Eil'; still the same split-headcode variant as yours. After seeing the wealth of detail on that thing, and with this being my first 37, it'll be difficult to go back to the Bachmann version next time I'm after a 37.

[@SamsTrains]

Awesome stuff! I've noticed the Bachmann ones have been reduced in price dramatically at some places now... but even at the same price as Accura's... Accura still wins! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@jamesgilbart2672]

Good choice of the Accurascale 37! In addition to all the other advantages in your review, the 'face' on that model is much more convincing than the Bachmann or Hornby versions.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much James! I don't tend to pass judgement on the accuracy of models, but good to hear Accura have done well there too! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@Olivers-trains]

The 37 from Accurascale is so good I bought a second, I also just recieved an LNER A4 Hornby Dublo that I won in a competiton from Hornby

[@jackstrains4468]

Lovely to see accurascale making the prestigious 'SamsTrains top 5 models' - what an amazing manufacturer, like you said - great job sam, and ill ahve to look into buying an accurascale class 37...

[@SamsTrains]

haha very much so - they have done an amazing job of the models they released this year! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@Gatherleymodeller.]

Jack Sam replied to you!!

[@jackstrains4468]

@@Gatherleymodeller. I know

[@Gatherleymodeller.]

Jack he replied!! To me 😉😉

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Jack - they really have done well - and great stuff, would recommend that! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@robertlucido3686]

I checked on the update on that package I sent you, and it's arrived at the collection point for pick up, just thought I'd let you know

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Robert, that's very kind of you! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@David_Mattox]

Didn’t expect to be back so soon, but here are the best rolling stock of 2023, cause what is a locomotive without something to pull?: 5) AccuraScale FNA-D 4) Model Asia C80 hoppers 3) Bachmann Steam Donkey crane 2) Rapido SECR 6-wheel brake van And taking the number one spot, is a tie! That’s right, people, sharing a score of 9.31 is the Rapido Ferry Van and the FNA-D wagon from Revolution Trains! What an upset, everyone! Great video, Sam. I think we both are looking forward to seeing what 2024 has to offer.

[@SamsTrains]

Awesome thanks for doing that for me! Though I believe it's the Revolution FNA-D at the top! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@David_Mattox]

@@SamsTrains Sorry about that, it’s what I get for piecing together the logbook from just a few videos. Will update immediately. UPDATE: Turns out we were both right. The Ferry van & the Rev FNA-D both had the exact same score. Most befuddling indeed.

[@OlivierGabin]

Agreed. I have a period 5 Rapido Ferry Van (make nice rakes with my HO DB III ferry reefer and ferry flat !) and the Rapido brake van in SR guise. Superb models both !

[@revolutiontrains]

Wow - thanks! Hopefully you'll enjoy some of the new models we'll have next year, including some cool wagons and our first 00 powered models - it's a race between the Clayton Battery hybrid shunter, Class 175/180 units and the new ROG Class 93. Have a great Xmas and all the best for 2024! @@SamsTrains

[@davidhinks8384]

Hi Sam, great top 5! I missed out on the Manor having to settle for a very satisfactory Dapol version. It's so good to see the ahem top 2 manufacturers knocked off the top spot and deservedly so. All my current pre orders are Rapido and Accurascale. Great quality and detail, more metal at a sensible price. I am holding back on the old Castle from Hornby until it's at a sale price, so overpriced at nearly £200 in the shops. I love my Bachmann 4575 but at £140, seriously... I don't model diesel but love the 37, especially sound fitted - awesome and deserves stop spot. Looking forward to the arrival of my 44xx and 57xx in due course. Cheers!

[@SamsTrains]

Oh sure - people have concerns over the accuracy of Dapol's, but I was very impressed by it personally! It is deserved isn't it? Top 2 didn't even make the top 5 this year! Yeah the Bachmann 4575 isn't worth that... glad to see it replaced! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@gamingwithlukeJToH]

on the topic of the SD60E, you should review a Scaletrains diesel. even though my Scaletrains engines are in N scale, they are still literally my most detailed models in my entire collection.

[@SamsTrains]

That sounds great - don't think i've tried anything from those before! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@jimmyseaver3647]

Very much seconded. ScaleTrains has been a favored brand here in the US, especially when it comes to their contemporary-era General Electric locomotive models (Dash-9, AC4400CW, ES44-series), though their rolling stock is quite excellent as well (especially their tank cars).

