2013 N Scale Locomotive of the Year?

[up1950s]

S-4 , and if they do a 1950's UP paint scheme in multi numbers I will buy one of each .

[lock4244]

In terms of 'wow' factor, I'd have to go with the FVM GP60M & GP60B. Don't own any, no need, but what a cool model to get RTR in our little scale (suck on that HO'ers, with your RTR C630M's, GP40-2L, GP40-2W, and GP38-2W's). But as there was nothing I can use released, have to say not a great year personally for new motive power, but the freightcar releases more than compensated.

Looking forward to a model that hasn't been announced yet by a Canadian company... and that S-2.

[peteski]

I wonder if Atlas did that to add whatever little bit of weight they could for such a diminutive locomotive?

DFF

Nope - the inserts are featherweight plastic!   

[peteski]

Yo Pete, instead of wasting your valuable time critiquing my threads, shouldn't you be taking apart your Sakatsu Big Boy for me??   

Cheers!
-Mark

P.S. Seriously, J/K 

Funny guy! 
Actually, I'm in the process of reassembling another European locomotive. I'm taking pictures and hopefully, if I finish it,  I'll post them on the weekend thread.

Sakatsu Big Boy's time will come... 

[C855B]

I guess technically yes, although they haven't really worked their way through the distribution chain quite yet.

Cheers,
-Mark

Bachmann NW2s showed-up on MBK's site today.

[spookshow]

Bachmann NW2s showed-up on MBK's site today.

Well, if anyone actually has one and wants to vote for it, feel free 

Cheers,
-Mark

[VirginaCSX]

Obviously.

Ditto - But I think this was last year

[DKS]

I'd say the S4 wins, for multiple reasons. Aside from being a great runner with good proportions, it's a much more broadly useful locomotive, IMO, given that it's ubiquitous and likely hits the most popular era to model.

The 4-4-0 misses the mark on a number of points (besides the drivers, there were many QC issues--3 of the 4 I have were very sloppily assembled) and has limited usefulness. How many are modeling this period?

The EM-1, while it's a very handsome, smooth runner and a fine technical achievement, also has limited appeal. How many are modeling the B&O and have a layout large enough to support it?

[C855B]

Well, if anyone actually has one and wants to vote for it, feel free 

Cheers,
-Mark

Maybe like a movie released in "limited engagements" during Christmas week going for the upcoming Oscars. Nobody you know will have seen it, but it still qualifies.

Anyway, just sayin' that it finally made it to dealers. FWIW & YMMV.

[Virginia Atlantic]

Ditto - But I think this was last year

Aye, I couldn't remember tbh, but I wasnt really here last year, and I never miss a chance at self-promotion.

Since I'm thinking of a return to the hobby, I've been reading here again after many years away.

[peteski]

Well, there goes DKS, applying a real and indisputable logic into this thread.   

But he (should we call him Mr. David K. Spock?) uses flawless logic. I feel like I should recant my 4-4-0 vote (even though I own 2 of them) and vote for the Bachmann S4 (which I didn't even buy, because I don't care for how the windows were rendered on that model).






In case there is any doubt, this post is strictly humorous.   

[packers#1]

The EM-1, while it's a very handsome, smooth runner and a fine technical achievement, also has limited appeal. How many are modeling the B&O and have a layout large enough to support it?

I don't disagree with your vote for the S4 (although I would put the Atlas S2 up, except it has only been announced); however, I must point out that the EM-1 does have the appeal of big steamers, much like the Big Boy and Challenger. Yes, it isn't a model as well known as the Big Boy, but it's still a huge articulate and looks great, so those with layouts which are merely runner layouts where anything goes or those who do focus on a prototype but like big steam and have a large enough layout would still be likely to buy one or two. So yes, it is a narrow market, but I think it's a bit more open than just B&O modelers with large layouts

[spookshow]

Feel free to turn this into a debate. But I think my original question was "which one do you like best", so all answers are correct 

As for me, I was most impressed with the EM-1. It's so hard to get steamers right, and I think that one put up perfect tens right across the board.

Of the bunch, the only one that actually made it into my "keeper" roster was the Atlas 4-4-0. However, the "don't you dare touch me, you clumsy bastard" fragile detailing remains an ongoing annoyance.

Cheers,
-Mark

[Scottl]

I have no stake in this game, none of the new units are ones I would remotely consider buying because my New Years resolution is to be focused and strategic with my purchases. 

Having said that, the EM-1 strikes me as release of the year.  Logic does not enter into it- a beautiful machine and by all reports, well crafted and executed.   

My reaction to the S4 is meh.  Another shoe box.   

Now that 2013 has proven to be a year of old school oddities that has satisfied the masses, let's hope for some modern glory in 2014.  -2... SD70M-2 that is.

[Wardie]

I COULD have been excited abut the Bachmann S-4 if it had come in unpainted and unglued together.