[@SamsTrains]

Sounds great! Not sure I've tried anything from them before! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@Elvinley]

Excellent vid Sam! The only one I own is the 37 which I have to agree, deserves top slot. The two features on my sound fitted version from Locomotion that I find outstanding are the long stay-alive and the curve dependant flange squeal. Goodness knows how they achieved that feat!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot! Yes indeed - I was able to try a sound fitted example at one point, very impressive indeed... and great sound too! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@westerniowarailfan9480]

although it would probably be hard to get a British loco in train shows near me, I would kill to get one of those 37's, one of my favorite styles of British locos with the dual cab non flat-nose locos

[@westerniowarailfan9480]

especially the one with sound, that is absolutely stunning

[@KBY30]

Talk about a hat-trick! Accurascale hit it out of the park this year. I’m quite looking forward to their 5700!

[@SamsTrains]

haha absolutely - not sure if I've ever had 3 from one manufacturer in the top 5 before... amazing stuff but well deserved! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@oswestryroadtmd4850]

That makes two of us

[@97SEMTEX]

I've been lucky enough to add the Class 37, Class 55 and numberous Class 92's to my collection this year, they are the only company (model trains or otherwise) I will pre-order anything with as I know and trust that they are going to give me my money's worth.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fantastic - that's right - in terms of locos they're consistently delivering quality, which is great to see! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@SamsTrains]

Excellent stuff - I also pre-order with confidence now... you just know it'll be decent! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@MrBnsftrain]

You better take a look at more Athearn locos in 2024! Maybe even a Kato locomotive as they're quite good too. I'm amazed how quickly Accurascale has become one of the best model train manufacturers out there!

[@Pauluss77]

Hey Sam l been watching your videos for 5 years Now and l just want to say lm glad the model Railway community has someone like you you help me decide on what model trains l should get and Not get but then again l don’t really buy as much model trains as l used too but that doesn’t matter l Love your videos hope you and your family have an merry Christmas and happy New year bye bye ❤❤❤ ❤❤

[@theoutcastboi]

I'm lucky enough to own a sound fitted version of the Accurascale Manor, my favourite loco in my whole collection. Eagerly looking forward to the upcoming Accurascale Pannier, that'll be awesome. Will keep my eye out for one of the Rapido 16xx locos, as well as an Accurascale Class 37 that fits the area I'm modelling.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh excellent - is the sound decent too then? Sounds great - both models well worth a look! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@theoutcastboi]

@@SamsTrains It's my only sound fitted locomotive, so not much to compare it with, but it does sound great, yeah.

[@BrugerJimmy-tw8eu]

well well well, my favourite company is finally here! I’m so glad to see most of the list is Accurascale models (i especially love their 37’s and manors)

[@michaelwhiles5282]

Wow - got the Bachmann Class 20 Top in 2022 and more recently the AS Class 37 - Top in 2023 - MUCH JOY.

[@The_fellow_tender_engine0504]

Hey Sam is nice to great to see you filming trains when I was a kid thank you for everything!❤️

[@briandesens144]

Awesome video Sam's trains

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Brian! :D

[@briandesens144]

@@SamsTrains you're welcome 😊

[@jamesdennis2004]

That Manor class is calling my name I might have to get me one. And the class 37. Those two are my favorite locomotive.

[@dakshanbalaramesh]

‘Best models if 2023’ ‘Sees the Heljan 1361’ “SCREAMS IN CONFUSION”

[@rickym.3416]

Awesome video! You should review the Aurora Miniature’s Canadian National SD60F. It has taken the US and Canada by storm with its wealth of interesting features, insane details and amazing sounds. Would highly recommend.

[@idiot-cd6pl]

Nice one, maybe next year you could include your top 5 rolling stock models together with your top 5 locos.

[@SamsTrains]

That's a good idea - I might look at doing that, thank you! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@billmmckelvie5188]

The 37 from Accurascale is excellent, really a loco to drool over. I hope Accurascale bring out some MKIi ScotRail coaches to sit behind it. I can just see this loco pulling in to the Kyle Of Lochalsh station after weaving its way from Inverness!

[@alexflemming5982]

Great stuff! Beautifully consistent

[@NixTrains]

Love the spring loaded contacts. Hope this becomes a standard across... I reckon the Hornby Class 50 super detailed version. Nice model but taking shell off belike 😂 🙏. Knock off the ETH cables, buffers & god knows what more just to take the shell off.

[@oswestryroadtmd4850]

What I like about Accurascale are the choices of liveries they have on offer for their rolling stock

[@509brown]

I'm so thankful that I subscribed to your channel, Sam. Can't wait for 2024 reviews!

[@tobyytlai]

Glad I bought the Accurascale Exclusives Class 37 in BR green, only gripe I have is that some bits are too detailed and too small that they fall off the model

[@sapphirejunction8993]

Yeah you pretty much got it spot on.

[@r.a.monigold9789]

Merry Christmas Sam and THANK YOU for a wonderful year of trains!!!

[@SamsTrains]

Merry Christmas to you too, thanks for your kind words! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@mikeking2539]

Thanks to your revier of the Accurascale class 37 I have their Large Logo centre headcode version. Class 37s are my top fave diesel locomotive. Would love to get a second one, but not sure that there currently is a livery that I like! The Manor class is also tempting! Really good to five locos of the year,

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh fantastic - it's just wonderful isn't it? Hopefully they'll do more in the future! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@stephendavies6949]

Hi Sam. IMO, you are THE authority regarding loco reviews. Therefore, one should tread carefully when offering contrary opinions. Thankfully, I don't have ANY contrary opinions regarding your list! Just one question: in hindsight, was awarding just 3 stars to the mechanism in the Accurascale 37 a little harsh? Keep up the peerless work, Stephen

[@adammellor8134]

These top five all have features which would be best experienced with DCC to fully appreciate them. I think it would be beneficial to review each model in both their analogue and DCC formats to fully and fairly score each model. Perhaps something to consider for 2024 - appreciate this would be extra work. Top work however for all you’ve done this year.

[@jimadams6159]

Another excellent layout. I think you have made a brilliant job of this layout with more great tips. Wishing you and your family a very happy Christmas. ☃️❄️

[@bartolomeo.07]

Amazing video as always. The contenders were very good. My personal favorite is 16xx. It looks stunning and running session shots lookes sooo smooth with this metal fella. Another year passed by already and I can't wait for best locos of the 2024. Cheers and thanks for great video!! ;D

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for sharing - yeah the 16xx is wonderful isn't it? Can't beat all that weight! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@balancedbreakfastboy6381]

For Christmas this year I’ll be getting a Hornby 9f and peckett and a mainline class 45

[@davidsheriff8989]

Good review on all those locos....bearings and flywheels make the difference....

[@formidable38]

What really blows my mind is how Accurascale can do it for the money and still earn a living especialy when you see what Bachmann and Hornby command for their models.

[@SamsTrains]

I agree - I think that so many other manufacturers over-charge that Accura's prices seem almost miraculous! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@JustinFrazier_360]

So amazing video sam and merry christmas 🎄

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot Justin! :D

[@davidstrains4910]

A good video,here Sam, out of your list the only one I do have is the class 92 from accurascale, overall for me there has been a great variety of locomotives that I have bought for my collection this year for example some of the various one off prototypes from heljan then more to mainstream locomotives like models like the new tool bachmann 37 and Hornby class 91, one last model I have coming up this year is a new class 158 from bachmann but that is coming on Christmas Day.

[@timbervalleyproductions]

I have their GWR 158. A truly superb model

[@davidstrains4910]

@@timbervalleyproductions it’s the one in Northern livery for me but like I say I will be getting that on Christmas Day

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for sharing David - definitely been some good models this year for sure! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@SprattyHeath]

The Accurascale 37 is well deserved in 1st place, whilst it isn't my favourite loco in reality (I prefer the 92s) I still think they absolutely nailed this loco from top to bottom. I own three of these (two of which are factory sound fitted) and they are genuinely some of the nicest diesels I currently own, it beats even Bachmann's new tooled 37 and that is saying something! Anyhow I cant wait to see what Accurascale produce next year, hopefully some more modern diesels & especially electrics!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Jam - they really did nail the 92 as well... just incredible!! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@andressanchez4517]

Beautiful 37 Scotty

[@exarkun42]

I said in my review of the Manor that my biggest gripe with it is that they sacrificed too much motive power for realistic appearance. I am willing to put up with a join line at the bottom of the boiler if it means that my loco runs better, but that is just me. That said, I agree that it deserves to be up here, along with every other loco you listed today. While the Manor is the only one I have tried, all of the material that I have seen on them matches your scores really well.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah that is fair to say - they are ones for form over function sometimes! Still better than many others though! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@OlivierGabin]

The questionable motive power is the reason why I prefer the Dapol model, I always prefer function over appearance, personal choice. But otherwise, the Accurascale Manor is excellent. That is why the motor problem is less acceptable than on any other engine.

[@Flipper-hd6cx]

At least their reason for fitting such a small motor is would appear to be so that it looks right, rather than that's because what was chaepest, unlike some of the more established brands.

[@Ste1952]

Have you seen the youtube of an accurascale manor pulling 30 coaches on a garden railway? No shortage of motive power in that mode.

[@exarkun42]

@@Ste1952 It doesn't lack in pulling power, but it lacks in a full spectrum of performance (specifically the crawl)

[@tonyslight826]

I have one myself what a loco. Well done Accurascale. And thank you Sam.

[@LawrenceTimme]

Accurscale have a lot to live up to next year!

[@KnifeyKnifeyBrothers]

So you’d recommend the Athearn diesel? All those extra lights and features look good all I need is DCC sound

[@SaltyVan]

I think it would be really interesting to see Rapido make a hi-spec, modern, and quality LBSCR E2. Not only because it’s Thomas’ basis, but because Hornby have never made a modern update to their E2 for decades

[@SamsTrains]

That would be awesome - I feel like surely some manufacturer will announce one at some point!! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@michaelcarey6019]

Hi Sam, another great review. Would love to see a review of 00 motorized turntables. Wishing you a merry Christmas and Happy New Year. cheers Mike

[@dalecherne5377]

Question: What are the etched nameplates for if the model already has them painted on? Do you glue them on for a more 3D look?

[@johnbill9201]

Love the channel Sam, great choices, yeah I agree J

[@YourAverageRailwayFan]

Another years gone by, what a year, we got many great models and many amazing videos from sam, Merry Christmas Sam, and thank you for all the reviews!

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks so much for the kind words - really glad you've enjoyed the videos! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@azuma892]

Sam, how come the worst locos have punishments but the best ones don't get rewards? You should treat them somehow, like reading the engine a story or taking them to a nice restaurant. Worth considering next year. 🤣

[@SamsTrains]

That's a fair question - maybe that is grossly unfair of me! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@franburke]

Yes, and one would have good table “manors”. Sorrynotsorry 😊

[@cjperkinsboy1293]

Hey Sam. I am starting a model railway soon and have been wondering where I will have to put insulated rail joiners?

[@theinspiringengineer-scien6393]

Got two Accurascale Class 66's on pre order - fingers crossed :)

[@davidmolin8944]

Did not expect the class 37 to be top, well deserved

[@SamsTrains]

Yep! Very well deserved for sure :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@Alpha-oo8]

I have a question… what about a video about the best and worst rolling stock? Maybe a single video rather than two separate ones… I feel like rolling stock needs to be highlighted

[@Christiane069]

Even though I live in the US I always like your evaluations. I have a similar Athern Genesis in UP livery. You did not specify why the last loco class 37 had not reached a 5 stars in your ration on mechanism. What does then?

[@Trainboy17]

I'm Looking Forward To More Accurascale Models

[@cesareenzoditrivento3254]

Sam, could you post your compiled ranking list from this year?

[@garethparkin9498]

Happy Christmas Sam!

[@logstudios8372]

great video sam! can't wait for the Christmas episode for this year, if you're doing one!

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you so much! I do have a Christmas review on the way! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@mikeupton5406]

The worst model trains for 2023 was pretty funny! So looking forward to the Best!

[@azuma892]

Sam are you and your family ready for Christmas? :)

[@SamsTrains]

We are thank you! :D Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@OlivierGabin]

So, my pick on your top op the pops: 5 - Agreed, nice US engine, nothing to add. 4 - I prefer the Dapol model, this one have some features I perceive as drawbacks, just a matter of personal taste. But it is a good one anyway. The points I won't qualify as excellent are the motor and the hassle it is to DCC chip her. 3 - A reference for the electric locomotive lovers. in the future, you will have the ones who have the same level of quality (especially the Q/P ratio) and the ones who don't. 2 - So good I bought TWO of them : GWR and BR black. As a branchline engine, the performances ought to be the best possible at low speed, and they are. A jewel ! 1 - Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrgh ! I've just received mine, and I have to run her this weekend for the first time. Agreed ! So, we can say that Accurascale had set up new standards, followed by Rapido. Some others have to get the lesson from them, do they ?

[@JRS06]

Did the Sonic Models A5 get anywhere near the top ten? I think that's one of the nicest models released this year, and is relatively well made for a company who had never produced a 00 guage loco before.

[@stevenrobertson3635]

You need to get the Arora miniature SD60F. It would be your number 1 for sure

[@paulcarroll7767]

Great video Sam 🌲🚂

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Paul!

[@adamwilliams192]

Never thought I would see a Class 92 in Sam’s top 5, but here we are. Must say the only thing that would disappoint me with the Accurascale 92 is the choice to mould the Chunnel “Polo Mints”. My N gauge versions all have (admittedly fiddly to apply) etched examples. Apart from that, given all the hobby money in the world, I would have a 00 model 92022 on my mantelpiece!

[@Ste1952]

I think you answered your own point with ‘fiddly’

[@Somerset-Trains]

Good choices Sam!

[@jocksavard41241]

sam, are you going to review the new hornby ivatt 2mt?